Review of Lightweight Circular Saws for DIY Enthusiasts
As an avid DIYer and home renovator, I’m always looking for tools that provide top performance without weighing me down.
As much as I love my big, powerful circular saws, they can really fatigue my arms during long days of cutting.
That’s why I was eager to test out some of the new lightweight circular saw models hitting the market. In this post, I’ll review three of my favourite lightweight saws for DIY tasks.
Makita SH01W (6.5 lbs)
This ultra-compact saw packs a serious punch for its size. It made quick work of plywood, dimensional lumber, and even thick landscape timbers.
The soft start is great for avoiding splintering. My only gripe is the tiny dust chute clogs often. For small hands and big cutting power, it’s a winner!
Ryobi One+ (5.7 lbs)
Ryobi’s One+ saw uses the same batteries as their entire cordless tool line, so I got to ditch the cord entirely!
It ripped through lumber smoothly and the LED cutline light was handy. Runtime is a bit short, but swappable batteries extend cutting time.
At under 6 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight.
Rockwell RK3441K (4.5 lbs)
This tiny saw is ridiculously light while cutting very respectably for home tasks.
The integrated dust port also connects to a shop vac for cleaner cuts.
The blade wobbled slightly, impacting cut quality in thicker stock. But for the weight, it’s incredibly handy!
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a highly portable circular saw that reduces fatigue from heavy saws, these lightweight models are perfect for DIYers.
My top pick is the Makita for its blend of light weight and ample power. But Ryobi’s cordless freedom and the feather-light Rockwell are also great options. Give your arms a break and cut with ease!
Let me know if you have any questions about these or other lightweight circular saws. I’m always happy to share my experience to help DIYers find the best tools for their needs and budget.
