After completing a few jobs that are slow-going and strenuous due to using a hand saw or a jigsaw, you consider adding a circular saw to your repertoire of power tools. If you have never used an electric saw before, it is understandable that you may be a little intimidated by the thought of using one.

Using a circular saw is easy even for the most amateur of users and purchasing one will benefit you in numerous ways. Not all circular saws are the same though and you obviously want one that will meet your needs. Below are factors you should consider when purchasing a circular saw.

1. Design

The typical work that you will be doing with the circular saw will be the biggest determinant in the one you choose. Worm-drive saws have motors positioned at right angles of the blade. This type makes plunge cuts easier and because they are longer, cutting wider pieces of lumber will be less tedious. A sidewinder saw has a motor that sits parallel to the blade on either side.

They are especially handy in cutting most materials and allow the user’s hands to be kept at a safe distance from the blade. Circular saws also come in corded and cordless designs with the corded type being more appropriate for tougher jobs because they are electric-powered and cordless models ideal where a power source is not readily available.

2. Guard

Most if not all circular saws have a blade guard but not all of them are the same. This guard covers the blade when it is not in use and when it is being operated retracts to expose the blade, ensuring that cuts are made with no interference. When considering a circular saw, make sure that the guard retracts smoothly when in operation as it should.

A guard that does not do this will often result in it getting stuck and this is annoying and frustrating if you are in the middle of a cut. In addition to allowing for smooth, accurate cuts the guard is instrumental in keeping you safe so if you are not comfortable with how the guard operates or feel it will be ineffective, consider a different model.

3. Blade

Circular saws are handy because they can handle a lot of different jobs but this does not mean that every type on the market is able to. If you plan on using your circular saw for a variety of jobs, you need to confirm that the saw you purchase will suffice and this means guaranteeing that different blades can be used.

Circular saw blades include carbide-tipped, tile-cutting, masonry, and steel and the key to making successful cuts is having the right one for the job. If you do not you will end up with ones that are not precise or you may not even be able to cut through the material if it is too tough for the blade.

4. Clear visibility

The key to making precise cuts is being able to see exactly where you are cutting and this ability is sometimes subjective, depending on factors such as stance and dexterity. Before purchasing the saw that you are considering, handle it in the store the way you would usually make cuts. Make sure you are able to accurately see through the cut window.

If you cannot, chances are you will not be able to when operating the saw. Poorly-designed circular saws will often obstruct your line of sight with handles, guards, and other appendages and a poor line of sight will definitely result in wastes of time and money on materials that are not accurately cut.