MUST-HAVE SAWS FOR THE WORKSHOP AND GARDEN

There is a huge range of saws for the workshop and garden and some really unique power saws that have recently been introduced for DIY'ers in the workshop and garden.

Modern saws make jobs easier, quicker and, in most cases, complete all jobs with the latest innovative equipment more professionally. The latest generation of power saws offer a host of new features compared to their predecessors – they’re easier and cleaner to use, more accurate and make light work of tough jobs. In this guide we explain the difference between some of the most popular types of saws and help you to choose the right saw for the job.

The most common, bestselling and most purchased saw for DIY’ers is the jig saw, followed by the circular saw; these are the two must-haves for general industry, homeowners and DIY’ers. You can do most jobs with these two saws. First time buyers should also look at the new special dual offerings; the multi 2-in-1 jig saws. There are also some special circular saws on offer with special features, so do some homework before you buy.

Key features to look for when choosing a saw:

Length of stroke: This is the distance the saw blade travels up and down. On a jigsaw, for example, a 20mm stroke means the blade will move 20mm down and 20mm up to complete one stroke. The longer the stroke length of the saw, the greater the number of teeth that come into contact with the material in each stroke cycle.

Strokes per minute: The amount of times the blade travels down then up in one minute. The higher the number of strokes per minute, the higher the number of cuts and therefore the faster and more effi cient the machine.

No load speed: The amount of times the blade travels up then down (or the number of complete revolutions for a circular saw) each minute. ‘No load’ refers to the motor speed when the saw isn’t actually cutting (this usually decreases when it is).