Welcome to the comprehensive circular saw guide by BISON, your trusted partner in advanced tools and equipment. At BISON, we understand the importance of precision, power, and performance in circular saws.
In this guide, we'll examine every aspect of circular saws, from understanding the basics to advanced features, guaranteeing that you choose wisely depending on your requirements.
What is a circular saw?
A circular saw is a versatile power tool used to cut a variety of materials, primarily wood, but also capable of cutting metal, plastic, composite, laminate materials, and other substances, depending on the blade used. Its distinguishing feature is a flat, circular blade with sharp teeth that allow for quick, accurate cutting with ease.
The key components of a circular saw include:
circular saw blades
The blade is the most critical component of a circular saw and determines the quality and precision of the cut. You need to consider factors such as blade material, number of teeth, tooth arrangement, kerf width, and blade diameter, and match the blade to the material and type of cut for best results.
Blade material
For durability and longevity, circular saw blades are usually made of high-quality steel and are often coated with carbide. Blades with carbide tips stay sharp for longer and are ideal for heavy-duty cutting jobs in a variety of materials.
High-Speed Steel (HSS): Harder than regular steel blades, stay sharp longer, and have better heat resistance
Carbide Tips: Sharper and more durable than HSS, ideal for hardwood and engineered wood
Diamond Tips: For cutting tile, concrete, and other extremely hard materials
New Composites: Continued advancements in composite material technology are producing blades with enhanced durability and cutting performance
Number of teeth
The number of teeth on a circular saw blade plays a vital role in determining the type of cut it produces. The more teeth, the smoother the cut, ideal for fine woodworking and finishing work. On the other hand, blades with fewer teeth work better for rough, sharp cuts in heavier materials.
Alternating top bevel (ATB): Commonly used for wood cutting
Flat top (FT): Used for cutting softwoods
Triple chip grind (TCG): Used for cutting hard and composite materials
Tooth arrangement
Circular saw blades come in different tooth configurations to suit specific cutting applications:
Rip-cut blade: It is designed to cut with the grain of the wood, making it ideal for slicing wood to width.
Cross-cut blade: It is optimized for cutting across the grain while providing a clean, precise cross-cut.
Combination blade: A versatile option that combines rip-cut and cross-cut teeth for general-purpose cutting.
Specialty blade: It is made specifically for concrete, metal, and laminate materials, offering excellent performance and durability.
Segmented saw blades: Typically used for cutting harder materials
Abrasive saw blades: Used for cutting very hard or abrasive materials
Plywood saw blades: Designed for clean cuts in plywood and veneer
Kerf width
Kerf width describes the amount of material a saw blade removes as it cuts. Thinner saw blades produce tighter cuts, which reduces material waste and cutting resistance. Thicker saw blades offer superior stability and are better suited for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Blade diameter
Circular saw blades range in diameter from 4 inches to 12 inches or more. The blade diameter determines the maximum cutting depth of the saw and affects its overall cutting capabilities.
Motor
The motor is the power source of a circular saw, driving the blade to rotate. Many new models have speeds of around 4,000 RPM or more, allowing for smoother, faster cutting. There are two types of motors,
Universal motors are common in corded circular saws. Brushless motors, on the other hand, are becoming increasingly popular in cordless models because of their greater efficiency, longer life, and higher power-to-weight ratio
Housing and Base
The housing and base of a circular saw play a vital role in its durability, stability, and ease of use. The housing is usually made of durable plastic or lightweight metal such as magnesium or aluminum, and is designed with an ergonomic shape for a comfortable grip and reduced fatigue during long periods of use. The base is usually made of stamped steel, aluminum, or magnesium for durability and light weight. Need to be designed to be smooth and flat, with stable cutting and clear markings
Other features
BISON is constantly innovating, adding functional components to improve usability and safety:
Dust extraction port: compatible with shop vacuum cleaners to provide a cleaner working environment
Cordless platform compatibility: many cordless circular saws are part of a wider tool ecosystem, sharing batteries between multiple tools
Smart features: some high-end models now include Bluetooth connectivity for tool tracking and maintenance scheduling
Bevel adjustment: allows for angled cutting, usually up to 45 or 56 degrees
Depth adjustment: enables precise control of cutting depth
Laser guide or LED light: improves cutting accuracy by projecting a cutting line
Blade guard: a retractable guard that covers the blade when not in use
Electric brake: quickly stops blade rotation when the trigger is released
Blade brake: a mechanical system that quickly stops blade rotation
Anti-kickback mechanism: designed to prevent dangerous kickback during operation
Trigger lock: prevents accidental start-up
Types of circular saws
There are different kinds of circular saws, each suited to specific applications and user preferences. Here is a list of the different types of circular saws:
Side-scroll circular saws (or direct drive circular saws)
Side-scroll circular saws have their motor mounted next to the saw blade, making them compact and lightweight. They typically offer faster blade speeds and are easier to operate than other circular saws. Side-scroll circular saws are versatile and suitable for a variety of cutting tasks, from basic carpentry to framing and general construction.
Worm drive circular saws
In a worm drive circular saw, the motor is located behind the saw blade, and power is transmitted to the blade via gears. BISON worm drive circular saws feature a rugged worm gear drive case that provides excellent torque and cutting force, and the durable construction withstands the rigors of daily use on the construction site. Worm drive saws are the top choice of professionals for heavy-duty cutting jobs such as framing, decking, and other demanding applications.
Cordless circular saws
Experience the freedom of cordless cutting with a BISON cordless circular saw powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. It offers unmatched portability and convenience, allowing you to complete cutting tasks anytime, anywhere without the constraints of a power cord. Cordless circular saws are ideal for projects that require mobility, such as outdoor construction or remote construction sites. Thanks to advances in battery technology, this circular saw does not sacrifice power or performance, making smooth and precise cuts quickly.
Mini circular saw
Compact and lightweight, the Mini Circular Saw is designed for precision cutting, detailed work and small projects in tight spaces. Despite its compact size, it has impressive cutting power and accuracy, making it a valuable addition to any workshop or tool collection.
Important factors to consider before purchasing circular saws
When making your decision, prioritize features that match your specific needs and typical projects. For professional use, it may be worth investing in a high-end model with advanced features and durability. If your customer base is light use such as DIY, a mid-range saw with good basic features may be sufficient. Here are the key factors to keep in mind before purchasing to ensure you get the best circular saw for your business needs.
Power rating
Consider the motor power of the circular saw, which is usually measured in amps or volts. A higher power rating means more cutting power, allowing you to handle tougher materials and make faster cuts. For corded circular saws, look for models with 10-15 amp motors. Professional-grade saws typically have 15 amp motors for maximum cutting power. For cordless circular saws, consider the voltage rating, which typically ranges from 18V to 60V. Higher voltage generally means more power, but also means increased weight.
Speed control
Some circular saws have variable speed settings that allow you to adjust the speed of the saw blade depending on the material you are cutting and the quality of cut you want. This feature provides versatility and control in your cutting operations. Look for saws with a speed range of 2,000 to 5,200 RPM
Angle adjustability
Most circular saws offer up to 45-degree bevel cuts, but some models offer greater bevel cuts. Look for circular saws with quick-change angle adjustments to enable you to tackle a wider range of projects.
Weight
Weight can affect maneuverability and user fatigue, especially when used for extended periods of time. Corded circular saws typically weigh between 8-12 pounds. Cordless circular saws can be even lighter, with some compact models weighing as little as 6 pounds. Consider the balance between power and weight based on your needs.
Comfort and ergonomics
Evaluate the handle design and overall ergonomics of the circular saw to ensure it is comfortable to use, especially when cutting for extended periods of time. A well-designed, comfortable-to-grip handle increases control of the saw and reduces fatigue. Some circular saw models offer both right- and left-handed designs.
Price and budget
Determine your budget based on the intended use of the circular saw and your needs. While higher-priced models may offer higher-end features and durability, standard options are also available at more affordable prices. Consider long-term value and durability, and look for circular saws made of quality materials, not just the initial cost.
Additional features
Dust collection: Built-in dust extractors or ports for connecting to vacuum systems have become standard on many models. Good dust management minimizes the potential for respiratory problems from inhaling dust, improves visibility, and keeps your workspace tidy.
LED lights: Guide lights for improved cut line visibility are common on newer models.
Laser guides: Some saws include laser guides for more precise cutting.
Safety switch: For added safety, stops the blade quickly after the trigger is released. Other safety features include blade guards, trigger locks, and more. Some models now include electronic sensors to prevent kickback.
Elevate your business with BISON circular saws
Are you a circular saw dealer looking to expand your inventory with quality, innovative products? We invite you to work with us to take your business to new heights.
Our circular saws incorporate the latest advancements in power tool technology, ensuring your customers always get the best. From professional-grade to DIY-friendly models, we offer a diverse selection to meet the needs of all your customers.
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