Saws

Kreg 20V Ionic Drive™ 7-1/4" Circular Saw Kit

Price reduced from $309.98 to $269.98
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Kreg 20V Ionic Drive™ 4 1/2" Circular Saw Kit

Price reduced from $279.98 to $229.98
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Kreg 20V Ionic Drive™ Barrel Grip Jigsaw Kit

Price reduced from $279.98 to $229.98
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Kreg Accu-Cut™ + Ionic Drive™ 7 1/4" Circular Saw Project Kit

Price reduced from $399.97 to $259.97
Includes Free Battery & Charger
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Kreg Rip-Cut™ + Ionic Drive™ 7 1/4" Circular Saw Project Kit

Price reduced from $359.97 to $258.97
Includes Free Battery & Charger
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Kreg Rip-Cut™ + Ionic Drive™ 4 1/2" Circular Saw Project Kit

Price reduced from $329.97 to $198.97
Includes Free Battery & Charger
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Power saws are some of the most useful tools in any DIYer’s workshop. Whether you’re building a table, installing trim, or framing a wall, the right saw can save hours and give you cleaner results. The trick is knowing which saw to grab, and when.


This guide covers the most common handheld saws: circular saws, cordless circular saws, mini circular saws, and jigsaws. You’ll learn what each one does best, how they compare, and what to look for when shopping.

Power saws are some of the most useful tools in any DIYer’s workshop. Whether you’re building a table, installing trim, or framing a wall, the right saw can save hours and give you cleaner results. The trick is knowing which saw to grab, and when.

This guide covers the most common handheld saws: circular saws, cordless circular saws, mini circular saws, and jigsaws. You’ll learn what each one does best, how they compare, and what to look for when shopping.

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Getting Started with Power Saws

If you’re new to woodworking or home projects, the variety of saws out there can feel overwhelming. The good news is that you don’t need them all at once. Start with a versatile option, learn what it does well, then expand as your projects grow.


This guide focuses on handheld, beginner-friendly saws that fit in any shop and cover most project needs.


Circular Saws: The Workhorse

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What is a Circular Saw?

A circular saw is a handheld power saw with a round, spinning blade. It’s designed for fast, straight cuts in wood, plywood, MDF, and more. On jobsites and in home shops, it’s often the first saw people buy.

Best Uses for Circular Saws

• Breaking down plywood or MDF panels

• Cutting 2x4s and 2x6s for framing

• Ripping boards to width

• Making bevel cuts for trim or miters

• Trimming subfloor or sheathing on installs

Advantages of Circular Saws

• Strong, straight cuts through thick material

• Adjustable depth and bevel settings

• Works freehand or with guides/tracks

• Rugged enough for construction and DIY projects

Circular Saw FAQs

• Most versatile size? 7 1/4" because it cuts up to 2 1/2" deep.

• Cutting a 2x4? A 6 1/2" or 7 1/4" saw does it in one pass.

• Cutting a 4x4? Not in one pass, but you can score and finish with a handsaw or flip it over and finish the cut with the circular saw.

• Pressure-treated wood? Yes, with a sharp carbide blade and proper protection.


Cordless Circular Saws: Power Meets Portability

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What is a Cordless Circular Saw?

Cordless circular saws run on rechargeable batteries, offering nearly the same cutting power as corded models, without being tethered to an outlet.

Best Uses for Cordless Circular Saws

• Outdoor work like fencing or decking

• Job sites without outlets

• Quick cuts on mobile benches or sawhorses

• Overhead or ladder work where cords get in the way

Advantages of Cordless Circular Saws

• No cords = safer, easier mobility

• Compact designs for tight spaces

• Lighter and less fatiguing for repeated cuts

• Perfect for portable or temporary setups

Cordless Circular Saw FAQs

• Corded vs cordless? Corded = unlimited runtime. Cordless = mobility and convenience.

• Voltage needed? 18V or 20V is plenty for most DIY tasks.

• Common uses? Lumber, sheet goods, trim, anywhere portability matters.


Mini Circular Saws: Compact Control

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What is a Mini Circular Saw?

A mini circular saw is a smaller version of a standard circular saw, usually with a 4-1/2" blade. It’s lightweight, easy to use one-handed, and ideal for precision cuts.

Best Uses for Mini Circular Saws

• Cutting strips of plywood or paneling

• Trimming shelving boards for furniture or storage

• Cutting flooring materials like laminate or vinyl

• DIY furniture and craft projects in small spaces

Advantages of Mini Circular Saws

• Lightweight and less intimidating than a full-size saw

• One-handed operation frees your other hand for stability

• Stores easily in a cabinet or tool bag

• Perfect for small shops and quick weekend builds

Mini Circular Saw FAQs

• Cut capacity? Usually 1" to 1 11/16" deep.

• Cut a 2x4? It depends on the size, but if you go with a 4 1/2" or larger saw, yes.

• Best for? Trim, paneling, shelving, and flooring.



Jigsaws: Master of Curves

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What is a Jigsaw?

A jigsaw uses a narrow, up-and-down blade to cut curves, circles, and intricate shapes. While it can make straight cuts, it’s slower and less precise for that than a circular saw.

Best Uses for Jigsaws

• Cutting curves, arches, or circles

• Notching around outlets, pipes, or hardware

• Interior cutouts (start from a drilled hole)

• Working with thin boards, plywood, or plastics

Advantages of Jigsaws

• Handles shapes no other saw can cut

• Switch blades for wood, plastic, or thin metal

• Compact and quieter than many saws

• Great for decorative or detailed projects

Jigsaw FAQs

• Cut straight lines? Yes, but best with a guide — circular saws are better for long, clean cuts.

• Cut thickness? Typically up to 1-1/2" or 2".

• Cut 2x4s or 4x4s? Possible, but slow and messy.

• Good for plywood? Yes, especially with a fine-tooth blade for clean edges.



Comparing Circular Saws, Mini Saws, and Jigsaws

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Which Saw Should You Choose First?

• First saw: Standard circular saw - versatile and essential.

• Second saw: Jigsaw - adds curves and detail.

• Alternative: Mini circular saw - great if space or weight is a concern.


Key Features to Consider When Shopping

Power & Motor

• Corded circular saws: Aim for 15 amps.

• Cordless: 18V or 20V brushless for best runtime.

• Variable speed helps with control on delicate cuts.


Blades & Compatibility

• Check arbor size and blade diameter (most common: 6-1/2" and 7-1/4").

• Match blade type to the job: framing, fine finish, or specialty.

• Keep extras handy. Sharp blades are the difference between rough and clean cuts.


Bonus Tip: Brushless motors are worth it if you’re going cordless. They run cooler, last longer, and squeeze more runtime from every charge.

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