It's a handy little tool when used right...use it on a couple of scrap pieces of balsa to get the hang of using it and I agree with Clay Walters. Who previous stated that the blades need to be placed in a different location to make it easier to use and to also help one line up the blades better....the one trick I've found that keeps the blades from walking on you is. After finding the center , with a hinge center marking tool, cut a shallow slit in that mark where you want a hinge with an x-acto knife . Then take the blades and tilt them slightly so one end is starting to penetrate the slit made in the balsa. Then turn the cutter on and gradually lower the blades so they are square with the surface...found out that when I was trying to make the incisions for hinges on a MoJo profile that I put together...in case you haven't built one, they use tri stock at the hinge lines...try holding those vibrating saw blades on the edge of a piece to tri stock...Without cutting ones finger... I've also found it works pretty well on replace ca hinges in the same location as the old ones, when one has to replace an elevator, rudder etc...Didn't say it was the perfect answer, but it does a decent job if one takes their time doing such..also like stated on hard wood it doesn't work that great...it'll work but like redoing hinges it takes a little time, you just can't force it..