A circular saw is probably the first power tool most woodworkers buy. I’ve owned four over the years and learned what matters and what’s marketing.
Corded vs Cordless
Corded saws have more power and never run out of juice. Cordless saws let you work anywhere without dragging extension cords. For job site work, cordless wins. For a shop where you’re always near an outlet, corded makes sense.
My current saw is cordless (DeWalt 20V) and I don’t miss the cord. Battery technology has caught up to most cutting needs.
Blade Size
7-1/4″ is standard. Cuts through 2x material at 45 degrees, handles most tasks. Compact saws use 6-1/2″ blades – lighter and easier to handle but less cutting depth. I prefer the standard size for versatility.
What Actually Matters
Bevel adjustment: Should be easy to set and stay put. Sloppy bevel locks mean inconsistent cuts.
Blade visibility: Being able to see your cut line while sawing is essential. Some saws have better sight lines than others.
Base plate: Flat, sturdy, with clear markings. A warped base makes accurate cuts impossible.
Dust extraction: A port that connects to a vacuum keeps things cleaner and lets you see better.
Brands I Trust
DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee all make good circular saws. The differences at the professional level are minor. Pick one that matches your other cordless tools if you’re going that route.
Skillsaw is the original – “skilsaw” became the generic name for circular saws. Their worm drive models are preferred by some framers for their torque.
Using It Safely
Clamp your work when possible. Support the cutoff piece so it doesn’t pinch the blade. Never reach across the blade. Let the saw reach full speed before cutting. Wear eye and ear protection. Respect the tool.
