Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 6-1/2 In. Circular Saw Kit

The Skil Brushless 6-1/2 In. Circular Saw Kit, model CR6413B-11, caught my eye due to its impressive feature set and the promise of improved performance thanks to its brushless motor. After spending some time with this tool, I have a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.

First Impressions

Upon unboxing, the Skil circular saw immediately felt solid and well-constructed. At 5.3 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which is a significant advantage when working on prolonged projects. The ergonomic design, with the blade positioned on the left, provides excellent visibility of the cut line. This feature stood out to me as it made it easier to track and control cuts, especially when working on intricate projects.

Performance

The brushless motor, which operates at up to 5,500 RPM, is a powerhouse. I was able to make quick, clean cuts through 2x4 pine without any noticeable strain on the motor. The saw's ability to make 105 cuts on a single charge with the included PWRCORE 20™ 2.0Ah lithium battery is impressive. This extended runtime is a game-changer for those who need to work continuously without frequent interruptions to recharge.

However, I did encounter some hiccups. On a few occasions, the saw stalled unexpectedly. This was particularly noticeable when cutting through thicker materials. While it did resolve itself after a few moments, it was a bit concerning when considering the tool's reliability for more demanding tasks.

Usability

One of the standout features of this saw is its ease of use. The ergonomic handle and lightweight design reduce fatigue, making it comfortable to use over extended periods. The LED light is another thoughtful addition, significantly enhancing visibility in low-light conditions and ensuring precision.

The electric brake is a crucial safety feature, stopping the blade quickly once the trigger is released. This not only prevents accidents but also makes transitioning between cuts faster and safer.

Cutting Capacity and Versatility

With a 6-1/2 inch blade, the saw offers a sawing capacity of 2-1/4 inches at 90° and 1-5/8 inches at 45°. The bevel capacity ranges from 0 to 45°, allowing for a variety of angled cuts. These specifications make it versatile enough for most DIY projects and some professional applications.

However, I did notice that the saw struggled a bit with materials over 1/4 inch thick. It seemed more suited for trimming and lighter cutting tasks rather than heavy-duty ripping. This limitation might be a dealbreaker for those looking to tackle more substantial construction projects.

Battery Life and Charging

The advanced battery technology in the Skil circular saw promises longer runtime and battery life. In my experience, the battery did hold up well, providing consistent power throughout my projects. The included 20V standard charger is efficient, bringing the battery back to full charge relatively quickly.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with power tools, and the Skil circular saw is no exception. While the tool feels robust and well-made, the occasional stalling issue raises questions about its long-term reliability. For light to moderate use, I believe it will hold up well, but for more intensive applications, it might not be the most dependable choice.

Final Thoughts

The Skil Brushless 6-1/2 In. Circular Saw Kit offers a lot of value, especially for the price point. Its brushless motor, ergonomic design, and added features like the LED light and electric brake make it a strong contender in the circular saw market. The tool is particularly well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and those working on light to moderate projects.

However, the occasional stalling issue and its struggle with thicker materials are notable drawbacks. If you need a saw for heavy-duty tasks, you might want to consider other options.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Skil Brushless 6-1/2 In. Circular Saw Kit? For DIYers and those needing a reliable tool for light to moderate tasks, absolutely. Its ease of use, extended battery life, and safety features make it a great addition to any toolkit. However, for professionals or those tackling more demanding projects, the stalling issue and limited cutting capacity might be a concern. In such cases, investing in a higher-end model might be worth the extra cost.