Circular Saws

About Circular Saws

Circular saws are indispensable power tools for cutting timber, sheet materials, and engineered wood products with speed and precision. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range of circular saws from leading manufacturers including DeWalt, Bosch Professional, Festool, and Einhell, offering both corded 240v models for continuous power and cordless options for maximum portability. Available in blade sizes from compact 85mm models to full-size 190mm saws, these tools cater to everyone from professional tradespeople tackling demanding site work to DIY enthusiasts working on home improvement projects.

Modern circular saws come in various configurations to suit different applications. Standard handheld models excel at general-purpose cutting tasks and represent excellent value, whilst plunge saws offer enhanced precision with superior dust extraction for finish carpentry work. Brushless motor technology in cordless models delivers improved efficiency and extended battery runtime, with 18v platforms from DeWalt and Bosch Professional providing performance that rivals traditional corded tools. MyToolShed.co.uk also stocks specialised metal cutting circular saws that operate at lower speeds specifically calibrated for ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Applications

Circular saws are essential tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Cutting timber frames, floor joists, roof rafters, and general construction carpentry
• Kitchen Fitters: Trimming worktops, cutting plinths, and preparing materials for fitted installations
• Roofers: Cutting roof timbers, fascias, and decking materials at height
• Shop Fitters: Breaking down sheet materials and fabricating bespoke retail installations
• Flooring Specialists: Cutting laminate, engineered wood, and solid timber flooring
• General Builders: All-round cutting requirements on construction sites from first fix to finishing
• Groundworkers and Landscapers: Cutting decking boards, fence panels, and formwork
• DIY Enthusiasts: Garden projects, home renovations, furniture building, and property maintenance

Choosing The Right Circular Saws

Power Source: Decide between corded 240v models for unlimited runtime and consistent power, or cordless options for superior portability. Cordless circular saws eliminate trip hazards and suit locations without mains power, with modern 18v platforms delivering impressive performance for most professional applications.

Blade Size and Cutting Capacity: Compact 85mm to 140mm saws suit lighter materials and overhead work where reduced weight minimises fatigue. Mid-size 165mm models represent the sweet spot for general-purpose work, comfortably cutting through standard 50mm timber. Full-size 190mm circular saws deliver maximum cutting depth for heavy structural work.

Motor Technology: Look for brushless motors in cordless models for superior efficiency and extended battery life. Professional-grade saws from Bosch Professional and Festool incorporate electronic motor management systems that maintain blade speed under load, ensuring consistent cutting performance.

Features and Build Quality: Professional tradespeople should prioritise metal base plates, robust blade guards, and quality depth adjustment mechanisms. Useful features include LED work lights, electric brakes for safety, dust extraction ports compatible with workshop vacuums, and guide rail compatibility for precision cuts in sheet materials.

Safety Information

Circular saws are powerful cutting tools requiring proper safety precautions. Always wear appropriate PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when cutting materials that produce harmful dust. Ensure materials are properly secured before cutting and never hold workpieces by hand. Allow the blade to reach full speed before entering the cut and never force the saw. For corded models, ensure tools are properly earthed and protected by RCD devices on construction sites. Keep blades sharp and properly maintained, and never use a saw with damaged or missing guards. Comply with HSE guidance regarding dust control, particularly when cutting treated timber or engineered wood products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size circular saw do I need for cutting 50mm timber?

A 165mm circular saw comfortably handles 50mm timber with a typical maximum depth of cut around 55-60mm at 90 degrees. This blade size represents the most versatile option for general building work, offering a good balance between cutting capacity and manageable weight for extended use.

Are cordless circular saws powerful enough for professional use?

Modern 18v cordless circular saws from professional manufacturers now rival corded models for most applications, thanks to brushless motor technology and high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. They're perfectly adequate for site work and general construction tasks. However, for sustained heavy-duty applications like ripping down large quantities of hardwood all day, corded 240v models still offer advantages in consistent power and unlimited runtime.

Can I use a wood cutting circular saw to cut metal?

No – standard wood cutting circular saws operate at speeds far too high for safely cutting metal. Metal cutting circular saws available at MyToolShed.co.uk run at much lower speeds (around 1300-1800 RPM) specifically optimised for ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Never fit a metal cutting blade to a standard wood saw as the speed differential creates dangerous conditions.