Im looking to buy an 18v Cordless Circular saw. The top of the range are far too expensive for me, I've been looking at an SIP saw. Anyone know if SIP are decent tools? Or can anyone give me some suggestions.
Cheers Brian :o)
First it would help if your subject line was more descriptive, you'll get more (helpful) responses if you at least say something like "Cordless Circular saw" in the subject.
To the subject - in general I think you'll find that cordless saws are not nearly as useful as you might think. A saw has to supply much more power for much longer than a cordless screwdriver and most people who have/had one say that a single charge doesn't do a huge amount of cutting. This will be even more true with a relatively cheap one as it's the batteries where savings are made.
So, unless you have a very specific need for a cordless, I'd recommend a mains powered one. It'll still be a lot cheaper for similar quality even if you include the cost of a long extension lead. For 'mid-range' saws in the 60 to 80 pounds range Skil have a good reputation.
I have a SIP compund mitre saw by the way, it's OK, does what it's supposed to do. SIP are middle of the road, not professional but not ultra-cheap (and nasty).
Thanks for the info Chris.
I have a B&Q performance brand 14.4v circular saw, as chris said they don't cut for long. As a reference I trimmed both ends of three kitchen worktops and the saw was struggling by the end. Last year I trimmed enough treated featherboard to board a 16m fence. I did have to swap batteries about 3/4 the way through. The cuts were accurate and fairly quick, certainly quicker than a mains powered pendulum jigsaw I have.
It's very useful for small jobs as it shares the same battery packs as my cordless drill so I always have a battery or two fully charged.
The blades are smaller than a mains powered circular saw so the cutting depth is a lot less and they cut thicker peices much slower.
Mike
Thanks for your input.
HomeOwnersHub website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.