A circular saw can make crosscuts and rip cuts, and bevel, angled and compound cuts. Equipped with the right blade you can cut wood, plastic, metal and masonry. Sidewinder (a.k.a. direct drive) saws are the most popular. The motor is mounted on the side of the saw with the blade typically on the right side. The most popular are models that take 6-1/2″ or 7-1/4″ blades. Most can crosscut a 2 x 4 at 90° or 45° in a single pass. Compact circ saws have 3-1/2″ or 4-1/2″ blades and smaller cut capacities. Advances in lithium-ion batteries, along with brushless motors, make cordless circ saws a viable alternative to corded models. Features to look for include an electric brake that stops the blade as soon as you release the trigger, a magnesium plate (lighter and stronger than steel), accurate cutline markers, good blade visibility, and easy height and bevel adjustments.

Worm and hypoid drive saws, also available either corded or cordless, are more popular in the construction sector. Their motors are mounted behind the blade, extending your reach when making long rip cuts or cross-cutting sheet goods. These saws deliver more torque than sidewinders but are heavier and more expensive. Worm drive saws need to be oiled regularly to keep the gears lubricated.

Track (a.k.a. plunge) saws are a separate class of circ saws that have a shrouded blade and run on a guide track. (See “Know Your Tools: Track Saws,” June/July 2019.)