10 Best Circular Saw in 2024 | ProSawTool

Circular saws are portable machines designed to be used for commercial projects and can be held in the hand while using. These impressive alternatives are the bread and butter of carpenters as they are economical, portable, and help you in framing, carpentry, and cutting effectively. These are small-sized electric machines designed for a number of cuts (crosscuts, rips cuts, metal cutting, and carpentry).

A good circular saw is the one that provides you with reliable, safe, and suitable power, so you can use it for a variety of tasks from the stack of lumbar. However, choosing the right one can be challenging because different projects demand different types of saw, designed particularly for the job. To save you from excessive struggle, here is a complete insight into the best circular saws, how to clean and maintain them with a review guide, so you can choose the right one. So, dive right in for more.

Top Rated Circular Saws of 2022

1. BLACK+DECKER BDECS300C Cordless Circular Saw – Lightweight Circular Saw

First of all, this Black+Decker circular saw is designed particularly for tough materials and commercial projects. It is best known for its exceptional power and durable design that serve you well. The feature I absolutely loved is the laser-cutting technology that provides you with ultimate accuracy and precision.

Secondly, the first thing you will notice about this model is its lightweight and durable magnesium design. Hence, with this, you will be able to achieve control and stability all along. The design also comes with a spindle lock that helps you in changing the blade and start the machine with convenience.

It further features a powerful 15 amp motor that is absolutely remarkable for angled and straight cuts, having a tidy and precise finish. For enhanced accuracy, the laser illumination feature helps you through the process. Finally, for even complicated projects, you can adjust the cutting tip up to 45 degrees with 90 degrees depth settings.

In conclusion, this Black+Decker saw is well-suited for commercial projects and deals accurately with tough materials. It features a powerful motor, laser illumination, and depth adjustments that help you in cutting precisely. Finally, the angled adjustments and spindle lock feature add value to it.

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2. Rockwell Versacut 4.0 Amp Ultra-Compact Circular Saw – Laser Guided Circular Saw

Second on my list of the best circular saw is Rockwell Versacut 4.0 famous for its lightweight and stable design and cutting efficiency that serves you well. It is relatively simple to operate and features three blades that facilitate you in the best manner. The highlight of this circular saw is its compact design that can be handled by one hand easily.

Likewise, it comes with a decently powerful 4 amp motor that is designed for versatility and multiple functions. Hence, you can use this for wood, plywood, plastics, and different flooring. It has a cutting capacity of ¼ inches and angled adjustments that help you in achieving perfectly round edges with precision and accuracy.

In the end, the machine has an ergonomics design that incorporates a slim design, contoured handle, and metal guards that make the process comfortable and easy. I absolutely loved the grip and the lower metal guard that is largely responsible for stability. Finally, it is worth mentioning that the machine comes with dust extraction, so you won’t be bothered by the sawdust anymore.

In conclusion, this one from Rockwell is a great choice for commercial tasks and DIYs with a powerful and easy experience. It is equipped with efficient motor and depth adjustments that serve you well. Similarly, the ergonomics design offers an excellent grip and control, all thanks to its contoured grip and metal guards.

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3. Genesis GCS445SE 4-1/2″ Compact Circular Saw – Top Rated Circular Saw

If you are looking for something lightweight and budget-friendly saw for basic DIY projects, I would undoubtedly recommend this Genesis circular saw. It is best known for its decently powerful motor and a vacuum port that helps you all along. Similarly, this is a great alternative for beginners as this machine can be held in one hand with convenience.

Similarly, it features a 4 amp motor with a 3500 RPM value that is absolutely perfect for small and intermediate wood cutting projects. It further comes with a sturdy wooden board, so you can achieve perfectly rounded and straight edges as per your needs. Additionally, the tungsten blade is phenomenal in cutting precisely and accurately.

Last but not least, this one has a built-in vacuum port that keeps your working area clean and tidy, specifically designed for messy projects. So, you won’t have to worry about unnecessary debris and dirt. Finally, it is worth mentioning that at such a price, you are getting bevel adjustments that help you with an easy and quick blade change.

Final thoughts, this Genesis circular saw is an impressive alternative for newcomers, having a sharp blade and a powerful blade. This one further comes with bevel adjustments and a vacuum port that help you with quick blade change and tidy working space. All in all, the teeth are sharp enough to provide you with precise and accurate round edges at a reasonable price range.

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4. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Drive Circular Saw

Similarly, this one from SilkSaw is an appropriate choice among users because of its powerful motor and ergonomics design. This power tool is famous for its cutting capacity and versatility that help you with a number of projects and tough materials. Additionally, the machine is made up of magnesium, making it portable and long-lasting.

Furthermore, the design integrates a spindle lock and an anti-snag lower guard function. Thus, you will be provided with an easy blade change and protection throughout the process. I absolutely loved its Dual-Field function that makes sure that your device remains cool all along. So, you can use this machine for the longest time possible.

Lastly, when it comes to efficiency, this one from Skilsaw is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that provides you with absolute functionality and consistent performance. It also includes bevel adjustments and depth adjustments that allow you to customize it as per your requirements. Finally, you will be facilitated with stability and control throughout.

In essence, this Skilsaw is a great choice for commercial and DIY projects with precision and ease. It comes with a powerful 15 amp motor and a sharp blade that provides you with angled and accurate cuts throughout. Likewise, the depth adjustments and the cutting capacity make it of great value. Finally, the efficient cooling system provides you with long battery life and no lag.

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5. BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20C Circular Saw with Laser

Here comes another circular saw from Black+Decker, famous for its cooling technology and a decently powerful motor that serves you well. Likewise, at an affordable price range, you are getting an ergonomic design and proper safety. It is specifically designed for beginners looking for a reliable and functional alternative for DIY projects.

The first thing you will notice about this model is its lightweight design that has a magnesium tip and sturdy construction. It further integrates a contoured handle and metal guards (lower and upper) that offer you overall protection and a comfortable experience. It also comes with a built-in safety handle that prevents any chances of accidents.

Finally, you will find the 4 amp powerful motor highly accommodating. It offers a cutting speed of 3700 RPM that is perfectly suitable for basic DIY projects. I really liked the fact that they have added angled adjustments (upto 50 degrees) and bevel adjustments considering this is a cost-effective option. Lastly, it also comes with a rechargeable battery, so you can use it for the longest time.

In conclusion, if you are in the initial stages of your cutting process and want something that can help you in grooming the skills, this Black+Decker saw is a great choice. It comes with a decent motor and a suitable speed that helps you with basic DIY projects. Additionally, the ergonomics design and lightweight construction add value to it.

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6. DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

To begin with, Dewalt is a reputable brand when it comes to saws and related equipment. This one from the manufacturer is a well-suited option for anyone in search of a long-lasting and efficient power tool. It is specifically designed for commercial projects, and you can also use it for DIY projects; however, there will be a risk if you are a newcomer.

Talking about the design, this one comes with a powerful battery system that works on a stable voltage (20V). So, there is no risk of damaging the machine. Similarly, this one integrates a powerful 15 amp motor that is perfectly suited for precise and neat cuts. You can also use this for angled cuts up to 45 degrees and tough materials like steel and hardwood.

Lastly, it has the ability to cut materials up to 9/16 inches with absolute precision. The design further incorporates a ball bearing lower guard that provides you with a long lifespan and enhanced durability. Finally, the aluminum base included in the design helps you in getting your cuts perfectly aligned and accurate.

Final thoughts, this Dewalt circular saw is an impressive alternative for anyone in search of power and durability. It is equipped with a powerful motor and a long-lasting battery that provides you with precision and accuracy. Similarly, the thickness capacity and its ability to perform angled cuts with precision make it of great value.

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7. Ryobi One P505 Cordless 5 Circular Saw

If you are a budget enthusiast and always looking for ways to save money, I would recommend you go for this one. This one from Ryobi is a great choice for DIY projects and intermediate-level tasks with efficiency and great stability. Additionally, it integrates a long-lasting battery that helps you with a durable and efficient process throughout.

Speaking of the design, the first thing you will notice is its cordless design that integrates a spindle lock and dust extractor. Hence, you will be facilitated with a neat and tidy working space and an easy blade change process. It further comes with a lower metal guard and adjustable bevel that helps you with versatility.

Lastly, it features a powerful motor of 4700 RPM that is perfectly suitable for different materials such as wood, plywood, steel, and so on. Here, you will be facilitated with depth adjustments (up to 90 degrees) and angled adjustments. All in all, it offers great control and stability, not to mention impressive versatility and precision.

Wrapping up, this Ryobi machine is one of the best circular saws with a performance-oriented design and a powerful motor. It comes with lightweight construction and a cordless design with a lower metal guard that helps you throughout. Likewise, the powerful motor with depth adjustments and bevel settings make it stand among others.

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8. SKIL 5180-01 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

Here comes another great product from Skil with quality construction and exceptional cutting efficiency. It is designed for intermediate DIY projects such as framing, carpentry, and so on. It is a powerful tool that comes with different angled and depth adjustments, providing you with accuracy and versatility.

Furthermore, the first thing to notice about this machine is its powerful 14 amp motor that offers great performance and accuracy. This features a 20-T carbide blade that is absolutely phenomenal cutting efficiency and capacity. It further features depth adjustments up to 90 degrees that help you with quick and easy blade change and settings.

Another thing that makes it remarkably efficient is its 45 degrees angle adjustments that help you with versatility. So, you can use this one for a number of materials with convenience and efficiency. The design also comes with a dust blower that keeps your working area tidy and clean, without any sawdust.

Final thoughts, this Skilsaw machine is one of the best circular saws for woodwork and tough jobs. It features a powerful 14-amp motor with a number of depth adjustments and angled cutting efficiency that facilitates you all along. Likewise, the dust remover and durable design make it of great value.

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9. CRAFTSMAN 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw

Likewise, this one from Craftsman is known for its ability to assist you in DIY and commercial projects. It features exceptionally sharp teeth and a powerful motor that serves you with precision and accuracy. Additionally, it is made up of magnesium that largely contributes to its durability, and makes it lightweight.

Speaking of the performance, it is equipped with a 5500 RPM motor, having an 8T carbide blade that is absolutely phenomenal in cutting difficult materials. Hence, you can use it for aggressive cutting up to 2 X thickness. Also, you can do angled cuts upto 45 degrees that make it stand, among others.

Lastly, the design integrates an upper and lower metal guard that will save your device from rusting and any potential damage. The assembly is also tool-free that adds to the overall convenience. To make the process comfortable, the manufacturers have added a contoured handle.

All in all, this Craftsman circular saw is a great option for anyone looking for a powerful product that can facilitate commercial and basic DIY projects. It comes with a powerful motor having 5500 RPM value and an 8T blade tip that is absolutely precise and aggressive. Further, the contoured handle and its ability to do angle cuts give it an edge over others.

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10. SKILSAW SPT67WL-01 Sidewinder Circular Saw

Last here is this Skilsaw circular saw, popular for its all-rounder abilities and compact design that facilitates you throughout. I really like this one and would recommend this to anyone who wants a durable product that can work all day long with absolute efficiency. Additionally, the fact that you can use this for commercial and DIY projects makes it of great value.

Moreover, the design features a 15 amp powerful motor that works absolutely phenomenal for tough wood cutting projects. You will further be facilitated by the depth adjustments up to 90 degrees, so you can quickly change the blade as per requirements. Here, I absolutely loved the angled adjustments (up to 58 degrees) that provide you with functionality and versatility.

In the end, another remarkable function that gives it an edge over others is its dual-field function. It is responsible for keeping the motor for the longest time, so you can use this for a number of consecutive tasks without any issue. Finally, the machine comes with a 10-foot long power cord that contributes to portability.

In essence, this Skilsaw circular saw is a well-suited option for anyone looking for something reliable that can facilitate you for long consecutive hours. It is equipped with a powerful 15 amp motor and dual-field function that helps you with functionality and efficiency. Further, the spindle lock and long power cord adds value to it.

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What To Look for While Buying the Best Circular Saw: Everything You Need to Know

The best circular saw is the one that helps you with convenience, functionality, and power while framing, carpentry, or other related work. Everything from ampere range to speed, power, blades, motor, and an ergonomics design is important for improved working efficiency. If you are currently in the process of buying one, here are some things you should always consider.

Battery-Powered or Corded Machine

The first thing you will notice about a circular saw is whether it is powered by a battery source or a corded circular saw that runs directly on electricity. You can find efficient and long-lasting alternatives with lithium-ion batteries.

The advantage of a battery-powered machine is that you are facilitated by the portability and that you can carry it around anywhere you want with absolute ease. However, the downside to this model is its compromised speed and power that is relatively inferior to a quality electric saw.

In contrast to these, a corded machine will have compromised portability. However, you can find a quality product with a large cord that can help you in carrying it around at a reasonable distance. Another merit of these alternatives is the exceptional speed and power. In simple words, it means that they are equipped with a remarkably powerful motor that helps you with commercial projects and heavy-duty work.

Speed Settings and Power Range

Another important thing you should always look into is the speed and ampere range of your circular saw. In other words, ampere range is defined as the amount of power your machine can withstand without any damage or lagging. Hence, it is also known as the input range. Most commonly, for commercial work, I would suggest you go for a 15-amp motor that is perfectly suited for tough materials and precise cutting efficiency. For basic DIY projects, a 4-amp motor is more than enough.

Similarly, speed refers to the time that how fast your blade spins within a minute. In these machines, it is measured in RPM (or Revolution per Minute). Here, with a 15-amp motor, you can either support 71/4 inches or 101/4 inches blade. In simple words, these will have a speed range between 4500 and 5500 RPM that is absolutely remarkable for precise cuts and a fast process. However, you must keep in mind that speed has no relation to the capacity (of the material) your blade can penetrate through.

Design and Construction

The best circular saw demands an ergonomics design and sturdy construction that can serve you with durability and a comfortable experience. Here, the first thing you should consider is the shoe material. It is the base plate that accommodates your workpiece and is known as a shoe. Most commonly, you can find shoes made up of steel, aluminum, and magnesium, all of which are highly durable. However, if you are looking for lightweight and stability, my personal preference is magnesium.

In addition to this, you should look for metal guards (upper and lower) incorporated in your design as they are responsible for overall protection and safety. Likewise, you should be facilitated with ease while adjusting the depth and changing the blade. For this, a spindle lock or shallow blade depth settings are a must. Here, if you can spend a bit more, I would suggest you go for a knob as it can help you with easy dialing and perfectly angled cutting.

Blade Size and Types

The most obvious you can find between different circular saws is the size and construction of their blades. According to the motor efficiency and overall speed, each blade has its own number of teeth and size. If you are an experienced user who is using this machine for commercial applications, I would recommend you either 71/4-inch or 101/4-inches blade size.

Therefore, it is of paramount importance that you have an idea of the purpose of your desired machine. All in all, it solely depends on the overall blade size, number of teeth, construction material, and tip. An average blade can help you with all-purpose framing, plywood work, and so on. However, make sure that you are not using a below-average blade for plywood or framing work.

Safety and Protection

Whether you are an experienced user or a newcomer, having safety ensured can help you throughout and removes any chances of potential accidents. For this purpose, you would need an electric bike, which helps you in releasing the trigger just after you are done cutting a piece. Likewise, additional LED lights and spring-loaded blades can help you with comfort and improved visibility.

Apart from this, always make sure that your machine has a vacuum facility or a dust port. This is because it can help you in keeping the working space neat and tidy, so you won’t be bothered by the sawdust. Hence, you can easily see the working piece and cut it precisely. Finally, having a built-in safety handle can make the process even safer with enhanced protection.

Anything Else?

Now, you must have a proper understanding of how these machines work and what it requires to make them efficient. Once you are done having all these essential features in your circular saw, there are some things you can go for to make it even more comfortable and convenient. Here are some other things you can go for;

• Built-in LED Light because it can help you with improved visibility, so you can focus solely on the working piece without any distraction.
• Additional Pair of Batteries as it can save your time and provides you with long working hours.
• Customer Ratings can determine whether your machine is a reliable one to go for.
• Cost-Effective Option because you only need basic features that can help you in an efficient process.

Finally, based on these essential features and your individual requirements, you can choose the right one rationally.

Types of Circular Saws and Their Uses

Circular saws are the significant power tools every carpenter needs to accommodate bevel, miter, metal, and wood cuttings. These machines are economical, portable, and are the perfect solution to help you in commercial projects and DIY tasks. However, it is equally important to have an idea about your working requirements, so you can ideally figure out which type can suit you well. Here are the most common nine types of circular saws based on their merits and demerits, so you can choose the right one.

Sidewinder Circular Saws

In-line or Sidewinder circular saws are the most common types people are using out there and probably the first thing people imagine when they hear about a circular saw. These are small, portable, and can be handled with one hand easily. Most commonly, the motor is positioned on the top left of the blade, so you can directly start it by turning the shaft.

These machines are usually used for rip cuts, plywood projects, soft lumber, and vertical cuts easily. Similarly, these are best known for their energy efficiency and low power consumption. They are either powered by lithium-ion batteries or run on electricity. So, based on your convenience, you can choose from both.

Worm Drive Circular Saw

The difference between these Worm Drive circular saws and the regular sidewinder saws is that the motors in these machines are mounted behind the blade. These are connected by gears and offer a combination of less speed and more torque. They can cut through thin and deep working pieces with precision and accuracy. They are largely used for longer cuts, plunge cuts, and miter cuts with increased power, enhanced durability, and improved visibility, not to mention large working space.

Hypoid Circular Saws

They are a bit similar to worm divers because, in these machines, the motor is mounted behind the blade and offers a large working space. These are entirely mechanical and connected by bevel gears. So, you can use it to cut through hardwood and wet lumbar. When it comes to power and amperage range, these are undoubtedly better and provide you with powerful, accurate, and precise cuts. Also, the fact that they don’t need oiling makes them convenient and easy.

Abrasive Circular Saws

Likewise, these abrasive circular saws are relatively more powerful and are designed to cut through extremely hard materials. These machines are fixed on the table or radial arms and are a bit heavy. Additionally, the teeth are made up of harder substances like magnesium and steel. Hence, you can use this for materials other than wood easily. These are also known as chop saws because they resemble the shape of a pizza cutter and can cut through tough materials with absolute precision and accuracy.

Biscuit Joiners Circular Saws

In addition, these biscuit joiners use a complex mechanism to cut the hard and tough wood into two pieces with absolutely round and precise edges and no visible holes. These are used to cut the working pieces into small slits, so the last piece that is cut is known as a biscuit. This is specifically designed for experienced users with an exceptionally powerful motor and great amperage range. These are also impressive with speed and offer you perfectly round edges.

Miter Circular Saws

Miter circular saws are one of the most popular machines across the market. They have swinging radial arms attached to these that help them in cutting quickly through the lumber and for framing applications. These machines are known for their large and neat working space.

Similarly, they are also relatively easy and safe to operate and can help you with commercial projects ideally. They are able to make crosscuts, miter cuts, angled bevel cuts, compound cuts, and complex cuts with absolute precision and accuracy. The only downside to these devices is the price range that can be overwhelming for average users.

Concrete Circular Saws/ Grinders

Concrete saws, also known as slab saws, are famous for their brushless motor and toothless abrasive blades. Hence, they can cut through hard, tough, and high-resistant materials other than woods, such as metals and concrete. These are largely used for industrial and commercial applications. They also come with quick blade changes and large working spaces. Hence, you won’t be bothered by the dust and debris. Also, you can take small breaks while cutting concrete that is not the case in other saws.

Table Circular Saws

A table saw is another popular choice across the market and comes with a combination of connected motor and mounted slots. These are easy to work straight as you are constantly moving the working piece across the blade. These machines are designed for crosscutting, ripping cuts, and hard materials with precision and accuracy. They are also quite powerful; still, you will have to maintain safety on your own. However, bevel cuts and depth adjustments are compromised in these table saws.

Metal Cutting Circular Saws

Although you can cut through metal with most of the quality circular saws, these machines are particularly designed to get the job done. These are designed with sharp blades having carbide teeth and are designed in a way that they are able to cut through metal plates without any sparks. These include a number of safety functions that help you with overall protection and stability. All in all, these machines can cut through any type of metal with absolute precision and no sparks.

Finally, based on your individual requirements and working environment, you can choose the right one.

Cleaning and Maintenance of a Circular Saw

Here is a complete account of how you can clean and maintain the circular saw, so it keeps working for the longest time with absolute functionality and efficiency;

Why is Cleaning Important?

Over time, after using a circular saw constantly, you will notice that its blades build up resins and pitch that leads to compromised sharpness and eventually dull results. Hence, the machine demands increased friction and more heat that can heat up the system and consumes more than usual power. Also, the edges are not as clean as they should be. Here, it is important to consider that dull blades can be extremely dangerous and risky that can lead to reduced functionality.

Likewise, many people often complain of not using the circular saws frequently and still getting dull edges. Hence, although you are not using them, they are still picking some dirt and debris that would need cleaning. So, you should clean the machine twice or thrice a year. Here, it is equally significant to choose the blade that has each tip made up of durable material as it can prevent damaging and getting the blade dull. Overall, these are the primary reasons you should clean your circular saw.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution

There are many options in the market from which you can choose the one that works right for you. From citrus cleaners to toothpaste and cleaning tubes, you can use the one that is economical and convenient for you. Here, I would suggest you can always get rid of oven cleaners as they can harm the carbides of your blades and eventually can damage the overtime, reducing the overall lifespan of your saw.

Another common ingredient you can always find around the house is the dishwasher (more specifically Simple Green) as it can clean everything without damaging any surface. Apart from this, you can always use anything that has the ability to cut through grease. All in all, just make sure that your cleaning solution is non-toxic and biodegradable, so there is no chance that it can damage the carbides and teeth of the blades.

How to Clean a Circular Saw?

To clean a circular saw, it is important that your solution is diluted with water and applied straight from the bottle. For the cleaning process, here are some steps you can follow throughout;

• First of all, mix the cleaning paste or solution with water to dilute it for a smooth and safe process.
• After this, remove the blade and always be careful of the sharpness of the blade that can potentially cause an accident.
• Next, place the blade into the cleaning solution and let it be for some minutes so that you are letting the active solution do its job.
• Now, scrub the teeth with an old toothbrush and anything available at the moment and keep on doing it until it is completely clean.
• Now, rinse your blade in the water and place it on the towel until it is dry.
• Finally, you are done and can attach the blade to the saw and use it.

Maintaining the Moving Parts

There are certain parts of a circular saw that can be sensitive to cleaning and it can be a struggle to maintain them. Hence, here are some of the tools you should be cleaned with proper care;

• Air Vents are the most significant element of a circular saw that needs extra care. These vents are small vacuums that keep the motor cool and efficient; however, they can draw dust and debris inside. Thus, it is recommended that you clean this delicate part with extreme care as not doing so can damage the electric components of the motor and can cause a short circuit.
• Lever and Guards are another important part of a circular saw you should always clean extremely carefully. If there is some dirt present in these parts, you can just clean it off after every two weeks or so. Here, do not seep any liquid into these parts and always clean them before any issue takes place so that your machine keeps working properly without any lag.
• Other Important Pieces such as dust extractors and working spaces are important to clean and maintain. This is because all kinds of dirt and debris is present in these machines and that is making the saw lag during the work. For this, I would suggest you not use any liquid cleaner as it can seep into your saw and can potentially damage the motor. Hence, use a dampened cloth soaked in a mild soap for some time and wipe down all the dirt that is present there.

Finally, I hope that you have an idea of how to clean these power tools carefully to make them even more efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best circular saw for DIY projects?

Black+Decker BDCCS20C is one of the best affordable circular saws for DIY home projects. It is equipped with a decently powerful 4 amp motor and bevel adjustments that help you with neat and precise cuts. Likewise, it comes with an ergonomics safety handle and metal guards that provide you with protection.

How do you keep a circular saw straight?

If you want to keep your circular saw straight, try to clamp the workpiece straight and run the base against the material you are working with. This will help you with a neat and tidy finish, having perfectly round edges. You can also use a small clamp for the base (on the front), so it will guide you through the process.

Why is the circular saw used?

The first and foremost thing a circular saw can be used is to frame lumber into different lengths. Many carpenters also use this power tool for deck boards, plywood sheets, and any other furniture. All in all, a powerful circular saw is able to help you with home furniture and woodwork.

What kind of cuts does a circular saw make?

There are many different types of cuts you can do with a circular saw. Some of them are straight cuts, angled or beveled cuts, shallow cuts, and a series of thin cuts. Most commonly, these machines integrate depth and beveled adjustments that help you in using these for a number of purposes.