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.
- XPS crosscut position
- 7-¼ inch blade
- 3 to 48-degree bevel
- Generates minimal heat
- 1000 cuts per blade
- Chip collection
- Weighs just 21 lbs
- Durable aluminum base
- Laser guide
- Quick-release clamp
- Solid steel construction
- Excellent customer support
- Weighs just 25 lbs
- Laser cutting guide
- Power-saving design
- Suitable for most materials
- Double safety switch
- Vacuum port
- 15-amp motor
- Budget-friendly
- 14-inch blade
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
| 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.
