Circular Saws

There may not be another category of power tools that offers more options and variations on a basic theme than that of circular saws. In general, all circular saws are handheld power tools used for cutting various types of materials out on a jobsite or at a location other than your workshop where you might accomplish the same tasks with a table or radial arm saw. However, beyond that basic premise there are numerous sizes, types, and styles of circular saws to choose from – sometimes your selection might be based on your project, but in many cases it’s just a matter of personal preference such as the feel of the tool in your hand or loyalty to a particular brand.

Circular Saw Features

Circular saws range from small cordless tools ideal for small projects to big worm-drive models that are popular with many carpenters for framing jobs or other tasks where a large volume of dense lumber may be cut on a daily basis. Regardless of what type of saw you choose, there are a few features to look for that may make using the saw a little easier and perhaps even safer:

  • Blade brake – all circular saws have a spring operated guard that covers the moving blade after you’ve cut your materials and removed your finger from the tool’s trigger. However, some saws feature a brake that immediately halts the blade when your finger releases the trigger – a stationary blade isn’t as dangerous as one that’s moving.
  • Safety interlock – this is a feature that helps prevent the saw from accidental starts when touching the trigger – not a good thing when sharp blades are involved. Most circular saws have two buttons that must be depressed to start the blade rotation.
  • Blade flexibility – you should always be able to see where you are cutting when using a circular saw without resorting to bodily contortions. Right-handed DIYers should choose a saw with the blade to the left of the motor for ease of operation and left-handed users should selection the opposite configuration

You’ll probably be changing blades on a frequent basis depending on the materials being cut so choosing a model that allows this operation to be performed easily should also be a consideration.

Types of Circular Saws

The three primary types of circular saws:

  • Cordless circular saws – these little saws are very convenient for small jobs where you have just a few cuts to do – they don’t have as much power as electric saws, but you don’t have to worry about stringing out an extension cord. Choose a cordless saw with as much volts as possible for more cutting power.
  • Electric circular saws – these are the most common type of circular saw and most woodworkers have at least one in their workbench. Choose the size and weight that you’re most comfortable with and look for some of the features listed above.
  • Worm-drive saws – these heavy circular saws are designed to have more torque than a normal saw and are useful for cutting through thick or dense woods that might cause the blade to bind up. These saws are popular with residential and commercial framing contractors, but most DIYers might be better off with a regular circular saw.

Circular Saw Safety

Circular saws are very handy for just about any home improvement project, but they should be handled with utmost respect as they can cause severe injuries if not used properly. Always make sure the material you’re cutting is secure prior to beginning your cut and be aware of where your hands and fingers are in relation to the saw before depressing the trigger – that also goes for the hands of any helpers you may be using. Circular saws require the use of eye and ear protection when in use.