Choosing a circular saw Corded or Cordless?

[JimD]

I wouldn't go as far as Jay does but I would agree that corded and cordless circular saws are in different leagues for power. I have a Milwaukee corded and a 18V Ryobi cordless. With a fresh battery, the Ryobi has adequate power for a while. With 120V available, the Milwaukee has much more power for as long as you need it. The Milwaukee will cut deeper and tougher stuff and can use abrassive blades to cut steel and masonary. The Ryobi will cut wood up to about 1 1/2 inches thick. It also is lighter and does not require a cord. I like my Ryobi but would not want to depend on it as my only circular saw. Blades are available anywhere for a 7 1/4 corded saw. Can't say the same for a cordless.

Jim

[maxparot]

For a first circular saw corded is the way to go and don't skimp! It's an essential to a wood working shop.
Having said that I have both corded and cordless. The cordless is part of a Skil set I purchased for the cordless recipricating saw. It's a 18V set that also contained a 3/8" drill, flashlight and 7 1/4" circular saw. It cost me $135 and I feel I've gotten my moneys worth out of it already. One thing.... I've never used the circular saw.

[lkazista]

OK, I need to get a power planer then, to go with my hand plane.

Your hand plane works on batteries?!

Try mixing up some thin set or grout with your cordless drill, just one time.

Lee

[drumpriest]

I went to HD once, when the panel saw was down, and took my dad's cordless ryobi 18V circ saw and cut the panel up in the parking lot. It took 3 batteries to complete 2 cuts.

Needless to say I recommend the corded saw, unless you have infinite batteries around. I agree with others though, if you want a small, portable saw for making a couple of cuts here and there a cordless is a nice tool to have around. A corded saw should be in everyone's shop.