Circular Saw Buying Guide
A circular saw is one of the most common power tools in use today. With the appropriate blade, this tool is capable of cutting wood, steel, masonry, and ceramic tile. Learn how to find the circular saw design and features that will make your projects successful.

Find the Right Circular Saw
Circular saws are affordable, flexible, and easy to use, making them one of the most popular items in a tool chest. Knowing which design is perfect for which job is the first step. Once you’ve learned which saw is right for you, shop for it either online or in-store.
Circular Saw Basics
Circular saws make quick, straight cuts across a board (crosscuts) or along the board's length (rip cuts). You can also set a circular saw to make bevel cuts (cuts made on the edge of the wood). Standard components in a circular saw include:
- Blade Guard: A safety mechanism that covers the blade when the saw isn't in use, and retracts to expose the blade during use.
- Foot Plate or Shoe: This piece steadies the saw against the workpiece.
- Depth Adjustment: This setting allows you to use workpieces of varying thicknesses.
- Bevel Adjustment: The foot plate tilts in relation to the blade when making bevel cuts.
Circular saw blades are usually classified by the diametre of their blades. Sizes of 5 1/2 to 7 1/4 inches are the most common. There are also many options available on circular saws, so pick the one based on your specific needs.
Caution
Always follow the device manufacturer's operating, maintenance, and safety instructions, including instructions on what safety gear to wear.
Related Articles

Table Saw Buying Guide
A table saw is a woodworking cornerstone. Use our buying guide to learn more about this tool and which saw is right for you.

How to Build an Entertainment Centre
Use our how-to guide to build your own entertainment centre and organize your electronics in a tidy way. It's a fun and challenging confidence-building project.

Drill Press Buying Guide
A drill press is an essential tool for drilling precisely spaced holes or boring to exact depths. Every professional woodworking shop has one, and you can, too. Learn more.