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. You can make your own circular saw jig, or buy one instead.
There has been a lot of buzz about Track Saws with both DeWalt, and Makita finally coming out with versions for the USA. But I bet many people don’t know that you can turn just about any circular saw into a track saw for a fraction of the cost of a complete track saw package all with a kit from EurekaZone. The basic system consists of a base that you attach to your own circular saw, or you can buy a saw with a pre-attached base from EurekaZone, and an aluminum guide rail. Check out the into video of the basic track saw kit.
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. A circular saw is slightly heavy hence not easy to carry, whereas the track saw is lighter.
If you try to freehand guide a circular saw along the same path, the result will usually come out uneven and useless, so save some money and build your own track saw using your circular saw and a sheet of wood. We’ve posted the DIY plans for building your own circular saw guide, but this video from DIY Creators does a great show explaining how to build your new track saw. You’ll need a trim router, measuring tape, drill, and combination square to build this track saw, along with aluminum flat bars that will run inside the track and keep the saw straight.
Both the track saw and circular saw come with a powerful motor and a circular blade also can perform straight line and angled cuts. In today’s write-up, track saw vs. circular saw comparative, we’ll be having an in-depth discussion of both powerful tools to identify which one is best for you. A track saw will allow you to make clean cuts with more precision than you can achieve with a circular saw.
can a circular saw be used as a track saw Related Question:
Is a circular saw the same as a track saw?
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. A track saw has an enclosed blade to enhance dust extraction, whereas the circular saw lacks this feature.
Can you use a DeWalt circular saw on a track?
The DWS5022 is a reversible 1.5 metre track for use with the DWS520 plunge saws, as well as other DeWalt circular saws and routers. It features a support rail which runs up the middle and distributes weight effectively to deliver an accurate cut.
Do I really need a track saw?
Conclusion. A track saw is unbeatable when it comes to making long, accurate cuts. It can do most things a table and circular saw can, while being more portable than a table saw and more accurate than a circular saw. It’s also better than a table saw at breaking down large sheets of plywood.
Can you make a track saw?
Track saws are easy and affordable to make, and the good thing is that the DIY track saw still cuts fast, giving you accurate sheets of plywood for any woodworking project you might have.
What’s the point of 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 deep can a track saw cut?
Most track saws can cut just over 2 inches deep; however, some of the larger track saws can cut up to 2½ inches deep.
Whats the difference between a track saw and a plunge saw?
The biggest and most important difference with the plunge saw however, is the ability to run it along a rail or track. Guide rails can be purchased in many lengths and can even be joined seamlessly together with simple connecting pieces.
How do you cut straight with a circular saw without a guide?
To ensure a straight cut, press the saw firmly against the straightedge as you push it along. Clamp a perfectly straight board or metal straightedge to a sheet of plywood to make cabinet-quality straight cuts.
Are circular saw Rip Fences universal?
No, fences are not interchangeable on any circular saw. There are different widths. You can get a universal replacement set that would most likely fit.
Do track saws need clamps?
Track saws make long, precise cuts faster and better than table saws and circular saws. They are light and portable, don’t need clamps and set up quickly and accurately.
Are track saws safer?
Track saws are much safer than table saws. Table saws are more powerful than track saws. Track saws allow you to cut large sheet goods that may be difficult to handle on a table saw.
