How to Buy a Circular Saw

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (1 Ratings)

A circular saw is one of the most popular portable power tools. Designed for making long, straight cuts, the saw also crosscuts and makes miters a snap.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Work Gloves
Circular Saws
Safety Goggles
Saw Blades - Circular

Step1

Choose a standard or cordless model. Cordless saws are more portable, but you have to deal with recharging batteries.

Step2

Get a saw with at least a 1-horsepower motor. If you get something smaller than that, you may not have the power for some jobs. Also consider the blade size. Although blades run from 3 3/8-inch to 16 5/8-inch diameters, the 7 1/4-inch blade is the most popular size, making replacement blades easy to find.

Step3

Make sure your saw comes with blade guards and at least 8 feet of cord.

Step4

Test the depth adjuster. There are several types, and you may find that you prefer one over the others.

Step5

Check the saw's base plate. You'll want it to be adjustable if you anticipate cutting at any angles.

Tips & Warnings

Keep the receipt with the manual and other paperwork, and send in the warranty card as soon as you get your saw.
Be sure you read and understand all safety warnings before using your new saw.

Who Can Help:

Comments

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 3/21/2006 Great saw to invest in. Got a display model from local home center. Works great, battery lasts amazingly long.

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 11/22/2005 Always buy a saw with sealed ball bearings. Look at the sole plate of the saw; some are stamped metal and some are a solid plate. A solid sole plate is less likely to be damaged through wear and tear and cause the saw to cut inaccurately.

View All