Oh yeah, got one of those too. Also as a gift. Also from SWMBO...
I used it to cut some round cuts on tile (toilet flange), and the tile
got into the front bearing and it squeals like a pig now.

That's funny -- here's a tip for you from someone who hates to throw
anything out. I had it in my hands, on the way to the trash, because
mine
squealed exactly like yours. Then I thought, "what the hell, it's only
4
screws. The least I can do is see what makes it tick, then cut the cord
off

OK, what is it with us people and cutting off cords from stuff when we
toss them? Have any of us actually _used_ one of these cords? I also
have a rack of hanging cords, the NEMA-standard computer plug type cords,
because every time I toss something I keep the cord. Yet, new purchases
always come with a new cord. What the hell am I (are we) thinking?

You need to get a lathe and make some lamps.

Actually I _have_ used a couple of these cords for original electronics
projects and repairs, but I've got a shoebox full of them and I made a
concious decision last year to stop saving them. Like you said, new things
come with them. Like you didn't say, new things these days wear out faster
than ever, so there will always be a supply of cords. But it just doesn't
feel right to throw away something that's still functional, no matter how
useless it might be.

- Owen -