Best Circular Saw to buy?

Question

What brand circular saw is the best to buy. I'm debating b/w the Dewalt and the Hitachi. Anyone have any preference?

Answer 1

One that is commercial grade and has a worm gear.



After confirming the above, check for maximum amperage.



Next, watch for sales and promotions where extra accessories/tools are thrown in.



If you follow this procedure, you'll do well...BUT, you might suffer sticker shock, since good tools are not cheap.



Identifying a brand name to you would make no sense. You have to go with the model number OF each brand to confirm the features outlined above.

Answer 2

It really is all about personal preference. In my job I have the option of two saws, a Dewalt and a Porter-Cable. I use the Dewalt all the time purely because the handle position feels comfortable to me. I also have the same choice in drills and go with the Porter-Cable because the torque settings are better.



One thing I might add, is that it is not so much about the saw as the blade you use. In my job I am sizing 13/4" doors in most of the common hardwoods and I have found the Freud 24 tooth framing blade to be by far the best.

Answer 3

It depends entirely on how often and to what extent you will use the saw. I've built 4 decks, 2 arbors, a wheelchair ramp and many other projects with my $50 Skil Saw. Works just fine. I don't need lasers and $130 yellow tools with a DeWalt logo. Yes it's true...you get what you pay for. If this topic were about a table saw, band saw, belt sander or cordless drill, I might have a different opinion, but with circular saws you can get one that will do the job just fine for $50 or so. Check out Black & Decker (aka DeWalt), Craftsman and Ryobi.

Answer 4

It is all just a matter of personal prefrence. Porter Cable make the best ones in my mind. Between DeWalt and Hitachi, would have to go with DeWalt. But stay away from Skil and Ryobi or any non-name brand. They may be cheap, but you get what you pay for.

Answer 5

You cant go wrong with Makita, Bosch or Milwaukee, but stay away from Dewalt, highly overrated and overpriced pieces of crap. If your using it daily I would recommend a worm drive which will run you between $170 and 230$ for a good one that will last you years to come. Never used a Hitachi myself but have a few friends with them and they rave about them. Hope this is helpful

Answer 6

Hi, I dont care for Black and Decker products so the DeWalt in my opinion would be out. Go with the Hitachi. I think Makita is good also Riobyi .

Answer 7

If you are going to be heavy user, I'd suggest the Dewalt. I have a drill and a reciprocating saw from Dewalt that have held up well.



However, for lighter use, I'd suggest Sears Craftsman. I have one with a laser line that makes following the cut line easier. I've used it for several years for small projects around the house with no problems.

Answer 8

Dewalt

Answer 9

I notice that most carpenters I know personally are all using either a makita or a bosch saw. I prefer the makita because it incorporates an led light to shine down on the cut line, and it comes in handy in low light situations. On the other hand, the rafter hook on the bosch saw makes the task of framing so much easier, and the no cord power plug makes this saw much easier to store.

Answer 10

If you are using it for home use don't spend your money on the heavier worm drive. One particular brand of saw doesn't vary much over another. Go to the hardware store display and handle them and buy the one that's most comfortable for you since you'll be using it. What you need to remember is to buy good blades and keep them sharp nothing ruins a saw quicker than a dull blade

Answer 11

the dewalt is made by black and decker, and they aren't your dad's black and decker anymore! they turn anything that they buy into junk, like dewalt, emglo compressors, etc. given the choices, buy the Hitachi, if it's anything like their air tools, you will end up with a great tool. all of my air nail guns are Hitachi, my cordless tools are Milwaukee, and most of my corded tools are, too. i make my living with these tools, so i depend on them, and they have given me my moneys worth. good luck.

Answer 12

Dewalt,, you can get a good one for about $130. If you don't buy dewalt, at least get one that is 15 amps.

Answer 13

Definitely, DeWalt. My husband is hard on tools, all kinds of tools, it's crazy. We always buy dewalt power tools, cause they hold up so well, even to him!

Answer 14

MAKITA hands down. I installed Hardi Plank for years, the dust kills all other brands. The shoe is equal or Superior to other brands, the bearings run smoother, and there is less measurable blade wobble. Top it all off with a price lower than some inferior saws.

Answer 15

Tough one............I wouldnt go with a worm gear because I dont build enough stuff to justify it like several houses. I have a black and decker and I do like it. But nothing beats the cost and dependability of Skil. Thats why everyone calls them skil saws for short. Why should they be expensive? Its just a metal frame with a drive AC motor in it.

Answer 16

Rockwell is good also.



Don't buy a heavy one with a worm gear unless you are going to make a living with it.



For homeowners, Sears has a good one at a good price.

Answer 17

a round one

Answer 18

bosch and portercable