Circular saws are one of the most commonly used power tools today. They're an essential piece of equipment when you want to make straight, quick and accurate cuts. They can flawlessly go through steel, wood, ceramics, PVC and masonry. They're not as messy or hard to use as other tools, and newer models have many features that make the job even easier. You can use it for your DIY projects or in a professional setting. Buying the right, high-quality saw will make your work simpler and less time-consuming.
What's a Circular Saw?
A circular saw is a power tool that uses a round blade to cut materials. It can either be handled or fixed on your worktable. It's mostly used by carpenters and cabinetmakers to do a variety of cuts on different materials. This saw uses a round blade with incredibly sharp metal teeth. When you turn it on, the blade starts spinning and cuts the material as smoothly as it gets.
There are different kinds of blades to cut through different materials such as wood, metal, stone, panelling or steel. Most saws have the option of adjustment. This means you can adjust the depth and height of the cut, and some of them are made to create bevel cuts. There's also a left or right-handed saw, depending on which is your dominant hand. If you don’t feel comfortable holding it, there are saws you can mount on the table.
What to Consider When Buying
Corded or Cordless?
Just like many other tools, saws come in two variations. The standard corded, plug-in models and high-performance battery-powered saws. For a long time, the corded type was a must-have for every worker and an epitome for heavy-duty cutting. But lately, things have changed. As technology advanced so did the saws. The new, cordless type is an updated version that gives you excellent performance.
This doesn’t mean that coded saws are no longer good. Far from it. They're still strong, functional and do a great job. The only advantage of the cordless saw is that it doesn’t have the cord to get in the way sometimes. Corded saws are considered to be more sustainable because battery-operated ones can require more electricity to get charged. This means more money. But on the other hand, you can work with them wherever you want because there’s no need for an electrical socket.
Power Rating
The power rating for corded circular saws is often given in amps. 15-amp saws are the norm nowadays. 10- or 12-amp saws are something you'll use from time to time in your job. When it comes to price, investing a few more dollars is a good idea. This is a tool you’ll be using often and for many years to come. Go for the higher amperage because the saw will have more cutting power.
Circulars that are cordless and powered by batteries are often rated according to their battery voltage. Almost every cordless saw uses a lithium-ion battery. The 18-volt saws are very popular right now. They're great for work and occasional DIY projects. You can also find 20-volt ones which are more powerful and great if you’re in the business. There's also an amp-hour rating and it shows how many hours you can use the saw before the battery dies. On average, this time is 5-9 hours.
Blade Size
These tools are categorised by the size, or diameter of the blade they can work with. The most common size is 18.5cm. These blades are very versatile and can handle many tasks. Their size allows you to cut through materials that are 7.5cm thick. This doesn’t include just wood, but also metal, marble or PVC.
If you’re looking for something lighter, there are 16.5cm blades, and for more heavy-duty work you can get a 21cm saw blade. If you’re a carpenter or a cabinetmaker, you’ll also find other, smaller sizes useful. These are 10cm and 11cm in diameter. They're great for panelling and other softer, thinner materials.
Ergonomics
At first glance, all corded or battery-powered saws look the same. Colour can be the only big difference you’ll see. But when you look closely, they have many differences. And once you get them in your hand, you’ll see how important the design is. Go to the local tool supplier and test them out yourself.
These tools need to be ergonomic. They should fit well in your hand, feel balanced and have the right weight. You should be comfortable handling them. Otherwise, your hands will get tired faster, you might cut the wrong way or even worse, cut yourself. Ergonomics is very important so never neglect it.
Types of Circular Saws
Sidewinder
Everyone is familiar with the design of the sidewinder saw. This power saw has a handle that is placed higher over the blade. The blade is attached to the right side of the D-shaped handle. You can also find the blade on the left side of your left hand is the dominant one. The sidewinders are budget-friendly and lighter when compared to worm drive saws. Plus, the blade spins faster. This is an easily manoeuvrable saw which is even good for beginners.
Worm Drive
Worm-drive saws have a handle that's behind the blade. They can be both short and long. If you’re a right-handed person, the blade will be on the left side, so it’s visible. These saws are heavier than the rest because there’s a gear system inside that moves the motor and spins the blade. Also, when compared to sidewinders, they also have more torque. This is the right saw for you if you’re working in construction because of the heavy-duty work it can do.
Abrasive
Abrasive saws are also known as chop saws. They're perfect when working with strong, hard materials like metal. They can either have the saw mounted to a radial arm and base or be handled. These saws use friction to cut because they have a flat blade and no teeth. They can go through tiles, pipes, metal or concrete with ease. If you decide to buy this saw, get high-quality blades as well. Cheaper ones will only be a waste of money because they’ll wear out quickly.
Hypoid
Hypoid saws are often confused with worm drive saws. This is because the motor is mounted behind the blade. On the other hand, the engine is enclosed and doesn’t have to be oiled like with worm drive saws. These tools are perfect for heavy-duty work and hard, large tasks.
