Black & Decker Cordless Circular Saw

The Black & Decker BDCCS20C Cordless Circular Saw is an intriguing addition to any DIY enthusiast’s toolkit. With its compact design, this tool promises portability and ease of use, making it suitable for a variety of home repair and small project needs. However, as with any tool, it has its strengths and weaknesses, which I discovered during my time using it.

At first glance, the saw is appealing due to its lightweight and cordless nature. Weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, it's easy to handle and maneuver, even for extended periods. The 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery is a definite plus, providing a decent runtime, though it’s clear that investing in additional batteries would be beneficial for more extensive projects.

One of the standout features of this saw is the tool-free blade change system. This is a significant convenience, allowing you to quickly switch out blades without needing extra tools. The depth adjustment is also straightforward, thanks to the same tool-free mechanism. The pivoting shoe is another thoughtful inclusion, offering better control and stability during cuts.

In practical use, the saw performs admirably for light to medium tasks. It easily cuts through 1/4" and 1/2" plywood, making it ideal for small woodworking projects and quick fixes around the house. The 5-1/2 inch blade, while smaller than some other circular saws, is sufficient for most DIY needs. I found it particularly handy for making precise cuts in tight spaces where a larger saw would be cumbersome.

However, the saw is not without its limitations. The first issue I noticed was the power output. The motor, while capable of reaching up to 3700 RPM, struggles with more demanding tasks. For example, cutting through thicker or harder materials like 2x4s or plywood with knots can cause the saw to bog down or even stop. This is especially true if you try to push the saw too quickly through the material. The key here is to take your time and let the saw do the work, but even then, it may not be up to the task for more heavy-duty jobs.

Another significant drawback is the battery life. The included 1.5 Ah battery does not hold a charge long enough for extended projects. In my experience, the battery lasted about an hour with intermittent use before needing a recharge. This can be quite frustrating if you’re in the middle of a project and have to stop to recharge the battery. As such, I highly recommend purchasing additional higher-capacity batteries to avoid interruptions.

The saw’s build quality also leaves something to be desired. The shoe, which is intended to provide stability and guide the saw, feels somewhat flimsy. In my use, I noticed that it could wobble slightly, which affects the accuracy of the cuts. This is a critical issue, especially for those who need precise cuts for their projects. Additionally, the blade tends to drift from the guide, making it challenging to maintain a straight line.

Despite these drawbacks, the saw has some redeeming qualities. Its compact size and cordless nature make it incredibly convenient for quick jobs, especially in areas without easy access to power outlets. It’s also a great option for those who already own other tools in the Black & Decker POWERCONNECT™ system, as the batteries are interchangeable.

The saw is equipped with a safety lock on the trigger, which is a nice feature for preventing accidental starts. However, it can be a bit of an annoyance, especially for those with smaller hands or arthritis, as it requires some dexterity to operate both the safety and the trigger simultaneously.

In terms of durability, the saw is a mixed bag. While it’s great for occasional use, I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy or frequent tasks. The motor and battery simply don’t hold up well under constant strain, and the build quality issues with the shoe and blade alignment can lead to frustration and inaccurate cuts.

Customer service and support from Black & Decker also seem to be lacking. Finding replacement blades and other parts can be a challenge, as the information is not readily available on their website or through their official dealers. This is a significant downside, as having easy access to replacement parts is crucial for maintaining any tool.

In conclusion, the Black & Decker BDCCS20C Cordless Circular Saw is a decent tool for light to medium DIY projects. Its portability, ease of use, and compatibility with the POWERCONNECT™ system make it a convenient option for quick jobs around the house. However, its limited power, short battery life, and build quality issues make it less suitable for more demanding tasks. If you’re looking for a saw for occasional use and already have other Black & Decker tools, this might be a worthwhile addition to your toolkit. However, for more serious or frequent use, I would recommend investing in a more robust and reliable saw from a different brand.