A cut-off saw is a heavy-duty power tool that can cut through pretty much any hard surface the experienced do-it-yourselfer or professional contractor can expect to confront on the jobsite. They are circular saws, typically lightweight, that cut into surfaces with a grinding-wheel type action, and some models operate with a clamping device and a pivoting arm.
Anything from metal to masonry and concrete is no problem for the right cut-off saw, making them one of the most versatile power cutters. They are common on jobsites, and that prevalence makes it imperative to keep safety measures in mind. As the Missouri Department of Labor notes in its guide to cut-off-saw safety, these tools “can be extremely dangerous because (their) unguarded blades operate at very high speeds.” Let’s dive in, learn a bit more, and consider some of the best cut-off saws the market has to offer.
Types Of Power Cutters
These power cutters basically break down into two categories: stationary chop saws and handheld power cutters. Chop saws are mounted on a base with a pivoting arm and are ideal for making repeatable cuts in metal, pipe and block.
Handheld cut-off saws—and it is common to hear people refer to these as power cutters, quick-cut saws or concrete saws—are used to cut through just about anything. They pack tremendous power, but they are portable, too, making them an ideal cutting tool for the toughest jobs. The right power cutter can handle anything, from metal pipes to brick. Fitted with a diamond blade for concrete, they also make an outstanding concrete saw. With the cut-off-saw basics out of the way, let’s take a look at a few saws you might want to consider.
The K770 SmartGuard 14-inch Power Cutter from Husqvarna comes with a semi-automatic SmartTension system that maximizes efficiency while ensuring durability. It can handle curbstones and pavers with ease. The same goes for metal pipes. The SmartGuard setup protects the user from accidents and reduces the likelihood of kickback.
The Norton Clipper CE414-350 Electric Hand-Held Saw boasts big-time strength with its 4.2 horse-powered motor that tackles jobs with utmost efficiency. It’s got loads of power, but it has brains, too, equipped with an overload indicator that keeps the motor healthy and ready to go. If that’s not enough, it also comes with a StableStart system that reduces circuit-breaker tripping. Overall, it’s one of the easiest to use, strongest cut-offs in its class.
The Core Cut C14 Electric 14-Inch Cut-Off Saw is a lightweight, electric powerhouse of a saw that has all the might necessary to saw through masonry, stone, concrete, reinforced concrete, and more. It’s made for maneuverability, as the light frame is replete with two handles for maximum ease-of-use.
Battery-powered cut-off saws like the DeWalt FlexVolt 9-inch brushless models chew through masonry, concrete, and rebar without a cord or gas, with rotatable guards that make it easy to eyeball your work while you cut. See our current selection of cordless and gas cut-off saws.
Contact Contractors Direct for All Your Power Saw Needs
So, what exactly is a cut-off saw? Well, if you have the right cut-off saw on the jobsite, you might consider it your best friend. When you need to make fast, straight cuts in concrete, masonry or metal in situations that most other saws couldn’t handle, you’ll be happy to have your trusty cut-off saw at the ready. If you have questions about our cut-off saws, we’re here for you! Reach out to us at 1-800-709-0002.