I have spent thirty plus years doing construction and renovations. During that time, we have used and even abused, most brands, styles and sizes of hand held circular saws. (I personally was never involved in the abuse part). Having employees, means having abuse. It's surprising what some people will do with someone else's equipment.
The first circular saw I ever purchased was a Skill 7 1/4" saw, with 2 1/4 H.P. I was eighteen at the time, and had just decided I was going to be a contractor, when I grew up. (if I grew up). The unit I purchased was not my first choice, as it seemed kind of expensive at the time. The owner of the lumber yard I was dealing with, also happened to own a large construction company. When he saw me carrying the saw I chose up to the counter, he inquired how long I intended on being in business.
3 Circular Saw
Me being the cocky sort, said something along the lines of forever. (Failing didn't seem even remotely possible, at the time). He said if that's the case, I'd better reconsider my choice of saws. My choice was apparently a poor one. He steered me to the Skill saw I ended up with. Now, thirty years later, the only repairs ever needed on that saw has been two cords, and a set of brushes. The cords don't stand up well to a saw blade.
That particular saw has a set of bearings in it that will keep the blade spinning for about twenty seconds after letting go of the switch. In the right hands, it will cut a line straight and square. And believe me when I say it's seen some serious use, in many different hands.
I've since bought about every brand and size since then, and have never been as satisfied as I was with that one. Even the 8 1/4" saw, supposedly the same saw but larger, and about fifteen years newer, hasn't impressed me as much as the first one. Cutting a straight line with that one has never become second nature like the first. (In all fairness, I personally haven't done the amount of actual physical work as I did in those early years, thank God). I am still able to cut a very straight cut with the original one though.
That saw wasn't a worm drive saw. That particular style of saw seems to lend themselves to cutting a straight line rather easily, and have plenty of power. This style is the first choice of many professional contractors, due to there ruggedness. I have, and use this type of saw as well, but I limit it's use to very abusive situations. They are made to take it.
I've bought saws from manufacturers, that were reputed to be very high quality, and were made by the very same people who made some serious equipment, that performed extremely well. After using them for a couple weeks, I just gave them away. Some saws are not designed for the user, but for the ease of manufacture. No thank you very much!
Sometimes I swear that the engineers have never held, used, or researched the very tool they were designing! And the surprising part is they actually make it to the market. You'd think that somewhere along the line, someone would have said, "this is a piece of junk", and sent the engineer back to school, or at the very least, back to the drawing board. But no!
One of the newer brands on the market in the USA, is Festool. While it has it's limitations for construction, for cabinet making it's great. With the extendable, non slip, track system, cabinet quality cuts are simple. Even mitering cabinet sides on a job site are no problem. And with the dust collection system hooked up to it, it's hard to beat. I did notice new users have a bit of trouble getting used to it having a retractable blade system. This lead them to actually having a kick back, and cutting the aluminum guide. This seems especially true for left handed users. And for those with two left hands, forget it.
Bottom line in choosing a saw is first deciding what type of work it will be used for most often. If you're going to be cutting 2" x 4" lumber, forget the Festool. It's just not worth destroying a good saw for that. Also, stay away from the .99 saws, unless your need a curved cut, because straight is out of the question. Anytime you can watch the shaft slide in and out during a cut, you have a problem.
Look for a saw with a 15 amp motor, and try to move the shaft in and out prior to buying it. (Unplugged of course). If possible, test it out. Some saws go out of there way to blow the saw dust in your eyes. Having a shoe that won't bend or break is a big plus, and a notch where the blade will actually cut is pretty handy. (Although, I rarely use them. I like to see where I'm cutting, so I look at the blade). And BY ALL MEANS, use safety glasses.
Following these basic guidelines will get you a saw that you'll be able to count on for years to come.
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Bare-Tool Makita BSS501Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8-Inch Circular Trim Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Feature
- Makita-built motor delivers 3,600 RPM for faster cutting and ripping through wood
- Compact, ergonomic design at only 5.7 lbs. for reduced operator fatigue
- Includes features such as a built-in L.E.D. light to illuminate the work area, and a built-in dust blower to keep the line of cut free of debris
- Makita LXT Lithium-Ion battery and Energy Star rated 30-Minute Rapid Optimum Charger produces 430% total lifetime work with 2.5X more cycles
- 3-year warranty on tool
Bare-Tool Makita BSS501Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8-Inch Circular Trim Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Overview
2" maximum cutting capacity enables cutting a 2 x 4 in one pass. Built-in L.E.D. lights for more illuminated work. Built-in dust blower enhances line of sight and keeps work piece clean. Makita' s 25 Minute Optimum Rapid Charger (DC18RA) charges faster to allow less down time and more productivity. Ergonomically designed handle with soft grip provides better fit and even more control. Blade wrench stows away in the saw for fast and convenient blade changing. LXT Lithium-Ion provides longer run time, 5x lower self-discharge (for use any time) and 16 firm holding contact terminals (for constant high power). 25-minute Rapid Optimum Charger uses the built-in chip in the battery and built-in CPU chip in the charger to control current, voltage, and temperature to optimize battery life. 5-3/8" x 16T Carbide-Tipped Circular Saw Blade.Bare-Tool Makita BSS501Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8-Inch Circular Trim Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Specifications
The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8-Inch Trim Circular Saw combines cordless cutting power with less weight in a compact size. The BSS501Z has a Makita-built high-torque motor and a two-inch maximum cutting capacity -- the best in its class -- making it ideal for woodworkers and finish carpenters. | ||||
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The BSS501Z features a Makita-built high-torque motor that produces 3,600 RPM for faster cutting. The saw has a 50 degree maximum bevel cutting capacity and is engineered with a stainless steel base plate for smooth, accurate cutting and added durability.
Ergonomic Design in a Compact Size
The BSS501Z weighs just 5.7 pounds (with battery, sold separately) with a more compact design at 14-3/8 inches long and an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove for reduced operator fatigue. The BSS501Z is also equipped a built-in L.E.D. light that illuminates the work area for more efficient work, as well as a built-in dust blower to keep the line of cut free of debris. The blade wrench stows away for fast blade changing.
Versatile Design for a Range of Applications
The BSS501Z is a light, powerful cordless trim saw ideal for professional woodworkers and finishing carpenters. It's also great for builders and other pro trades making cuts overhead, in tight spaces, or through light material that does not require a standard size circular saw. The BSS501Z is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.
About Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Series
As one of the pioneers driving the cordless tool revolution, Makita changed the game with its breakthrough 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Series. Three years after its debut, Makita's LXT Series has grown from seven to over 35 tools, providing a wide range of cordless solutions for professional tradesmen. Makita also added 18V Compact Lithium-Ion for cordless power in a more compact size.
About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools, and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to produce tools that are stronger, lighter, more powerful and easier to use. Makita USA, Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.
Warranty
Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita's 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-year warranty. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.
What's in the Box
Makita BSS501Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8-Inch Circular Trim Saw (tool only).
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