There are times when we discover some tools that we never even knew we needed until we used them. Circular saws are among these, and are among the most important tool box items for making precise cuts. Below are some important facts about the best circular saws.
#1 A circular saw is defined by the shape of its blade.
A circular saw uses a blade that is circular and has “teeth”. This blade works by rotating very fast, and this is what performs meticulous cuts on wood and other materials. Some circular saws are handheld and portable, while others are installed onto a base and are permanent fixtures, usually found in workshops.
#2 There are a few different types of circular saws.
The proper use of circular saws depends on the work to be done. A miter saw is a type of circular saw that is perfect for making small and angled cuts that are precise, like for molding tasks in the home or for creating picture frames. A radial arm saw is ideal for longer cuts that are precise. The table saw mounts onto a table or work bench and is best for making cuts that are ultra precise. A lot of contractors use these for large-scale jobs. The panel saw can cut plastic, aluminum, metal or wood in portioned sizes. Finally, the cold saw is used for things as sheet metal roofing and works by relocating heat, as this cuts materials more conveniently.
#3 Not all circular saws are used for cutting materials as plastic, metal, ceramic, masonry or wood.
The weed whacker is one-of-a-kind in that (as the name implies) it is used for snipping weeds and grass instead of building materials. Another name for this is string trimmer.
#4 The range of sizes for circular saws can be anywhere from 3 to 16 inches.
For corded types, circular saws are around 7 1/4” while cordless varieties are around 6 1/2” and 5 1/8”.
#5 In-Line Saws are the most affordable types of circular saws.
These are relatively light compared to Worm Drive saws. Save from the fact that the blades need to be changed from time to time, these types of circular saws require virtually no maintenance. Worm Drive Circular Saws are strong and durable. These are slightly more expensive than In-Line types, and are also of heavier. Maintenance for these circular saws requires using a specific type of oil for the motor.
#6 Circular saws can be safer.
A blade guard is installed in virtually all circular saws, but some additions are optional. A couple of additions to look into are shaft, blade, and trigger locks, and electric brakes, which all aim to stop the circular saw’s blade from rotating as quickly as possible to reduce injuries.
#7 A variety of blade types are available for circular saws: masonry, tile, carbide and steel blades.
Each different blade should only be used with the type of material it is made for. Masonry cutting blades are very different to metal cutting blades and care should be taken to use the correct blade for the correct purpose.
#8 The most powerful circular saws are corded.
While corded circular saws also tend to be heavier, they are best for large-scale jobs; cordless varieties are portable and convenient, but tend to lack power.
#9 Some equipment works hand-in-hand with circular saws for better convenience.
Adjustable base plates are perfect for easily making angled cuts and keeping the material in the correct cutting position. This means hands will not be in the way therefore reducing the chances of personal injury.
# 10 The most accurate saws are circular saws.
They do not even need a guide for more precision as they tend to have one built in. For long straight cuts, circular saws are seen by industry professionals as the piece of equipment that performs the best. Check out this Rockwell Versacut Circular saw for one of the best on the market.