Which circular saw to choose for your home - rating of the best models

A circular saw is a versatile tool that is often used when cutting wood. Today there are a huge number of such devices. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to carefully study the rating of circular saws for the home and choose the most suitable tool from it.

A circular saw is an indispensable tool for working with wood.

Types of circular saws

Depending on the design of the tool, the following types can be distinguished:

• Stationary. Suitable for installation in production halls or workshops.
• Tabletop. More compact models that are much easier to transport. Such circulars can be installed on any table.
• Manual. The most compact saws used for cutting small amounts of wood.

Additional Information! At home, manual and tabletop models are most often used.

Design and principle of operation of individual components

To better understand the operating principle of the tool, it is necessary to understand the structure of its main components.

Electric motor

Modern circular saws use a commutator-type electric motor. It has small dimensions, weight, high efficiency and can operate on both direct and alternating current.

The insides of the electric motor, namely its stator part.

Its operation is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction that occurs in the stator winding. When you press the power button, electric current is supplied to the winding, and the resulting force field sets the motor armature in motion.

Saw blade

The saw blade is the main working unit of the circular saw. Designed for cutting wood and products made from it. Structurally, it is a metal disk with a toothed rim, with the help of which wood is cut. The number of teeth ranges from 12 to 100 pieces. Depending on the material of manufacture, they are divided into the following groups:

• Monolithic. Tool steel is used as the material for their manufacture. They have high strength, reliability and maintainability;
• Carbide. The main part of the disc is made of tool steel, and the cutting crown is made of various alloys based on tungsten carbide. Their distinctive features are high tooth strength and long service life, which is why they are used for processing hard wood.

Cutting angle adjustment system

The cutting angle adjustment system includes a support sole, an adjustment device with a lock and a measuring scale.

The support sole is located at the bottom of the tool. Made from aluminum or structural steel. Serves for convenient movement of the tool along the surface being processed. There are devices for adjusting the cutting angle vertically and horizontally.

For ease of use, the saws are equipped with a measuring scale, which allows you to more accurately adjust the working angle.

Safety system

The safety system of a hand-held circular saw is represented by a protective casing, which is located around the saw blade. It is designed to prevent the operator's hands from coming into contact with the saw blade and to prevent injury from damage to the saw blade. High-strength structural steel is used as the material for the manufacture of the casing.

The casing design consists of two segments. The upper one is rigidly fixed to the saw frame, the lower one is movable. When it comes into contact with the surface being processed, it fits into the gap between the disk and the upper part and does not interfere with work. After completion of work, it automatically returns to its original position thanks to a coil spring.

How does the circular saw emergency stop work?

No way, because There is no emergency stop for a hand-held circular saw. That is why during operation the operator must stand to the side of it and hold it firmly with both hands, and there should be no one around. When the disk jams, the tool can fly out of the operator’s hands and fly several meters upward or to the side. In the best case, the casing will have time to work and close the saw blade.

Some manual models use an intermediate shaft between the disk shaft and the electric motor, which shears during jamming, but this is more aimed at preserving the electric motor than at operator safety.

Stationary power saws have an electromagnetic brake that stops the blade from rotating. This also allows you to simply stop the disk spinning faster.

Specifications

Before choosing a circular saw for your dacha, you need to familiarize yourself with the main technical characteristics of this tool.

Motor power

Stationary circular saws are considered the most powerful.
The performance of the saw depends on this parameter. The higher the power, the thicker the tree the circular saw can cut. Depending on the power of the electric motor, saws are divided into three types:

• Up to 1000 W. Suitable for sawing plywood.
• Up to 1500 W. With their help you can cut logs, thick boards and wooden beams.
• From 1500 W. Professional tools that can work 5-8 hours a day.

For home use, it is better to choose budget models with a power of 1000-1500 W.

Disc rotation speed

This indicator affects the speed of the circular machine. For people who plan to frequently process hardwood, it is recommended to use models with high disc rotation speeds. This will allow you to make better cuts.

The average rotation speed is about 5000 rpm. Many professional saws speed up to 6500 rpm.

Cutting depth

Angle cutting is often used when working with dense wood.
Another criterion that is taken into account when purchasing a circular saw is the cutting depth. This parameter depends on the diameter of the cutting disc used and the power of the device. For household models, the maximum cutting depth is no more than 55 mm.

If a person has to work with denser materials, it is necessary to use professional saws. With their help, it will be possible to saw wood with a thickness of more than 80 mm.

Working at an angle

Many people who choose a new circular saw for their home pay attention to whether it can be used to work at an angle. It is recommended to buy models that can be used at an angle when cutting products.

To determine that a saw can be used at an angle, you need to inspect its design. It must have a locking mechanism.

Which sole is better

Often people are confused about choosing the best circular saw blade. Many experts claim that the cast platform is the most reliable. However, such circulars are very expensive and few can afford them.

A cheaper and more accessible option is products that are equipped with forged platforms. They are quite tough and thick. The quality is practically in no way inferior to more expensive cast platforms.

Battery type

Cordless models are suitable for outdoor work.
At home, cordless models are often used. These cordless saws are very convenient and allow you to cut wood even in hard-to-reach places. There are two types of batteries that are often used in power tools:

• Lithium-ion. Modern batteries that drain slowly. The only drawback is poor frost resistance.
• Nickel-cadmium. Outdated but still in use batteries. They are rarely installed in circular machines, as they quickly discharge.

Important! It is recommended to choose models whose battery has a voltage of at least 18 V.

Do you need a level or a laser pointer?

Devices equipped with an additional laser pointer are often added to the ratings of circular saws. This device is very useful, as it indicates the direction of movement of the circular. Therefore, for beginners who have not previously used such tools, it is better to give preference to models with a laser pointer.

Is speed adjustment necessary?

The speed controller allows you to adjust the rotation speed of the disk.
When choosing a new circular saw, you need to pay attention to whether it has additional functions. It is recommended to buy models that are equipped with a speed controller. Using this device, a person will be able to manually adjust the rotation speed of the working disk. This is very convenient when you have to cut materials of different densities.

Do you need a soft start?

Another additional function that should be in a circular machine is soft start. With its help, you can gradually increase the engine speed and, accordingly, the disk rotation speed. Of course, using this function increases the cutting time. However, in this way it is possible to protect the motor from sudden voltage changes.

Types of hand saws

Hand tools weigh little, do not require electricity or fuel, are relatively cheap, and have a long service life. But the speed of work depends on the user’s physical fitness. Types of hand saws are divided into universal ones, which are suitable for general purposes, and highly specialized ones, designed for specific processes. Let's take a closer look at them.

Standard saw

Belongs to the classic type. Can be purchased at any hardware store.

Device

It has a high steel blade with teeth, gradually tapering towards the end. The teeth need to be sharpened and set periodically, otherwise the saw will bite into the material. The D-shaped handle was previously made of wood, but is now made of plastic. More expensive versions may have a two-piece handle that is better at resisting slippage.

Hacksaw.

Purpose

Suitable for straight cuts of boards, timber, branches, laminate, MDF, chipboard and other wood materials with a thickness of 2-100 mm. Due to the flexible structure of the blade, which does not have a rigid frame, the cutting line easily moves to the side, so a standard saw is applicable only where strict adherence to dimensional accuracy is not required.

Bow saw

It got its name because of the arc shape of the frame and the tension of the canvas, like the string of a bow.

Device

The U-shaped frame is made of a round steel tube. The ends are provided with a hook-shaped threaded fastening. Using the thumbscrew, the screw is tightened, and the short blade with teeth becomes rigid. There is a rubber-coated handle on one side. When the teeth are ground down, the blade is replaced with a new one. In this, a bow saw has a significant advantage over a standard one.

But when cutting a tall workpiece, there may not be enough depth, since the product will rest against the tool frame. Some manufacturers produce saws with a swivel mount so that the jumper remains on the side and not on top.

Bow saw.

Purpose

Most often, a bow saw is used for sawing metal. This includes profile and round tubes, thresholds for fixing floor coverings, small brackets, etc. But changing the equipment to a blade with higher teeth allows you to saw wooden and plastic blanks.

Garden saw

It is small in size and designed specifically for gardening. Suitable for men and women as it is lightweight and easy to use.

Device

The structure consists of a steel sheet with a height of 40-30 mm. There are teeth at the bottom, and the shape of the saw part is slightly curved in an arc for better cutting into wood. The handle is often L-shaped and molded from plastic. There may be a hole at the end for hanging the tool. The saw blade is not replaceable and requires periodic sharpening and re-wiring.

Garden saw.

Purpose

Using a garden saw, they trim branches, twigs, and shoots on garden trees. You can even cut down a young tree or shrub. But it is not suitable for serious and precise tasks.

Jigsaw

Designed for shape cutting. But working with it is more painstaking and time-consuming than with a jigsaw.

Device

The jigsaw has a U-shaped frame, at the ends of which a cutting blade is attached. This can be a narrow file or a rod with an applied abrasive. The handle on the side is designed to be held with one hand. The large reach allows you to work with wide materials.

Hand jigsaw.

Purpose

A hand jigsaw is used to cut foam, plywood, chipboard, and plastic. Suitable for filing small pieces when there is nothing more suitable at hand. You can perform longitudinal and cross cuts, as well as go along any curved lines. The main purpose is curly cutting in small volumes. Ideal for the DIYer.

Passing saw

A highly specialized tool for precision work.

Device

The pass saw consists of a tall blade and small teeth on one side. Due to the large steel strip with reinforcement on the part opposite to the cutters, it is very rigid and does not bend during the cutting process. Early versions were equipped with a round wooden handle. With a short length they were called passing knives. Longer modern models have a D-shaped handle positioned at a 45-degree angle.

Passing hand saw.

Purpose

Due to the fine teeth and lack of setting, as well as the rigid design, pass saws provide precise and thin cuts. Suitable for fine cutting of wood, soft metals (aluminum, copper), plastic, chipboard. Popular with laminate floor installers and kitchen installers.

Grooving saw

High precision tool for cutting short grooves.

Device

The design is similar to pass saws, only much smaller. A thick rectangular blade with fine teeth is used. The thickening on the upper rib provides rigidity. The handle can be on the side or in the middle of the top butt. The rubber pad on the handle prevents slipping.

Grooving saw.

Purpose

Used for precision cutting of grooves in wood and soft metal. This could be cutting out a groove for a cable or gas hose in a kitchen countertop, cutting an aluminum table edge, or other critical cuts. The saw is not suitable for thick materials over 30 mm. Used only by professional carpenters.

Narrow (circular) saw

Hacksaw for specific tasks with circular cutting. It got its name because of its ability to bend while sawing the workpiece.

Device

A circular saw consists of a saw blade that tapers greatly towards the end. And in the widest part, the hacksaw is also not very large. The work is carried out with one hand. The L-shaped handle with rubber pads promotes a secure grip. There are types with a straight two-component handle.

Circular saw.

Purpose

A hacksaw is used for cutting circular and oval holes in wood and plastic. Due to its narrow shape, the blade can be easily tilted to the side and the cutting line can be rounded. Models with rectangular cutting blades break or bend under such pressure, but here everything is fine.

Plywood saw

Designed specifically for sawing plywood.

Device

The plywood saw is notable for its tall, permanent steel blade and D-shaped handle positioned at a 45-degree angle. Fine teeth without setting contribute to fine cuts and high precision. The large area of ​​the steel sheet prevents deformation of the equipment and the line moving to the side. The end of the saw is rounded.

Plywood saw.

Purpose

Makes straight cuts on plywood without painting the edges or breaking off the edges. Provides dimensional accuracy and minimal waste, which reduces cutting errors. Not suitable for curly cutting.

Folding mini saw

The smallest type of hand saw, which is why it got its name.

Device

The design resembles a folding knife. There is a handle and a saw blade on a hinge. Instead of a blade, the lower edge has slightly set teeth. The end of the handle often has a hole for a lanyard to hang the instrument or wear on the wrist. Non-folding versions are available.

Mini saw.

Purpose

It is convenient to carry a mini-saw with you for camping needs: cutting off an interfering branch, cutting slingshots for hanging a pot on a crossbar, creating a hut, preparing firewood for a fire. They are also convenient to use in hard-to-reach places where a standard hacksaw cannot reach.

Two-handed saw

In common parlance it is called “Friendship”, since it requires two people and coordinated actions to use. Use by one person is difficult and not justified in terms of time and results.

Device

A two-handed saw has a tall blade with large teeth. The length of the cutting part is a meter or more. The ends are provided with I- or D-shaped handles. The cut is carried out by alternately pulling the handle towards you. It is considered the largest hand-held non-electric tool.

The saw is two-handed.

Purpose

Designed for sawing tree trunks and large logs, felling forests in conditions where there is no electricity or fuel. For small boards and timber, it is better to choose smaller saws.

Japanese saw

The name of the instrument indicates the birthplace of the invention. It has a specific shape and is suitable for neat jewelry cuts.

Device

The canvas can be rectangular, but more often it is made in the shape of a trapezoid (resembles a long spatula). Sharpening with teeth is provided on one or two longitudinal sides. With a double-sided working part, the tooth pitch is different. The handle is straight or slightly turned down. The teeth are bent in one direction, which provides precise control of the cutting line. Cutting the wood fibers occurs when the user pulls the Japanese hacksaw towards himself.

Japanese saw.

Which circular saw to choose for your home or garden?

Many people do not know how to choose a circular saw for their home. To make the right choice, you need to decide how often the tool will be used:

• for regular use - a model with a power of 1500 W or more and a cutting depth of at least 55 mm is suitable;
• for rare use and cutting thin boards - manual circular saws up to 1000 W.

Important! If you are choosing a saw for construction, it is better to buy a professional model from a well-known company.

Basic tool parameters

Circular devices can be divided by power. The more powerful the electric motor, the higher the stability and quality of the cut. As power increases, the weight and size of the saw increases. The cost of equipment also depends on this indicator. Therefore, when choosing a tool, you first need to determine the range of tasks that it should solve. Today saws are divided into:

• Household ones, which are used for occasional simple work around the house or on a summer cottage. Characterized by motor power up to 800 W.
• Universal. They live up to their name by being able to perform a wide range of tasks. Universal models can perform complex work, and they are used even in industry. The motor has a power of 800 to 1200 W.
• Professional equipment. They have a motor with a power of 1200 W. This is a very large tool and requires work skills and a certain amount of skill. It is used in serious industries and is practically not used in everyday life.

Each type has the following characteristics:

• 
  Rotation speed of the cutting blade. The value of this value determines what density of material the cutting disc can cut.

• Thermal resistance of the housing. The housing can be made of plastic, metal or a mixture of both.
• Depth of cut. The standard value for a home saw is sixty millimeters. Professional models can cut workpieces up to 140 mm deep.
• Availability of battery.
• Ability to adjust the angle of inclination.

Which company to choose

A household circular saw is an ideal choice for the home.
Before purchasing, you need to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best manufacturers of circular saws. Among the companies that are popular among buyers are:

• Bosch;
• Hitachi;
• Husqvarna;
• Makita;
• Metabo.

There are other manufacturers of circular saws, but they are less well known.

The best inexpensive circular saws for the home

There is no need to buy expensive circular saws for home use. Budget models are also suitable. The top best inexpensive saws include the following devices:

• Makita 5007N - is equipped with a powerful engine that provides wheel rotation speeds of up to 6000 rpm.
• DeWALT DWS510K is a powerful budget saw suitable for cutting dense bars and planks.
• Makita 5477NB - the disc spins up to 5500 rpm, which allows you to cut wood of any density.

The average cost of budget saws is 10-12 thousand rubles.

The structure of a circular saw

Last but not least, the popularity of the circular hand saw is due to the simplicity of this tool. The circular electric hand saw consists of the following elements:

• saw blade;
• electric motor;
• housings with a handle or two;
• a protective casing, the function of which is to cover the disk from above and below;
• a holding platform necessary to position the disc;
• a riving knife, which is necessary to prevent the disc from getting stuck in the wood during work.

The saw blade is secured to the electric motor shaft with several bolts. Accordingly, replacing it will not take much time.

The best circular saws for quality and reliability

DeWALT DWE560 is one of the best circular saws.
Among the most reliable and high-quality models are the following:

• Interskol DP-190. The saw has a power of 1600 W, the diameter of the circle is 19 cm. Allows you to make cuts 60 mm deep.
• DeWALT DWE560. The device is equipped with a 1300 W motor. This allows you to cut any tree.
• BOSCH GKS 190. Cutting depth - 70 mm. Cuts both small and dense bars.

Additional Information! All listed models are equipped with soft start.

What is it and what can she do?

A circular saw is a specialized tool primarily intended for cutting wood and wood products. Structurally, it can be divided into the following types:

• Stationary;
• Manual;
• Tabletop;
• Submersible.

In all cases, a metal disk with teeth located around the circumference is used as a cutting element.

With a circular saw you can make cuts in wood up to 60-70 mm deep; some craftsmen even manage to evenly cut a 100x100 beam or a 150x150 log with a circular saw using special devices.

The tool can also cut plywood, chipboard, chipboard, MDF and even soft metals. The main thing is to select the right disk for each task, use the correct cutting techniques and devices.

The Best Cordless Circular Saws

People who do not know how to choose a circular saw with a battery should pay attention to the following circular saws:

• AEG BKS 18BL-0. Equipped with a disk with a diameter of 19 cm. The rotation speed of the circle is 3500 rpm.
• Makita HS301DWAE. The saw has a 2 Ah battery. This is enough for 4 hours of work.
• BOSCH UniversalCirc 120. The most compact model, which weighs only one and a half kilograms. Used when cutting small planks.

Additional Information! Most battery models last 3-4 years. Then you will have to replace the battery with a new one.

The best mini circular saws

Makita HS301DWAE is suitable for cutting dense wood.
To work with small boards, you can use the following models of mini circular saws:

• Status CP90U - used for trimming wood, ceramics, metal, laminate and PVC.
• Makita HS301DWAE - the blade rotation speed does not exceed 1500 revolutions and therefore the model is not suitable for cutting dense wood.
• DIOLD DP-0.55 MF - is equipped with a 550 W motor, which allows you to work with thick bars.

Important! Even though miniature circular saws look cheap due to their small size, they are actually quite expensive.

The best hand-held circular saws

The following manual circular saws are especially popular among buyers:

• Makita HS7601 - Used for vertical or 45 degree cuts only.
• Interskol DP-190/1600M is a budget model with soft start and power control.
• Makita 5008MG - uses a 1.5 kW engine, spins the disk up to 5500 rpm.

Many people face problems when purchasing a new circular saw. Before you buy such a tool, you need to understand what a circular saw is and which model to choose for your home.

Rating of TOP 10 best models