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Skill Saw Vs Circular Saw: What’s The Difference?

A skill saw is a power tool used for cutting heavy wood.

It has a long handle and a blade that spins around at high speeds.

A circular saw is similar to a hand saw, except it has a motor instead of a human arm.

Both tools are useful for different purposes.

The main difference between the two tools is how they cut, but there are also other differences like size and price.

Whats a skill saw used for?

A skill saw is a handy tool that can be used for many different purposes.

It’s a versatile tool that can be used to cut thicker wood, strong cast metal, plastic, glass, and even stone.

Skill saws are also known as power saws because they use an electric motor to turn the blade.

They’re usually powered by 110V AC electricity and can run at speeds of up to 1000 RPM.

You can use a skill saw to make cuts in hardwood or softwood.

It’s great if you want to get precise cuts without having to worry about your accuracy.

You’ll be able to do this because the blades spin very fast.

Why are they called skill saws?

When people talk about skillsawing, they mean using a skill saw to perform precision cuts on materials such as solid wood.

This type of work requires a lot of practice and experience.

If you don’t have any prior knowledge or training, then you might not know what kind of cuts to expect when performing these types of tasks.

That’s why some people call them “skill” saws.

What does a skill saw cost?

There are several factors that determine the overall cost of a skill saw.

These include:

-the brand name

-the model number

-whether it comes with accessories

-how much time you need to learn how to operate it

-and whether it includes maintenance costs.

What Is A Circular Saw?

Circular saws are another popular choice among DIY enthusiasts who enjoy working with their handheld power.

Like skill saws, they come equipped with a spinning blade that allows users to easily create straight lines and curves.

However, unlike skill saws which require a steady grip, circular saws allow you to hold onto the handles while making cuts.

In addition, circular saws tend to be more powerful than skill saws.

Because of this, they’re often preferred over skill saws for larger and tougher projects.

Choosing right circular saw

Choosing the right circular saw depends mostly on the variety of material you plan to cut.

For example, if you intend to cut plywood, choose one with a carbide tipped blade.

Carbide tips will give you better performance than steel ones.

However, if you plan to cut drywall, pick a saw with a diamond tip.

Diamond tips are more effective than carbides.

Also consider the length of the blade.

Longer blades allow you to cut thicker pieces of wood.

But shorter blades are easier to control.

Finally, look into the maximum blade speed of the machine.

Higher speeds provide greater efficiency.

Recommended Circular Saw For Woodworking

The best circular saw for woodworking is probably the Makita 18v cordless circular saw.

With its variable speed trigger switch, you can adjust the cutting depth from 0mm to 60 mm.

And thanks to its ergonomic simpler design, you won’t feel tired after long periods of operation.

Another good option would be the Bosch 12v cordless circular saw with a 20 inch blade.

Its adjustable handle makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces.

A third option is the Milwaukee 14v cordless circular saw which has an 8 inch blade.

All three models feature a dust collection system so you don’t have to clean out the area where you made the cut.

How To Use A Skill Saw And Circular Saws Together

While both skill saws and circular saws are useful tools, there are times when combining them together could prove beneficial.

Here are two examples:

1) When using a skill saw, make sure your hand position remains stable as you move along the line.

Otherwise, you’ll end up creating uneven variety of cuts.

2) If you want to use a circular saw but lack the strength required to do so, try holding the tool in place by placing your thumb against the backside of the heated blade.

Then simply push down on the front side of the blade heat until you reach the desired angle.

This technique works well because it’s similar to what you’d do when using a jigsaw or coping saw.

Which One Should I Buy?

If you’ve never used either range of power tool before, then buying a skill saw might seem like a safer bet.

After all, most people know how to work these machines.

On the other hand, many people find circular saws intimidating due to their size and extra weight.

So if you’re new to working with power tools, go ahead and buy a nowadays skill saw first.

Once you get comfortable with that particular model, however, you should definitely invest in a circular saw.

You may not need to own both types of saws at once.

But having access to each kind of tool means you always have something handy whenever you need it.

Which one is more expensive?

Circular saws tend to cost less than skill saws.

In fact, some power tools manufacturer offer free shipping on certain models.

That said, they also come with higher prices.

For example, the Bosch 12V Cordless Circular Saw costs $99 while the Makita 18V Cordless Circular saw goes for about $150.

As far as brand names go, you can expect to pay anywhere between $50-$100 more per unit depending on who manufactures the product.

However, this price difference doesn’t necessarily mean that one saw will last longer than another.

It just depends on whether or not you take care of the machine properly.

Do I have to have skills to use either?

No! You don’t necessarily need any special training to operate an initially skill saw or a circular saw.

In fact, some people prefer to learn how to use these tools without formal instruction.

They just watch YouTube videos or read online tutorials.

That said, learning about safety precautions and proper techniques does help.

For example, you shouldn’t attempt to change the settings while operating a circular saw blade.

Or else you risk damaging the motor inside.

Also, keep in mind that even though they look simple, skill saws require maintenance.

It’s important to check the circular blades regularly and replace worn parts.

Likewise, you must take care of the batteries in a circular saw. 

Make sure they aren’t exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.

These things will shorten battery life over time.

As far as accessories go, you’ll likely only need one thing – a belt sander.

The rest can be purchased separately.

However, if you plan to sand wood frequently, consider purchasing a second accessory such as a router table.

In conclusion,

Whether you choose a skill saw or a circular saw depends largely upon personal preference.

Both kinds of saws offer unique benefits.

And whichever one you decide to purchase is fine.

Just remember to practice safe operation procedures and maintain your equipment properly.

Scott Buckley

Scott Buckley

I'm Scott, a Woodworker by day and book geek by night. I love making things out of wood. While I have and still, on occassion do, work with metal and plastics, I find them to be cold and somewhat boring. Wood is warm and I feel close to nature with it. I started TeachMeDIY.co.uk as a means to help like minded creative folk to answer burning questions. I hope you enjoy reading and learning, and always feel free to reach out to me should you have any questions!

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