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7 Best Chop Saws for Large Projects of 2024

Updated
Which chop saw is the fairest of them all?

Chop saws are powerful fixed circular saws that can be used for various tasks, from slicing ceramic tiles to cutting metal beams. They are among the most popular power saws for industrial use but you can also find a use for one if you enjoy working with metals at home.

If you want to add a chop saw to your tool collection, you will have plenty of options, including saws from some of the leading tool brands in the world. The only downside of this is that you might struggle to choose from the various products on offer.

To help you find the right saw, we have reviewed seven of the best chop saws that are currently available. We chose these models for their cutting power and capacity, blade types, and which tasks they are suitable for.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the DeWALT D28715 14-Inch
Best Multi-Purpose Saw
DeWALT D28715 14-Inch
  • XPS crosscut position
  • 7-¼ inch blade
  • 3 to 48-degree bevel
Product Image of the Evolution Power Tools Chop Saw
Least Likely to Overheat
Evolution Power Tools Chop Saw
  • Generates minimal heat
  • 1000 cuts per blade
  • Chip collection
Product Image of the Slugger by FEIN Metal Saw
Most Compact Chop Saw
Slugger by FEIN Metal Saw
  • Weighs just 21 lbs
  • Durable aluminum base
  • Laser guide
Product Image of the Porter-Cable PCE700 Chop Saw
Best for Beginners
Porter-Cable PCE700 Chop Saw
  • Quick-release clamp
  • Solid steel construction
  • Excellent customer support
Product Image of the Delta Chop Saw S26-262L
Best Budget Chop Saw
Delta Chop Saw S26-262L
  • Weighs just 25 lbs
  • Laser cutting guide
  • Power-saving design
Product Image of the Makita LC1230 Chop Saw
Best for Safety
Makita LC1230 Chop Saw
  • Suitable for most materials
  • Double safety switch
  • Vacuum port
Product Image of the Toolman Chop Saw
Best Portable Metal Saw
Toolman Chop Saw
  • 15-amp motor
  • Budget-friendly
  • 14-inch blade

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we prioritize your needs, using our expertise to evaluate chop saws from a user’s perspective. Our professional team performs hands-on tests, tracking and comparing the performance of each saw based on key decision-making factors. We delve into the design choices of each saw, measuring their impact on user experience. Our assessment benchmarks include operational ease, cut precision, power, and safety features. Using quantitative data and factual findings, we rank and review each product, providing you with an in-depth analysis that sets top-notch chop saws apart from their competitors. Our recommendations are backed by first-hand evidence and our extensive experience in the field.



The Best Chop Saws of 2024

Chop saws can make quick, precise cuts in hard materials. A high-quality model will be suitable for heavy-duty professional use but it is important to choose the right tool. To help you do that, we have reviewed seven of the best chop saws available today, chosen for their speed and torque, blade size and type, and how suitable they are for different tasks.

DeWALT D28715 14-Inch

Best Multi-Purpose Saw

This DeWALT 14-inch model is a simple chop saw with no unnecessary features. It is 20V battery-powered, so you can take it anywhere you need to make cuts. On a full charge, you will have enough power to make 183 cuts through 2×4 pine baseboards or 275 cuts through 3-¼ inch pine baseboards, enough for a full day’s work.

The saw provides a 3-½ inch vertical cutting capacity. Its unique design and operation make cutting easier and more accurate. The left bevel has a wide range from -3 degrees to 48 degrees, making this a versatile multi-purpose saw that will be a great addition to any tool collection.

What We Like

Accurate Cutting

Chop saws have large blades, which can block your line of sight and make it difficult to see what you are doing. This saw’s XPS crosscut position provides improved visibility and accuracy, which is enhanced further by its extended bevel. The bevel is easily adjusted to ensure you make accurate cuts.

Intuitive Design

This saw has a 7-¼ inch blade. It slides and has 10 preset stops. The handle can be locked to help you cut with greater precision.

What We Don't Like

Quite Heavy

This battery-powered chop saw can be used anywhere but its weight of 36 pounds means you might not want to carry it over long distances.

Product Specs

Blade size 7-1/4 inches
Power source Corded Electric
Voltage 20 volts
Weight 36 pounds
Motor power 5.5 HP at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Definitely a step up from the standard saws I've used before, this chop saw handles wrought iron like a champ and easily switches between 90 and 45 degree cuts. As a hobby metal worker, I've tested it on bars and tubing of various sizes and, despite some initial slow starts, it's always powered through. Even when I goofed up and ruined a blade, replacing it was a breeze, no tools required, and the replacement blades are pleasantly affordable.

Evolution Power Tools Steel Cutting Chop Saw

Least Likely to Overheat

This saw from Evolution Power Tools is designed to prevent overheating when cutting steel and other tough materials. It doesn’t release many sparks and the blade is heat resistant, which will help it cut effectively for longer. Its blade should make about 1000 cuts before losing effectiveness.

Alongside precision-engineered gears and a powerful motor, this saw also has an equally high-quality body. It can cope with the demands of cutting through tough materials and is adjustable between 0 and 45 degrees. A chip deflection shield protects you during use, while a collection tray catches any debris to keep your workshop clean.

What We Like

Time-Saving

The powerful motor and effective blade cut materials quickly and provide a smooth finish. As this tool generates minimal heat, the material is ready for use immediately after being cut, so you won’t have to wait for it to cool.

Effective Blades

Even among chop saws, this model’s blade is very durable and cuts effectively, leaving smooth edges. Each blade should be able to make about 1000 cuts through 2×2 mild steel.

Chip Collection

A chip deflection shield protects the user against any metal chips that fly off while cutting. The chip collection tray then contains this debris instead of it spreading throughout the room, so you won’t need to do as much cleaning later.

What We Don't Like

Heavy

This saw has the durability to be suitable for working on-site but it is corded and quite heavy, so you probably won’t want to move it around very often. However, if you are working on a large-scale project, it is well worth placing it somewhere temporarily.

Product Specs

Blade size 14 inches
Power source Electric-corded
Voltage 120 volts
Weight 55 pounds
Motor power 1800 watts at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

 

Personal Perspective

My experience with this saw has been a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it's fantastic for quick, rough cuts and has considerably sped up my workflow, especially when working on my Damascus steel projects. However, the cut quality can be rough and it often feels like the blade is barreling through the work piece, causing a bit of wobble. The blade also seems to chip easily and can be tricky to change, which can be quite frustrating. Additionally, the design of the clamp and fence makes cutting flat stock and holding it still a challenge. Despite these issues, I do appreciate the full metal blade guard and the fact that the base is noticeably thicker and flatter than other models I've seen. While it may not be perfect, it's still a useful tool to have in my workshop.

Slugger by FEIN Metal Saw

Most Compact Chop Saw

FEIN’s Slugger saw lives up to its name as a tough, heavy-duty saw designed for cutting metals. Its cutting angle can be adjusted between 0 to 45 degrees, so there is more to it than just brute force.

This is also a beginner-friendly saw. It is small and lightweight but still has some important extra features. Electric brakes help you maintain control over the saw and can stop it quickly. It also has a laser guide that will ensure you cut with precision.

What We Like

Compact but Powerful

In general, the more powerful a tool is, the larger it needs to be. However, this compact saw has a high-powered motor. This means you can easily transport its 1800-watt cutting power wherever you need to work.

Durable

This saw is made using durable materials. An aluminum base keeps the tool stable and double insulation prevents overheating during use. Its sturdy handle helps you cut more precisely and means you can carry the saw comfortably.

Effective Laser System

The built-in laser guide shows you exactly where the blade will go when you make cuts, improving your accuracy. This laser is powered by the saw’s energy supply, so you won’t need to buy separate batteries.

All-In-One Product

If you are buying your first chop saw, you will also need safety glasses, ear protection, and a tool kit. Thankfully, this product includes those items as part of your purchase. You will also receive a guide plate and wrench, so you can start working as soon as you receive your delivery.

What We Don't Like

Expensive

Despite its small size, this saw has a higher price than some of its larger competitors. If you want a compact, powerful saw, it is an excellent tool but otherwise, you can probably save money by choosing a larger, cheaper model.

No Cordless Option

The Slugger is designed to be compact and powerful, which would make it an excellent portable saw. However, it is only available corded and there is no battery-powered option, so you will always need to be near an electrical outlet to use it.

Product Specs

Blade size 9 inches
Power source Electric-corded
Voltage 120 volts
Weight 21 pounds
Motor power 1800 watts at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

I've been using this chop saw for metal cutting and it's been a great addition to my workshop tools. It's a significant step up from the previous saws I've used, as it offers quick and nearly spark-free cutting, with cuts being straight and accurate. The much lower RPM motor and the carbide blade that needs less energy to cut also make it a standout. I've noticed it's equally efficient in cutting different materials like 1/4" thick steel, 1" square, or even 2" square materials. However, it can be a bit noisy, so you might need hearing protection. Despite a minor issue with the hold down mechanism, the saw has been highly reliable and efficient in all my tasks.

Porter-Cable PCE700 15 Amp Chop Saw

Best Chop Saw for Beginners

Based in Towson, Maryland, Porter Cable has been producing high-quality power tools, including drills, grinders, and saws, since 1906. The company’s PCE700 15-amp chop saw is a very powerful tool that is ideal for cutting abrasive metals.

The saw is powered by a 3800 RPM motor, which has removable brushes for easier maintenance. This motor will enable you to cut through 4 to 5-inch thick lumber, decking, aluminum, non-ferrous metals, and molding.

The unit features a cutting fence and a quick-release clamp to help you secure and remove the material you are cutting quickly and easily. The cutting fence has a miter adjustment of up to 45 degrees. There is also a heavy-duty steel base to keep the unit stable and a spark deflector to protect you while using it.

What We Like

User-Friendly

The Porter-Cable PCE700 is very user-friendly. Its quick-release clamp makes it easy to remove any material from the tool after making cuts. The fence can be easily adjusted to achieve the required cutting angle. Overall, this tool is easy to use and maintain.

Safe and Sturdy

This saw is built to last, with solid steel construction that makes it sturdy and durable. User safety is also essential, which is why the saw has a high-quality spark deflector. This provides a barrier between you and the material you are cutting, without blocking your line of sight.

Customer Support

This saw is covered by a generous three-year warranty, but Porter-Cable is also known for having an excellent customer support system. Users who encountered issues have mentioned receiving quick, helpful responses. There are also informative videos on the company’s website that will help you use its tools properly.

What We Don't Like

Cuts Unevenly

Although this saw is powerful, it isn’t ideal for precision work because the back fence isn’t square. This means cuts that are intended to be 90 degrees can be as much as three or four degrees off.

Slow

The saw takes a while to cut through thicker materials, so you will need to be patient to make cuts safely and smoothly.

Product Specs

Blade size 14 inches
Power source Electric-corded
Voltage 120 volts
Weight 32 pounds
Motor power 4 HP at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

For someone like me who frequently engages in fabrication and welding tasks, the utility of this saw cannot be overstated. Despite its initial setup being somewhat off-square, adjusting this was straightforward, and I was cutting within moments of unpacking. However, it's worth noting that the operator's consistency significantly influences the accuracy of the cuts, and the pressure applied can subtly alter the outcome. Using the supplied blade was a disappointment; it struggled against steel plate until I replaced it with a branded alternative, which then cut through my angle iron effortlessly. One minor drawback, however, was the saw's substantial power draw, which occasionally tripped my 15amp circuit - a 20amp circuit may better suit this saw's needs.

Delta Chop Saw with Laser S26-262L

Best Tool for the Enthusiast on a Budget

This budget-friendly Delta chop saw is ideal for beginners. Despite its low price, the power of this tool isn’t compromised and a lockable spindle makes it safer to use.

You won’t be restricted by a power cord, as this saw is battery-powered. You will have the freedom to use it anywhere and it won’t create a trip hazard.

With a 10-inch blade that spins at a maximum of 5500 RPM, you will be able to use this saw to cut through tough materials. A lightweight build makes it easy to transport. The left bevel can be adjusted from 0 to 47 degrees and the saw can cut a 4×4 at 90 degrees, and a 2×6 with one pass.

What We Like

Lightweight

At just 25 pounds, this lightweight battery-powered chop saw is easy to carry wherever you need it. This makes it far less restrictive than a corded saw.

Laser Guide

The saw has a laser guide that shows you where the blade will cut when you lower it. It is battery-powered and has a separate on/off switch, so you won’t waste energy when you don’t need it.

Power on Demand

This Delta chop saw only provides power when the user demands it. You can leave the motor running for faster cutting or immediately stop it with the electric brake. The motor stops as soon as the trigger is released, so you won’t waste energy.

What We Don't Like

Prone to Breaking

Given this saw’s relatively low price, it is no surprise that its build quality leaves something to be desired. This is mainly an issue with the control arm, which can bend or even snap if used without care.

Product Specs

Blade size 10 inches
Power source Batteries
Voltage 120 volts
Weight 25 pounds
Motor power 1800 watts at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

My experience with this saw has been mostly positive, with a couple of minor hitches. The setup was a breeze and I found the saw's accuracy to be commendable. However, I did notice that the angle stops are quite easy to overshoot, requiring a few extra seconds of attention to get the right angle. Additionally, while the included laser seemed like a neat feature, I found it to be less reliable and prefer to align my cuts manually. The saw is lightweight and handy, but the plastic swivel knob and the laser alignment could use some improvement.

Makita LC1230 Chop Saw

Best for Safety

This Makita saw offers a pair of speed settings to ensure it is suitable for cutting different materials. 4500 RPM is recommended for softer materials such as wood, while 3200 RPM will cut hard plastics and metals.

This tool is a rarity as it is a chop saw that offers miter adjustment. You can adjust the cutting angle from 0 to 45 degrees to suit your requirements. Its carbide blades can last up to 50 times longer than abrasive wheels and make precise cuts.

The bevel ranges from 0 to 45 degrees, with multiple stops within this range for quick, easy cutting. The laser guide makes your cuts even more accurate. A built-in vacuum port collects dust. An iron guard and double safety switch are installed to reduce the risk of accidents.

What We Like

Suitable for Most Materials

With two speed settings and compatibility with various blades, this saw will effectively cut almost any material. It is suitable for use on both metal and wood.

Safety Features

The saw’s handle provides a secure but comfortable grip. A double safety switch has been installed to improve the tool’s overall user-friendliness and reduce the chance of an accident occurring, making this tool ideal for beginners. An iron guard is also in place to protect the user as much as possible while cutting.

Vacuum Port

Making cuts is usually messy as dust and debris are released. This saw has a vacuum port to collect the vast majority of this material, which will result in less mess and help protect your lungs.

What We Don't Like

Difficult to Handle

Despite the care that has been given to this saw’s safety features, it can still be quite challenging to handle. It might take some time and practice to become proficient at using it.

Product Specs

Blade size 10 inches
Power Source Electric-corded
Voltage 120 volts
Weight 31 pounds
Motor Power 1650 watts at 15 amps

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Definitely, this saw has been a revelation for my metal fabricating needs. Its sturdy build ensures stability during use and the cutting speed is impressive - it's like slicing a wooden 2x4 on a miter saw, only slower. The cuts are clean, burr-free, and straight, saving me significant time as there's no need for further grinding. The vise, though not the beefiest, serves its purpose well, and adjusting it for miter cuts is a breeze. One minor downside is the metal chip collector which tends to scatter shavings, but considering the overall performance and quality of this saw, it's a small price to pay.

Toolman DB0355 Chop Saw

Best Portable Metal Saw

Toolman’s 14-inch chop saw is a heavy-duty cutting tool with a 15-amp motor. It is battery-powered but powerful enough to cut angled iron, aluminum, plastic, and rebar.

Your purchase includes one blade, which is suitable for dry cutting, and two carbon brushes. The lightweight build means you will be able to carry it wherever you need it.

What We Like

Budget-Friendly

If you have a limited budget but need a powerful saw that you will be able to use for a long time, this Toolman is a great option. It is of higher quality than most of its similarly priced competitors.

Multi-Purpose Saw

This saw can be used to cut various materials, from iron and aluminum to plastic. The only common material it won’t cut is wood. The strong blades are ideal for expert handymen as well as beginner DIYers.

What We Don't Like

Loose Guard

Some customers mention the guard loosening while using the saw. You will need to keep a close eye on this or it could lead you to make inaccurate cuts.

Product Specs

Blade size 14 inches
Power source Battery-powered
Voltage N/A
Weight 29.9 pounds
Motor power 15 amp motor

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Safety Features
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

I've had some mixed experiences with this saw. On the positive side, it's capable of cutting small steel quite effectively, but struggles with anything beyond 1/4-inch material. Unfortunately, the safety guard doesn't perform well and I found myself having to remove it. An issue of note was the saw burning through brushes rapidly, even after replacements. All in all, while this saw has potential, it fell short in terms of durability, power, and safety functionality.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Blade size Power source Voltage Weight Motor power
DeWALT D28715 14-Inch Multi-Purpose 7-1/4″ Corded Electric 20V 36 lbs 5.5 HP at 15 amps
Evolution Power Tools Chop Saw Cold Cuts 14″ Electric-corded 120V 55 lbs 1800 W at 15 amps
Slugger by FEIN Metal Saw Compact 9″ Electric-corded 120V 21 lbs 1800 W at 15 amps
Porter-Cable PCE700 Chop Saw Beginners 14″ Electric-corded 120V 32 lbs 4 HP at 15 amps
Delta Chop Saw S26-262L Budget 10″ Batteries 120V 25 lbs 1800 W at 15 amps
Makita LC1230 Chop Saw Safety 10″ Electric-corded 120V 31 lbs 1650 W at 15 amps
Toolman Chop Saw Portable 14″ Battery-powered N/A 29.9 lbs 15 amp

What Is a Chop Saw Used For?

Chop saws are essentially circular saws mounted on an arm, which can be used for various cutting tasks with the right blades. They can cut ceramics, PVC, and wood but they are most commonly used with metals, as they have the torque required to cut them. This is why they are often used by construction professionals on large-scale projects.

They can cut through sturdy metal bars to create reinforcement beams. They can also cut paving slabs for gardens, wood for door and window frames, and almost anything else that will fit. In situations where a piece you need to cut is too large, a handheld circular saw can be used instead.

What Is the Difference Between a Miter Saw and a Chop Saw?

Chop saws and miter saws look similar at a glance but chop saws are more limited. Miter saws are designed to make various angled cuts and can be used both horizontally and vertically.

A chop saw can only move vertically, cutting at a precise 90-degree angle, unlike miter saws which can be set to different angles. If you regularly cut moldings, you will benefit from the angled and bevel cuts of a miter saw.

As a general rule, chop saws are better for cutting metal and stone, whereas miter saws are better for cutting wood. For tilted cuts, a miter saw is more appropriate as its blade can be easily adjusted.

Miter saws also tend to have extra ventilation to keep the blade cool, which is important when cutting wood and will help the blade retain its edge for longer.

Choosing the Best Chop Saw

Everyone’s requirements are different, which is why there isn’t a single type of saw that will fit every user. There are a few key factors to consider that will help narrow your options significantly:

Project Type

Think about whether you will use your saw for hobby work, or if you need it for professional metal cutting on a large scale. This will decide whether you can choose a compact model or need a larger, heavier-duty model.

For cutting substantial pieces of metal, you will need a heavy-duty saw. For less demanding everyday tasks such as cutting planks of wood, you won’t need as much power and should be fine with a compact chop saw.

Blades

Circular saws and miter saws usually have traditional saw blades with teeth that slice or rip their way through materials. If you use a chop saw to cut wood, you will also want to use this type of blade.

However, chop saws are often used for cutting harder materials such as stone and tiles, which require abrasive blades. Rather than having teeth, these blades are coated with diamond grit or metal mesh and use friction to make cuts, essentially grinding their way through materials with great speed.

Carbide-tipped blades have the same shape as traditional circular blades but are much tougher, so they are often used for cutting stainless steel. They have tungsten-carbide-tipped teeth and typically rate at 80 on the Rockwell hardness scale (1). They are among the most expensive blades but stay sharper for longer, so they are a good long-term investment.

Cutting Capacity

You should also consider the size of the material you will cut and whether or not a saw has enough capacity to accommodate it. With a chop saw, cutting capacity refers to both the blade size, which will determine the thickness of the material you can cut, and its mount, which usually has a clamp to hold the stock in place as you cut it.


How to Use a Chop Saw

Like any power tool, it is important to use a chop saw carefully. Make sure the blade is stable and spinning at full speed before making a cut. If the blade isn’t spinning properly, it can rattle, impacting your accuracy or causing an accident.

Before cutting the material — whether it is wood or metal — carefully measure and mark the points you need to cut. This will remove any guesswork and help you cut accurately. You should also wear safety goggles and earplugs before proceeding.

Cut carefully and don’t try to force the saw through the material more quickly. When cutting wood, this will feel almost instant, but harder materials such as metal might take longer.

When you have finished cutting, release the saw’s trigger and make sure it stops completely. You should also switch off the saw at the electrical outlet if you are using a corded model.

Chop Saw FAQs

Can You Sharpen Chop Saw Blades?

It is important to keep your saw blades sharp to cut safely and accurately. For a standard circular saw blade, you will be able to sharpen the teeth with a file. However, if your blade is carbide-tipped, you should get it sharpened professionally as these blades are very tough and may need specialized diamond wheel sharpeners.

Can You Use a Chop Saw as a Miter Saw?

It is possible to use a chop saw for some of the same tasks as a miter saw, but miter saws offer far more flexibility if you want to cut materials at different angles. If you only want to make cross-cuts in metal or wood, a chop saw will do a great job. However, if you need to cut specific angles for joints and other pieces, you should use a miter saw.

How Do You Unlock a Chop Saw?

Make sure your blade arm is down as far as it will go, then remove the lock pin. The lock pin is typically on the right side of the saw’s hinge When you have finished your work, you should lock it again, especially if you will be moving the tool.

Why Is Chop Saw Not Cutting Straight?

Often, a chop saw may not make straight cuts because the saw’s blade is not properly aligned with the material. If the blade and material are off-center, it can cause misalignment when the saw is turned on and pressed down.

Suppose the material isn’t securely clamped to the work surface before cutting. Then it might move slightly during the cut, resulting in an inaccurate cut.

If there’s too much heat buildup around the blade from extended or repeated use without cooling down then this can also cause deflection in the blade resulting in uneven cuts.

To ensure straight cuts with your chop saw, you should always ensure that everything is properly aligned before cutting and allow time for the blades to cool after prolonged use.

Why Does My Chop Saw Kick Back?

A chop saw can have kickback due to several different causes. One of the causes is when binding, when a material gets stuck between the blade and the cutting table, preventing it from being cut through cleanly. This can cause the saw to jerk suddenly, resulting in a kickback.

Other potential causes include:

  • Using a dull or damaged blade.
  • Setting the saw’s speed too fast for the material being cut.
  • Allowing too much pressure on the saw while cutting, as can cause an increased likelihood of binding or damage.

To reduce the risk of kickback while operating your chop saw, make sure to use sharp blades and adjust your settings accordingly based on what type of material you are cutting.

Do You Pull or Push a Chop Saw?

Pulling a chop saw instead of pushing it when cutting is generally recommended. This is because the blade tends to rotate in the direction of the push. Pushing the saw through the material could cause the blade to become misaligned and result in an uneven or inaccurate cut.

When pulling a chop saw instead, it helps to ensure that the blade remains in line with the material throughout the cut. It also creates more control over the speed and direction of the saw, which can help prevent kickback or binding from occurring.

To get optimal results from your chop saw, always pull instead of push when cutting materials.

Is a Chop Saw Better Than a Circular Saw?

Chop and circular saws are both commonly used for making straight cuts in wood or other materials. The main difference between the two is that chop saws are typically heavier, stationary tools that make accurate, 90-degree cuts with a blade mounted on the arm.

Circular saws, on the other hand, are usually handheld tools with a round blade that can be adjusted to make angled cuts.

While chop saws require more setup time than circular ones and are better suited for cutting large pieces of material, they also provide more precise results at a faster rate.

Circular saws are better suited for small projects or intricate cuts due to their portability and adjustable angles. Depending on the project you’re working on, either type of saw could be the right choice for you.

What Type of Chop Saw Is Best?

Corded and gas-powered chop saws offer advantages over their battery or electric counterparts. For example, corded models provide consistent power with zero delays or struggle to start up.

In contrast, a battery-powered saw may struggle to maintain consistent power when dealing with tough materials.

Gas-powered saws can be especially useful for outdoor projects where cords and batteries are impractical, such as highway repair work or tree trimming. Plus, corded and gas-powered models typically have much more powerful motors and can easily handle larger materials.

Despite being heavier, bulkier, and requiring more maintenance than electric models, corded and gas-powered chop saws can be the perfect tool for larger jobs that require increased speed, accuracy, and reliability.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.