Black & Decker Electric Hand Saw With Storage Bag

Black & Decker has long been a reliable name in the world of power tools, and their Electric Hand Saw with Storage Bag (model PHS550B) is no exception. I recently had the opportunity to put this tool to the test in a variety of scenarios, and I’m eager to share my thoughts.

First Impressions and Setup

Unboxing the Electric Hand Saw, I was pleased to find a compact and lightweight design that immediately felt comfortable in my hands. Weighing in at just 6 pounds, it’s easy to handle, even for extended periods. The included storage bag is a thoughtful addition, providing a convenient way to store the saw, blades, and cord without cluttering up the workspace.

Setting up the saw was straightforward, although attaching the blade required a bit of patience. The instruction manual could be clearer on this part, as it took me a few tries to get the blade securely in place. A flat-head screwdriver was necessary to turn the internal metal slot to the correct position, which wasn’t immediately obvious from the instructions. Once I figured it out, subsequent blade changes were much easier.

Performance and Versatility

The 3.4 Amp motor with 4600 strokes per minute (SPM) offers plenty of power for a range of cutting tasks. I found it particularly effective for pruning branches, cutting through wood, and even slicing through some metal sheets. The saw’s vibratory action, reminiscent of an electric carving knife, makes quick work of smaller tasks. However, it’s important to note that you need to move the saw back and forth, much like a manual hand saw, to achieve the best results.

For tree pruning, the saw performed admirably. I tackled branches up to 3 inches in diameter with ease, and it even managed thicker branches with a bit more effort. The lightweight design was a boon here, as it reduced fatigue during extended use. This feature is especially beneficial for those with limited hand strength or arthritis.

Safety and Ease of Use

Safety is always a concern with power tools, and Black & Decker has included several features to address this. The on-board safety button prevents accidental activation, which is a nice touch, especially for novice users. The tool-free blade change mechanism, once you understand how to use it, is another user-friendly feature that minimizes downtime.

The ergonomic design of the saw ensures a comfortable grip, reducing strain on the hands and wrists. This is particularly important for older users or those with physical limitations. I appreciated the balance between power and control, allowing me to make precise cuts without feeling overpowered by the tool.

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

While the Electric Hand Saw excels in many areas, it’s not without its limitations. The lack of a variable speed control is a notable drawback. The single-speed motor can make cutting through harder materials, like stainless steel, more challenging. The saw tends to heat up quickly when used on thicker or tougher materials, which can be a concern for prolonged use.

Additionally, the blade attachment mechanism could be improved. Many users, myself included, found it tricky to get the blade securely in place the first time. Clearer instructions or a redesigned attachment system would greatly enhance the user experience.

Practical Applications

This saw is ideal for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and even artists who need a versatile cutting tool without the bulk of larger power saws. It’s perfect for tasks like pruning trees, cutting lumber for small projects, and even some light metal cutting. However, it’s not suited for heavy-duty construction work or fine carpentry, where more specialized tools would be required.

For those with limited storage space or a need for a portable cutting solution, the Electric Hand Saw is a great option. The included storage bag keeps everything organized and makes it easy to transport the saw to different job sites.

Durability and Maintenance

In terms of durability, the saw has held up well during my testing period. The blades, while not indestructible, are easy to replace and relatively inexpensive. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the saw after use and ensuring the blades are sharp, will extend the tool’s lifespan.

The 2-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, although I haven’t had any issues that required warranty service. It’s reassuring to know that Black & Decker stands behind their product, offering support if any problems arise.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Black & Decker Electric Hand Saw with Storage Bag is a valuable addition to any tool collection. Its lightweight and compact design, combined with sufficient power for a range of tasks, make it a versatile and user-friendly tool. While there are some areas for improvement, particularly in the blade attachment mechanism and the lack of variable speed control, the saw performs well for its intended applications.

I would recommend this tool to homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone in need of a portable, easy-to-use cutting solution. Its affordability, ease of use, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. Just be prepared to spend a few extra minutes on the initial blade setup, and you’ll find this saw to be a reliable and efficient tool for many projects.