Ever tried cutting wood with a right-handed circular saw and felt like you were fighting the tool? It’s frustrating, right?
Finding the perfect Left Handed Circular Saw can be challenging. Many people struggle to find a saw that fits their left-handed needs. Stores often stock mostly right-handed models. This leaves lefties feeling overlooked and limited in their DIY projects.
This guide will help you navigate the world of left-handed circular saws. You’ll learn about the key features to look for, discover different types of saws, and get tips on choosing the best one for your needs. We’ll even share some expert advice!
Ready to find the perfect tool and finally conquer those DIY projects? Let’s dive in!
Top 6 Left Handed Circular Saw
1. Makita XSS02Z-R 18V Cordless LXT Lithium-Ion 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Bare Tool) (Renewed)
This Makita XSS02Z-R 18V Cordless Circular Saw is a powerful tool, perfect for DIY projects and professional use. It’s a renewed model, meaning it’s been refurbished and tested to ensure quality. This saw boasts a 6-1/2 inch blade, making it versatile for a variety of cutting jobs. The cordless design gives you freedom and mobility, letting you work anywhere without being tied to an outlet.
What We Like:
- The saw is lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue.
- It delivers impressive cutting power for its size.
- The cordless design offers great flexibility.
- The Makita name ensures reliability and quality.
- Renewed models offer a more affordable way to own a high-quality tool.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being a renewed product, the battery is not included. You will need to purchase a compatible battery separately.
- Some minor cosmetic imperfections might be present due to its renewed status.
- The warranty might be shorter than a brand-new saw.
Overall, the Makita XSS02Z-R is a great value for those seeking a powerful and portable circular saw. The trade-off for the lower price is the lack of a battery and potential minor cosmetic issues. It’s a solid option for anyone who needs a reliable cutting tool and doesn’t mind buying the battery separately.
2. SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Magnesium Left Blade Sidewinder Circular Saw Skilsaw – SPT67M8-01
The SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Magnesium Left Blade Sidewinder Circular Saw (SPT67M8-01) is a powerful and lightweight saw. It’s great for various cutting jobs around the house or on small construction projects. This saw uses magnesium, making it lighter than many comparable saws. The sidewinder design helps you make accurate cuts.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue.
- The magnesium body is durable and resists damage.
- The powerful 15-amp motor cuts through wood quickly and efficiently.
- The sidewinder design improves visibility of the blade and cut line.
- It’s relatively affordable compared to other saws with similar features.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection system could be more effective.
- Some users reported the blade guard could be more robust.
- The bevel adjustment could be smoother.
Overall, the SKIL SPT67M8-01 is a solid circular saw. It offers great power and maneuverability at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for DIYers and professionals alike, but be aware of the minor drawbacks.
This saw delivers excellent performance for its cost. We recommend it for most users.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Bare Tool Only (DCS391B)
The DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw (DCS391B) is a powerful and versatile tool for cutting wood. It features a 6-1/2-inch blade, a 460 MWO motor, and a bevel capacity of 0-50 degrees. This saw is perfect for DIY projects around the house or more serious woodworking tasks. Remember, this is a “bare tool,” meaning it doesn’t come with a battery or charger.
What We Like:
- The DEWALT DCS391B cuts smoothly and quickly. It handles a wide variety of materials.
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle for extended periods. You won’t get tired quickly.
- The bevel adjustment is simple to use and accurate. You can make precise angled cuts.
- It’s a DEWALT, so you know it’s built to last. It feels durable and well-made.
- Many users find the price reasonable for a DEWALT saw.
What Could Be Improved:
- The DCS391B is sold as a bare tool. You’ll need to purchase a battery and charger separately. This adds to the overall cost.
- Some users have noted that the dust collection isn’t perfect. You might need to use additional dust control measures.
- The blade guard can sometimes be a little difficult to adjust. It takes some getting used to.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw is a great choice for many DIYers and professionals. Its power, ease of use, and durability make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. Just remember to factor in the cost of a battery and charger.
4. BOSCH CS5 120-Volt 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, Bosch Blue
The BOSCH CS5 120-Volt 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, known for its bright blue color, is a popular choice for DIYers and professionals alike. It’s a powerful saw that’s designed to tackle various cutting jobs around the house or on a job site. This saw is relatively easy to use, making it a good option for beginners. It’s also quite durable and built to last.
What We Like:
- The Bosch CS5 cuts smoothly and accurately. It handles most materials with ease.
- It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, reducing user fatigue.
- The powerful motor provides plenty of cutting power. It quickly cuts through wood.
- The depth adjustment is simple to use. You can easily set the cutting depth.
- It’s a reliable saw. Many users report long-lasting performance.
What Could Be Improved::
- The dust collection system could be better. More sawdust might fly around.
- The blade guard could be more robust. It feels a little flimsy to some users.
- The price point is a bit higher than some competing models. It’s a more expensive option.
Overall, the BOSCH CS5 is a solid circular saw. It offers excellent performance for its size and weight. While a few minor improvements could be made, it remains a reliable and powerful tool for most cutting needs.
It’s a great choice for those who need a dependable saw that’s not too difficult to use.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX* Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS565B)
The DEWALT 20V MAX* Circular Saw (DCS565B) is a powerful cordless saw. It’s great for cutting wood, and it’s a popular choice for DIYers and professionals alike. This 6-1/2-inch saw is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for various projects. It runs on a 20-volt battery (not included).
What We Like:
- The saw cuts smoothly and accurately. It makes clean cuts with minimal effort.
- It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. This reduces fatigue during longer projects.
- The DEWALT brand is known for its durability. This saw feels solid and well-built.
- The tool-less blade change system is quick and easy to use. You’ll save time changing blades.
- It offers a good balance of power and portability. You get the power you need without the weight of a corded saw.
What Could Be Improved:
- The battery life could be longer. You might need extra batteries for extensive projects.
- The price is a bit higher than some competing models. It is more expensive than some other cordless saws.
- The bevel adjustment could be smoother. It sometimes feels a little stiff.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX* Circular Saw is a top-performing tool. It’s a reliable and efficient saw for most cutting needs. However, consider the battery life and price before purchasing.
6. SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide – 5280-01
The SKIL 15 Amp 7-1/4 Inch Circular Saw (model 5280-01) is a powerful and handy tool for various cutting projects. It boasts a 15-amp motor for smooth cuts through wood and other materials. The built-in laser guide helps you make accurate cuts every time. This saw is a great option for DIYers and professionals alike.
What We Like:
- The laser guide makes straight cuts easy. It really helps with accuracy.
- The 15-amp motor cuts through wood quickly and efficiently. It handles tough jobs well.
- It’s relatively lightweight and easy to handle. This makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.
- The bevel adjustment is simple to use. You can easily change the angle of your cuts.
- The price is competitive for a saw with these features. It offers good value for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dust collection could be better. Some dust escapes during cutting.
- The blade guard could be more robust. It feels a little flimsy to some users.
- The instruction manual could be clearer. Some users found it difficult to understand.
Overall, the SKIL 5280-01 circular saw is a solid performer. Its laser guide and powerful motor are major pluses. While some minor improvements could be made, it’s a great choice for most cutting needs.
This saw is definitely worth considering for your next project!
Finding the Right Left-Handed Circular Saw: A Buyer’s Guide
Circular saws are super helpful for cutting wood and other materials. If you’re left-handed, finding a saw designed for you makes the job easier and safer. This guide helps you choose the perfect left-handed circular saw.
Key Features to Look For
- Motor Power: Look for a powerful motor. More power means faster cuts and better handling of thicker materials. Amperage (amps) tells you the power. Higher amps mean more power.
- Blade Size: The blade’s diameter affects how deep you can cut. Larger blades cut deeper. Consider what materials you’ll cut to choose the right size.
- Bevel Capacity: This is how much you can tilt the blade. A higher bevel capacity lets you make angled cuts. This is helpful for things like roof work or making fancy frames.
- Depth Adjustment: Easy-to-use depth adjustment lets you control how deep the blade cuts. This is important for precise cuts.
- Safety Features: Look for features like a blade guard, a locking mechanism, and a comfortable grip. These features protect you from accidents.
- Weight and Balance: A well-balanced saw feels comfortable in your hand. A lighter saw is easier to use for longer periods.
- Dust Collection: Some saws have dust collection systems. These keep your workspace cleaner.
Important Materials
Most circular saws use durable materials. The motor housing is usually made of strong plastic or metal. The base plate, where the blade sits, is often made of aluminum or steel for accuracy and durability. The blade itself is made of high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide-tipped steel for a long life and clean cuts.
Factors Affecting Quality
- Brand Reputation: Reputable brands usually make higher-quality tools. They often have better customer support, too.
- Construction: A well-built saw feels solid and sturdy. Look for tight tolerances and smooth operation.
- Motor Quality: A high-quality motor runs smoothly and quietly. It also lasts longer.
- Blade Quality: A sharp blade makes clean, accurate cuts. A dull blade is dangerous and inefficient.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer believes in its product. It protects you against defects.
User Experience and Use Cases
Left-handed circular saws are designed for comfort and control. They are ideal for left-handed people who need to make accurate cuts in wood, plywood, and other building materials. They are useful for DIY projects, home repairs, and even professional woodworking. Choosing the right saw depends on your needs. A small, lightweight saw is better for small jobs, while a powerful saw is better for larger projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Are left-handed circular saws really necessary?
A: Yes, for left-handed individuals, they offer better control and comfort. Using a right-handed saw can be awkward and potentially dangerous. - Q: How do I maintain my left-handed circular saw?
A: Keep the saw clean, lubricate moving parts, and regularly replace the blade when it gets dull. - Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Make sure the blade is securely attached. Never force the saw. - Q: Are left-handed saws more expensive?
A: Sometimes, but not always. Availability may be a factor influencing price. - Q: Where can I buy a left-handed circular saw?
A: Many home improvement stores and online retailers sell them. - Q: What type of blade should I use?
A: The type of blade depends on the material you’re cutting. Choose the right blade for wood, metal, or other materials. - Q: How do I know the right size blade for my saw?
A: Check your saw’s manual. The manual will list the correct blade size. - Q: Can I use a right-handed circular saw if I’m left-handed?
A: You can, but it’s less comfortable and may be less safe. - Q: What’s the difference between corded and cordless circular saws?
A: Corded saws have more power, while cordless saws are more portable. - Q: How do I choose between different motor powers?
A: Higher amperage means more power for thicker materials, but it also means more weight.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.