A skill saw is a common name for a handheld power saw, most often referring specifically to a circular saw. It is a portable electric saw that uses a spinning, toothed blade to cut materials like wood, plastic, or metal quickly and accurately.
Deciphering the Terminology: Skill Saw vs. Circular Saw
The term “skill saw” might cause some confusion. Many people use it as a general term for any portable power saw. However, the name actually comes from a specific brand, Skilsaw, which popularized this handheld power saw design. Think of it like calling all tissues “Kleenex.” Today, while many brands make these tools, the term “skill saw” often sticks, even though the proper technical name is a circular saw.
This guide will focus on the circular saw because that is what most people mean when they ask, “What is a skill saw?” We will explore the various types of saws available in this category and how to use them safely.
Why Use a Circular Saw? Core Features and Advantages
The circular saw is a workhorse in construction, woodworking, and DIY projects. Its popularity comes from a few key features.
Portability and Power
Unlike large table saws, the circular saw is light enough to carry easily around a job site. You can take it to the material, rather than bringing the material to the saw. They run on electricity, either through a cord or a battery pack, providing consistent, high power for tough cuts.
Versatility in Cutting
A primary strength is its ability to make straight cuts across large sheets of material, such as plywood or drywall. This is a major advantage when cutting wood with a circular saw for framing or flooring.
Adjustable Depth and Angle
Most modern circular saws let you change how deep the blade cuts. You can set it just deep enough to pass through the material. This prevents damage to anything underneath the workpiece. You can also tilt the base plate (or shoe) to make angled cuts, often called bevel cuts.
Examining the Major Types of Skill Saws (Circular Saws)
Not all circular saws are built the same. The job you need to do often decides which types of saws you should choose. Here are the main variations you will encounter.
Standard Sidewinder Circular Saws
This is the most common handheld power saw. The motor sits beside the blade on the side.
- Pros: They are generally lighter and cheaper. They are perfect for everyday tasks and general use.
- Cons: Because the motor is on the side, they can sometimes block your view of the cut line.
Worm Drive Saws
These saws look different. The motor is positioned behind the blade, driving the blade using a worm gear system. This design gives them unique benefits, which is why they are popular for heavy-duty work.
- Pros: They are very powerful. The gear system gives them high torque, meaning they bog down less in thick or hard materials. They are also typically easier to maneuver for left-handed users because the blade is on the left side of the blade guard.
- Cons: They are heavier and more expensive than sidewinders.
Comparison: Miter Saw vs. Circular Saw
People often ask about the difference between a miter saw vs circular saw. They perform different, though sometimes overlapping, tasks.
| Feature | Circular Saw (Skill Saw) | Miter Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | High (Handheld) | Low (Benchtop) |
| Primary Cut Type | Straight cuts across sheet goods | Precise angle and crosscuts |
| Blade Position | Blade spins vertically | Blade pivots down vertically |
| Best For | Ripping lumber, cutting large sheets | Framing corners, trim work |
A circular saw is mobile for rough work. A miter saw stays put for precise angle cuts on smaller pieces.
Specialty Circular Saws
There are other niche saws based on the circular design:
- Track Saws: These use a guide rail system to ensure perfectly straight cuts, similar to a table saw, but they remain portable.
- Plunge Saws: These saws have a blade that starts covered. You push the saw forward while simultaneously pushing the blade “down” into the material for clean starting cuts.
Essential Uses for Your Skill Saw
The versatility of the circular saw means it supports many circular saw uses across different trades.
Ripping and Crosscutting Lumber
- Ripping: Cutting wood along the grain (making a board narrower).
- Crosscutting: Cutting wood across the grain (making a board shorter). The skill saw excels at both, especially when making long rips on sheet goods.
Cutting Sheet Materials
This is where the skill saw shines. Cutting large panels of plywood, MDF, or OSB is much easier with a portable saw than trying to wrestle them onto a table saw.
Deck and Framing Work
When building a deck or framing a house, you make hundreds of cuts. The speed and portability of the handheld power saw are essential for keeping up the pace.
Making Bevel Cuts
By tilting the base plate, you can cut angles into the edge of a board. This is key for fitting pieces together tightly when building boxes or doing trim work.
Selecting the Right Blade: The Key to Good Cuts
A saw is only as good as its blade. Choosing the best skill saw blades depends entirely on the material and the desired result. Blades are defined by the number of teeth (TPI – teeth per inch) and the blade material.
Blade Teeth Count Explained
The number of teeth directly affects the speed and smoothness of the cut.
- Fewer Teeth (10-24 Teeth): These blades cut very fast but leave a rough edge. They are best for rough framing or fast demolition work where finish quality doesn’t matter.
- Medium Teeth (24-40 Teeth): This is the all-purpose range. Good for general cutting wood with a circular saw for shelves or general construction.
- Many Teeth (60-80 Teeth): These blades produce a very smooth, fine finish. They are used for plywood, veneer, and finish carpentry where tear-out must be minimized.
Blade Material
- Carbide-Tipped Blades: These are the standard today. Tungsten carbide teeth stay sharp much longer than standard steel blades. They cost more upfront but save time and frustration later.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): Rare in modern circular saws, these are sometimes used for cutting thin metal.
Safety Note: Always ensure the replacement blade matches the arbor size (the hole in the center) and the maximum RPM rating of your specific electric saw guide.
Safely Operating Your Skill Saw: A Focus on Power Tool Safety
Using any power tool, especially a fast-spinning blade, requires strict adherence to power tool safety. Mishandling a circular saw can lead to severe injury. Read the manual for your specific model before starting.
Pre-Operation Checklist
Before plugging in or starting your saw, check these items:
- Blade Condition: Is the blade sharp, clean, and free from cracks or missing teeth?
- Blade Installation: Is the blade installed correctly with the teeth pointing the right way (usually toward the front of the saw)? Is the arbor nut tight?
- Guard Function: Manually check that the retractable lower blade guard moves freely and snaps back into place quickly. Never wedge or tie back this guard.
- Depth Setting: Set the blade depth so that it extends only about 1/8 to 1/4 inch below the material you are cutting. This reduces the chance of kickback and blade exposure.
Proper Cutting Technique
How to use a skill saw safely involves controlling the tool, not letting the tool control you.
- Stance: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for good balance. Do not overreach.
- Starting the Cut: Plug in the saw (or turn the battery on). Let the saw reach full speed before the blade touches the wood.
- Feeding the Saw: Push the saw forward smoothly and at a steady, constant pace. Do not force the saw. If the motor slows down too much, you are pushing too fast, or your blade is dull.
- Release: Once the cut is finished, release the trigger. Wait for the blade to stop spinning completely before setting the saw down.
Preventing Kickback
Kickback happens when the blade binds in the material, causing the saw to violently jump back toward the operator. This is the most dangerous incident when cutting wood with a circular saw.
- Support the Workpiece: Ensure the material is firmly supported on both sides of the cut line.
- Use the Riving Knife/Spreader: Many saws have a small fin behind the blade that keeps the wood kerf open, preventing the blade from pinching. Make sure this is in place.
- Avoid Twisting: Never twist the saw as you cut. Keep the base plate flat on the material and follow a straight line.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Always wear the right gear when operating a handheld power saw:
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are mandatory to protect against flying sawdust and debris.
- Hearing Protection: Circular saws are loud. Use earplugs or earmuffs, especially during long cutting sessions.
- Dust Mask/Respirator: Sawdust can harm your lungs. Use appropriate protection, especially when cutting treated wood or MDF.
Corded vs. Cordless Skill Saws
The decision between a corded and a cordless model heavily impacts portability and power delivery. This choice is a major factor in any electric saw guide.
Corded Saws
These plug directly into a wall outlet.
- Power Delivery: Consistent, uninterrupted power. Great for heavy-duty, long cutting sessions where the saw will be running constantly.
- Limitation: You are tethered to an outlet or need long extension cords.
Cordless Saws (Battery Powered)
These rely on lithium-ion battery packs. Modern advancements have made cordless saws nearly as powerful as their corded cousins.
- Portability: Ultimate freedom. Perfect for roofing, remote job sites, or quick tasks where running a cord is a hassle.
- Limitation: Batteries run down. For very long, continuous cuts, you may need multiple batteries or downtime for recharging. Torque can sometimes drop as the battery level depletes.
When comparing a standard sidewinder to a worm drive saw, the corded models tend to deliver the highest sustained torque necessary for the gearbox design.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To keep your skill saw running reliably, basic maintenance is important.
Keeping the Shoe Clean
The base plate (shoe) must slide smoothly over the material. Sawdust, sap, or glue buildup can cause the saw to drag or bind. Wipe down the shoe after every major project.
Blade Changes
Change blades often. A dull blade forces the motor to work harder, which generates more heat and wears out the tool faster. Always unplug the saw before changing the blade.
Brush Replacement (For Brushed Motors)
Older or cheaper models may use brushed motors. These motors have carbon brushes that wear down over time. If your saw starts losing power or sparking excessively near the vents, the brushes may need replacement—a simple fix often detailed in the owner’s manual. Brushless motors are newer and eliminate this maintenance step.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your First Skill Saw
If you are a homeowner tackling basic repairs, shelving, or small renovations, a standard 7 1/4-inch sidewinder skill saw, preferably cordless for convenience, will serve you well.
If you are a professional framer or work with heavy timber regularly, investing in a powerful, corded worm drive saw will provide the torque and durability needed for continuous, heavy use.
No matter which you choose, remember that this powerful tool requires respect. Follow all power tool safety guidelines to ensure every cut you make is successful and safe. Whether you are mastering how to use a skill saw for the first time or refining advanced techniques, the circular saw remains an indispensable tool in any serious workshop.