Browse the shelves of new circular saws and you might find a world of extra frills and features. You can find anything from a simple canvas carrying bag to LED and laser light line guides. While these are all nice, they are not the important things that make a circular saw useful and functional.
The Blade Guard is a critical safety feature for a circular saw. This covers the blade and protects you from flying wood chips. Check that the action on the blade guard is smooth and reliable. The number one manufacturer recall of circular saws involve blade guards that do not work properly.
Safety Devices are essential with circular saws. A lock-out feature that prevents accidental start-up is a vital must-have in a saw. While it will cost you more, an electric brake will stop the blade from spinning instantly so you don't have to wait for the blade to spin to a stop after a cut or in an emergency situation.
Weight and Balance is also very important. While a normal 7 1/4" saw may only weigh 12 lbs., a 10" circular saw can weigh up to 20 lbs. As the day progresses this weight will seem greater all the time. It is also critical depending on whether you are cutting overhead or across sawhorses.
The Base Plate is also more important than it looks. A cheap stamped metal plate is not only heavier but can easily bend if the saw is accidentally dropped. While more expensive, those made of aircraft aluminum or magnesium, especially when they have a rolled edge, are stronger and can better follow a guide rail.
The Bevel Adjustment also needs to be checked to see that it operated smoothly. The best ones will come in 1 degree increments and be capable of being snapped firmly into position. Since most circular saws are made for durability and long life, your choice is one you will live with for a long time.
