Difference between a circular saw and track saw

Trusted Difference Between a Circular & Track Saw Advice, Power Tools Tips, Guide

Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Track Saw

4 Feb 2020

Tool Test: What’s the Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Track Saw?

Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Track Saw

If you are looking at buying a new power saw, we ask you to hold on for a moment and read the following! There are many different types of saw you might want, but should you be considering a circular saw – one of the most versatile and easy to use of all power saws – we recommend you also look at the top-rated track saws.

What’s the difference between the two? Let’s start with the similarities: both use a circular blade, which is powered by an electric motor, and both are used to cut straight lines. Each can be bought as a rechargeable cordless model, or with a permanent power cord attached. Now, let’s talk about the differences!

Circular and Track Saw Guide

About Track Saws

So, what is a track saw, and why might you consider one rather than a standard circular saw? Well, as we said above track saws have a circular blade that operates in the same way as a circular saw, but there is one major difference: the track! This is a length of aluminium in the form of a shaped rail – you can get different lengths – onto which the saw itself is mounted. Some tracks can be permanently bolted to a workbench, while others have a non-slip rubber strips underneath, making it portable and usable in various places.

What does the track do? Let’s say you want to cut an exact straight line, with an even and smooth finish. You can do that with a circular saw, but even the most accurate and steady hand is going to result in some unevenness. With the saw attached to the track, it follows the line perfectly – it cannot move even a touch from side to side – so that door or other wooden item you want a straight edge on gets the perfect result. You can join two tracks together if you wish, too, and cut very long stretches.

About Circular Saws

The market for circular saws is a very strong one with many well-known brands offering a variety of different models as you can see here. Why would you buy a circular saw rather than a track saw? It could be that you only cut short lengths, so do not need a track, or perhaps you want to take your circular saw to other places with you, so need the portability?

Also, in some cases it may be possible that a circular saw has a larger diameter blade than a track saw, which means you can tackle thicker wood. If this is your regular type of work, then this may be the better option. However, it is worth remembering that track saw can – should it be necessary – be used without the track, as a basic circular saw!

So, which cordless circular saw is the best for you?

Making a Choice

Which you choose is entirely up to you and what you need it for. If you primarily want to cut long lengths of wood – perhaps you are renovating the internal doors in your home – then the track saw will certainly be the more efficient option as it cuts a straight edge you can rely on, and is easy to use. If you work involves more varied sawing, then you might want to stick with a trusted circular saw, and there are some very good deals on these if you look around.

We recommend you have a closer look at each, perhaps find a friend who has one and try it out, then set your budget, and you are sure to find a circular saw or a track saw that suits your requirements. Check out thebest hole saw kits.

Comments on this guide to Tool Test: What’s the Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Track Saw? advice article are welcome.

If you work involves more varied sawing, then you might want to stick with a trusted circular saw, and there are some very good deals on these if you look around. If you are searching for ways to finance your home improvement project, consider Michigan Title Loans to help your cause.

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Tool Test: What's the Difference Between a Circular Saw and a Track Saw?
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