Circular saws are indispensable tools for every DIY enthusiast. If you are going to buy them there are a few important things you need to consider. If you buy a good circular saw, you may not need to buy another for up to 20 years. With the right saw blade, your circular saw can cut ceramic tiles, wood or steel.
The following are some important things to keep in mind when trying to find the perfect one.
Mechanical style
Circular saws come in two main designs: worm drive and cross winds. Cross winds are the most common style. They have a handle slightly above the blade and the blade is usually on the right side of the handle. However, left-handed saws are also available. They are great for home workshop use because they are easier to maneuver. Worm drives are heavier and cheaper. They are shorter and longer, and the handle is behind the blade. The blade is mostly on the left, so right-handed people can use it without any problems. Worm drivers are ideal for construction professionals.
When choosing a mechanical style for your circular saw, keep in mind that ergonomics can vary. For example, all crosswinds may look the same, but not all function the same. They can all feel different in your hands. The only way to find the best is to try a few options. Find one that feels well balanced and weighs just enough. Good balance and a well-shaped handle play an important role in improving the comfort of your saw.
rated capacity
Think about your electricity needs before trying to choose the right circular saw. According to the team at wood2new.org, the nominal power of a circular saw can make a significant contribution to the overall performance. The nominal power in corded circular saws is given in amperage. Standard saws are 15-A saws, but 10- and 12-A saws work well. They are a great choice if you want an infrequent use saw. A higher amperage means a greater cutting force. With cordless circulars, the voltage is rated primarily by their batteries. Most cordless saws work with lithium-ion battery systems.
While there are many 18 volt saws on the market, there are also many 20 volt cordless saws available. If you're looking for the perfect circular saw, check out the amp hour rating too. It should show how long the saw can work before the battery runs out. It is usually between five and nine hours.
Corded Vs. Cordless
As with most power tools, there are corded and cordless circular saws. The corded models are plugged in; the cordless models use batteries. Corded models have long been considered better for high-performance cutting. However, recent innovations have made cordless models great too. The performance gap between the two options has narrowed significantly. If you're looking for your first circular saw as a beginner, a plug-in cable model is your best option because of its sustainable power. Other advantages of corded circular saws are larger blades and better prices.
By drawing energy from the power grid, it is possible to maintain the same level of performance throughout operation. There's no performance penalty making them perfect for tough or long jobs. Cordless options are great when you want to work outdoors and don't have access to a power source. Cordless models give you the freedom to work anywhere. You don't have to worry about the cable getting caught in something. In the recent past, cordless models have become lighter, more durable and more powerful. Most newer models use standard battery packs.
Additional functions
If possible, choose circular saws with some extra features. While a circular saw is great with a suitable blade and enough power to cut, you don't have to settle for the basics. Below are some features that can improve your satisfaction:
- Brake to make sure the knife stops quickly
- Built-in work lights help you work at night
- A cast magnesium saw foot instead of pressed steel
- A laser guideline to keep your saw aligned
While additional features shouldn't be your sole choice, these can help you choose between some great options. When buying a circular saw, things to consider are mechanical style, power rating, and features, among other things. Choosing a corded or cordless model depends on the nature of your work. While there are many circular saw options on the market, these may not always be right for you.
