Which is the best handheld circular saw to buy? How to choose a circular saw for construction and home use

02.03.2024

This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

More and more home craftsmen and professionals are putting aside traditional hand saws and prefer circular saws. Manufacturers, meeting customers halfway, have created many models. They differ in price, performance and functionality. As a result, when purchasing from amateurs and professionals, difficulties arise associated with selecting the optimal set of parameters and price. Experts recommend starting from the purpose of the purchased tool.

Criteria for choosing a circular saw

A home craftsman who is actively involved in the construction of a house, bathhouse or garage has to work with wooden products of different thicknesses and widths. In this case, qualities such as reliability, mobility, and convenience come first. At the same time, the price should be affordable.

Finishers and carpenters work with sheet materials such as plywood, fiberboard, chipboard, as well as thin trim, parquet, laminate, lining and block house. The most important characteristics in work are the accuracy of cutting and the quality of the cut. For such options you will have to pay more money.

When building houses, carpenters have to carry out not only transverse, but also longitudinal sawing of wood. Modern circular saws can handle large timber; some users cut it in two passes. This type of work is best done on stationary machines; they have high productivity and accuracy. But the price of such saws is high.

Our review includes the best circular saws. When compiling the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:

appointment;

functionality;

expert opinion;

consumer reviews.

Rating of the best circular saws

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
The best corded circular saws	1		6,984 RUR
	2		9,689 RUR
	3		7,310 ₽
	4		RUR 30,829
	5		7,104 RUR
	6		5 810 ₽
The best cordless circular saws	1		12,099 RUR
	2		15 100 ₽
	3		4,500 ₽
The best sawing machines	1		RUR 30,754
	2		56,480 RUR

The best corded circular saws

One of the most affordable and popular types of circular saws are corded models. They have good power, are reliable and unpretentious. The only disadvantage of this group of circular saws is limited mobility. The tool can only be used in close proximity to a household electrical network. The experts have selected some interesting circular saws.

The optimal price and excellent technical parameters were the main factors that ensured the Hammer CRP 900 A corded circular saw won in our rating. The circular saw has the highest power (2 kW) among its competitors. To make it comfortable for the operator to work with this serious unit, the manufacturer has equipped it with a soft handle, an ergonomic body and a convenient adjustment system. A circular saw is capable of making deep cuts (up to 85 mm) in any tree.

When turned on, the saw does not break out of your hands thanks to the soft start function. A two-button activation system, as well as the ability to lock the shaft, ensures safe operation. A circular saw allows you to make cuts both at right angles to the surface and at 45 degrees.

Advantages

high power;

high-quality assembly;

comfortable handle;

carbide-tipped disc.

Flaws

heavy weight.

A powerful and reliable tool is the Makita 5008MG circular saw. Experts gave it second place; the model was slightly inferior to the leader in power (1.8 kW) at a higher price. Using a saw, you can work not only with natural wood, but also with fiberboard, chipboard and some metals. For high-quality cutting, the circular saw provides precise depth adjustment. The presence of LED backlight allows you to work in a room with poor lighting. The rubberized handle with corrugation makes even long-term work comfortable and not tiring.

The base plate can be adjusted to 22.5, 45 and 50 degrees. The spindle lock ensures simple and safe accessory changes. Sawdust is removed using an air stream.

Advantages

LED lights;

3-stage tilt angle adjustment;

high power;

Flaws

The power button does not lock.

The DeWALT DWE560 circular saw does not have record power or rich functionality. Users loved it for its mobility, light weight (3.7 kg) and quality of cut. Despite the modest power rating (1.35 kW), the tool is capable of cutting wooden products up to 65 mm thick. This circular saw also copes well with longitudinal sawing of boards or bars, so you can often find it in carpentry workshops or on construction sites. Sawdust is removed from the cutting zone by blowing air; the manufacturer has provided the possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner.

There is a reliable guard for effective operator protection, and a rip fence is provided for more precise work. Masters only regret the lack of a smooth start, and the fragile rear part of the sole is also criticized.

Advantages

ease and convenience;

low noise level;

clean and precise cut.

Flaws

no soft start.

The German circular saw stands out among its competitors due to its excellent quality and durability. The BOSCH GKT 55 GCE circular saw was no exception. Surprisingly, the model did not make it into the top three ratings for a number of objective reasons. And the most important of them is the high price. Some analogues are 5 times cheaper. The circular saw does not stand out in terms of power (1.4 kW), although at high speed (6250 rpm) the device is able to cope with the most complex tasks. Functions such as continuously variable speed control, electronic motor protection and the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner will also be useful for the operator.

According to experts, the main advantage of the BOSCH GKT 55 GCE chain saw is the quality of the cut. This is precisely why professionals love this circular saw.

Advantages

clean cut;

compactness;

accuracy of adjustments.

Flaws

high price;

noise when starting.

The smallest circular saw in our rating was the BOSCH PKS 55 A model. This representative of the famous brand has everything going for it in terms of price, but the technical characteristics do not reach the top three. Even high engine speeds (5600 rpm) cannot compensate for the low power (1.2 kW). Therefore, the circular saw is equipped with a small disk with a diameter of 160 mm. It is able to cope with wooden products with a thickness of 55 mm. The capabilities of the saw are limited by the plastic gear housing. Therefore, the saw is not suitable for professional activities.

For home craftsmen, a saw can be a good helper. Cleanliness during work is ensured by a dust collector, as well as the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner. For safe disc replacement there is a spindle lock.

Advantages

ease and convenience;

acceptable price;

cleanliness of use and safety.

Flaws

plastic gear housing.

Interskol DP-210/1900M

An excellent tool for a construction site would be the Interskol DP-210/1900M circular saw. It perfectly combines high power (1.9 kW) and the lowest price. You can saw wooden boards and bars both crosswise and lengthwise. Plywood or chipboard for the device is also not a problem. With a blade diameter of 210 mm, the tool is capable of sawing materials up to 75 mm thick. The circular saw has a soft start and electronic motor protection. The manufacturer has equipped the saw with a long 4-meter cord, which gives more scope for the work of the master.

Some shortcomings did not allow the saw to rise higher. In reviews, users note insufficient quality and accuracy of the cut. There is a beating of the original disc, so many owners buy a higher quality cutting part.

Advantages

molded sole;

smooth start;

long cord;

high power.

Flaws

low cut cleanliness and accuracy;

poor quality disc.

The best cordless circular saws

Away from the household electrical network, cordless circular saws come to the rescue. These mobile and convenient devices cannot boast of high power and high rotation speed. But the weakest link in the tool remains the battery. Often, craftsmen have to buy additional batteries to ensure uninterrupted operation. Our review presents the best cordless circular saws available today.

One of the most successful tools in the line of the famous manufacturer is the BOSCH GKS 10.8 V-LI 0 cordless saw. The model was liked by home craftsmen and professionals, and experts also highly appreciated its capabilities. The tool managed to become the winner of the rating due to its lightness (1.2 kg) and mobility, which allow you to work tirelessly for a long time. It is worth noting a number of pleasant little things. This is a guide, a depth regulator, and a charge indicator. And if we also take into account the silent operation, the operator gets real pleasure from the creative process.

You can safely go into low-light areas with the saw, since the model is equipped with effective lighting. Among the weak points, users note the low capacity of the battery; on the original blade, the saw can be pulled to the side.

Advantages

lightness and mobility;

good equipment;

rich equipment.

Flaws

weak battery.

The most powerful and resourceful cordless circular saw in our review was the DeWALT DCS576N model. Experts gave her second place in the rating. The circular saw not only has maximum power (1.5 kW) and speed (5800 rpm), but also the largest blade diameter (190 mm). As a result, the machine is capable of sawing boards and bars up to 67 mm thick. At the same time, there is a rotating mechanism that allows you to change the angle of inclination by 45 degrees.

The DeWALT DCS576N circular saw failed to become a winner due to the high price, as well as the lack of a battery and charger included. In addition, the tool requires a 54 V battery. The heavy weight (3.7 kg) can quickly lead to operator fatigue.

Advantages

high power;

deep cut;

quality production.

Flaws

poor equipment;

high price.

The low price of the RYOBI RWSL1801M cordless saw attracts the attention of ordinary home craftsmen and experienced experts. At the same time, the manufacturer manages to provide the instrument with good quality. For these features, the model was placed on the third step of the rating. The engine resource remains quite high. In addition, the device is equipped with a laser marker, which allows you to make very precise cuts up to 45 mm deep. It is possible to connect a vacuum cleaner, and also has a spindle lock.

Among the problems with saws, experts point out the use of a non-standard mounting diameter (10 mm). Because of this, you have to use adapter washers when installing a new disk.

Advantages

low price;

high-quality assembly;

durable engine.

Flaws

spindle play;

non-standard bore diameter.

The best sawing machines

Professional joiners and carpenters use sawing machines in their work. For convenience, the tool has an adjustable table; it can be equipped with legs or mounted on a workbench. Sawing machines are much more powerful and precise than circular saws. But they are expensive and less economical to operate. Several models came to the attention of experts.

The Makita MLT100 sawing machine can be a decoration for any carpentry workshop. The saw has outstanding capabilities, which allows it to be used for both domestic and professional purposes. The saw is designed for installation on a workbench or table, to which it is fixed with fasteners. With a power of 1.5 kW and a rotation speed of 4300 rpm, the tool can easily handle sawing wood up to 91 mm thick. The machine table extends to the sides and forward; it is made of durable aluminum alloy.

Experts gave this sawing machine first place in the ranking for its precision cutting accuracy, compact size, ability to move the tool on a trolley, and also for its reasonable price.

Advantages

high-quality sawing;

compact dimensions;

high performance;

deep cut.

Flaws

not detected.

The professional sawing machine is the Metabo TS 254 model. In most respects it is similar to the winner of the rating, but due to its higher price it takes an honorable second place. The saw compares favorably with power (2 kW), high rotation speed (4200 rpm), and cutting depth (87 mm). Professionals note the quality of the cut and high accuracy, which is very important in carpentry and carpentry.

Experts highlight several features of the circular machine. This is an adjustable table with legs that can accommodate additional tools. There is also an adjustable rip fence to make woodworking easier. You can connect a vacuum cleaner to the machine, the motor has electronic protection and starts smoothly.

Advantages

high power;

comfortable table with legs;

smooth start.

Flaws

high price.

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Saws are used in all areas of industry, as well as in everyday life. The choice depends on the complexity and volume of work.

How to choose a saw

When choosing any type of saw, you should consider the following characteristics:

engine power (both electric and gasoline saws), it determines how efficiently the tool can cope with the loads;
rotation speed of the cutting blade for circular saws;
mechanism for maintaining constant rotation speed under load;
for chain saws, an important characteristic will be the length of the bar (the size of the workpiece depends on it);
operating time with a fully charged battery for cordless saws (the higher the battery voltage, the longer the operating time of the tool with the same capacity);

weight of the tool (the most powerful saws have more weight, but it is impossible to work with a heavy saw for a long time);
protective mechanisms (increase work safety);
manufacturer (well-known brands are much more expensive, but are distinguished by high quality workmanship and reliability);
additional functions (laser pointer, device for extracting sawdust, soft start of the electric motor);
how convenient it is to make adjustments to the tool (the more different adjustments, the more functionality the tool has);
depth of cut and possibility of immersion (for circular saws);
ease of use (for hand tools);
required voltage for electric saws (220 W for household and 380 W for some industrial devices).

When choosing a tool, do not pay attention to:

Lack of spare disks for circular saws or chains for chainsaws included with the tool. These materials are consumables and can be easily purchased separately.
The length of the electrical cord for an electric tool, if the other characteristics are completely satisfactory.
Unprepossessing appearance (the tool is meant to be used, not shown off at an exhibition).
Lack of tires included with plunge-cut saws, since they are easy to select yourself.

In cases where you need to cut one or two bars, you can use a manual one. But if you need to make a large number of cuts, then you should use a cordless saw.

Using pre-charged batteries will extend the time, and the absence of unnecessary wires will ensure comfortable work.

TO benefits relate:

simplest maintenance;
low noise;
high maneuverability;

Cons are:

high cost compared to a network tool;
gradual decrease in battery life during operation;
reduced operating time at low temperatures.

Depending on your requirements, it is possible to purchase:

a professional tool capable of cutting boards of any size;
compact, designed for cutting small bars and chipboard sheets.

Chainsaws are divided into professional and household. The first ones are designed for constant large and long-term loads, for example, felling trees and sawing large diameter logs. Household ones are not suitable for serious work.

TO positive qualities Gasoline saws are independent from the source of electric current, so you can use them both outdoors and on vacation, as well as on your farm.

TO shortcomings relate:

the need to prepare a gasoline mixture;
harmful emissions;
price;
maintenance is more difficult than similar electric models;
rougher cut compared to circular saws.

Husqvarna 365 is the leader among professional chainsaws. Technical characteristics, reliability and ease of use ensured a leading position in the rating.

The maximum tire length of 75 cm with a motor power of 3400 W allows you to cut almost any log without jamming.

Stihl MS 260 refers to semi-professional models and can compete in terms of performance with professional models, despite its lower weight and power.

Like household saws, it is best used for sawing small logs for firewood and construction work. The engine power (2400 W) and the length of the bar (40 cm) will allow you to cut large diameter logs, but you should not constantly use it for this.

Household gasoline saw Makita EA3203S-40 Suitable for small-scale work in the country or for repairs.

If necessary, you can even prepare firewood, but you should not forget that the 1350 W motor is not designed for constant loads.

Circular saws are conventionally divided into professional ones, which are capable of cutting even oak boards, and household ones, which are not recommended to be overloaded. The cutting accuracy of this tool is much higher than that of chain saws.

Both battery-powered saws (they are not very powerful and cannot operate for a long time without charging the battery) and powered saws are used.

The main advantage is considered to be a clean and even cut when cutting boards and timber longitudinally.

When using circular saws, you cannot cut along a curved line; this is a disadvantage.

It is worth highlighting three models that are leaders in their classes:

Of the budget semi-professional models, the most functional Bosch PKS. Its advantages include high rotation speed (4500 rpm), spindle locking, the presence of an outlet for connecting a vacuum cleaner, and reliability.

However, there are also disadvantages inherent in most budget models: a weak motor (600 W), one rotation speed and a small cutting disc diameter (130 mm).

For home use, this model is the best choice for a relatively low price.

Makita SP6000 Set recommended for people who constantly work with sawing boards and sheet materials.

A soft start system, enhanced user protection from the impact of the cutting disc, power of 1300 W, adjustable engine speed (up to 5200 rpm), connection of a vacuum cleaner and electronic engine protection are the advantages of this model.

There are no disadvantages, except for the price, but a professional tool is always more expensive than a household one, so if you use it frequently, it’s worth purchasing this model.

You can save money by purchasing a saw from a lesser-known Russian manufacturer. ELITECH PD 1255P 14 should be used for cutting wooden workpieces at an angle, sheet materials, including aluminum.

It is a plunge-cut saw, so it can be used to cut into a tabletop, cut out a rotten section of the floor, or make grooves in the required places.

Impressive technical characteristics allow it to compete with more well-known brands: 1200 W power, 5500 rpm, adjustable cutting depth, connection to a vacuum cleaner and user protection.

High noise and lack of a laser pointer are disadvantages.

Conventionally, electric chainsaws are divided into professional, semi-professional and household. Professional equipment is used in industry; due to its high price, it is rarely purchased for work around the house or garden.

For construction and housework that requires frequent use without heavy loads, semi-professional equipment is used. Household ones will allow you to cut firewood, cut boards, timber, even foam concrete.

The correct choice of tool determines how comfortable it is to work with and whether it will cope with the tasks.

This tool competes with gasoline saws, thanks to a number of advantages In front of them:

the noise level is lower than that of gasoline analogues;
no exhaust gases;
There is no need to maintain the engine during operation;
no fuel mixture required;
light weight;
the price, compared to gasoline saws with similar characteristics, is lower.

In addition to positive qualities, there are also negative:

short operating time of battery models;
the presence of a cord requires increased caution when working.

Makita UC4030A is a representative of a professional tool with a power of 2 kW with a bus length of 40 cm. Powered only from the electrical network.

It stands out for its low weight, easy adjustment of chain tension, high-quality assembly and low price with good performance.

Smooth start, user protection, chain brake ensure safe operation.

Among semi-professional models, she stands out Bosch AKE 30 S. The 1800 W motor, weight 3.6 kg with a bar length of 30 cm provide maneuverability and allow you to make cuts with one hand.

The SDS system makes chain tensioning easier.

Has the best price/quality ratio Interskol PC-16/2000TN.

Motor power 2,000 W, tire length 40 cm and weight 6 kg.

Unlike other brands, it does not stand out for its quiet operation or engine power, but its low price, high performance, the presence of protective devices and slightly worse workmanship have determined its place in the market.

The tool is designed for cutting large diameter holes in concrete walls, wood, stainless steel and other materials. All hole saws have a pilot drill that allows you to accurately drill the center.

Collapsible models are available, allowing the use of saws of several diameters on one guide, and non-dismountable models.

When choosing a tool, it is important to consider the nature of the work.

If you need a large number of holes of different diameters, then you should give preference to a collapsible tool.

In cases where you need to make many holes of the same diameter, it is cheaper to purchase a non-separable hole saw.

Be sure to know exactly what material you will be working with, since a saw designed for concrete will not be suitable for drilling metal or wood.

Large holes are required when laying pipes, installing electrical equipment, and making furniture.

It is difficult to obtain straight edges when using another tool, so hole saws are widely used both in industry and in everyday life.

There are many kits available for professionals that provide the necessary results when working with various materials:

Bimetal kits IRVIN made from a combination of two metals. High-alloy tool steel is used to manufacture the cutting part, ensuring durability and reliability.

Designed for cutting holes in steel, aluminum and zinc workpieces.

For work on wood, plastic and chipboard, it is worth purchasing a brand kit KRAFTOOL. The sets are available in various configurations, so choosing the right one will not be difficult.
Professional concrete kits of the highest quality and durability are produced BAHCO. Recommended for people who are constantly engaged in work on laying communications.

Band saw machines are designed for processing wood, chipboard sheets, plastic, and metal.

Unlike circular and chain saws, they allow you to make shaped cuts, which expands the scope of application. The working tool (saw) is ring-shaped, with a serrated edge on one side.

Structurally, band saws differ:

according to the width of the canvas;
by composition (the canvas can be homogeneous or consist of hardened teeth and a soft body).

Band sawing machines are divided into:

professional (stationary) models designed for large volumes of work;
semi-professional (desktop), which are used for small industries;
household (manual), intended for use without excessive loads.

In addition, depending on the scope of use, there are:

vertical band saws (the plane of the cutting tool is located perpendicular to the table), which have become widespread in woodworking;
horizontal ones are used for cutting the largest workpieces, logs of any rigidity;
manual.

Compared to any other types of saws, band saw equipment has the following advantages:

the resulting slice does not require further processing;
the width of the resulting cut is smaller than that of chain and circular saws, which ensures material savings;
workpiece sizes and processing speed are higher than other types of saws;
operator safety ensured by the fact that there is no need to hold the tool in your hands;
cuts of workpieces can be made oblique, straight, curly, at a given angle;
professional models are fully automated, which ensures feeding and cutting of the workpiece without operator assistance.

The disadvantages of band saws include:

cannot be used outside of an electrical current source;
the need to periodically remove the cutting blade to relieve fatigue stress and sharpen.

A professional tool suitable for small workshops is WoodTec LS With a machine power of 2.2 kW, it can handle workpieces with a height of 280 mm, allowing for cuts of 0.7 mm for a width of up to 460 mm.

In addition, this machine works with corner and curved cuts. There is a sawdust outlet, convenient saw tension, and adjustable speed. Angle cuts are made by tilting the work table at an angle of up to 45 degrees.

The best quality household tool is the band saw. Makita 2107FW.

Power 710 W, cutting width and height 210 mm, weight 5.7 kg, and a set of additional functions allow it to be used for sawing both sheet materials and timber, boards, and plastic of appropriate sizes.

A functional semi-professional tool is Gongyou Group MJ.

Engine power 7.5 kW, automatic feed, cutting height 200 mm, processing width 500 mm, quick adjustment to a different size and feed speed provided the machine with positive recommendations.

For home use, in addition to hand-held circular saws, tabletop circular saws are used. They are designed to produce an even cut along the entire length of the workpiece.

Unlike hand-held circular saws, when cutting, the tool does not move; all actions are performed by the workpiece.

Compared to hand or stationary power tools, table saws have the following advantages: advantages:

safer to use;
perform cuts more accurately;
equipped with a frame that allows material to pass along its entire length;
the depth of the cut is adjusted using the object table;
Compared to stationary machines, transportation is much easier.

Flaws:

a figured cutout is not provided due to design features;
dependence on sources of electric current.

BOSCH PTS 10 wins in functionality. Cutting up to 75 mm, speed 5000 rpm, the presence of guides and the ability to cut at a given angle will allow you to enjoy the operation of the machine.
ELITECH SR 1221 significantly exceeds the price range. It has a full range of functions of branded machines. The small diameter of the blade, which does not allow sawing workpieces thicker than 45 mm, limits its use.
BOSCH GTS 10 XC Professional equipped with all possible basic and additional functions, possible use in industry. The only downside is the price.

The main difference from circular saws is the presence of a mechanism that allows you to adjust the immersion of the cutting disc into the material.

To choose the right plunge-cut saw, you need to evaluate the following characteristics:

ease of use (to determine it, just hold the tool in your hands);
electric motor power;
speed and the presence of their adjustment;
difficulty of setting (the easier the immersion depth is set, the faster the work will be done);
presence of a soft start system;
range of cutting disc diameters;
weight in working order.

Advantages plunge-cut saws:

the accuracy of material processing is higher than that of other types;
possibility of making internal cuts and cutouts.

Main shortcomings are:

high, compared to other types of hand tools, price range;
difficulty in processing parts.

Makita SP 6000 stands out for its high degree of user protection (the cutting part is completely covered with a casing) and low weight. It is a semi-professional tool, so it can be used in small industries.

It has a smooth start, a system for maintaining and adjusting speed, convenient adjustment of immersion, and it is possible to make cuts at an angle. The only drawback is the price.

INTERSKOL PP-165/1300EM– an inexpensive model with many functions. Engine power and functionality are not inferior to branded models. Disadvantages - increased noise, lack of a guide bar included.
Professional models designed for work in production include BOSCH GKT 55 GCE601.675.001.

The advantages of the model are high quality workmanship and reliability with a full range of functions. Disadvantages: price and weight of the tool.

Universal saws are designed for sawing sheet materials such as plasterboard, ceramics, stone, chipboard, fiberboard. The design allows you to make shaped cuts, despite the fact that the cutting tool is a disk.

Advantages of universal saws:

closed cutting disc;
adjustable cutting depth;
tool weight;
price.

Flaws:

low power, which does not allow working with thick materials;
low cutting accuracy;
no possibility of corner cuts;
minimum set of functions.

BOSCH PKS 16 Multi allows you to make cuts up to 16 mm deep. Among household tools, it stands out for its high quality of workmanship, ease of disc replacement, automatic speed control system, and reliability.
Vector VDMP-810 refers to a semi-professional instrument of domestic production. Possible use in small industries and at home, since the price of the saw is lower than that of branded analogues.
Advantages STURM CS5060MS is battery type and low price range. Not intended for use in industry, but in everyday life it can become an indispensable assistant.

Circular saws are powerful devices for processing wood, plastic and other sheet materials. Used in industry, with the exception of low-power models. Divided into three types:

Professional. They have the greatest power, are designed for constant operation, and consume a lot of electricity.
Household. Powered by a 220 V electrical network. Suitable for small workshops or home use.
Semi-professional. More compact than professional ones, they have a smaller set of functions. Can be used in workshops or at home. They are characterized by a large range of functions and a relatively high cost.

Metabo TKHS 315 M stands out from a number of semi-professional models used in industry due to the highest quality of workmanship.

Operates from a three-phase network 380 V, motor power 3 kW. Equipped with a device for feeding the workpiece, a closed motor, and a soft start system.

Dewalt DW729KN A professional device with a high degree of operator protection, adapted for continuous work.

Console control of the cutting disc. The set of functions allows you to cut workpieces at the desired angle from any point. It is not used in everyday life due to its high price and weight.

Inexpensive household devices powered from a 220 V network include Hitachi C 10 RE. Used in small-scale production or at home. This machine is multifunctional at an affordable price.

Circular saws appeared more than 200 years ago. People needed a machine that would do the hard work of cutting down trees in minutes. This was another step in facilitating human labor. But the instruments in 1770 were far from their modern counterparts. The car was set in motion with the help of windmills. In 1922, the first tool was developed, similar to those now sold in stores. But since then it has, of course, been significantly improved and refined.

Tool overview and technical specifications

An electric circular saw is an excellent and indispensable tool for a carpenter. Typically used for longitudinal and transverse cutting of wood. It is relatively light in weight and easy to carry, which allows you to take the tool with you even to a distant work site. A circular saw is a steel blade with teeth for cutting. Saws can be divided into 3 categories: table saws, bench saws and hand saws. The last option is worth paying attention to and discussing in more detail: what is it, what work is it intended for and how to choose the right hand-held circular saw?

For a thrifty, business-minded person who strives to keep his home in impeccable condition and in perfect order, such a saw will become a great and faithful assistant. Without a circular saw, a house cannot be built, a roof cannot be erected, and it can be very useful in simple apartment renovations. For example, when laying laminate flooring or cutting panels for walls. The circular saw cuts perfectly straight and neat lines in seconds. It will help you cut not only straight lines, but also at the required angle. The saw consists of an electric motor, a protective casing, a guide bar and a gearbox. The main indicators are:

Power. Both the depth of cut and the force of rotation of the disk depend on the power. But the more power, the heavier the tool. And this is not always easy and convenient.
Rotation speed is one of the most important characteristics. It directly determines whether the tool can cut dense material or not. Absorption of electricity is also important.
Case material. Usually this is heat-resistant plastic, but there are metal models and, of course, plastic plus metal.
Cutting depth – from 40 mm to 140 mm. For home use, 50-60 mm is enough.
Presence or absence of autonomous power supply. This function allows you to use a circular saw in places where there is no way to connect to electricity. But the operating time of the cordless saw is only 30 minutes to 1 hour, and charging time can last up to 3-4 hours. And this is not always appropriate or possible.
Adjustment of cutting inclination. Almost all modern models have this function. But they use it extremely rarely.
Availability of soft start. Its presence will increase the service life of the device. Will protect the device from unwanted and dangerous overloads and overheating. Protects the engine from sudden voltage surges.
Accidental start blocking. It is not always convenient, but it is a guarantee of your safety.
Sawdust collection – connection to a dust removal system or vacuum cleaners.
A laser pointer will help you complete the job without a long guide and with greater accuracy.
Immersion function. Allows you to start cutting not only from the edge, but also from the middle of the workpiece. Which sometimes is simply necessary.

Major modern manufacturers

The German company HAMMER offers an ideal price-quality ratio. Approximately for beginners and home use, the saw will help acquire the necessary skills.

MAKITA saws are an excellent option. All saws are of excellent quality. They have a lightweight design. Very low noise and vibration levels. The work will be comfortable and convenient.

Legendary saws from SKIL. This name is synonymous with excellent quality of the product. The products of this manufacturer have been repeatedly awarded the title of “quality product”.

"PREMIUM" are highly efficient circular saws. They are designed for heavy loads. Increased power and wear resistance. The characteristics are often not inferior to professional instruments.

BOSCH circular saws have up to 5500 rpm and are of good quality.

If we talk about Russian manufacturers of this product, then there are very good reviews about circular saws from the ZUBR company. They can be used for both home and industrial use. Affordable price and high quality.

The cost of this product ranges from acceptable and affordable to very high.

The price minimum stopped at 3 thousand rubles.

The price, like for any other product, depends not only on the set of functions, but also on the manufacturer. For home use, you can choose a model that is excellent in all respects within 4-5 thousand rubles.

How to choose a saw yourself?

The choice of circular saws is very large and varied. This product is offered in a wide range. First of all, you should ask yourself the question: for what purposes is it needed? If you do not plan to perform any specific work or actions, then you will be completely satisfied with a universal middle-class saw. They are also the most popular among buyers. This is an extremely dangerous tool, so it is important that you are comfortable working with it. Hold the instrument in your hands for at least 10 minutes.

Pay attention to the settings; the principle of operation should be absolutely clear to you. The cutting depth for home use is sufficient - 60-65 mm. Devices with an electronic module are gaining popularity. This is a great solution. Such a “smart” saw will last you much longer. In case of overload, the electric motor is automatically switched off. The latest inventions can cope with such durable materials as metal. Expensive devices will offer you a soft, smooth ride, reduced noise and vibration, high-quality cuts and maximum ease of use.

The quality of the discs is of great importance. The best saw blades are those that come included. But time passes and they wear out. Now there is a huge selection of this product in stores. Disks can be monolithic or carbide. Monolithic ones require sharpening and quickly lose quality. Carbide ones are much more reliable.

It should be remembered that they are not universal. The discs are selected according to the type of work and saw. The most popular are from 125 mm to 350 mm. For home use, a larger diameter is not required. Discs are available for wood and metal. The main thing is that such a tool must be reliable, so it is better to choose models in which the protective casing is made of aluminum alloy.

You should also pay attention to the handle of the tool. After all, the controllability of this device depends on it. Ideally, it should be rubber-coated. This will prevent slipping and reduce vibration. The ball-shaped handles are very easy to use.

The workpiece must be fixed in the most reliable way.
There should be no obstacles in the path of the saw.
You need to drive the saw very gently and smoothly. If possible, give the instrument a rest. If you force it to work continuously for 2-3 hours, then there is a risk that the motor will burn out (even with the best and most professional representative of circular saws).
For precision work, use a blade with fine teeth.
Cutting plastic and aluminum is done using special discs. The rotation speed should not exceed 4000 rpm.
The saw should not operate for more than half an hour. A break is required every 30 minutes.

What are the safety precautions?

Do not neglect to carefully study the instructions:

Remember that a circular saw is one of the most dangerous tools.
It is strictly forbidden to saw wood with metal inclusions (nails, screws, etc.).
Cleaning the saw should be done with a special brush and not with your hand.
If the material to be cut exceeds 2 m², it is necessary to use special support frames and stands.
Wear safety glasses to avoid getting sawdust in your eyes.
Be carefull. Do not operate such a dangerous tool if you are tired.
Check workpieces carefully for defects.
Use only high-quality and serviceable tools. To do this, it is necessary to periodically check whether the nuts are tightened well, whether the disk is damaged, etc.
Don't forget to wear headphones; the saw makes a loud, deafening sound when operating.

It is forbidden to work with a faulty saw:

the disk is not equipped with a casing;
there is no guide ruler;
the table slot for the saw blade is wider than 15 cm;
There are no devices that protect against ejection of the workpiece being processed.

A circular saw is a very complex tool. It requires the most responsible approach, caution and accuracy in handling. Before purchasing such a saw, think carefully about what purposes you need it for, what load you will give it.

Based on this, choose a device that meets your individual needs and requirements.

A circular (circular) saw is a hand-held power tool for straight cutting of wood, plywood, polymers and metal. The principle of its operation is simple: an electric motor uses a shaft to rotate a circular saw blade. Due to rotation at high speed, a disk with teeth cuts the workpiece. Tools of this type are used in repairs and private construction.

Today we will tell you which circular saw is best to buy for working at home. To do this, consider the main types, characteristics and functions of circular saws.

1. Types of circular saws

1.1 Intended use

Professional are used at large industrial enterprises and in private workshops, where large batches of workpieces are cut every day. The main differences of a professional tool are high power and large disc diameter. Industrial models are capable of making cuts up to 140 millimeters deep.

Household Circular saws for wood are designed for work in the country or in the garage. Their main purpose is sawing sheet materials. Household circular saws are designed for cutting depths of up to 40–50 millimeters.

Circular saws of these two classes differ in functionality and, as a result, cost.

1.2 By type of design

Stationary circular saw- a relatively large professional machine. Designed for daily use when processing large volumes of wood, for example in furniture production. Some hand-held circular saws have a permanent installation feature.

Tabletop circular smaller than the stationary one, therefore easier to transport, but not as productive. Tabletop models are installed in a garage or workshop. Suitable for medium-sized work: for the construction of a garden house or bathhouse. An example of such a tool is the DeWalt DW745 table saw.

A hand-held circular saw is suitable for cutting small volumes of soft materials: wood, plywood, plastic. This is a relatively lightweight tool, which makes it possible to work where you need it: you don’t have to take the workpiece to the workshop and back. A manual circular saw is convenient for sawing sheet materials that cannot be cut on a stationary machine.

A hand-held electric circular saw for wood is the most common and in demand.

1.3 Cordless and corded circular saws

Cordless circular saws woodworking machines are battery powered. Circular saws with batteries are very easy to carry, so they are used for working in hard-to-reach places, for example, when repairing a roof. If you choose a cordless circular saw, pay attention to the RedVerg RD-CS18V model.

On average, the operating time of such models on a single charge is 30–50 minutes.

Corded circular saws work from a socket. Their strength is maximum power and duration of use. Weaknesses - connection to the electrical network, the need for extension cords, relatively large weight.

Network models are often chosen for home use. It only makes sense to buy a circular saw with a battery if you plan to work away from the mains.

1.4 By type of material processed

Electric circular saws on wood. Designed for cutting boards, plywood, MDF, fiberboard and other wood derivatives. To make you happy with the results of your work, select a disk that is suitable for your current tasks. The general principle is this: the more teeth there are on the disk, the better the cut will be, but the longer it will take.

Metal circulars most versatile. This tool is suitable for hard materials (sheet metal, metal profiles, pipes), as well as for cutting wood, plastic, plywood. To cut metal with a circular saw, you need a carbide cutting blade made of special steel.
In many ways, a circular saw for metal is superior to a grinder: it is more productive, cuts at an angle, does not heat the metal, and makes a cut without burrs.

2. Main characteristics of circular saws

2.1 Power

The main parameter of a circular saw is the power of the electric motor. It affects the speed of work, the depth and quality of the cut.

Tools up to 800 watts- circulars for household use. They are mainly used for cutting sheet materials. Cutting depth: 40–50 millimeters.

800-1200 watt instruments- also designed for work at home or in a small workshop. Used in construction for cutting boards and bars. Cutting depth: 50–65 millimeters.

Tools over 1200 watts- professional models with a cutting depth of 65–140 millimeters. Not used in everyday life.

We recommend choosing the power of the circular saw with a small margin. This will extend the life of the tool and increase the speed of work. However, you don’t need to pay too much money either: a 1000-1200 watt circular machine is enough for your home.

2.2 Saw blade speed

The cutting speed depends on the number of revolutions per minute. Each material needs its own rotation speed. For example, wood is processed at high speeds, but only low speeds are suitable for plastic, otherwise the edges of the cut will heat up and melt. If you expect to work not only with wood, choose a circular saw with variable speed control.

2.3 Types of saw blades

Circular saw blades differ in the number, frequency and shape of the teeth. If you plan to cut materials of different classes, you need to purchase a separate blade for each of them.

2.4 Shape and arrangement of handles

They affect the comfort of handling the circular saw. Obviously, each master has his own requirements for the tool. However, most choose models with a mushroom-shaped handle that is comfortable to hold in any position, for example, like the Makita HS6601 electric circular saw.

Choose circular saws with rubberized handles: this helps to hold the tool firmly while working.

3. Additional functions of circular saws

Manufacturers of power tools equip circular saws for wood with additional functionality. These are useful, but not required additions. Review the available features to decide if you need to pay for them.

Smooth start- designed for a gradual increase in speed. This eliminates kickback, jerking, and sudden cutting of the blade into the workpiece, improving the quality of the cut and extending the life of the motor.

Collecting sawdust- on the body of some saws there is a pipe for connecting a vacuum cleaner or dust collection bag. The room you work in will be cleaner.

Laser mark- the laser beam illuminates the path along which the cut is made on the workpiece. As a result, the cutting line is as smooth, accurate and neat as possible.

Start blocking- to turn on the circular saw you will need to press two keys simultaneously. The operator is protected from accidental startup of the disk.

Electrodynamic brake- when the start button is released, it instantly stops the rotation of the shaft and circular saw blade. Prevents damage to the workpiece and reduces the chance of injury.

4. Conclusion

Which hand-held circular saw is best suited for solving everyday problems at home and in the country? Let's sum it up.

Any tool is selected based on the tasks you plan to solve with it. Therefore, immediately filter only household models and do not pay extra money for professional ones.

Choose a circular saw with a cutting depth of no more than 50 millimeters.

The DeWalt DWE550 electric circular saw is designed for working with wood or plastic. This powerful professional tool will perform at its best in any conditions. It can easily withstand constant intense loads. The DeWalt circular saw will be an excellent purchase for people who are going to perform industrial tasks and work with large workpieces.

Circular saw RedVerg CS65

The RedVerg Basic CS65 electric circular saw is capable of cutting hard materials: wood, chipboard and aluminum. The tool is aimed at the household segment and is not equipped with additional devices typical for professional tools. However, the resources of this saw are enough to perform everyday tasks. It is intended for home craftsmen who want to have a powerful tool at hand for their current work, but do not want to overpay for functionality that is unnecessary in their conditions.

Circular saw RedVerg RD-CS130-55

The RedVerg RD-CS130-55 electric circular saw is designed for irregular work on sawing wood and particle boards. It can also interact with plastics and other similar materials. This tool will find its use in small private workshops and the hands of home craftsmen. The RedVerg electric circular saw is an ideal choice for owners who want to have a tool for occasional work at their disposal.