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If you have been to the market lately looking for the best circular saw, then you might have realized that it is hard to decide which one is the best. Why? This is simply because there are a lot of good-looking circular saws in the market nowadays. And more interestingly, there are different exaggerated sales pitch attached to every model, thus making it hard to decide on which one to pick.

But if you want the best saw, then you’ve got to answer the question, “what is the best circular saw?” By doing these, you will then have a clear idea of the kind of circular saw you should be looking for.

The good news is that we have done that hard part for you through intensive research on several models. In this article, we will provide you what makes the best circular saw, among other essential details that you should know.

So let’s get started!

Top 10 Best circular saw for Woodworking

When it comes to analyzing the best overall circular saw, you need to have done detailed research on its features, strengths, pros, and cons. Most of us end up not doing this since it is hard and time-consuming. But you don’t have to worry since we have done all that simple for you. So, here are some of the best circular saws to buy.

1. Makita Circular Saw SP6000J1 6-1/2″ Plunge

Key features

It has a Large cutting capability
It has a 12-amp motor
Also has an electronic speed control
Improved comfort system through plunge release lever
It has a guide rail that enhances precise cuts

Product Description

This is arguably one of the best circular saws currently in the market. If you want a type of circular saw that will allow you to set the desired speed to suit your application, then this is the one for you. Makita SP6000J1 is a lightweight saw with a 12-amp motor that can produce enough power to curve through almost anything.

To provide splinter-free cuts, this model also has a precision cutting system in place. This model also has a ton of other key features meant to improve its performance. These features include:

Pros

It is a splinter-free model; thus you can forget rough edges
Produces a nice smooth finish with the help of electronic speed control
It has a powerful motor that offers enough horsepower

Cons

It doesn’t work well with pieces that are narrower the guide track

2. DEWALT Circular Saw DCS575B FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Lithium-Ion Brushless 7 1/4″

Key features

It has a run time power of up to 5.800 RPM
It uses a dynamic Flexvolt Dewalt battery system.
Also, it has a 15-ampere robust motor.
It is a lightweight saw weighing around 8.1 pounds

Product Description

If you value convenience more mostly when it comes to blade changing, then Dewalt DCS575B is your must get a saw. Despite other saws offering exceptional performance, no circular saw makes the blade changing strategy as easy as this one does. Another big selling point for this saw is that it is lightweight and has a unique blower that improves its usability. You will find Dewalt circular saw very convenient to use, user friendly, and easy. We can say that it is the best circular saw for beginners.

Pros

Offer flexibility since you can use or take it anywhere (cordless)
In low lights situations, its led lights are beneficial
It has a powerful 15-amp motor

Cons

Despite its higher performance, it doesn’t always provide a smooth finish

3. SKIL 5280-01 15-Amp with Single Beam Laser Guide

Key features

Some of the exciting features for SKIL 5280-01 are:
It has a 15-amp motor powerful enough to deliver 5,300-RPM
Dust blower that pushes dust through forward to improve visibility
Weighs around 6.95-lb
High-level capacity for a wide variety of cuts

Product Description

If you value convenience more mostly when it comes to blade changing, then SKIL 5280-01 is you must get a saw. Despite other saws offering exceptional performance, no circular saw makes the blade changing strategy as easy as this one does. Another big selling point for this saw is that it is lightweight and has a unique blower that improves its usability. This SKIL circular saw is one of the best.

Pros

It’s unique dust blower that blows sawdust from the front
Easy to change blades
Lightweight

Cons

It has some problems with its safety switch location

4. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Saw

Key features

A 0° to 45° bevel for angle cuts
Cut-ready depth for fast and precise depth measurements
A strong carbide-tipped blade that is 24-tooth designed
Multi-function wrench for easy blade changing
15-amp power system
Anti-snag lower guard

Product Description

If you are looking for a powerful, lightweight circular saw, then SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is the best choice for you. Its magnesium construction is what makes it incredibly good and lightweight. It has cut-ready depth features that make the cut system produce swift and accurate depth measurements.

With this circular saw, you need no close approximation when making angle cuts. This is because it contains a 0-45 degree bevels system that grants you an opportunity to make a wide variety of cuts. Designed to exude comfort, this circular saw is not only lightweight but also has an anti-snag lower guard for smoother operation.

Pros

It is a lightweight, high-quality circular saw mostly due to magnesium construction
It has a quick, easy and reliable different cuts adjustment feature
Fast and easy blade changing

Cons

It weighs about 11.6 pounds, which may be heavy to some people.

5. Makita 5007Mg Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

Key features

A 0° to 45° bevel for angle cuts
Cut-ready depth for fast and precise depth measurements
A strong carbide-tipped blade that is 24-tooth designed
Multi-function wrench for easy blade changing
15-amp power system
Anti-snag lower guard

Product Description

Makita 5007Mg is one of the best circular saws currently in the market. This is because of its immense precision ad power that can allow you to cut through anything. It comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers up to 5,800 rpm power making it a reliable circular saw.

One of the exciting features of this circular saw is the electric brake. This electric brake feature is essential since it helps bring the running blade to a quick stop just a second after releasing the trigger. So, here are some of the key features for this circular saw:

Pros

It is a lightweight, high-quality circular saw mostly due to magnesium construction
It has a quick, easy and reliable different cuts adjustment feature
Fast and easy blade changing

Cons

It weighs about 11.6 pounds, which may be heavy to some people.

6. Rockwell RK3441K Circular Saw

Key features

It is a compact design
It has a left-handed blade design that allows cut-line visibility
An adaptor and ports that helps to keep the workspace clean at all time
Come with a 5-amp electric motor
It is a lightweight saw weighing about 5 lbs.

Product Description

Compact saws are some of the ideal types of circular saws if you’re looking lightweight, easy to store, and portable saws. Rockwell RK3441K is one of them.

One of the standout features of this circular saw is that it contains a left-handed blade design. This feature is essential in that both right and left-handed people can effectively use the saw while they see the blade.

This feature isn’t common in other saws. The downside of this saw is that it has a shallower cutting depth unlike most other saws since it has a smaller blade. The other downside of this blade is that it has less power to operate bigger tasks.

This saw will provide you with the best results in its suitable field. Therefore, if your task suits this circular saw, then you can go for it. Some of the key features for this compact circular saw include:

Pros

It is a compact type of circular saw thus allowing easy storage and portability
It is a lightweight circular saw
You can watch the blade from both sides while cutting

Cons

It has a shallower cut depth
It provides less power hence not suitable to be used in bigger projects

7. GALAX PRO 5800 RPM Circular Saw

Despite not being among the most highly rated circular saw, GALAX PRO can still put in a surprising shift when it comes to cutting. This saw has a powerful, pure copper 10-amp motor that drives a load speed of 5,800 RPM that can slice through almost everything. It also comes with bevel & miter cuts, which means you can make angle cuts that range from 0-45°. Therefore, with this feature, you can easily make your desired joint forming cuts that are precise. GALAX PRO also comes with an adjustable cutting depth –you can easily adjust the cutting depth by using a depth adjustment lever. It has a maximum cutting depth of 2-1/2″ at 90° and 1-5/8″ at 45°.

The safety of the user is incorporated as the essential feature design for this circular saw. To operate this saw, start by pressing the lock-off button before pressing the on or off the trigger. This prevents accidental activation of the saw. It also features a plastic guard that automatically covers the plate to prevent the users from any unexpected dangers.

Key features

It has an adjustable cutting depth
It comes with bevel & miter cuts that offer angle cuts of 0-45°
Features a double safety trigger –the lock-off button and the on/off trigger
Features a dust blower and a parallel guide for accurate cuts
Comes with a 10A powerful, pure copper motor

Pros

It is an affordable piece of circular saw
Equipped with several safety features
It has a 5,800 RPM load speed
Comes with both miter cuts and bevel

Cons

Its motor is not as powerful as it should be
When the saw is still new, it has some chemical smell while in use

8. Meterk 1800w Circular Saw 15Amp with Laser Guide

Key features

Features a laser guide system for accurate, straight, and professional cutting
Comes with a powerful motor of 15Amp and 1800W
Contains a flexible 45° and 90° bevel cutting system with as well as parallel guide
Double Safety Switch to prevent accidental saw opening
An aluminum alloy guard that provides safety and durability

Product Description

If you are looking for a circular saw guide that will provide you with a straight, accurate, and professional cut, then you can try the Meterk circular saw. This is because it has a laser guide that aids in precise cuttings.

It features a 15-amp high-performance copper wire that runs under 1800W and delivers 4,700 RPM performance. Meterk circular saw also comes with a flexible 45° and 90° bevel cutting that enables angle cutting.
This saw also comes with safety and ergonomic features that help both the usability and safe usage of the saw. Some of these safety features include a double Safety Switch that is important in ensuring that the machine doesn’t accidentally open. So, let’s at some of its features, pros, and cons.

Pros

Offers precise and professional cutting results
Comes with extra additional features
Offer flexible angle cutting ability
A powerful 15Amp copper motor

Cons

Based on the motor the 4,700 RPM max speed cannot be enough to cut through all types of woods

9. Milwaukee 6390-21 Circular Saw

Product Description

If you are looking for an electric circular saw that is easy, safe, and durable, then Milwaukee 6390-21 is an ideal choice for you. This Milwaukee saw features a twistable angle that you can twist to any angle that you like and lock it, thus boosting your comfort. With a 15-amp motor and 5,800 RPM, you can easily slice through anything while using this saw.

Circular saw Milwaukee include some exciting features. They are:

Key features

Ability to tilt into four different angles of attack
Features a 15 amps’ motor with a 5,800 RPM
Features a quick-lock and spindle lock cord
Soft-grip handle
Aircraft aluminum shoe

Pros

It is a powerful circular saw and can slice through anything due to its immense power
Comfortable to use
Offer different angle of attacks

Cons

Despite its immense quality design, it still lacks a laser guide that is essential for accurate and professional cuts

10. Milwaukee Circular Saw 2731-20 M18 Fuel 7-1/4″

Product Description

Milwaukee circular saw M18 is a magnificent saw with additional benefits. It is flexible, durable as well as sturdy. This saw has high-speed material. It is a compact saw. Lighter in weight and easy to handle. It is a flexible circular saw. Hence you can make any angles cut to suit your specifications. Its blade ensures quality cuts. Here are some of its key features, as well as the pros and cons.

Key features

M18 Fuel 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Bare
It features a double safety switch
It gives parallel cutting
Adjustable cutting angle
Much lighter, 8.5 Pounds

Pros

Powerful motor
Safety features included
Ability to attach it to a vacuum cleaner via dust removal adapter
durable
Battery Warranty 3 Years

Cons

Suck battery in a short time
You cannot easily see the blade while cutting

Benefits of Using Circular Saw

A Circular saw comes with several benefits for any user. The following are the benefits of using the best circular saw that you will fully experience and will enjoy as you perform your tasks effectively.

1. The Saw Provides a Straight Cut

If you desire to have accurate and straight cuts that you need in your works, then a circular saw will do the job for you in a perfect manner. By the use of the best circular saw, you are guaranteed straight cuts which no other sawing material can provide. First, you will be required to draw the cutting guideline using your pencil and a square and guide the saw with your finger and begin cutting and follow the marked guideline. A circular saw is, therefore, a safe tool if you require a clean and safe cut in your work.

2. It Does Not Strike into The Materials

The best circular saw does not strike deeply in the materials being cut as compared to the other types of cutting tools. A Circular saw is a unique kind of saw which does not strike into the materials. You only need to unplug it and place it in the right position, and you can move on with your cutting work.

3. It is Used for Cutting Deep Concrete and Angle Cutting

A Circular saw will enable you to cut an angle cut effectively without any difficulty. Moreover, circular saws which often is made with diamond blades can enable the cutting of concrete and other solid materials which the other normal saws cannot do.

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How to Use a Circular Saw?

What is the best way to use the best circular saw? Learn how to use the best circular saw by following these tips effectively. The following pro tips and techniques will guide you well to properly using the circular saw.

Step: 1 Do Not Set the Blade Too Deep

Proper blade depth is crucial in using a circular saw, setting the blade deep will cause you some problems. Firstly, it is more dangerous as the blade is exposed while cutting. The second thing is that the circular saw will bind and kick back when the blade is too deep. When the blade is effectively set, it will cut more efficiently.

Step: 2 Set the Depth of the Blade Before Cutting

Before you pull the trigger of your circular saw, you need to examine the depth of the blade by unplugging the saw and holding it alongside the board, and the blade guard retracted. Loosen the knob and pivot the base of the pivot until the blade extends ¼ to ½ in below the board. You then tighten the knob or the level, and you can begin to saw.

Step: 3 Allow The Cutoff to Fall Freely

It is essential to ensure that the end of the board that you are cutting is free to fall. For the rough cuts, for instance, in the framing lumber, you have to let the cut end fall off. You must keep in mind that the falling wood can also take a sliver of wood with it when the cut comes near the conclusion. To avoid this from happening, you need to support the board continuously splintering. You should not also hold, clamp, or restrict the cutoff piece.

Step: 4 Assist Plywood for Cutting

It happens that cross-cutting the plywood while making use of a circular saw without maintaining it across the entire length can make the hole saw bind. Even there are high chances that the plywood cover to splinter as the cutoff fall. If, for instance, you are using the sawhorses, it is essential to span them using a pair of 2x4s as it when the cut approaches completion, the board bows downwards, and this pinches the blade in the cut ill provide the needed support.

Step: 5 Do Not Cut Wood That Is Supported On Both Ends

Cutting the wood supported on both ends using the circular saw can cause the kickback problem. It is similar to cutting the tree limb, which you are standing on, which is a sure disaster. When the cutting comes near completion, then the board bends from top to bottom side. This process pinches the blade in the cut and the saw to buck. It is hazardous and can also cause havoc on the board.

Step: 6 Hold The Blade Guard to Begin Angled Cuts

Some blades guards get a design to retract when one sawing at an angle. If you have the newer designs, it is not difficult for a new one to start an angle cut if you are on your first attempt to withdraw the blade guard. When you are a couple of inches away from your cut, then you can relieve yourself by releasing the blade guard gradually to the rest of the board. If you without retracting the blade guard, start the angle cut then the guard may grab the wood. If you start an angled cut without retracting the blade guard, the guard may catch the wood and can cause the saw blade to tie up and the cut to wander around the course.

Step: 7 Cut Heavy Boards Without Sawhorses

When cutting heavy pieces of lumber and joist, it is easier to cut them where they often lie rather than hoisting them onto the sawhorses. The most comfortable way to do this kind of job is to rest the board on your toe and lean it on your shin. Then you can align the saw with your signal mark, and gravity will ensure you pull the saw through the cut. It is best for you if you keep the cut 12 inches away from your toes.

Step: 8 Guide The Rip Cuts Using Your Finger

If you can make your index finger your guide finger then you can make the narrow rip cut through using the circular saw as an easier task. Make sure that you have aligned the blade with the line and pinch saw base in between your thumb and your index finger and let the finger ride along the edge of the board to provide a lead to the cut. This is one of the safest techniques as long as you grip the saw before you turn it on and don’t even release this till the blade halts.

Step: 9 Start Over If the Saw Wanders from the Line

If you have patience then this technique is suitable for you. You can follow a straight-line technique for cutting using a saw. You need to make the blade aligned with the line while cutting with the saw. It is not a difficult task at all to keep the blade on the right path nor very much time-consuming. If you get yourself to a crooked start, it will be difficult to guide the saw to the line, and in case of such instances, it is vital to stop and withdraw the saw from the cut and begin again.

What makes a good circular saw?

To find know what is the best circular saw, you need to know some of the essential features that make its performance undoubtedly the best. These are the features that improve its usability, effectiveness, and durability. So let’s have a look at some of the things that make the best circular saw.

Ease of adjustment

You obviously want to have a circular saw that grants flexibility when it comes to settings and adjustments. Let’s say, for instance, you want to be able to quickly and easily change the depth of cut; then, you will need a saw that has specific features. So, circular saws with full-round knobs and large, smooth-cornered lever locks are the kind of saws you should be going for.

Raw power

The other thing you should be looking for is the ability of the saw to cut almost everything. To do this, you should check on the saw raw power since it is an essential factor in this case. Remember, you are going to be using it on hardwood, wet lumber, among others, then it should work without booging. And all these lies under the raw power.

If you have once used a circular saw, then you might have realized that some saw hits up quickly, producing a poor cut. This may end up forcing the blade to climb out the wood and towards you.

Therefore, you need to evaluate raw power properly. To clarify this, you should know that horsepower represents the torque power (raw power), and amps indicate the amount of electricity drawn by the motor.

A good worm-drive saw

Since we have talked of raw power, it is also essential to talk about an excellent worm-drive saw. This is because it guarantees a high torque output. The electricity drawn by the motor is efficiently transferred to the blade.

And the spiral gear is the one responsible for efficiently transferring power to the blade. So keep an eye on this thing while shopping for a circular saw.

These are the three major factors that define whether this or that particular circular saw is great. But what are the saw style currently in the market? Do you know any? If yes or no, here some of the saw style that is now available in the market.

What are the best saw styles currently?

Sidewinder Circular Saw

A sidewinder circular saw is one that has a motor sitting alongside the blade. These styles of saws are usually lighter and more maneuverable than the worm drive saws. It weighs around 11 pounds or less. And when it comes to raw power, they are the real competitors with worm drive circular saws. This is because of the design of their helical gearings that helps in boosting their torque.

Worm Drive Circular Saws

This is ideally one of the best saw styles due to its ability to produce enough torque to saw through soft and hard surfaces. And in this style of circular saw, the motor is in line with the blade. Moreover, you can use it to carve through concrete or saw through wet lumber. So, if you need the best circular saw style that is ideal for major renovation tasks or framing, then this is the one you should go for.

Small Sidewinder Circular Saw

When you want to buy anything, there are certain factors you consider, right? So, in this case, if you are looking for a saw style with a relatable weight, handle size, and balance, then you can check on these styles of saws. Let’s say you are a small-body person, or a big-body but with need, a small circular saw model, then small sidewinder circular saw is an ideal choice. It weighs around 7.7 pounds and has a full-size sidewinder that is suitable for a bigger task too.

Circular Trim Saw

This is also a small saw but mostly designed to fit a particular task, for example, paneling and any other finish task. This design has a blade size that ranges from 3 ½ to 4 ½ inches. It also has two types; one model is a worm drive (i.e., Porter-Cable 314), while others are slide winders.

Cordless Circular Saw

One of the common things that most people are currently seeking is convenience. And when we talk of convenience, it’s like, “can I use it outside or in the field without electricity?” This means that you need a cordless type of circular saw.

Truly, these cordless models are becoming common nowadays. This is majorly due to an improvement in battery voltage levels. For instance, the Bosch 1660K sports are designed with a 24-volt battery and bearing a 6 ½-inch blade.

But despite these advancements, you still have limited run times when using these cordless models. The other thing is that these cordless saws provide less torque than corded saws. So, you need to weigh them out first before choosing them.

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Tips to Improve the Safety and Efficiency

Whether you are a constant user or a new user of the circular saw equipping yourself with safety tips can help you reduce accidents. So do you want to have a full understanding of the safety tips of the best circular saw? Here are the recommended safety tips for you.

Tips No: 1

Wear eye protection and a dust mask whenever operating a circular saw to protect yourself from the dust and noise from the circular saw.

Tips No: 2

Ensure to check the cutting surface for nails and other metal objects and screws.

Tips No: 3

Always check your circular saw before you use it to ensure that it is in the right working order.

Tips No: 4

When operating the circular, it is essential to avoid loose clothing, jewelry, or hair that can be pulled to the saw.

Tips No: 5

Ensure to check the blades for sharpness, sharp blades are safer and work better. Change the blades when the saw is disconnected from the power source.

Tips No: 6

Stand to the side whenever cutting to avoid cases of kickbacks. Do not overextend, move your feet for you always to be balanced in full control and balanced.

Tips No: 7

You always have to wait for the blade to stop moving before you can settle it down after use. Use the circular saw with the blade brake to reduce your waiting time.

Tips No: 8

Whenever you are replacing your circular saw, it is essential to always consult your new manual for full guidelines.

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Conclusion

That is all about “Best circular saw” in this article today. Another important thing that we will like you to learn is safety tips when using a circular saw. And also, you check our buying guide to know more about what to look for in a circular saw. At last, thanks for your time.

Nevertheless, you may read our next article on what is a track saw used for?