Last Updated on April 12, 2023 by Barry Gray
I’ve always found a circular saw to be a highly effective tool, but with so many options on the market, it’s tough to choose the right one. However, in this instance, I’m going to look at things from a slightly different perspective.
Circular saws come from all over the world, but some people prefer to stick to tools manufactured in the USA, and I understand why. It makes you feel that the tools have been manufactured to specific standards and are entirely safe to use.
This is thanks to the need for stringent safety checks to be carried out, which also boosts reliability. However, there’s a problem. A lot of tools that we think are manufactured in the US are no longer like that.
Now, I admit that I’ve owned my fair share of circular saws over the years, but that helps me tell you all about the best ones out there. I’ve taken my experience and put it to good use, and the outcome is these four saws (all made in the USA) that, for me at least, stand out from the crowd.
- Best Overall – DeWalt 20V Max 7 ¼” Circular Saw DCS570B
- Best Small Circular Saw – DeWalt 6 ½” Cordless Circular Saw DCS391B
- Best Cordless Circular Saw – Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20
- Best Large Circular Saw – Big Foot Tools 10 ¼” Wormdrive Circular Saw SC-1025SU BF-UG
How I Made My List
But here is a crucial point, I’ve not simply taken four circular saws manufactured in the USA and thrown them together. Instead, I ensured that each saw met specific criteria before it could make it on my list.
I wanted to ensure each saw was reliable and could perform to the standard you expected. I also checked it had enough power and a reasonable cutting depth.
But there was more than that.
I also wanted to include a circular saw that covered all experience levels. After all, if you are new to a circular saw, then you hardly want one that’s too complex to understand.
Finally, I looked at what other owners had to say regarding their experience with the saw. This was crucial for me because it gives insight into what it’s like to use the saw over a period of time.
Ultimately, that all led to the four different circular saws you will find below.
Best Overall – DeWalt 20V Max 7 ¼” Circular Saw – DCS570B
- Power: 20V
- Blade Size: 7 ¼”
- Speed: 5,500 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 57 degrees
For me, the best circular saw overall is this model by DeWalt. I’ve been a massive fan of DeWalt products for a long time, which is another remarkable example of what they can achieve.
It comes with a 7 ¼” blade, and the 20V motor produces speeds of up to 5,500 RPM. That means it packs a serious punch when cutting through stock, and you shouldn’t find any real problems when doing so.
But I also love the battery on this model. It allows you to produce an impressive 330 cuts of a 2 x 4 before it needs to be recharged, and that’s impressive. Also, the tool comes with a brake on it, so if the saw jams or there’s a kickback, then you will be kept safe at all times.
I also appreciate the fact that the bevel cut goes up to 57 degrees. I always prefer having access to a bit more of an angle to provide me with more options when using the saw.
Overall, I find this saw to be relatively lightweight and very easy to use. It doesn’t create too much in the way of vibrations, and I find it easy to get those accurate cuts every time.
Pros
- It has a whole lot of power for cleaner cuts
- It allows a large number of cuts on a single charge
- It sits comfortably in your hand when using
- It’s quick and easy to change blades
- The bevel angle is impressive and improves functionality
Cons
- At 7 ¼”, it does mean slightly less cutting depth compared to others
Best Small Circular Saw – DeWalt 6 ½” Cordless Circular Saw DCS391B
- Power: 20V
- Blade Size: 6 ½”
- Speed: 5150 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 50 degrees
If you are looking for more of a compact circular saw and where cutting depth is less of an issue, then this model by DeWalt could fit the bill. It’s part of their 20V Max range and can deliver speeds of up to 5150 RPM.
This model comes with a 6 ½” blade, and I still find it adequate for small and medium sized jobs. However, it will take a bit longer to get through some material thanks to a slightly lower speed and the blade’s size.
One thing I love about this model is the lightweight magnesium shoe. I find it easy to operate, and it certainly does a fantastic job. Also, don’t worry about durability with this model as it has it in spades.
The saw is relatively lightweight, but it still packs enough punch to deliver those cuts. If you want to make bevel cuts, this model offers you angles of up to 50 degrees, which is just slightly under the angle size I tend to look for in a circular saw.
But generally, this tool remains easy to use, and swapping out those blades is a quick and painless task. I think you will have a lot of fun with this cordless circular saw.
Pros
- It comes with a powerful 20V battery
- It generates ample speed for getting through that stock
- It’s lightweight but still robust
- It’s easy to adjust
- The circular saw battery is excellent
Cons
- The bevel angle could have been slightly bigger
Best Cordless Circular Saw – Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2732-20
- Blade Size: 7 ¼”
- Power: 18V
- Speed: 5,800 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 50 degrees
I’ve always found Milwaukee tools to be super reliable and robust, so this particular model is no exception. It comes with an 18V battery, delivering 15 Amp of power and a speed of up to 5,800 RPM. For me, that’s more than enough for the majority of projects, and I don’t expect you to run into any problems when using this tool.
However, Milwaukee tools are aimed at more of the professional market, which results in them containing a bit more torque and power. That does bump up the price, but I feel that it’s worth it when you get such a robust and remarkable circular saw.
Take the battery on this model as an example. You can produce up to 750 cuts on a single charge, and that’s excellent. Also, the motor is brushless, meaning it’s capable of withstanding a lot of punishment and being more efficient.
But I do also love how it comes with overload protection. That just means you cannot really burn out the motor on this circular saw, so it once again extends the lifespan of the saw itself.
With an ergonomic handle and ease of use, this circular saw is remarkable, but it’s that battery that really does stand out for me.
Pros
- The battery produces a crazy number of cuts on a single charge
- The inclusion of overload protection is a fantastic thing
- The power and speed lead to clean cuts with this model
- The circular saw is robust and easy to use
- It fits well in your hand and doesn’t cause real fatigue
Cons
- The amount of power does mean it may not be best for beginners
Best Large Circular Saw – Big Foot Tools 10 ¼” Wormdrive Circular Saw SC-1025SU BF-UG
- Blade Size: 10 ¼”
- Power: 15 Amp
- Speed: 5,300 RPM
- Bevel Capacity: 50 degrees
Big Foot Tools are fantastic, and even though they may not have the same history as other brands, they have certainly been capable of producing quality tools. In my opinion, this particular model is one of the best, and with a 10 ¼” blade, it packs a real cutting punch.
Oh, and you also don’t have to worry about this circular saw when it comes to power. It has a 15 Amp motor that delivers a speed of 5,300 RPM. I find that to be pretty impressive, and it does mean you shouldn’t struggle with any project.
This circular saw comes across as pretty robust and should cope with tasks on the job site. It offers a good grip that gives some real security in your hand when in use, and I do feel that it gives confidence when using the power tool.
You have a slightly smaller bevel capacity at 50 degrees on this model, which means it’s to the lower end of what I prefer to see with a circular saw. However, it still pushes through that 45-degree mark, so it’s not all bad.
Overall, I find this tool to be strong and reliable, so it could very well be the perfect tool for so many people. Also, it’s easy to set up and operate, so this is a fantastic tool for beginners.
Pros
- It has a large blade of over 10”
- It’s very robust but still lightweight
- It has a lot of power
- It’s easy to operate and set up
- Even beginners can make full use of this circular saw
Cons
- At 10 ¼”, the blade size is perhaps too big for some people with their tasks
How to Choose the Right Circular Saw
So how do you even choose the right circular saw in the first place? Well, I have a few tips regarding the key components you should focus on when making your decision.
The Power and Speed
Both power and speed are directly linked to how quickly and smoothly the blade will cut through the stock. If you have more of both, then it means your circular saw won’t exactly struggle even with hardwood.
Also, this should lead to a smoother cut. You want the blade to effectively slice through the stock and not rip it. That becomes easier when you have more power behind you.
For speed, I would also look to see if the model in question has a variable speed option. This does provide you with
Cutting Depth
Another key consideration is cutting depth, which is directly related to the size of the blade. The bigger the blade, the bigger the stock it can cut.
However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that a 7 ½” blade can then cut through stock 7 ½” thick. That’s not the case. Instead, it’s always a fraction of that depth simply because when you talk about the blade size, it’s the diameter. So, check the cutting depth to know if it’s big enough to cope with your project.
Cordless or Corded?
Consider if you wish to use a corded circular saw or prefer to opt for a cordless version. I admit that the cordless versions work better from a mobility perspective, and the modern-day batteries are of a superior standard. However, they do add a bit of extra weight.
Ultimately, this decision comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer to work with a corded power tool as they know it’s always going to work no matter how long they use it.
Bevel Angle
The bevel angle is another thing you want to think about, and I suggest pushing that angle as much as possible. I would struggle to choose a circular saw with a bevel angle of anything less than 50 degrees. However, something closer to 60 is better.
I just have the opinion that having the option of cutting across more angles is better, and it opens up more options.
Also, make sure that the model you are interested in allows you to make those adjustments to the bevel angle without too many difficulties. It should be a simple enough task to set it up to make the perfect angle that you need for your project.
Additional Features
I also suggest looking at what I would refer to as additional features. These things won’t appear on every circular saw, so you need to check the details to see what appears on your intended model.
These additional features can include an LED light, which is a fantastic addition and something you will use more than you initially realize.
Also, you need some form of dust extractor. You need that to keep the area clear around the saw, as this helps you with those precise cuts.
I would also look for a model with an ergonomic handle. It means it sits better in your hand, and it may stop you from suffering from fatigue when using the saw. This becomes even more important if you know you will be using the saw for a prolonged period.
For me, those are the key things you want to think about when selecting a circular saw. As you can see, you don’t have too many things to occupy your mind, but each point is important. I would undoubtedly run over these tips and points again before making your decision.
Overall Conclusion
Those are the four best circular saws made in the USA, in my opinion, but there are others out there that didn’t quite make it onto my list. However, I feel confident that each saw you see above will meet your needs, no matter what those needs may be.
But I do suggest checking out my tips on what to look out for when it comes to choosing a circular saw. It should make life easier when choosing, thanks to knowing precisely what you are looking for.
A circular saw has the ability to quickly transform any project. If you have never invested in one before, then I suggest you change that now. You will be more than glad that you did when you realize the difference it makes to the speed with which you can then finish your tasks.
