Every woodworker needs a circular saw eventually. Here’s what I’ve learned picking out a few over the years.
Start With Your Needs
Breaking down sheet goods? Get a saw with a good fence and blade guards that stay out of your way. Rough framing work? Prioritize durability and power. Fine furniture work? You’ll want accuracy and a quality blade.
Most DIYers fall somewhere in the middle – they need a saw that handles occasional sheet goods, crosscuts, and maybe some deck work. A mid-range 7-1/4″ saw covers all of that.
Key Features
Motor: 15 amps for corded, or match your existing battery platform for cordless. Don’t mix battery systems – it gets expensive fast.
Base plate: Aluminum is lighter and stays flat. Steel is heavier but more durable. Either works.
Bevel capacity: Most saws go to 45 degrees. Some go to 56 for steeper miters. Nice to have, rarely needed.
Depth adjustment: Should be easy to change and lock down solid. You’ll adjust this constantly.
Blade Quality
The blade that comes with the saw is usually garbage. Budget for a decent blade immediately. Diablo and Freud make good general-purpose blades. More teeth means smoother cuts but slower progress.
Guides and Tracks
A straight edge clamped to your work is the simplest guide. For precision, track systems (like Festool’s or Makita’s) keep cuts dead straight. They’re an investment but worth it for regular sheet goods work.
Safety Basics
Support your work properly. Let the cutoff fall free without binding the blade. Keep hands away from the cut line. Blade guards exist for a reason – use them.
