The DIYer’s Guide to Finding the Best Circular Saw

As an avid DIYer, I’ve learned that having the right tools for the job makes all the difference between a smooth project and pure frustration. Specifically when it comes to circular saws, choosing the wrong model can leave you with uneven cuts, slow progress and disappointing results.

The good news is that this guide on finding the best circular saw breaks down exactly how to select the ideal circular saw for your needs. Whether you’re a hobbyist woodworker or a home renovator taking on big demolition jobs, you’ll learn how saw capabilities align with materials, workload, budget and more. I’ll even reveal my personal picks for top saws across popular categories.

Let’s start by going beyond the basic specs to truly understand your needs…

Identify Your Needs and Priorities
Before diving into brands and models, let’s identify the factors that determine the best saw for your circumstances:

• Cutting Purpose – Will you use it occasionally for small jobs like installing flooring? Or frequent large renovations like tearing down walls or building furniture? Understanding your workload will clarify if you need a lighter saw for simple tasks or a heavy-duty model for continuous use.
• Materials – The types of materials you’ll cut determines required blade types and overall durability for frequent use. For 2x dimensional lumber framing, most basic circular saws with a carbide-tipped wood blade will suffice. However, if you take on metal fabrication, masonry jobs or mixing various materials, you’ll need specialty blades and likely a heavier-duty saw.
• Workload – For trimming doorways or breaking down old cabinets, an occasional use saw with 10+ amp motor will serve you well. But for sawing dozens of roof rafters or timber framing on large jobs, the brute strength of 15+ amp pro-grade saws is non-negotiable to stand up to marathon use.
• Portability – Do you envision packing up your saw to transport between work sites? If so, weight becomes a consideration. While the most powerful saws often weigh over 10 pounds, lighter compact saws clock in under 7 pounds without sacrificing cutting capacity.
• Budget – Prices range widely from $50 up to $300+. Set realistic expectations based on what you can afford. And with Black Friday deals, you may get premium features for less!

Armed with your needs and priorities, you can zero in on the right saw specs and tradeoffs.

Now let’s decode the most important element – the blade.

Determine the Right Blade Type

• Tooth Count – The teeth per inch on the blade determines the aggressiveness and speed of the cut. More teeth (eg 60) allow clean, precise cuts ideal for detail work. Fewer teeth (24-40 range) rip faster through wood by hogging out more material per pass.
• Hook Angle – The sharpness or angle of the teeth similarly affects cutting speed and smoothness of the cut. A higher hook angle (eg 25 degrees) yields faster yet rough cuts, while a lower angle (eg 10 degrees) creates slower but smoother finished edges.
• Carbide vs Steel – Carbide-tipped blades maintain sharpness significantly longer than basic steel for 200% more cuts. They’re ideal for frequent use on abrasive materials.
• Specialty Blades – For sheet metal, masonry and other surfaces, you need designated blades equipped with grit or diamond abrasives. Don’t use a wood blade – you’ll damage both the material and blade.

Now let’s explore must-have features that define the best circular saws on the market today.

Key Circular Saw Features
Blade Size – The blade diameter determines cutting depth. Common sizes are:
· 6 1⁄2 inches – Good for 2x dimensional lumber
· 7 1⁄4 inches – The most popular size for through cuts on thick stock
· 8 1⁄2 to 10 inches – For supreme cutting power on wider boards

Amp Motor – Higher amperage directly translates to more cutting power. 15-amp motors can muscle through dense hardwoods with no problem. Lighter saws have 10-12 amp motors best for occasional use.

Variable Speed Trigger – Unlike jigsaws, circular saws operate at one set no-load blade speed (eg 5200 RPM). But variable speed triggers offer accelerator-like control of speed/power during cuts.

Electric Blade Brake – An essential safety feature that stops the spinning blade seconds after releasing the trigger to prevent accidents. Don’t buy any model without one!

Bevel Cut Adjustments – The ability to tilt the blade allows angled cuts for miter joints. Premium models offer detents at common angles like 45 and 50 degrees for convenience.

Dust Blower – Strategically aimed air nozzles clear your cut line for better visibility by blowing away sawdust and debris. No more stopping to manually remove gunk!

Our Recommendations
After extensive testing and research, here are my top picks for DIYers based on popular categories:

Best Control And Handling – Cordless Metabo HPT 36V
· Weight: 8,2 pounds
. More torque than the 18 volt counterparts
. 500 Cross Cuts Per Charge 
. blade length 4 inches with 24 teeth
. 45 degrees cutting angle
· 4 Amp brushless motor 5100 RPM, with brake
· Includes 24T high speed steel blade

Best for Frequent Use – DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw (DWE575SB)
· 15 Amp motor with electric brake
· 400 cuts in 5/8″ plywood per charge
· 54° bevel capacity with detents

Best Premium Model – DEWALT DCS578 cordless circular saw
. 7-1/4-inch circular saw blade
· cut depth of 2-9/16-inch
. 45 degrees cutting angle
. Integrated LED 
. ‎5800 RPM
. ‎60 Volts
. Electric brake stops the blade as soon as the trigger is released

As you can see, there is no one-size-fits all with circular saws. By first defining your budget, materials, cutting needs and work style (DIY vs heavy-use professional), you can determine the ideal balance of features. My picks offer quality saws at good, better and best levels.

Whichever route you choose, proper use and care is critical…

Keep Your Saw in Good Working Order
Like any power tool, circular saws require basic maintenance for longevity and safety:
· Blow off dust using compressed air after each use
· Frequently inspect and tighten any loose bolts or damage
· Change dull specialty blades promptly to avoid wear on saw
· Store indoors away from moisture and temperature extremes

And remember to follow essential electric saw safety protocol –
wear eye protection,
don’t force cuts,
brace wide boards,
allow the blade to reach full speed before contacting the material…you know the drill!

I hope this clear, comprehensive guide to all things circular saws instils confidence to make an informed purchasing choice. May your DIY cuts be straight, true and oh so satisfying! Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any additional saw selection questions.