The circular saw is a machine using a toothed metal cutting disc or blade. The term is also loosely used for the blade itself. The blade is a tool for cutting wood or other materials and may be hand-held or table-mounted. It can also be used to make narrow slots (dados).
A good circular saw should have enough raw power to slice through everything from wet lumber to dense hardwood without bogging down. "When the motor slows, the blade heats up and dulls quickly," explains Tom Silva, This Old House general contractor.
A circular saw is more versatile than you might think. These tips from Tim Carter of AsktheBuilder.com will help you get more out of your circular saws and make better cuts. You can get a smooth line if you cut along with the grain of the wood.