Setting the depth is crucial for safety and a clean cut. You want the blade to protrude just enough to get through the material, but not so much that it's exposed excessively underneath.
- Unplug the battery or ensure the switch is off.
- Place the saw's base flat on the workpiece you'll be cutting.
- Loosen the depth adjusting lever.
- Lower or raise the blade until the distance between the teeth and the bottom of the workpiece is less than a full tooth's height. Less than a full tooth of the blade teeth should be visible below the workpiece.
- While holding that position, tighten the depth adjusting lever securely. Check it—it must be tight and secure before making a cut.
For reference, the maximum cutting depth of this saw is 57 mm (2-1/4") at 0 degrees and 41 mm (1-5/8") at a 45-degree bevel. Always adjust for your specific material thickness.
A proper depth setting minimizes blade exposure, reduces the chance of binding, and helps prevent kickback.