> What is the preferred method for cutting hatches? I have a basic orbital
> Skil-saw and a handle that can hold Skil-saw-type blades for manual
> cutting. I'm a bit leery of the plunge-cut as shown in Nick's book. I was
> also thinking of using a coping saw blade epoxied into the end of a dowel
> for a thinner, quicker cut by hand (set up for cutting on the pull
> stroke.)

> After seeing Joe's recent posts of his Aussie kayak, I'm contemplating the
> internal bungee method, too.

> Dean

Hi Dean

This is a shaky situation at best, and definately a "two handed" job. I did my first on a little sewing cabinet many years ago and really made a mess. I tried it with one hand and couldn't control the blade. Bounced about three times.

I did it like was posted a few days ago, and drilled 4 or 5 little pilot holes on the line you're cutting. 1/16th " was suggested, but, whatever the width of your bit would do. The holes give you a really soft spot to punch through and it's not likely to bounce. When you turn the jig saw over to cut, put both hands on the saw and press down on the front, with the blade up off the work. Start the saw, slowly line up the blade with the line of holes and gently lower the blade so that it touches the holes. Keep the pressure on the saw base, so as to eleminate the vibration. Let the saw do the work. Once you have punched through. turn the saw off, straighten it up, lay it flat on the surface and you're off. Once you've done it a couple of times, it gets really easy, but, don't you believe it. ALWAYS treat it like the first time, cause when you think you've got it whooped, that's when it'll jump up and bite you. :) You're doing something with this saw that it wasn't designed to do, but, if done right, it's about the best tool for the job.

When you are cutting thin plywood, and this is just my idea, instead of using the plywood blades, I have often gone to the metal cutting blades, as they have smaller teeth with less set in them. Makes for a little slower cutting, but, also makes for a narrower kerf. And in this case, slower is better :)

Rehd