The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·80027·Announced 1980-07-21

Sears Craftsman Miter Saws Recalled Due to Blade Disengagement Hazard

Sears is recalling 55,000 Craftsman miter saws because carbide-tipped blades may spin off during use, posing a laceration risk.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural defect leading to blade disengagement, with one reported incident of severe facial lacerations, meeting the criteria for significant injury reports.

Plain-English summary

Sears, Roebuck & Company is voluntarily recalling approximately 55,000 Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recall involves model numbers 315.23730 and 315.23731, which were sold nationwide by Sears from July 1978 through June 1980 for approximately $200.

The hazard exists because the saws can accommodate carbide-tipped blades, which are thicker than the original blades provided. Consumers may improperly fasten these thicker blades to the motor shaft, creating a possibility that the blade may spin off the saw while in use. CPSC has been informed of three instances in 1980 where carbide-tipped blades disengaged while spinning; one incident resulted in severe facial lacerations, while no injuries were reported in the other two cases.

Consumers should immediately stop using carbide-tipped blades with these saws. To obtain a free repair kit with installation instructions, consumers should contact their local Sears retail store or call toll-free 800-845-4781. Those wishing to verify brand names or model numbers can contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.

The recalled product

Product
Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws
Manufacturer
Craftsman

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.