What is the best handheld battery saw?

Handheld battery saws provide a convenient and portable cutting solution for DIYers and professionals alike. Unlike corded models, battery saws allow you to make cuts anywhere, without being tethered to an outlet. Today’s best battery saws offer impressive power, runtimes, and cutting capacities to handle everything from hobby projects to demanding construction tasks. But with so many models on the market, how do you determine which is the best battery saw for your needs? This comprehensive guide examines the most important factors to consider when choosing a handheld battery saw, and provides concrete recommendations to help you select the right model. Read on to learn more about brushless motors, blade types, safety features, and other key criteria for evaluating battery saws. With the right information, you’ll be equipped to find your ideal cordless companion for cutting wood, PVC, metal and more.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Battery Saw

Here are the most important criteria to keep in mind when shopping for a handheld battery saw:

Power and Performance

Look for battery saws that offer robust power to cut through thick materials with ease. Brushless motors are ideal, as they maintain high torque levels without overheating. Seek out battery saws that can produce at least 400-500 watts of output for versatility in cutting applications.

Blade Size and Type

Consider the size of the cutting blade and its tooth configuration based on the materials you plan to cut. Carbide-tipped blades excel at cutting hard materials like metal. Large 7-1/4” or 9” blades are best for cutting wood boards and dimensional lumber. Smaller 4-1/2” to 6-1/2” tungsten carbide blades are ideal for cutting pipe, conduit, bolts, and masonry.

Battery Voltage and Runtime

Higher battery voltage equals more power and longer runtimes. Look for 18V or higher lithium-ion battery packs that deliver extended cutting time per charge. Quick-change battery interfaces allow you to switch packs for unlimited runtime.

Comfort and Handling

Choose a compact, lightweight saw design that’s easy to control and won’t cause fatigue during extended use. Rubberized grips aid comfort and reduce vibration. Variable speed triggers offer enhanced cutting control.

Safety Features

Safety features like blade guards, electronic brakes, and auto-locking switches are a must to prevent accidents. LED worklights illuminate cut lines. Kickback prevention reduces risky binding during cuts.

Brand Reputation

Stick with major power tool brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch, and Ryobi that have proven track records for quality and performance.

The Best Battery Saws for Wood and Construction Projects

For cutting wood boards, dimensional lumber, beams, frames, and other construction materials, a high-performance battery circular saw is the best choice. Here are the top recommendations:

DeWalt 60V MAX Cordless Circular Saw – DCS774B

– Powerful 460 watt high-torque brushless motor
– 7-1/4” carbide-tipped blade
– Max cut depth at 90°: 2-9/16″
– Weighs only 8.8 lbs with battery
– 60V MAX battery system

The DeWalt DCS774B offers best-in-class power, performance, and runtime for cutting lumber, plywood, and other structural building materials. The high capacity 60V MAX battery provides all day cutting with fade-free power. Large battery gauge shows remaining run time.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Circular Saw – 6390-21

– Brushless motor delivers 5,100 RPM
– Magnesium guards and spindle lock
– 7-1/4” carbide-tipped blade
– Bevel capacity: 50°
– Cut capacity at 90°: 2-1/8″
– REDLINK PLUS intelligence

Known for power and durability, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel is an ideal cordless circular saw for daily use driving cuts through dimensional lumber. The REDLINK PLUS intelligence provides optimized performance and overload protection. A must-have saw for carpenters and DIYers.

The Best Battery Saws for Cutting Metal and Plumbing

For cutting metal pipe, conduit, bolts, steel studs, sheet metal and other metal materials, a compact reciprocating saw is the most maneuverable and efficient choice. Here are recommended metal-cutting battery saw picks:

DeWalt 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw – DCS367B

– Variable speed trigger – 0-2900 SPM
– 1-1/8” blade stroke length
– Tool-free blade release for quick changes
– Weighs only 4.4 lbs with battery
– Pivoting shoe for stability

This lightweight, compact DeWalt reciprocating saw excels at cutting metal with the combination of fast blade speeds, a pivoting shoe, and a bright LED worklight aiding visibility on the cut line. The variable trigger provides enhanced cutting control.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hackzall – 6519-31

– 3000 SPM with 3/4” stroke length
– Patented gear protecting clutch
– Pivoting shoe for stability
– Weighs only 5.5 lbs with battery
– REDLINK PLUS intelligence

The Milwaukee Hackzall features a high-performance brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS technology to monitor and protect the tool during abusive cuts. The patented clutch helps extend gear and blade life by absorbing sudden torque spikes if the blade binds.

The Best Battery Saw for Cutting PVC, Plastic and More

For slicing through PVC, plastic pipes, plastic sheets, fiberglass, and other materials, a compact band saw is designed to make accurate, straight cuts. Here is an excellent battery-powered option:

Milwaukee M18cordless Compact Band Saw – 2605-20

– Variable speed trigger – 0-430 SFPM
– Slim, light body at only 8.75″ front to back
– Tool-free blade changes
– LED cutline illumination
– Weighs 10 lbs with battery

This Milwaukee cordless compact band saw is the most maneuverable way to power through PVC, plastic, fiberglass, rebar, lighting fixtures, and other awkward materials. The slim size allows cutting in tight spaces. The variable speed trigger provides enhanced control.

Key Considerations When Buying a Battery Saw

To select the best battery saw for your needs, keep these key tips in mind:

Pick battery voltage based on cutting demands

Higher voltage equals more power. Light tasks can be handled with 10.8-14.4V. For frequent cutting, 18V is ideal. For heavy-duty use, consider 20V, 40V or 60V tools.

Compare motor types

Brushed motors are capable yet can wear out over time. For demanding use, brushless motors are more durable and efficient.

Look for advanced safety technologies

Features like electric brakes, auto-locking switches, anti-kickback mechanisms, blade guards and LEDs help prevent accidents.

Make sure the blade is right for the material

Carbide-tipped blades cut wood and metal. Tungsten carbide handles steel and masonry. Fine-tooth blades are for tight curves and thin materials.

Weigh ergonomics versus cutting power

The most compact saws reduce fatigue but limit cutting capacity. Larger saws cut thicker materials yet are heavier. Find the right balance for your needs.

Check voltage and amp hour (Ah) ratings on batteries

Higher Ah ratings equate to longer runtimes. Batteries and chargers are often sold separately from tools.

The Benefits of Cordless Battery Saw Technology

Here are the standout advantages today’s battery-powered saws provide:

Untethered convenience

Battery saws offer complete portability and the freedom to make cuts anywhere without cord constraints.

Quieter operation

Without the whine of a loud gas engine or AC motor, battery saws run much more quietly, making them better for indoor jobs.

Lower maintenance

Battery saws don’t require messy gas, oil, air filters or spark plug changes. Just recharge and go!

Longer runtime

Lithium-ion batteries can deliver enough juice for hours of runtime per charge. Bring extra batteries for limitless cutting.

Smooth, consistent power

Brushless motors and electronic management systems provide reliable torque without bogging down, even under load.

Compact versatility

The latest battery saws pack serious cutting capacity into lightweight designs for easy handling and maneuverability, even in tight spaces.

Reduced emissions

Battery power helps eliminate fumes and emissions associated with gas engines. It’s better for the environment and indoor air quality.

Conclusion

In summary, today’s best battery-powered saws like the DeWalt 60V MAX circular saw, Milwaukee M18 Fuel reciprocating saw, and other professional-grade cordless models offer impressive performance, runtime, and convenience for tackling all types of cutting tasks. Advanced brushless motors and lithium-ion batteries enable them to cut on par with or exceed their corded counterparts. By matching the saw type and blade to your specific cutting needs and looking for the latest safety and handling features, you’re sure to find the ideal battery saw to boost your productivity and tackle projects with ease, whether at a jobsite or around the house. The freedom of no cords, quieter operation, reduced maintenance, and lower emissions make battery saws a smart investment for Pros, DIYers and any homeowner looking for a modern cutting solution.