18 · Saws

Circular Saw

Also called Skil saw · Skilsaw · Handheld circular saw

A handheld saw for fast, straight cuts in lumber, plywood, sheet goods, plastic and — with the right blade — metal.

Electric (corded)

Sizes & models we rent

Overview

A circular saw drives a toothed blade through the work as the operator pushes it along a line. It is the fast way to cut something too big to carry to a bench.

We rent a 7-1/4 in, the standard size. The blade fitted decides the material — lumber, plywood and sheet goods as standard, and with the right blade, plastic or metal.

Framing lumber, plywood and OSB sheets, decking, and rough demolition cuts.

Set the blade depth about a quarter inch below the material; any deeper exposes more blade than the cut needs. Support both sides of the cut so the kerf cannot close and pinch the blade, which is what causes kickback.

Best uses

Framing lumber
Plywood and OSB sheets
Decking
Rough demolition cuts

Troubleshooting

Find a symptom

Blade binds or the saw kicks back

Checks to try, in order

Support the board so the cut doesn't close on the blade.
Don't twist the saw in the cut.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Burning or slow cutting

Checks to try, in order

Swap a blunt blade.
Use the right blade for the material.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Cut isn't at 90°

Checks to try, in order

Check the bevel lock is set to 0° and tightened.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Tripped GFCI or breaker
Lock-off button
Damaged cord
Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Circuit overloaded
Undersized extension cord
Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

Stop and unplug the tool.
Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Safety

Keep the lower guard working — never pin it back.
Stand to the side of the saw, not directly behind it.

For electric (corded)

Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.