Makita 5094DWD 14.4-volt NiMH 3-3/8-inch Cordless Circular Saw ...
o It’s power to weight ratio, and perhaps more importantly power-to-saw-kerf ratio is far superior to most, if not all other battery powered saws. When working inside a house this is the cleanest power saw I have, even cleaner than a jig saw or a miter saw connected to a dust collector. For example if you are cutting half inch thick sheathing a 7-1/4 inch blade will be 5/8″ beyond the point that the 3-3/8 blade will be when you stop the cut. Practically speaking, it means I can use this to make rough cut outs in sheathing or other material where I would normally need a different kind of saw (like a Rotozip, or jig saw). Because the kerf is so tiny, this saw generates far less dust than any other power saw. Here’s a saw packing the power of Makita and the convenience of cordless, the best of both worlds. While my 18V Bosch sometimes stalls during heavy cuts, this little Makita has never, ever stalled. As with all circular saws, the underside cuts very cleanly, with the only tear out on the top side (although the tiny kerf limits this to an acceptable level for most work – use masking tape or other methods if required). I easily operate it in one hand and SAFELY make cuts in places where no other saw can go. Situations where it has been especially useful include working overhead, sometimes perched atop a high ladder. Makita’s batteries have a great reputation for good reason—they deliver plenty of power and hold their charge. This saw will readily cross cut one-by boards such as 3/4″ thick fir or pine. No hearing protection is required when using this little saw (the only exception is that sometimes the material being cut may make a racket, but it does not happen often). Like any circular saw, it will kick back if mishandled, however the result if much less forceful, and hence less dangerous which is important when working overhead or on a ladder. I’ve used it less often on thicker sheet goods but it certainly does cut 3/4″ thick stock, although a bit more slowly than the half inch stuff. This little saw is so versatile, we can imagine using it for dozens of things: cutting sheets, trim, rows of dowels for crafters, flooring, you name it. It evens bevels to 45 degrees—we think that’s a great feature for such a small package. All battery powered tools must compromise between power, size and weight in order to achieve freedom from a 120V cord. Its blade spins slower than other battery powered circular saws. o Tiny diameter blade makes it possible to plunge cut closer to the line than larger blades can. The other battery saw is an 18 volt Bosch with 6-1/2″ blade. Assume it should be able to cut as quickly as a saw weighing 3 times as much, and you will be disappointed. removing plywood and OSB sheathing material from the wall of a house, cutting trim and siding material. I own many professional quality tools including a total of 4 circular saws. I have owned this saw for 2-1/2 years, and have come to find its unique capabilities indispensable. I have used it extensively on half inch thick OSB, as well as fir, pressure treated and Baltic birch plywood (Baltic birch is essentially solid hardwood). You’ll find yourself reaching for it instead of the standard 7-inch saw, and it will get the job done. By far the quietest circular saw I own....