Bosch - CS20 Circular Saw

Editor's Review: Not Your Old Saw

This saw has some unique features that turn out to be fairly useful. Its Direct-Connect setup makes it difficult to unplug the saw accidentally and eliminates the usual weak point where the power cord enters the tool. The built-in rafter hook is handy when climbing a ladder or working on a roof. The bevel and depth-adjustment levers are large and easy to operate, and the 56 degrees maximum bevel is impressive. The saw has detents for 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees bevels, but the detent spring needed tweaking with a screwdriver from time to time to keep the detents strong. Depth of cut can be adjusted without moving one's right hand off the handle, and the large, easy-to-read, rear-facing gauge made depth changes fast and convenient. The front handle is pushed to the left, away from the blade, which provides an excellent line of sight. The only thing that might be improved is the fiber-composite base, which is strong and light but has a bit too much flex.

Editor Test Results: