Here are a few things to keep in mind when you shop for your circular saw.
Power Rating
For corded circular saws, the power rating is generally expressed inamperage.
Today, 15-amp saws are the standard; 10- or 12-amp saws are appropriate only for infrequent use.
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The higher the amperage, the more cutting power the saw will have.
Cordless, battery-powered circulars are typically rated by the voltage of their batteries.
Virtually all cordless saws now use lithium-ion battery systems.
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There are many 18-volt saws available, but there are also more powerful 20-volt cordless saws offered.
The amp-hour ratings range from about 5 hours to 9 hours.
Blade Size
Circular saws are categorized by the diameter of the blade they take.
The most common and useful size for DIYers is 7 1/4 inches.
Up close, though, they can feel much different in the hand and when you use them.
Does the handle fit your hand?
Does the saw feel well balanced and the right weight for you?
Are you comfortable with the visibility of the blade and the adjustment components?
you’ve got the option to buy blades for cutting wood, metal, tile, and concrete.
Changing blades takes just a few moments.
Types of Circular Saws
Circular saws have long been available in two styles: sidewinders and worm-drive.
A good sidewinder is the best choice for the home workshop since it is light and maneuverable.
Worm Drive
Worm-drive saws are short and long, with the handle positioned behind the blade.
The blade is located on the left, making it visible to right-handed users.
Worm-drives are preferred by some construction pros for heavy-duty work.
Hypoid saws are good for large tasks and heavy-duty work.
They can either be handheld or have the saw attached to a radial arm and base.
These types of saws have a flat blade and no teeth, making their cuts using friction.
Chop saws are used to cut through pipes, tile, metal, concrete, etc.
Opt for more expensive blades when using an abrasive saw, as you’ll go through cheap ones quicker.
That being said, abrasive circular saws come with a high price tag.
Concrete
Concrete circular saws are also called slab saws.
These circular saws look similar to the abrasive (chop) saw and are made to cut through concrete.
They are very powerful and heat up quickly.
The blades are typically diamond blades, and tend to wear out fast due to what they’re cutting.
The blade is adjustable in height and rips boards quickly and easily.
A table saw is nice to have on hand if you work a lot on home projects.
They can run anywhere from $50 up to $900 or more.
Father’s Day is also a popular time to check for deals on circular saws.
This can be a bit challenging as some of these saws can be quite expensive.
It also comes down to personal preference.
Will it be used simply for one project?
Or will you be able to use it for other home improvement projects?
What punch in of material will the saw be cutting?
Do you need special angle cuts?
What punch in of blade do you need?
Warning
Safety First!
You might prefer to see this tool in person before purchasing.
Take time to double-check you are buying the right jot down of circular saw for your home projects.
It is easy to maintain a circular saw.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions on the proper use and maintenance.
Before each use, check the teeth of the blade for wear, chipping, or breakage.
Or the blade is not cutting as well and has dulled from use.
These are typical indications that you should replace the blade.
