While a circular saw will typically need to start it’s cut from the end of the material, a plunge cut saw will let you start the cut anywhere in the material. This makes it the best tool to use when cutting out worktop for sinks or hobs.
Dust control is haphazard, with a port at the back of the saw trying to draw away dust and debris from the front of the blade. Plunge saws, on the other hand, have an enclosed blade with the depth of cut being controlled via a slider at the front of the machine. Mount the plunge saw on guide rails, and the cut will be safe and accurate.
For many trade professionals we get through our doors, the plunge saw has become a staple power tool for use both in the workshop and on-site. A plunge saw has a different design which removes the need for a conventional retractable blade guard, as the blade is enclosed within the machine. When using a plunge saw with a guide rail, it’s a very simple process line the rail up with your mark, set your depth, place the saw on the rail, plunge and cut!
Overall, the main differences between the plunge saw and the circular saw include the varying cost between both saws, the track on the plunge saw, and the fact that the plunge saw makes more accurate cuts than the circular saw while the circular saw is more powerful than the plunge saw. The Advantages of Using the Plunge Saw Over a Circular Saw The plunge saw is used for making straight cuts, cross cuts, angled cuts, and other cuts that would be rather difficult to make using other types of power cutting tools. The Advantages of Using a Circular Saw Over the Plunge Saw The tough blade of the circular saw means it’s perfect for ripping boards.
You can also see the comparison of the plunge saw vs table saw and track saw vs circular saw to find the accuracy. Comparing plunge and circular saw, you will find the circular saw at a bit less price than the plunge saw. The plunge saw is a bit more expensive than the circular saw because of its human-friendly design and excellent finishing.
Just line up the edge of the track with your cut line and start cutting! Honestly, once I bought a track saw, I gave away my circular saw and never looked back! In a small workshop, a track saw can replace the need for a larger table saw, or even replace the table saw altogether! You can find out more about the difference between a track saw vs table saw here. A track saw can potentially replace a circular saw, a miter saw, and a table saw! If you’re short on space, this is a great option.
circular saw vs plunge saw Related Question:
Why is a plunge saw better than a circular saw?
A plunge saw has a different design which removes the need for a conventional retractable blade guard, as the blade is enclosed within the machine. This ensures multiple benefits versus the traditional circular saw including: The blade can be plunged at any point into the material you are cutting.
Can I use my circular saw as a track saw?
A circular saw can be used for all the same functions as a track saw, but doesn’t necessarily do them quite as well. If you’re on a budget, you can turn your circular saw into a makeshift track saw with straight edge guide.
What’s the difference between a circular saw and a track saw?
The critical difference is that a circular saw has a long and rectangular rail in the front, unlike its counterpart. A circular saw performs double cuts as the rip cuts and the crosscut, whereas the track saw three. The circular saw has a protective guard, whereas the track saw has none.
Can you use a plunge saw without the track?
All of the saws can be used without a track, just like a regular circ saw. But guiding them with a track guarantees dead-straight cuts. All the tracks work similarly: The saw straddles a raised rib that maintains a straight cutting line, and rubber grip strips on the bottom prevent the track from scooting during a cut.
What is plunge saw used for?
Plunge saws are perfect for making smooth, straight cuts and are often used with a track or guide to improve accuracy. They work when the blade is plunged down to the required depth and engages with the workpiece.
How much should I spend on a circular saw?
A circular saw can cost between $50-$200. Depending on your budget for the tool, you may want to go either cheaper or pricier. There are factors that can affect the price, such as brand or size. You will want to consider them when buying your own circular saw.
Can I use a plunge saw as a circular saw?
A plunge saw is like a circular saw with a blade that spins and cuts, only with much more sophistication and accuracy. Rather than the guard retracting to expose the blade when cutting, such as with a circular saw, it has a fixed guard and the blade is exposed when plunging the handle to the pre-set depth.
How do you use a circular saw without a table?
Fit your circular saw with an edge guide. Set the depth of the blade accurately enough for it to go through the wood and not cut under the surface. Place the guide on base of the circular saw lines and markings you made earlier on the wood. Ensure that the saw is free to move, and the power cord is not entangled.
Is a jigsaw or circular saw better?
If you’re constantly needing to rip through boards, you know a jigsaw won’t cut it, so a circular saw is the more preferred option for you. If you’re doing intricate shapes and complex number cutting – a circular saw won’t help you there!
Why do I need a track saw?
The track saw is great for ripping boards, cutting trim, and providing splinter-free cuts across panels. The track saw is also excellent when used as a plunge saw because you can set it to a precise depth and it won’t fail you. You have the ultimate in control when working on wood flooring or sub flooring, for example.
How much does a jigsaw cost?
Jigsaw saws can cost anywhere between $30 and $300, as prices will vary from one brand and model to the next. If you want a powerful, high-quality jigsaw with many extra features, such as guided lasers, you can expect to pay more.
How does a track saw stay in place?
While it cuts, a plunge-cut track saw rides along a stable track, which stays in place thanks to non-slip, non-marring pads on its underside.
Do I need a workbench to use a circular saw?
To get the most out of your saw, you’ll need a couple of pieces of equipment. For a start, we recommend a good work table or bench for supporting your material. There’s other ways of brace wood for cutting, but a workbench is by far the simplest and most straight forward method.
Why is my circular saw cutting crooked?
The nuts and screws that hold the blade of a circular saw can become loose when the saw is used for a long time. The blade may also become misaligned. Tip: If the blade is wobbling because of loose nuts and screws or improper alignment, you should fix it appropriately. A properly fixed blade will not wobble as you cut.
What saw should I buy first?
A jigsaw is great for cutting curves and shapes, and it can also be used with a guide to make straight cuts, which is why this is the first power saw you should own. Unless you plan to rip long sheets of plywood, a jigsaw is preferable over a circular saw.
