Bosch - 1677M Circular Saw

Editor's Review: Testing Worm-Drive Saws

The baseplate on this worm-drive saw is made of molded magnesium. Its unique waffle pattern is designed to add strength where it is needed without adding much weight. This well-balanced saw handles well, although it lacks some of the features of other saws, such as an onboard Allen wrench and rubberized levers.

Bosch offers this saw in a direct-connect model for an extra $10. Bosch claims that this model has two advantages over the 1677M. First, it can be safely lowered by the cord without damaging the saw or disconnecting the cord. Second, it is easier to repair an extension cord on the job site.

Editor Test Results:

Editor's Review: New Bosch Circular Saws

The 1677M is a 7-1/4-in. saw with the blade on the left side of the motor. It weighs 14 lb. and, not coincidentally, is similar to the rear-handle Skil 77, which has been around for decades and which was the model for Bosch's new saw.

The saw's 3-hp. motor operates at around 4,400 rpm and has new, user-friendly features like a soft-grip handle and a built-in saw hook for hanging the saw on nearby joists or rafters between cuts. A set screw lets you fine-tune 90-degree cuts. The saw features a 50-degree bevel capacity with a positive stop at 45 degrees. It also has a newly designed antisnag blade guard allowing easier mitering and thinner rips without hanging up. The lever on the blade guard is easier to grab, and it retracts easily because it has a stronger spring. A waffle-design footplate, fashioned out of die-cast magnesium, offers a clear view of the cutline.

In my opinion, the in-line, rear-handle Bosch 1677M saw has proper balance. It's safe for me to say that this is the best saw I've ever used.

Editor Test Results: