MAKITA 6-1/2" Plunge Circular Saw Kit (SP6000J1)

This track saw from MAKITA includes a 12-amp motor; while this isn’t a barn burner, it’ll power through just about any stock you need to cut. Electronic speed controllers maintain a constant speed under a variety of loads to ensure you won’t be bogged down by tough spots or knots.

We like the fact that this saw can bevel to 45-degrees (and a touch further!) so that mitered boards can be easily cut. This is especially handy when you don’t have a table saw but need to rip a 45-degree angle down a board.

The included soft-start technology is especially appreciated. This addition kept the saw from jumping around once the trigger is depressed.

A variable speed dial control lets you adjust the saw speed for both soft and hard materials. Remember, slower speeds are more appropriate for harder materials while faster speeds are better for softer materials. It’s all a function of heat.

Additionally, an included torque limiter keeps the motor from overheating and burning out prematurely. Repeated cuts that are too aggressive can wear out the motor and its brushes so this feature ensures that the MAKITA continues to power through everything you throw at it.

The rubberized grip on the handle was comforatable in our hands. The track was also solid on every surface on which we placed it. It didn’t budge even when we pushed the saw to its limits.

Dust collection was adequate. The saw sent a reasonable amount of dust through the included dust port.