Circular Saws

Cromwell stock a range of circular saws in our large collection of power tools. With big name brands like Hikoki, Matika, Dewalt and Bosch, you'll be assured of high-quality tooling, that's best suited to your needs.

What are circular saws?

The staple of joiners, carpenters, and professionals in the building trade, these cutting tools feature a round serrated disc shaped blade that rapidly rotates for a straight and smooth cut, both parallel and perpendicular to the grain of the wood. They can also be used to cut cement board and plastic, whilst specialist blades can be used for metal as well as masonry.

Why a circular saw?

Circular saws offer continuous cutting thanks to their rotating cutting disc, this makes them a lot more efficient and less tiresome than conventional hand saws. Both handheld and workbench mounted models are available so there is plenty of variety and potential for cross-application use.

There are both electric and hydraulic models of circular saw on today's tool market. Electric models typically come with durable and insulative casings as well as safety features like blade guards for user protection.

Note: Appropriate training should be given, and PPE should be worn before and when operating a circular saw.

Circular saw types

As touched on earlier there are a few different types of circular saw available, below is a list of some of the most common types, as well as some of their features and benefits.

• Mini circular saws - Used where a full-sized saw would be inconvenient and too bulky to operate freely. They are lightweight, portable, and often cordless, making them ideal for work in limited space.

• Cordless - These saws tend to run on lithium-ion batteries, meaning that their design can jettison the power cable. This helps reduce the risk of tripping and accidentally sawing through the cable, as well as the more obvious benefits of free, unhindered movement.

Other types of circular saw:

• Mitre saws - These are handheld models that feature a base plate and a radial arm the allows the blade to be lowered into the material being cut.

• Table saws - These are essentially as they sound, namely a circular saw mounted on a table or work bench.

Considerations when choosing a circular saw

Choosing the right circular saw for the job can be a challenge, however there are some key considerations that can help you ensure that you pick the right one for the job.

• Space and environment - If you're primarily going to be working in tight spaces, then ensuring the size of the saw is suitable is important. Even if the saw is cordless and offers freedom of movement, if it is too bulky to be wielded in a tight environment it could not only be awkward to cut, but even in a skilled operator's hands it could be a health hazard. If working in an enclosed environment, consider a mini saw.

• The type of blade - Choosing the right sized saw is one thing, choosing a blade is another. There are obvious considerations here like making sure the blade you choose fits your saw etc. But you'll also have to ensure that your blade is suitable for the task you whish to use it for.

Key blade considerations

• The number of teeth - The more teeth the quicker and more precise the cut. This has nothing to do with blade size, however.
• A positive rake - This will provide more cutting power.
• The kerf (width of cut) - Thinner blades offer a finer cut and less resistance but are susceptible to "blade wobble".
• Blade material - For wood working, carbon and high-speed steel are the best choices, however for metal working and harder materials then a blade made from a carbide steel alloy is a much better choice.

To ensure the blade you want to use on your saw is compatible, consider the following:

• The correct diameter of the blade, these range typically from 110mm to 185mm.
• The RPM rating, the speed in which the saw rotates. It is highly recommended that you don't purchase a blade below this number as it could potentially be a safety hazard.
• The correct sized arbour. This is the centre hole and typically measures between 10mm and 30mm.
• The depth of cut.

Most of the above you will find in your saw's user manual, should you ever need to replace the blade.

FAQ

Should I oil my circular saw's blade?

Blade maintenance is an important part of maintaining a smooth cutting action for your circular saw. Lubricating the blade not only helps the blade cut cleaner, but also protects from potential rusting.

As with all cutting edges, with use they eventually wear down. Be sure to regularly inspect the blade for missing or blunted teeth. A blunt blade not only doesn't cut very well but can increase the strain on your saw's motor, shortening its lifespan.

Are circular saws dangerous?

Like all power tools, if used by a non-experienced operator then yes, a circular saw can be quite dangerous. Even in the hands of a skilled operator, precautions need to be taken to help avoid injury.

As a rule, PPE including protective eyewear should be worn to help defend against injury cause by flying debris during the cutting process. There are also kickbacks to contend with, this is where the blade catches stock and hurls it back towards the operator.

There are ways to help prevent kickbacks, including; making sure material is secured down and free from nails etc, ensuring the correct blade is used and is well maintained (sharp and well oiled) and operating at the recommended rpm.

Other ways to reduce risk is to ensure there are no obstructions and tripping hazards in the work area. Keep fingers clear of the blade when in use and above all else concentrate on the cut until the saw is off. A slight glance away at the wrong moment can result in a trip to A&E, so, until the blade has stopped turning keep eyes on task.