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Changing blade on Dewalt XRP cordless circular saw DC390. Video guide.

ATTENTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery is removed before removing or installing the blade.

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New cordless handheld circular saws and cordless saber saws for professionals with 18-volt lithium-ion battery

The new, compact Cordless Handheld Circular Saws GKS 18 V-LI Professional and Cordless Saber Saws GSA 18 V-LI Professional from Bosch offer maximum performance and mobility. The fully charged 18-volt Premium lithium-ion battery with 2.6 ampere hours provides sufficient energy to cut up to 50 chipboards (900 x19 millimeters) to length with the handheld circular saw, or to cut up to 100 spruce beams (100 x 100 millimeters) to length with the saber saw. Bosch has also designed both saws for long lifetime: the unique Electronic Motor Protection (EMP) from Bosch automatically shuts down the motor if it stalls, therefore preventing it from burning out.

The Handheld Circular Saw GKS 18 V-LI Professional with a 165-millimeter saw blade and a cutting depth of 52 millimeters is specially designed for the hard demands of skilled construction site workers such as carpenters, bricklayers or roofers, but also for exhibition fitters. It provides a clear view of the saw blade and score line. Precise cuts and good handling are ensured by the robust base plate, the softgrip coverings on both handles, the ergonomic design and the weight of only 4.1 kilograms.

The Saber Saw GSA 18 V-LI Professional offers two stroke speeds: 2,400 strokes per minute for metal and 2,700 strokes per minute for wood. With a maximum cutting length of 250 millimeters, it is ideal for electricians, gas fitters, plumbers, window fitters, carpenters and other skilled construction site workers. The ergonomic handle with softgrip and the weight of only 3.4 kilograms ensure easy working. The gear housing made of die-cast aluminum also makes the saber saw robust. The accelerator switch permits careful pilot sawing. Thanks to the SDS saw blade holder, the saw blades can be quickly replaced in just one movement.

Bosch Premium lithium-ion technology
The innovative Premium lithium-ion technology from Bosch with its unbeatable battery runtime and 400 percent longer lifetime is vastly superior to other battery technologies. The long lifetime is thanks to the Electronic Cell Protection (ECP) from Bosch. It reliably protects the battery against overload, overheating and total discharge. Moreover, the battery pack is so robust that it can withstand being dropped from a height of two meters onto concrete and remain fully functional. Another advantage of the Premium lithium-ion technology is the unbeatable battery runtime provided by the Bosch high-performance battery cells and the intelligent power management. The special cells with very low internal resistance and the high current capable design of the battery pack ensure low energy losses during charging and during operation. This results in extremely resilient battery packs with high performance capability. Moreover, the perfect coordination of the Bosch Hightech electronics with the motor and gearbox ensures high efficiency of the drive and optimum utilization of the power in the cells. There is also no memory effect and the batteries are fully ready for use, even if they have not been used for months.

Bosch was the first to introduce lithium-ion technology in professional cordless tools, thereby redefining the power tools market. The Premium lithium-ion technology is more than just lithium-ion technology. It is the result of continual further development, geared towards the day-to-day requirements of professional tradesmen: long battery runtime and long lifetime. The Premium lithium-ion technology is available in all voltage classes from 3.6 to 36 volts for professionals from professionals. Bosch therefore offers an optimized power tool for every application performed by professional tradesmen.

Bosch supplies the new cordless saws as standard in a carrying case with a one-hour charger and two batteries. Both tools are available at retail outlets, each at the recommended retail price of 349 euros plus VAT.

Specification	GKS 18 V-LI Professional
Battery voltage	18 V
Battery capacity	2,6 Ah
Maximum cutting depth	52 mm
Maximum cutting depth at 45 degrees	40 mm
Saw blade diameter	165 mm
Saw blade bore size	20 mm
Weight	4,1 kg

Specification	GSA 18 V-LI Professional
Battery voltage	18 V
Battery capacity	2,6 Ah
Maximum cutting length	250 mm
Stroke speed · for wood · for metal	2 700 min-1 2 400 min-1
Saw blade holder	SDS
Weight	3,4 kg

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 271,000 associates generated sales of 46.3 billion euros in fiscal 2007. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in roughly 50 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3 billion euros for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.”

The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.

Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com

Source: press release from Bosch

Using a chainsaw safely

Though it's efficient and powerful, exercise caution with this tool

Despite it being a dangerous, heavy and noisy tool, a chainsaw can make quick work of felling or pruning a tree when used with caution and common sense.

Most chainsaws are heavy, oily and noisy—aside from scaring the heck out of people in movies. The power and that lethal-looking chain make some buyers wonder if the tool is inherently too dangerous to use around the house. But a chainsaw is just another power tool — and the best way to fell trees, prune limbs and cut firewood.

Chainsaws are potent tools. But modern versions incorporate many safety features not found on early models.

The most important is a chain brake, a large paddle positioned just in front of the top handle. If the saw kicks back, or you stumble, it's instinctive to put up your hand in defense. On an old saw without a chain brake, your hand hits the spinning chain. On a modern saw, your hand hits the paddle, trips the brake, and the chain instantly stops turning.

Consumers don't have more accidents with chainsaws than they do with drills and other power tools. But when accidents occur (often due to fatigue) they can be severe.

Manufacturers take this issue very seriously — and sometimes to excess in their owner's manuals. Some run 40 full-size pages with endless examples of how a complete idiot might misuse a chainsaw. Case in point: an illustration labeled "don't do," showing a guy perched precariously high in a tree — that's bad enough, but reaching back toward the trunk to cut off the branch that's supporting him. Anyone who needs that advice shouldn't be near a chainsaw — or maybe even a hammer.

True, felling trees can push the DIY envelope. But for the residential-level logging most people do (basically pruning and making firewood) there are only a few cardinal rules. If you observe them and use the tool with alertness and common sense, even a novice can handle a chainsaw safely.

•Always check chain tension before cutting, and again after the chain heats up during prolonged work. Keeping the chain well lubricated and properly tensioned on the guide bar is crucial.

•Always work in an unencumbered, sure-footed position, whenever possible standing just to the side of the saw. Should all else fail, the cutting bar should swing down and past your leg.

•Always cut wood that is stable and positioned so the cut end falls away, opening the saw kerf. Chainsaw cuts that close the kerf or bury the tip of the bar are dangerous.

Practical approaches using a chainsaw

Chainsaws make a shattering amount of noise, particularly large, gas-powered machines. But with any model it's wise to wear hearing protection. You also might opt for some or all of the helmets, face guards, gripping gloves, cutting chaps, steel-capped boots and other safety gear.

It goes against most safety guidelines to say it, but there is a point of no return with safety equipment. Don a diverse collection of bulky, unfamiliar gear and you are definitely decked out to survive an accident. But you can become so encumbered and unnaturally clumsy that you're more likely to have one. For a practical balance, use safety gear that's lightweight, comfortable and does not hinder your vision or movement.

You can try out different types of gear when you check out different saws. You could buy on the Web, of course. But with chainsaws, it's smart to go hands on. For instance, most saws come with a 14- or 16-inch bar, which is all you need. A longer bar doesn't mean you're buying a more powerful saw. In fact, most saws can be fitted with longer bars if you really need to make single passes through large trees. Also bear in mind that most are sold saw-only. A case is handy. A chain scabbard is basic protection when the saw isn't running, and only $5 to $10. You'll also need a gas can, mixing oil for the fuel, and chain oil.

If you're a novice, consider shopping and buying from a chainsaw dealer who will show you the ropes. A recent experience at a Stihl chainsaw dealer proved to be just about ideal. The demonstration ran about 20 minutes and included a complete tour of the tool: how to fuel and oil the saw, use the choke and power controls for optimum starting, how to set and use the chain brake, plus the procedures of chain tensioning. The finishing touch: a few minutes outside making test cuts on some logs. If you're interested but a little short on experience or confidence, this is definitely the way to get started.

Safety Handling Chain Saw

Chain saws are a popular piece of power equipment among homeowners. To help ensure their safe and efficient operation, here are six suggested steps for you to take.

1. Select the proper saw - A small, lightweight saw is best for cleaning up small limbs and branches. A mid-sized saw is suggested for cutting large stems or firewood. Large saws should be reserved for experienced users with demanding needs.
2. Wear protective attire - Chaps or pants, eye, face and ear protection, protective footwear and work gloves are essential when using a chain saw. When overhead limbs are present, a helmet should be worn.
3. Inspect the saw before use - Most modern saws are equipped with chain brakes, so follow the operator's manual for testing the brake before each use. Since a sharp chain provides the highest productivity and safety, ensure the chain is sharpened and tensioned correctly on the bar.
4. Start Safe - The safest place to start a chain saw is on the ground. Assure that the saw is sitting securely on the ground by placing your right foot in the rear handle. Nothing should obstruct the guide bar and chain. Firmly grip the front handle with your left hand and pull the rope with your right hand.
5. Carefully plan your cutting job - Avoid hazards like dead limbs, electric lines and roads. Maintain a safe distance from bystanders but never work alone. Evaluating the wind direction and the lean of the tree is critical in maintaining a safe working environment.
6. Protect yourself against "kick-back" - Kick-back is a sudden rearward motion of a chain saw caused by contact between the tip of the bar and a log or other obstruction. Kick-back can cause serious injury. A firm grip on the saw and the proper stance can reduce the risk or severity of a kick-back.

Taking the time to read your owner's manual and review all safety precautions can help you prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injuries.