Circular Saw Recommendation

ustmd · Sep 30, 2011

So, the current circular saw is getting ready to bite the dust--the safety interlock switch is starting to go. It was a $70 Skill special and I have gotten 8 hard years out of it, so I am not upset.

I am looking for recommendations.

I am not a profession, but like many living the sub-rural lifestyle, I do a lot of projects, so the saw will used infrequently, but when used, it will be used. For example, the current saw started dying while I am building an 800 sq ft deck for the neighbors/in-laws

.

Also, as I have gotten older, I have realized that it is worthwhile to invest in quality tools that will last and not add problems to the projects. So, I know I was be spending a minim of $120-$150 on a good saw.

I was looking at the Bosch CS20 as well as the Dewalt DW364K. I have had good experiences with both brands--though I have heard from others that Dewalt tools aren't what they used to be. I am also considering Milwaukee or Porter Cable.

Any thoughts/experiences? Much of the info on the net is out of date/useless.

Thanks

doall · Sep 30, 2011

I'm partial to Milwauki or Mikita. I've used yellow. green, silver, and black; just seem to have better luck with the red and blue ones.

bcjmmac · Oct 1, 2011

I've had a dewalt saw for over 10 years. Only thing I've done is change the blade. Currently using it to build a garage/workshop for my JD2520 & it works as good as new (with the new blade).
Haven't heard that the quality dropped at Dewalt.

Fixemall · Oct 1, 2011

You really need to try out a few brands, what "fits" for one person may not suit you personally. I suggest hitting up a few actual tool dealers and see what works for you in terms of grip, weight and balance.

DJ54 · Oct 1, 2011

Can't speak for the new one's, but I've had a Porter-Cable for 12 years now. It's done more than it's share of projects... Love it..!!

Chilly807 · Oct 1, 2011

I bought a Makita a couple of years ago to replace the old saw I had. I wanted as little blade wander as possible, and the Makita was the tightest I looked at.

Unexpected bonuses were low noise level, and very smooth running. Simply the best circ saw I've ever used.

The LED light over the cutting area seems gimmicky until you're in a dimly lit area trying to see the cut line.

Sean

Army grunt · Oct 1, 2011

Mikita is an has been my choice for over 25 years. I have a 8 1/4 i bought 20 years ago. My 7 1/4 in at least 10 an just always works. Straight cuts an tight blade(no wobble)
Army Grunt

Verticaltrx · Oct 1, 2011

I'm a contractor so my tools get used every day. The best service I've gotten out of any brand tools, bar none, has been Milwaukee. I have a 7 1/4" Milwaukee circular saw with the magnesium body and tilt-lock handle. At first I thought the tilt-lock handle was kind of gimmicky, but after using it a few years I really like it. Makes it much easier on the wrist when you are using it standing and cutting on a roof, floor, etc. I think it was around $150 IIRC.

Red Horse · Oct 1, 2011

I have two Bosch's. I was lugging a 10 year old back and forth to summer place and decided I woud spring for a new one two years ago and leave the older one at cottage. I do believe my new one was one of last ones made in US. Great saws. The other one I considered was a Porter Cable as I like the coating they have on the plate.

As for preferences and "good luck with old ones", regardless of brand, most of the old ones were made here. The new ones?...China. If I can find something "Made in US", I tend to buy it. Or Europe-all my cutting bits-CMT, Italy, the best. IMO. Then Japan, Then Taiwan. China-last choice.

Chilly807 · Oct 1, 2011

Since someone mentioned the plate coating, it reminded me that the coating on the Makita plate is less than ideal.. I give mine a coat of furniture wax once in a while and it's fine after that for a few months. I may try getting it re-anodized, I have a "source" for getting that done pretty cheaply.

If all you're cutting is clean wood, it may not be an issue, but any grit on the lumber leads to sticking and dark streaks on the wood.

Sean

oliver1555 · Oct 1, 2011

Get the new saw you want, but I wouldn't just give up on the old saw completely if the main problem is the interlock switch. My local hardware store matched a switch up for me on an older saw. I don't remember the actual cost, but less than ten bucks. Sometimes, having a second saw around is handy.

Tdcw4 · Oct 1, 2011

My grandfather was a carpenter for 30 years makita is the best hands down, use a marathon blade and u are set. To get the real idea of a good saw rip a 2x4 with a makita then try it with a dewalt or porter cable u will see the difference. Also a makita is much lighter.

grsthegreat · Oct 1, 2011

Not sure if any new tool is very good....they all seem to be made of plastic now days.I prefer to have older model SKIL brand "true" worm drive saws on hand. Ive had mine since 1980's, and they still work 100% like new.

Only replaced the power cord. Have 2 of them ...was in general construction for a time now im an electrician so i dont use them alot, but they still see a jobsite now and then. All the newer saws i see are nearly all plastic.

Chilly807 · Oct 1, 2011

When I was looking for the last one I got, I looked at the Ridgid worm-drive saw at HD. Nice, but expensive and heavy as hel*..

Sean

BeezFun · Oct 1, 2011

I've read this rag for years, it's online now so you might be able to find a review of circular saws.
Professional Tool Tests, New Tools and Technology, Tool and Truck Industry News & Resources

mojoinco · Oct 1, 2011

I like that Milwaukee handle -- only fondled one though.

Before B&D cheapened the Porter Cable line you could get them in left and right bladed versions. Don't know if they still come with that option. Others may also have that option.

Many of the Dewalt models are still made in Mexico, and most Bosch corded tools are not made in China, though the battery powered ones seem to be.

Milwaukee is owned by a Hong Kong company. I think maybe the same as Ryobi, AEG, etc. Not sure.

check 6 · Oct 1, 2011

I had the same decision several years ago and decided to go with the Bosch for three reasons. One, it is a solid brand. Two, they make a left handed model which is great for us southpaws and third, I wanted a worm drive model for the extra duty and increased torque. Yes it is slightly heavier but has been a great tool that has never failed me nor lugged down in heavy material. A good saw and a sharp blade makes a great and safe combination

Chilly807 · Oct 1, 2011

mojoinco said:
Before B&D cheapened the Porter Cable line you could get them in left and right bladed versions. Don't know if they still come with that option. Others may also have that option.

It was still available 4 years ago when I bought the Makita, which incidentally has a big red maple leaf on the handle, made in Canada !

Sean

creekbend · Oct 1, 2011

Milwaukee. I have 4 Milwaukee tools that I still use today, and I bought them in the early 70's. I just used the circular saw to build a handicap ramp for my wife around 2 weeks ago, and it was pressure treated lumber. Aside from replacing a cord or two over the years and buying new blades, they have served me well. The final decision is yours. Do the research, compare prices;etc, and you will find the circular saw that both meets your present and future needs and your price range. Good Luck.:tractor:

Dogballs · Oct 1, 2011

I've had most every brand made. Right now I like the Milwaukees the most. But everyone is different and what fits me best might not be right for someone else. I'd check them all out in the store and make your choice based on what seems most comfortable.