Skil 20V 6-1/2 IN. Circular Saw Kit

Cordless circular saws have increasingly become a staple for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to their convenience and portability. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Skil 20V 6-1/2 IN. Circular Saw Kit (model CR540602), and it offered some interesting insights into its performance and usability.

First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Skil circular saw, the first thing that struck me was its lightweight and ergonomic design. It's evident that Skil has put effort into making this tool comfortable to handle, even for extended periods. The saw comes with a 2.0Ah lithium battery and a charger, which is a nice touch, offering everything you need to get started right out of the box.

The saw is equipped with a thin-kerf carbide-tipped blade with 24 teeth, which is suitable for various types of wood cutting. Additionally, its bevel cutting capacity ranges from 0 to 50 degrees, and it features an adjustable cutting depth of up to 2-1/8 inches at 90 degrees. These features immediately suggested versatility, allowing for both straight cuts and angled cuts with relative ease.

Performance in Action

When put to the test, the Skil circular saw showed that it was more than capable of handling a variety of tasks. Cutting through 2x4s felt like slicing through butter; the motor maintained a steady speed without bogging down. The no-load speed of 4500 rpm is quite respectable and contributes to its efficient cutting capabilities.

However, the saw did encounter some challenges when cutting through denser materials like 5/8" plywood. It’s important to note that while the battery was fully charged, the saw struggled a bit and drained the battery faster than expected. This suggests that while the saw is perfect for lighter DIY tasks and softwoods, it might not be the best choice for more demanding cuts or extensive projects.

Usability and Features

One of the standout features for me was the ergonomic design, which facilitated better grip and control. This is particularly beneficial when making more precise cuts. The LED lights were a pleasant surprise, offering enhanced visibility, which is especially useful in dimly lit workspaces.

On the safety front, the saw includes a lock-off lever, a crucial feature to prevent accidental starts. Given that safety is paramount when working with power tools, this addition is highly appreciated.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the dust control. The saw comes with a dust port vacuum attachment, but there were some compatibility issues. The sawdust tends to blow straight back, which can be a bit of an annoyance. I found myself wishing the dust port was designed to angle the sawdust away from the operator, making the workspace cleaner and safer.

Battery Life

The 2.0Ah lithium battery included in the kit offers decent run time for lighter tasks. If you plan on using the saw for extended periods or more demanding cuts, you might want to consider investing in a higher capacity battery, such as a 4.0 or even 5.0Ah. This would not only provide longer run times but also ensure the saw doesn't lose power mid-project.

Build Quality

Skil has opted for non-metal materials for the upper and lower blade guards, which might be a cost-cutting measure. While the hard plastic used is sturdy, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as metal. That said, the overall build quality of the saw is robust and it feels durable enough to handle everyday wear and tear.

Blade and Cutting

The blade installation process is straightforward, but I did find the instructions a bit challenging to follow due to the small print. Ensuring the blade is securely installed is crucial for both safety and performance, so having clear, easy-to-read instructions would be beneficial.

The saw also performed well in terms of cutting precision. Adjusting the cutting depth and bevel angle was straightforward, allowing for versatile cutting options. However, the lack of an adjustable rip fence in the kit was a downside, forcing me to purchase it separately from a third-party supplier.

Final Thoughts

After thoroughly testing the Skil 20V 6-1/2 IN. Circular Saw Kit, I can confidently say that it’s a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-use cordless circular saw. Its performance in cutting standard 2x4s and handling lighter DIY tasks is commendable. The ergonomic design and additional features like LED lights and safety mechanisms further enhance its usability.

However, if your projects often involve cutting through denser materials or require extended run times, you might find the saw's limitations more noticeable. In such cases, investing in a higher capacity battery or considering a more powerful model might be wise.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Skil 20V 6-1/2 IN. Circular Saw Kit? Absolutely, but with some caveats. For DIY enthusiasts and homeowners tackling small to medium-sized projects, this saw offers great value for money. Its ease of use, portability, and thoughtful features make it a worthy addition to any tool collection.

However, for professionals or those frequently dealing with heavy-duty tasks, it might fall short in terms of power and battery longevity. In such scenarios, opting for a more robust model or enhancing this saw with higher-capacity batteries would be advisable.

In conclusion, the Skil circular saw holds its own in its category, offering a balanced mix of features and performance that cater well to its intended audience.