Tool Test: Sidewinder Circular Saws

A circular saw is probably the most common tool on a job site. In this article, tool tester and industry writer Michael Springer shares what he learned after putting 14 sidewinder saws through several tests to determine relative power, to determine cutline accuracy, and to assess the retraction of blade guards in various cutting scenarios. To eliminate differences in stock blades, he outfitted each saw with a new Irwin Marathon blade. His top performer was the DeWalt DW369CSK, and the best-value model was the Ridgid R32021. In addition to detailed profiles of seven of the saws--profiles of the entire group of 14 are on FineHomebuilding.com--Springer offers a list of features shared by the top saws and how compromises on these features can affect performance: cutline indicators, blade visibility, bevel adjustments, baseplate, guard retraction, saw-to-baseplate connection, and depth adjustments.

Product Finder: Related Products

(1 user review) DeWalt - DW369CSK Circular Saw(2)
DeWalt's DW369CSK circular saw features a blade guard that operates smoothly at all angles

Hitachi - C7BMR Circular Saw
Hitachi's C7BMR circular saw shows little defelction during heavy use

Makita - 5007MGA Circular Saw
Makita's 5007MGA circular saw has rubber-covered everything for comfort as well as a dual LED headlight to illuminate the cutline

Milwaukee - 6394-21 Circular Saw
This circular saw from Milwaukee features a rear handle that can be rotated into eight positions

Porter-Cable - PC15TCSMK Circular Saw
Porter-Cable's PC15TCSMK features smooth guard operation and its blade visibility is good