Circular Saw....or

[Richardgregory]

I was thinking of picking up a Dremel Saw Max instead of a circular saw - anyone here have any experience with the Dremel.  It seems such a small tool to cut through 3/4" wood instead of lugging out a circular saw.

Other than a table saw, there's not many options out there is there?

[Dawgz Rule]

The Dremel Saw-Max isn't really intended for the type of cutting that you would otherwise do with a circular saw.  It is really meant as more of a grinding or cutting wheel device.   

[kahlid74]

The Dremel Saw-Max isn't really intended for the type of cutting that you would otherwise do with a circular saw.  It is really meant as more of a grinding or cutting wheel device.

This.  You should invest in a circular saw.

[spoot]

It'd be interesting to see if it would cut decently as it has less than half the amps/power of a typical circular saw. Since I blew up my tablesaw I've been cutting down sheet goods with a track/clamp and a router.....if you have those laying around it could be an option for you.

[Richardgregory]

Thanks - I'll go to HD this wknd to pick one up.  I"ll do some reading up on what to look for, but if anyone wants to chip in what things I should absolutely look for, appreciate it.

[mcseforsale]

A good alternative to HD or Lowes is your local pawn shop.  My local pawn shop has a 1 yr warranty on power tools (he won't sell/buy ones that he can's warranty) and you can usually get better name brands for pennies on the dollar if you're willing to overlook some spackle or drips of various paint on your tools. 

When looking for used tools though, arm yourself.  Look on the internets on what to look for.  For a circular saw, you'll want to know information about the bearing runout, etc.

AJ

[knave]

You can find good deals on CL or at your local Flea-market. There are also Yard sales.

There, used to be a really active tool price watch thread but id has been pretty quiet lately. Point being that there are a lot of really good deals to be found if you shop around and have the time to order something.

Personally, I bought my craftsman circular saw at a flea market for $15 (about 15 years ago) I've since switched to a cordless for most cuts but every once and a while I need the extra power of the plug in saw.

[mcseforsale]

Also, if you have one near you, Harbor Freight is great for tools that will see limited use.  Great for clamps, sand paper, power tools that you won't use like a contractor, etc.  Tools are like golf clubs...there are very few companies that actually make their own tools anymore.  Most are just re-branded/colored but made in the same chinese factories.  Case in point...Rigid (HD brand name).  Made by Kraco!  Remember that crappy stereo maker back in the 70s and 80s?  HAHAHAHAHA.

I also bought their "aluminum racing jack" for my automotive stuff ($49 bux with a coupon) that has been sold under different brand names in other automotive and tool stores for 3-4x more. 

AJ