How to choose a circular saw for your home and garden

Design feature of circular saws for rip sawing

The main criterion for longitudinal sawing is high productivity, and not the quality of the cut, for this reason the cutting blade has the smallest number of teeth (the exact number of cutters depends on the diameter of the disk), because it is when feeding each tooth that the cutting power is reduced. The fewer teeth a rip saw has, the faster the feed material can be cut.

Another important difference between the discs is the spacious interdental cavity in which the cutting products fit: shavings and sawdust. When performing longitudinal cutting, it is necessary to ensure effective removal of waste and prevent it from becoming clogged in small holes; this led to the creation of a special blade design with a large cavity. A longitudinal circular saw provides a rough surface in the cutting areas, but this is acceptable for intensive sawing.

For heavy-duty cutting, carbide rip saw blades are used to maintain the integrity of the blade during use and withstand intense loads. Carbide cutters are resistant to corrosion and wear.

How to choose a circular saw

Anyone can buy a circular saw; this task is quite simple, but it is not at all a fact that the tool will serve you faithfully for many years.

To buy a truly high-quality model, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with useful selection tips.

• The first and most important criterion, as with other power tools, is power. It affects how hard and thick materials the selected model can cut. Saws with a power of up to 1000 W are designed for sawing sheet wood or thin boards. From 1000 to 1500 W are already capable of working with good thickness and high density wood. From 1500 W can be considered professional models; they don’t care about any materials, of course, within reason.
• The speed of work depends on the rotation speed of the disk. Typically, the greater the power of the saw, the greater the rotation speed, but there are exceptions. Keep in mind that during the sawing process, depending on the hardness of the wood, the speed of rotation will decrease under load, until it stops. In such cases, the high power of the tool will counteract the slowdown.
• The depth of immersion largely depends on the diameter of the disk and the design features of the saw. The optimal value is considered to be 60-65 mm.
• Almost all circular saws can adjust the immersion depth, which is a very useful feature. Reducing the depth when sawing thin material will reduce the heating of the blade.
• The ability to cut at an angle is not a required feature, but there may come a time when it comes in handy, so you should consider models with this feature in advance.
• The presence of a soft start system can significantly extend the life of the electric saw engine due to a gradual increase in speed instead of a sharp jerk.
• The ability to lock the spindle of the device will make it easier to change equipment.
• Built-in rotation speed control allows you to select the desired operating mode for a specific type of material.
• Additional accessories, such as a riving knife and a rip fence, are also useful. It is advisable that the model you like has them.
• In some cases, the ability to permanently mount the saw may be very useful to you. That is, a hand tool can be turned into a machine on the table.
• Connecting a construction vacuum cleaner to the model will ensure the cleanliness of the surrounding area, making the work and subsequent cleaning easier. Pay attention to this feature when choosing.

Discs for work with mechanical feed of workpieces

Some models of blades have special elongated slots with soldered hard alloy plates located at a certain angle. If during wood processing it is not possible to ensure automatic feeding of workpieces, then a rip saw with plates having a negative angle of inclination (located in through holes) is used.

The plates are not responsible for cutting, but for improved sawdust discharge, reducing the likelihood of blade clamping during the sawing process, reducing friction and heating of the disk. A rip saw for wood of this type is intended for work with mechanical feeding of workpieces that requires a large cutting height.

TOP 10 best circular saw

A circular saw for wood is a fairly popular tool, so manufacturers have created a huge number of different models for any consumer. After processing a large amount of available information, we have compiled a list of the ten best circular saws.

• BOSCH GKS 190.
• Interskol DP-190/1600M.
• Makita HS7601.
• BOSCH PKS 40 2015.
• Hammer CRP 1500 D.
• BLACK+DECKER CS1004.
• Makita 5008MG.
• BOSCH PKS 55.
• BLACK+DECKER CS1550.
• Hitachi C6SS.

Below we will take a closer look at each model on the list.

BOSCH GKS 190

A hand saw will come in handy in everyday life, at a construction site and in a workshop, as it has a good powerful engine and is quite capable of working with hard wood. A fan is installed in the housing, which during operation blows away accumulated sawdust from the line of sight, and the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner ensures their complete removal.

A comfortable grip is ensured by the ergonomic shape of the handle and rubber pads. The rip fence and the ability to cut at a large angle significantly expand the capabilities of the power tool. A spindle clamp is provided, making it easy to change discs.

Price: from 7,939 to 12,781 rubles.

BOSCH GKS 190

Advantages

• wide instrument tilt angle (56°);
• a vacuum cleaner connection pipe is installed;
• The engine power allows you to work with hard wood.

Flaws

• no soft start system;
• There is no overheating protection.

The build quality is quite good. There is no strong jerk when turning on, despite the lack of a soft start. Long cord. The parallel stop fits tightly, without play. Availability of cutting depth scale. But one of the most important advantages why the choice fell on this particular model is that the cutting depth at 45° is 50 mm. Excellent tool!

Interskol DP-190/1600M

The Interskol circular saw is capable of working not only with wood, but also with non-ferrous metal and plastic when installing the appropriate saw blade. Changing the disk will not cause any difficulties thanks to the spindle fixation and the presence of a special key included in the delivery set.

Adjusting the depth of the disk and adjusting the angle of inclination allows you to perform a wider range of work compared to models with a standard set of functions. The aluminum alloy base has grooves for a guide rail, which you will also find in the kit. Soft start technology will extend the life of the tool.

Average price: from 5,229 to 7,410 rubles.

circular saw Interskol DP-190/1600M

Advantages

• a soft start system is installed;
• the spindle is securely fixed for easy and safe disc change;
• built-in electronic motor overload protection;
• possibility of sawing at an angle of 45°;
• Built-in protection against accidental switching on.

Flaws

• not found.

An elegant circular saw, purchased for my small workshop about a year ago. I liked the design of the saw, it was thought out from top to bottom. Good assembly, no wobbles or backlashes. I chose it so that the weight would be normal and it would be possible to adjust the angle and depth of the cut. It is a pleasure to drive; due to its weight it does not throw, does not wobble, and cuts smoothly. Interskol is generally a decent company.

Makita HS7601

A high-quality Makita circular saw is used for quickly and accurately cutting workpieces in a straight line. You can connect a vacuum cleaner, which will provide good visibility of the cutting line, cleanliness of the workplace and protect the operator from fine dust.

Easy access to carbon brushes allows for their independent replacement when worn out without contacting service centers. The small dimensions and weight of the tool make it easier to use and allow it to find a place even in a small workshop. The seat diameter of the disk is 30 mm, so you should be careful when selecting consumables.

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Price range: from 8,190 to 11,697 rubles.

Makita HS7601

Advantages

• the ability to adjust the tilt angle up to 45°;
• small dimensions of the device (309×232×255 mm);
• a pipe for the vacuum cleaner is installed;
• There is a spindle rotation lock.

Flaws

• there is no soft start.

I’ve been planning to buy a circular saw for wood for a long time, but something always got in the way, but it was a necessary thing. And finally the joyful moment came. The sound is clear as a watch! The assembly is perfect. The disk is mounted on a special hex washer. Compact, lightweight, ergonomic, fits like a glove! Happy as an elephant! I recommend!

BOSCH PKS 40 2015

The mini circular saw from Bosch is a compact and lightweight tool for home use. A high-quality motor with a power of only 850 W provides high rotation speed, which allows the tool to work with wood of any hardness.

The Optiline Wood circular saw blade comes complete with an electrical tool and a rip fence. The ergonomic rubberized handle is equipped with a double-sided involuntary switch. Spindle rotation can also be blocked; this solution greatly simplifies the replacement of disks. Weight and dimensions contribute to fatigue-free operation.

Price tag: from 5,990 to 7,490 rubles.

BOSCH PKS 40 2015

Advantages

• Sawing at an angle of up to 45° is provided;
• double-sided fuse against accidental start;
• spindle rotation fixation;
• possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner.

Flaws

• shallow cutting depth (40 mm);
• there is no smooth start.

The Bosch mini circular saw became a salvation in our small apartment. I do all kinds of carpentry on the balcony and it’s impossible to turn around there with a large tool. The reviews and price are excellent, which was the deciding factor for the purchase. The instrument itself turned out to be nimble, convenient and not particularly noisy. In general, a real gift for the home craftsman, buy it and you won’t regret it.

Hammer CRP 1500 D

A powerful power tool in a budget price category has the characteristics of a premium segment. Along with the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner, which ensures cleanliness and therefore a good overview of the workspace, the saw is also equipped with a laser cutting line indicator.

If you have the required disk, you can work with soft metal. The saw comes with a rip fence, a wrench, spare brushes and a saw blade. Special clamps are installed that allow you to adjust the depth of cut and the angle of inclination of the cutting blade. The disk has a protective casing with a return mechanism.

Prices: from 5,194 to 5,490 rubles.

Hammer CRP 1500 D

Advantages

• the disk can be installed at an angle;
• laser marking of cutting direction;
• joint work with a vacuum cleaner;
• blocking shaft rotation.

Flaws

• soft start is not provided.

A circular saw whose price is completely justified, or rather even underestimated. The tool is excellent, three months of construction of the dacha yielded 5+ plows. The disk is of course dull, but buying another one is not a problem at all. The saw itself has not become loose, everything is still tightly screwed on. It fits comfortably in the hand and does not strain your palms. I recommend!

BLACK+DECKER CS1004

The electric saw is used for construction and repair work. Double insulation ensures safe operating conditions. The spindle lock allows you to change the disc in a few seconds without the use of special tools. Due to the parallel stop, workpieces can be sawed without preliminary marking.

The compact size allows you to install the device on a small table. Its inclined base allows you to smoothly change the cutting angle. Ergonomic non-slip handles make the device very comfortable to use. A durable metal casing protects a person from flying chips, sawdust and fragments.

Average price tag: from 4,031 to 5,302 rubles.

BLACK+DECKER CS1004

Advantages

• disk tilt adjustment is provided;
• the torque shaft can be locked to change discs;
• There are recesses in the platform for a parallel stop.

Flaws

• there is no smooth start of rotation;
• there is no connection pipe for the vacuum cleaner;
• There are no rubber pads on the tool handle.

I needed to buy a simple circular saw, only for end cuts of boards. CS1004 came up perfectly, cheap and cheerful. I got the job done and cut some more wood. It is better to replace the disk if you are going to do finishing work; the original one is a little rough. Overall, the tool is good.

Makita 5008MG

An excellent circular saw suitable for home and professional use. Durable case materials reliably protect internal working units. The vacuum cleaner is connected by installing a special pipe that comes with the device.

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Illumination of the working area ensures comfortable operation in conditions of limited lighting, and the sawdust removal system adds convenience. Accidental switching on of the tool is prevented thanks to the locking button on the handle. The handle itself is equipped with anti-slip pads. There is no guide bar, but there is a scale on the outside of the platform.

Cost: from 10,216 to 15,238 rubles.

Makita 5008MG

Advantages

• possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner;
• workplace lighting installed;
• good cutting depth (75.5 mm);
• rubber pads on the handle.

Flaws

• soft start is not provided;
• It is not possible to install a guide bar.

The Makita brand has long established itself, so there was no doubt about the choice. The 5008MG model cuts wood simply fantastically, cutting five pieces without any difficulties. The included disc is excellent, which pleasantly surprised me. The adjustment of the angle and depth is quite accurate, I did not find any backlash. The tool is powerful and high quality, I recommend it!

BOSCH PKS 55

High-performance model in a green case made of durable plastic with an all-metal sole. The disc guard is also made of metal and has a lower part with a return mechanism. A guide rail is installed on the platform to ensure an even cutting line.

In addition, the CutControl system is installed for better control of work. Included in the kit you will find a Speedline Wood carbide saw blade and a CleanSystem plastic dust bag. The lock against unintentional activation on the tool handle works in both directions. The tilt of the disc and the depth are fixed with a quick-release lever.

Cost: from 5,785 to 8,160 rubles.

BOSCH PKS 55

Advantages

• a blade rotation lock is installed for easy disc change;
• built-in anti-vibration system;
• The kit includes a dust collector, disk and stop;
• rubber coated handle.

Flaws

• There is no soft start system.

The circular saw was chosen based on reviews from the Internet and, combined with the price, seemed to be the best option. The manufacturer boasts about its complete disc and for good reason, the disc is very good. I sawed through a bunch of wood, but it still didn’t lose its sharpness. The cutting height and angle are clearly set, the saw does not heat up, and does not smell burnt.

BLACK+DECKER CS1550

The attractive design and technical characteristics of the model will not leave any master indifferent. The ergonomics of the handle and anti-slip rubber inserts guarantee a strong and comfortable grip. A two-way button to block accidental engine start is also mounted on the handle.

The spindle speed lock function makes changing equipment much easier. Sawdust is removed from the workspace through the connection pipe of the vacuum cleaner. The design of the model provides easy access to the carbon brushes, which allows you to replace them without going to a repair shop. During inactivity, the disk is covered with a returnable protective cover.

Average cost: from 4,703 to 6,039 rubles.

BLACK+DECKER CS1550

Advantages

• the ability to work together with a vacuum cleaner;
• spindle rotation can be blocked;
• there is a protection system against accidental start-up;
• A return protective casing is installed.

Flaws

• There is no smooth engine start.

High-quality tools from a reputable manufacturer. It is not expensive, but it has quite a lot of power, a high-quality body and rubberized handles. I bought it for housework, at that time I was replacing the wooden floor in the room. The saw coped with its task, worked smoothly and confidently. It still works without any complaints.

Hitachi C6SS

The circular saw is designed for working with wood and plastic; the aluminum bed ensures smooth movement through the material, thereby increasing maximum cutting accuracy. The maximum torque of the product is 5500 rpm, which guarantees fast cutting of the material.

The advantages of the C6SS model are a high-quality aluminum sole, two durable comfortable handles and easy access to brushes in case of their replacement. The improved dust extraction system guarantees a constantly clean workplace and a wide area of ​​visibility of the cut. There is no power lock installed here, but a soft start system is available.

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Cost range: from 5,300 to 6,599 rubles.

Hitachi C6SS

Advantages

• soft start technology has been implemented;
• work at an angle is provided;
• there is a connection pipe for a vacuum cleaner;
• possibility of working with a guide bar.

Flaws

• There is no possibility of spindle locking.

An excellent assistant in working with wood, no matter what kind. It cuts 50 mm thick without any problems, even if you cut six meters along, the tool still doesn’t get tired. Hitachi built me ​​a country house of 50 m² and did not give up its position at all. In a word, I have never regretted buying this saw.

Discs with limiters and deep cutouts

There are special blades equipped with limiters - body protrusions in front of the saw blades located on the blade. This design reduces the feed speed, which is especially important for working with woodworking machines that require manual feed. Another function of the stops is to protect the edges from damage when knots fall out.

Saw blades for longitudinal sawing, with a large diameter (600-1500 mm), often have a design that is characterized by the presence of deep cuts under the crown. The cutting tool is called "Hannibal". The cutouts facilitate quick cleaning of the cut and more efficient cooling of the blade during operation.