Time for a Power Saw

Don’t get me wrong, I know my way around a sander, drill and a power screwdriver but it’s time I graduated to some big time gadgets like a power saw. I have several projects I want to complete but can’t because I don't have the right size wood. I either have to hunt down some poor soul at the Home Depot to cut a piece or wait for my contractor to do me a solid.  It holds up progress so it’s time to put on my big girl pants, get a power saw and get the job done. I did some Googling and realize there are several different types of saws to choose from.

Stanley hacksaw

 A hacksaw is a hand held saw used for cutting metal and things like plastic pipes. No need to buy one of these, I have a bunch already that I never use.

Black & Decker jigsaw

A jigsaw and saber saw are hand held tools used to cut wood, metal and plastic. They are great for cutting curves and shapes as well as straight lines.

Craftsman circular saw

A circular saw is a hand held power saw that can be used to cut down wood, metal plastic brick or stone. It is, from what I have read, the workhorse of a DIYer. I have one of these and never use it. I put it together and attempted to saw a door and when I turned it on things went flying that I don’t think were supposed to. I know there is something I did wrong but it was enough to scare me into hiding it far far away. It’s now collecting dust in the back of my cabinet.

Ryobi compound miter saw

A compound miter saw (say what??!!) is a circular saw that sits on a table and is used for cutting long pieces of wood down to size and it has an adjustable arm that can be used to make angled cuts such as for crown molding or baseboards.

Skilsaw wet saw

A wet saw is used for making straight cuts on porcelain and ceramic tile. This might come in handy.

Which one did I choose? I would like to hold on to my fingers and don’t feel confident in using a circular saw. A hacksaw requires muscle, something I have little of and at this time I'm not tiling so I don't need a wet saw. I really want a compound miter saw because I think I can do the most with it but am not ready to invest the money. I decided to go with a jigsaw. For my purpose of cutting shelves and maybe some trim pieces I think it will be fine and is a good tool to have in my arsenal. To get me started on the right track for now the jig is up.

Now that I narrowed down my choice which one did I choose. Of course I Googled it and read all the reviews as well as went to the store to try them out in person. I went for the Black & Decker Linefinder Jigsaw. 

I’ve purchased Black & Decker tools in the past and they’ve always held up well. I liked that it had a light that is supposed to illuminate the line you are cutting, it has a compartment on the tool itself for extra blades and a tool free blade change. The weight was a little heavier than I wanted but some were much heavier not to mention more expensive. I won’t say I recommend it because I have not purchased enough cutting tools to make a judgement but I will definitely let you know if I like it. 

If you are like me and looking to purchase a saw, please talk to a professional to get some guidance. I am just putting a toe in the water and and not making any recommendations for brand or even the best type of saw for you to use. This is just where I am starting my journey. 

Good luck in your journey. I’m off to cut some wood and start saving for a compound miter saw.  I’m a big girl now.