Black Friday is the perfect time to upgrade your workshop tools, and circular saws often appear with standout discounts. Whether you need a cordless model for portability or a corded saw for heavy-duty cuts, this guide covers top picks from DEWALT and BLACK+DECKER. For more Black Friday shopping tips, visit our Black Friday category page.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact, easy to maneuver
- Tool-free blade change saves time
- Pivoting shoe enhances stability
- Compatible with existing POWERCONNECT battery system
- Affordable option for basic cutting tasks
Cons
- Battery not included, requires separate purchase
- 5-1/2 inch blade limits cutting depth for thicker materials
- No included carrying case for storage
The BLACK+DECKER 20V 5-1/2 Inch Cordless Circular Saw (model BDCCS20B) is a bare tool designed for DIY enthusiasts who already own BLACK+DECKER's POWERCONNECT batteries. This saw is ideal for light to medium cutting tasks such as trimming plywood, cutting shelving, or making quick crosscuts on lumber. Its compact size makes it a great choice for homeowners and hobbyists who need a portable saw for small projects.
One standout feature is the tool-free depth of cut and bevel adjustment, which allows you to change settings quickly without searching for extra tools. The blade can be swapped out just as easily, reducing downtime. The pivoting shoe provides additional control, especially when cutting at angles, and the bevel detents at 45 and 90 degrees help ensure accurate angled cuts. The high torque motor delivers enough power for most DIY materials, though it is not intended for heavy-duty construction.
Build quality is typical of BLACK+DECKER's consumer-grade tools: durable enough for occasional use but not designed for daily professional abuse. The saw weighs about 6 pounds, which makes it easy to handle for extended periods. The orange and black color scheme is functional, and the overall design prioritizes simplicity and ease of use. However, the 5-1/2 inch blade means the maximum cutting depth is limited, so you won't be able to cut through thick beams or dense hardwoods.
A key drawback is that this is a bare tool, meaning you must purchase a battery and charger separately if you do not already own them. Additionally, the saw does not come with a carrying case, which may be inconvenient for some users. The lack of reviews makes it hard to gauge long-term reliability, but based on the feature set, it is a solid entry-level saw for occasional DIY tasks.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER BDCCS20B is a practical choice for DIYers who value convenience and portability over raw power. If you already have POWERCONNECT batteries, this saw is a cost-effective addition to your tool kit. For heavy-duty or professional use, consider a larger saw with more cutting depth and a higher capacity battery system.
Product Dimensions: 14.13 x 8.25 x 8.88 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Blade Size: 5-1/2 inches
Battery System: POWERCONNECT (battery not included)
Bevel Capacity: 45 and 90 degrees with detents
Color: Orange and Black
Pros
- Exceptional power-to-weight ratio makes it easy to handle all day
- Electric brake adds a critical safety layer and saves time between cuts
- Deep 57 degree bevel capacity expands cutting possibilities for complex joinery
- Ball bearing lower guard withstands harsh job site conditions without jamming
- Integrated dust blower keeps the cut line visible, reducing errors
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility compared to battery-powered saws
- No LED light to illuminate the cut line in dimly lit areas
- Bevel stops are preset; continuous adjustment requires manual override
The DEWALT DWE575SB is a 7-1/4 inch corded circular saw engineered for professionals who demand both power and portability. Weighing just 8.8 pounds, it is among the lightest saws in its class, making it ideal for framers, roofers, and serious DIYers who need to make hundreds of cuts without fatigue.
At the heart of this saw is a 15 amp motor that delivers ample torque for ripping through pressure-treated lumber, plywood, and even hardwood. The electric brake stops the blade almost instantly after releasing the trigger, adding a critical safety layer and allowing you to move quickly between cuts. The 57 degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 45 and 22.5 degrees gives you the flexibility to tackle crown molding, rafters, and other angled cuts with precision.
Build quality is typical DEWALT: a durable aluminum smooth base ensures accurate cuts, while the ball bearing lower guard promises long life even in dusty environments. The integrated dust blower effectively clears sawdust from your cut line, maintaining visibility without needing to stop and blow. The patented Tough Cord protection system reinforces the cord entry point, reducing the risk of pull-out damage on the job site.
One potential drawback is the corded nature of the tool, which tethers you to an outlet. For those working in remote locations or on ladders, a cordless saw might be more convenient. Additionally, the absence of an LED light means you will need extra lighting in dim areas. The bevel stops are preset, so if you need a custom angle between the detents, you will have to adjust manually.
Overall, the DEWALT DWE575SB is a superb choice for anyone who values power, weight savings, and safety. Its combination of a robust motor, instant brake, and generous bevel range makes it a top contender for professional-grade cutting tasks. If you can live with a cord, this saw delivers outstanding value and performance.
Pros
- Lightweight and well-balanced, easy to handle for extended periods.
- Smooth and powerful motor, comparable to corded saws in performance.
- Wide bevel range (0-50°) for versatile cutting angles.
- Keyless blade change simplifies blade swaps on the job.
- Durable magnesium shoe adds stability and accuracy.
Cons
- Battery and charger are sold separately, adding to initial cost.
- Motor and blade guard can obstruct the cut line, making visibility challenging.
- Depth adjustment lever may bind or stick during use, requiring extra effort to adjust.
The DEWALT DCS391B is a 20V MAX cordless circular saw designed for professionals and serious DIYers who demand portability without compromising cutting power. Its 6-1/2 inch blade and 5150 RPM motor make it a capable tool for framing, roofing, and breaking down sheet goods.
In real-world use, the saw impresses with its smooth, powerful motor that handles pressure-treated lumber and plywood with ease. The lightweight magnesium shoe keeps the saw stable and accurate, while the 0-50 degree bevel capacity allows for versatile cutting angles. Users report that with a quality 5Ah battery, the saw performs like a corded model, offering ample runtime for most jobs.
Design and build quality are typical DEWALT: robust construction with a comfortable rubber over-molded grip. The keyless blade change system is a time-saver, and the spindle lock adds safety. However, the saw's weight of about 7 pounds with a battery makes it easy to maneuver for extended periods.
Potential drawbacks include the line of sight being partially blocked by the motor and blade guard, which can make following a cut line tricky. The depth adjustment lever may also be stiff at first. Additionally, the battery and charger are sold separately, so factor that into your purchase.
Overall, the DEWALT DCS391B is a stellar cordless saw that delivers professional-grade cuts in a portable package. It's a worthy investment for anyone already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX system or looking for a reliable, lightweight circular saw.
Power Source: Battery Powered (20V MAX Lithium Ion)
Motor Speed: 5150 RPM
Blade Size: 6-1/2 inches (18-tooth carbide-tipped included)
Bevel Capacity: 0 to 50 degrees
Maximum Cut Depth at 90°: 2-1/8 inches
Maximum Cut Depth at 45°: 1-5/8 inches
Weight: 3.16 kg (approx. 7 lbs with battery)
Dimensions: 15.5 x 8.5 x 10.5 inches
Warranty: 3-Year Limited Warranty
Special Features: Keyless blade change, spindle lock, rubber over-molded grip
Buying Guide
Power Source: Cordless vs. Corded
Your choice between cordless and corded circular saws depends on your typical projects. Cordless models like the BLACK+DECKER 20V 5-1/2″ Cordless Circular Saw offer freedom of movement without a power outlet. They are ideal for quick cuts and outdoor work. Corded saws, such as the DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch, deliver continuous power for demanding tasks. For tasks requiring reaching high shelves, a reacher grabber can be a handy accessory.
Blade Size and Cutting Depth
Blade size directly affects what materials you can cut. A 5-1/2-inch blade, like on the BLACK+DECKER, works well for plywood and thinner boards. Larger 7-1/4-inch blades, found on the DEWALT corded saw, cut through 2x lumber with ease. Always check the maximum depth of cut at 90 degrees and 45 degrees to ensure it meets your needs.
Bevel Capacity and Adjustability
Bevel capacity allows you to make angled cuts for projects like crown molding or roof rafters. The DEWALT 7-1/4-inch saw offers up to 57 degrees of bevel with stops at common angles, while the DEWALT 20V MAX cordless model provides 0 to 50 degrees. Look for tool-free bevel adjustments to save time on the job.
Ergonomics and Weight
A comfortable grip and balanced weight reduce fatigue during extended use. The DEWALT corded saw is among the lightest in its class at 8.8 pounds, while the cordless DEWALT 20V MAX features an optimized rubber grip. For those who need assistance with mobility, a lightweight folding rollator can help you move around the workshop.
Final Thoughts
For DIY enthusiasts and homeowners, the BLACK+DECKER 20V 5-1/2″ Cordless Circular Saw offers versatility and ease of use at a great value. Professionals and heavy-duty users will appreciate the power and precision of the DEWALT Circular Saw, 7-1/4 inch. Both models represent excellent choices this Black Friday. For more product reviews, explore our articles on bed rails with storage pockets and loop vs flare earplugs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best circular saw for beginners?
The BLACK+DECKER 20V cordless circular saw is a great starting point. Its tool-free blade changes and depth adjustment make it beginner-friendly. For other beginner-friendly tools, see our loop vs flare earplugs.
Are cordless circular saws powerful enough for framing?
Yes, modern cordless saws like the DEWALT 20V MAX with a 5150 RPM motor can handle framing cuts. However, for continuous heavy use, a corded model may be more reliable.
What blade size should I choose for general DIY?
A 6-1/2-inch or 7-1/4-inch blade is versatile for most home projects. The DEWALT 20V MAX uses a 6-1/2-inch blade, which balances portability and cutting capacity.
How do I maintain my circular saw?
Keep the blade sharp, clean the sawdust from vents, and lubricate moving parts regularly. Always unplug the saw or remove the battery before cleaning.
