Best Rear Handle Circular Saw

[@Giblitzky]

I’ve had the 36v Makita saw for about a year now, if you’re trying to decide whether to buy one, I can’t recommend it enough. Absolutely cuts like butter and batteries last pretty long for a battery saw

[@jackjmaheriii]

I love that 36v saw. I got it maybe 6 years ago and now I’m deep in the Makita 18v platform. They don’t always make the best tool, but having everything you could ever want on the same battery sure is handy.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

me too

[@baseballdude8491]

I love the saw as well but really sick of the slippery/hard to access batteries and having two of them is a pain Mostly using Metabo HPT's on our site now and absolutely loving the cut quality and weight difference

[@pflaffik]

Kinda heavy and clunky with 2 batteries, prefer 40v Makita, got the regular 7.25” which is much lighter. I dont get why i would want a big heavy rear handle for plywood, my choice for rear handle would be the XGT 10.25”.

[@JoeC92]

I find them to be most reliable though.

[@baseballdude8491]

We have the Milwaukee, 2 of the 36V Makita's and now 2 of the Metabo HPT 36V's The Milwaukee is only used for rough demo now as it is our least favorite for accuracy and weight We loved our Makita 36V's but hate hate hate the slippery and hard to get and 2 battery system even though cut quality and power is good We leave the Makita's at a cut station But for all of our other cuts where we move around the jobsite,up in the roof, above shoulder cuts and ripping we take the Metabo HPT's as they are the lightest and most versatile saws with great site lines and manueverability-we even use it in spaces where we normally would have used a smaller/lighter saw in the past All good saws but weight, feel, AC adapter/quiet, priced well and Lifetime warranty were out deciding factors and I can tell in my body on long cutting days the difference

[@SaveTheSunF1R3x]

I have both the Makita XGT and the Metabo HPT. I gotta say even though i really like my makita saw (previously used the 36v) i keep reaching for the metabo for every job. It's deceptively lightweight. I knew it was lighter going in but in real world use it's such a pleasure to use. Seriously takes me back to the first time i picked up a Mag 77.

[@baseballdude8491]

Ditto

[@badopinion]

Same, love the makitas but the Metabo is so darn light and it feels great to use too. I also like how Metabo/hitachi didn’t abandon their 18v users with the MV batteries. Looking at you mak 40v!

[@LoCon.MCS13]

I wish Skilsaw had a horse in this race. The OG rear handle which was the benchmark for all rear handles.

[@lucasmancini7415]

I own both the 36v Makita and now the 40v Makita. Pretty much retired the 36v but it’s a tried and true saw and was the first to market and never let me down. Great review as always.

[@brandonknight4945]

No surprise there. I've had the 36v Makita for about 3 years now and have not reached for the old mag77 ever since. It's holding up like a champ. I've dropped it 15 feet onto concrete and more with no problems. I personally am not worried about it taking 2 batteries because I have about 20 of them, better that than have to buy into a new platform.

[@mikeredhead2894]

I own the Dewalt now for about 4 years, it's my favorite circular saw. However I cannot personally speak to the others, I'm sure they are great as well.

[@ajmedeiros77]

Love my makita 36volt! Like all my makita tools, it may not be the fastest but it definitely the best built and smoothest operating.

[@ajs96350]

Agreed, I love those so much I have 3 of them now,

[@SandyMasquith]

Thank you for making this video. Your tests are comprehensive and well thought out. I really appreciate you and your team taking the time and effort to make this content. As always, the Concord Carpenter channel shines with professionalism and clear, concise content.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Thx Sandy

[@armurano5093]

"MIT level"

[@michaelnichols7669]

I got the Metabo HPT a month ago. Its a pleasure to use, havent touched my Dewalt 6 1/2 since.

[@jncn1490]

Your comparison is ridiculous

[@michaelnichols7669]

@@jncn1490 Not comparing them, that wouldn’t be fair. Just saying I haven’t wanted or needed to use the smaller saw since I got the rear handle.

[@baseballdude8491]

What he's saying and we are seeing as well is that his lighter Metabo HPT rear handle is light enough to take to spots on jobsite where normally a lighter/smaller saw would go If your a framer and on roofs, cutting rafter and other above shoulder cuts the heavier and bulkier saws are impractical and will.weat u out over the course of a day,. Week, lifetime These Metabo HPT saws are a joy to use on all applications not just ripping and at a cutting station

[@id36651]

Easy choice. My HPT saw is amongst my favorite purchases in a long time

[@barjonahbuxton3264]

The Hikoki is in a league of its own in my opinion, LOVE IT!

[@baseballdude8491]

Agreed

[@baraksinz]

The light weight is hard to argue with!

[@kemalknight5505]

Yeah these videos are great. Scientific but realistic. You guys are definitely professional!

[@mtamotors]

Hell yeah, I Love my Makita 36v rear handle! So glad to see you guys picked it over the 40v.. Proving again that the 18v LXT line is still just as good as the 40v or not better! Thanks guys for another great video!

[@LeeTillbury]

Yeah agree, no matter what Tools and Stuff says!🙄

[@Ruudwardt]

Was not hard to guess the outcome. Makita knows saws. In real use the XGT probably cuts faster on average, has more oomph - can be pushed harder. Also, for testing the 5 Ah or 8 Ah bricks would have made more sense.

[@nelsoncarpentry]

@@Ruudwardt Yeah, I’m thinking that with more weight on the sled jig the XGT would do better.

[@Silky_boi]

Hell yeah!!! Been using my 36V Makita for about 3 years and it’s worked just as good as the first time!

[@Thepornstar97]

This is one of the most thorough in-depth reviews of circular saws of any video I have come across from top to bottom. Unfortunately it contains one major flaw. The lack of understanding of batteries and the characteristics about them tainted this review substantially. "Wh" or watt hour of a battery refers to total energy capacity. Battery pack capacity is not the metric that represents its performance, it instead corresponds more to its run time. In this video they are mainly testing performance. The Battery metric most applicable to this type of test is watts. A watt is volt * amp, which represents power output. A Battery's power output is the metric that determines its performance. For example, Milwaukee's 8ah battery contains samsung 40T cells. Regardless of manufactures specs of its 40 amp rating (rare as this figure is not close to independent cell tests) this cell struggles to output 30amps per cell. Seeing that this 8ah pack has 10 cells in a 5s2p configuration we can determine its max output is approx 60 amps * 18 volts = 1080 watts (with much voltage sag). A much better choice would have been to use the 12ah battery pack which also contains crappy Samsung 40T cells however it has 15 cells in the pack. 90 amps * 18 volts = 1620 watts but with less voltage sag. This is an increase greater than 33% in peak output performance (when taking into account the voltage sag). Why this matters so much is because the circular saw is a tool that asks or demands maximum power from the battery. This is not the same for each saw in the test as Flex's 6ah pouch cell battery is fantastic as is Dewalts 6ah pack. My point is if you're going to test the peak performance of tools then its best to choose a battery pack that is not going to limit the tools performance. I think every tool in this test was used with a battery that limited its peak performance to a degree. In my opinion the parameter of cutting speed is the most important performance metric of these tools and thats mostly what the buyer is interested in.

[@HelenaOfDetroit]

I've had the Makita 36v for years and I love it. Never let me down

[@truthserum9157]

Most of my wood working tools are DeWalt, for mechanical and metal work I use Milwaukee, it makes it nice to be on 2 batteries platforms, when I need a new tool I have 2 brands to choose from.

[@kevin072991]

The Makita 36V rear handle kit at $249 with a free bare tool is one of the best tool deals around. 2 5.0’s with dual rapid charger and saw $269 with taxes is an insane deal

[@fmatthummel]

when I got mine it was two more batteries (for total of 4) instead of the extra tool. wild deal. people were buying it for the batteries and selling the saw on craigslist for $125 (also a great deal)

[@tumbleweed0u812]

I've owned the Dewalt for 4 1/2 years now, I'm sure that the other saws are good, however, I've framed many houses with the Dewalt now and I love it. The saw has stayed accurate and true through lots of use, GREAT review as always!

[@mogulpro]

I own that Dewalt and use it daily to make a living. A+ saw, never gives me a reason to wish I had anything else.

[@galvanizedgnome]

Milwaukee is better.

[@justinsgarage1125]

Definitely like the Makita 36v saw. I own both the rear handle and the 36v sidewinder and reach for the rear handle for ripping sheet stock. Only thing I’m missing on it is a light. Not a deal breaker by any means but when moving from bright sun to a shaded area or indoors to make cuts, a light would make it a bit easier to see initially. Just my 2 cents!

[@cesarsaavedra3095]

I actually returned all my dewalt flexvolt tools today and replaced them with the makitas. A friend let test his makita tools with years of use on them and they felt so smooth . The dewalts vibration in drill 999 and the 7.25 saw were night and day.

[@SoNEWMEX575]

Makita 36 volt is a savage beast of a saw. I frame houses everyday and the Makita gets the any job done.

[@4thewinak]

Nice! Sounds about right. I found the dewalt saw to be the fastest cutting but found the makita’s to be favorite to use. I find the metabo hpt and the makitas the most reached for, with the makita’s just a hair more favorite. The thing about the synthetics tests I found was it’s not as realistic bc it doesn’t account for the user feedback when operating the saw. Don’t forget each saw and battery setup weight differently meaning a different amount of force is required to move the saw. And their coefficient of friction will also be different. Also a saw that feels really good and smooth makes it unknowingly easier for the operator to put more force. Kind of like driving a high end luxury sports car. Sometimes you don’t know how fast you’re going until you look bc it’s so smooth and effortless. Good work. Similar results! Awesome!

[@baseballdude8491]

Yeah I love the Makita's but swapping two slippery hard to get batteries and being a bit heavier -we all are fighting over the Metabo s now-use the Makita at work station but don't lug it around anymore

[@andrewnovino5269]

I also have makita 36volt i love it and the batteries last pretty long i feel confident using it very comfortable in the hands and I'm a Milwaukee guy all the way but I love makita and there impact is nice to

[@homemadelemonade976]

The reason why i think that makita 40v should have beaten the 36v is because it has a lot more torque. You can watch a video by tools&stuff where he compares the two and 40v just takes off when you put some back into that saw. Both are really capable saws and i own the 36v and i love it. Loved the video, cheers!

[@stevenbalaz8308]

How good is that video, 40v eats the 36v

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Both great saws - that's why we share our data and you chose the best saw for you

[@homemadelemonade976]

@@ConcordCarpenter Appreciate the effort :) Could you maybe consider how different saws behave under heavier load, or when will they stall? Makes a great representation of the power and ability to continue cutting under heavier load. Again, i really like your comparison videos and never miss a single one! Cheers!

[@histguy101]

The depth adjustment on the Metabo HPT is the same as the old Skilsaw and Bosch wormdrives. The whole idea of these saws is to make a lighter, cordless, wormdrive _style_ saw. _There's not supposed to be an arrow._ The depth measurement lines are curved to line up with the round pivoting end of the depth adjustment release handle. It's not only the easiest, it's the original way of doing it. Imagine trying to find a tiny arrow right next to the dust shoot where everything is covered in sawdust. The depth adjustment handle is a 3 finger handle, like the Skilsaw. You use your left hand to release it. There's a place for your index finger. The Hitachi has a full 3.5" gap in the plate and the clearest line of sight when cutting at a bevel or at 90°. It's just a fact. It also has the tactile bevel degrees like the mag77(making them visible through sawdust). I've used the M18 and it's very nice, and I'm sure the other saws are great too, but you knocked points off the Hitachi for these 4 features, which is kinda baffling. Also like the Skilsaw, the Hitachi has tactile measurements alongside the blade on the plate. The others don't. When making small partial cuts into sheet goods, you can see exactly how far you're going. This wasn't noticed or mentioned. It makes me wonder if you guys are actually out using these saws and learning how they work, or are just looking them over out the box, never having used one, and hooking them up to your rigs and testing specs. And lastly, the elephant in the room, where is the Skilsaw(not the Skil® saw, but the SKILSAW®)? I can't imagine a full rear handle head2head without it. They make a cordless version, and i believe its the only true wormdrive out of all of these, and the standard against which all these others should be held.

[@d.a.9937]

Most-underrated comment.

[@laurencegrimwood5187]

so true, everything should be compared to the mag 77 skilsaw as the baseline for rear handled saws. everyone in construction has used one at some point. despite being heavy, loud and inconvenient with the cord they're still a great option especially when you consider the price and durability.

[@mitcht.2521]

Stand out feature that you forgot was the led light on the Milwaukee. So often in the early morning, late evening, or indoors w/o light a led on the blade/your mark is very convenient. You don’t need to go get a separate light source. Makes for more accurate cuts.

[@posmaster22]

I picked up that 36v Makita for 250, 2 batteries, a double charger and a free multi tool at home Depot. The Makita blade it comes with is super thin and cut into large members effortlessly which is super handy when your cutting upside down in crazy positions. The electric brake plus a nice teatherpoint under the handle make this saw ideal for framing.

[@posmaster22]

Now I want their massive beam saw

[@sessionbox4256]

I use the Dewalt big boi. No regrets at all. Yeah it's loud and heavy but I'm just so used to it now, It's an extension of my arm. I think if you go to the top 4 tool brands you will be fine

[@martinmellor5462]

Top 4? but there’s five tool brands here 🤔

[@johndoran4111]

Hard to beat makita just missing that battery only framing nailer . Great video 👍🏻

[@stepansavelyonok5532]

Thanks, you have done a great job! I owned 36v makita saw for 3 years, switched to the 40v. I like that I can have less weight with 2.5amp battery(especially when doing roof jobs) and the same time I have more power with 5amp battery in same weight. My only complaint about 36v saw was total lack of dust extraction. Somtimes I need to rip some wood indoors and leaving less mess is always better. To my knowing new 36v saws have same dust extraction as 40v. I want to lay my hands on Hikoki/metabo hpt unit, but can't get it where I live. For now I'm stuck with mix of 40v and 18v tools, waiting to completely switch to xgt line.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

The dust port is pretty cool on the 40, I should’ve mentioned it

[@pflaffik]

Also want to go full XGT, got 10 XGT tools already and is more or less there already. BUT i want light compact tools too, theres no subcompact XGT, no small light batteries. Talked to a dealer here and he was going to ask about it next time he attended an official Makita Dealer event, last time the focus was on worksites he said, XGT not so much targeted against small businesses.

[@stepansavelyonok5532]

@@pflaffik I still got two 12v lines for subcompact :) I'm trying to optimize it to one 12v line and one 40v. Would be perfect for me.

[@coburn_karma]

Milwaukee is the only rear handle saw Ive ever used, it's the best I tell you.....all kidding aside. I'm on the platform so that's the only reason I added it to my collection. Great review and love the channel.

[@Jerry-zz2eu]

Same same.

[@ninj3x687]

I’ve had the xgt saw for a couple of months now and it’s my go-to. It’s the first battery saw I’ve used that has power comparable to a corded unit.

[@Mr.Pop0]

i got a Makita 40v for heavy-duty work but i always got a Milwaukee 6 incher handy bc its hard as balls getting that makita in an attic to repair trusses.

[@ToolHombre]

If Makita had a framing nailer I might have gone that route but I’m on the HPT line as a result and love the dark green.

[@baseballdude8491]

We have both the Makita 36V and Metabo HPT most of us are reaching for our Metabo s now and sick of the slippery/awkward Makita batteries and MHPT/Hitachi has always been out go to for nailers and fasteners bare none

[@id36651]

This is a great comment. I purchased the metabo framing nailer as Makita just couldn't get one down. Now I have a full set of HPT tools and the saw is amongst my favorite tools ever. In real life, I can't even find a time that my X2 out performs the Metabo and the Metabo has way better run time plus the weight savings is just nuts. I'm a Makita guy but I guess that's changed.

[@1hammily]

Thanks for doing the work and letting us in on the results. Toolbox buzz makes the best review videos.

[@lsteve5170]

Love the reviews. Wish you would end each video by letting us know what reviews are coming up next. Give us something to look forward too!

[@Hucklongfin]

I have the Makita 36 volt since all my other tools are Makita 18v.

[@Jeff-rk8hq]

Happy to see that the makita I have took the win but tbh I’m sad to see the new HPT did somewhat poor compared to the competition because I do love their tools and would really like to see some of the Japanese only models tested, such as the c3605db and c3606 saws as well as the 36v jigsaw especially the barrel grip

[@baseballdude8491]

In the real world we are using our Metabo HPT' over our Makita's, Dewalts and Milwaukees for most cutting now This is our favorite overall saw Plenty of power and light as a feather

[@baraksinz]

Don’t discount the Metabo HPT due to this review. In real world use, you get used to what you use, and I think performance is a lot closer than what these tests portray.

[@smacfe4076]

Great test and video. To me what it shows is that these are all really good and very usable tools. I can't remember the last time I made a bevel cut with a circular saw, and I didn't even know there were numbers on the depth gauge so some of the ratings dings are kinda meaningless. I've used all but the Flex and although the Makita just feels the best, I'd be happy with any of them.

[@kirkdunn1379]

testing a saw vs using one for an actual job are completely different things Metabo is choice i see framers using the most, that or the makita problem with makita is sliding the batteries in and out after tool is dusty and sticky I owned the makita and still preferred a standard skilsaw for performance....the cord getting in the way is only drawback

[@arbuckleworkshop9857]

So just wondering why you didn’t test the cordless skillsaw……. And I love my Milwaukee so those other saws must be insane

[@ConcordCarpenter]

They watered invited but did not choose to participate

[@Ponchodvr4lfe]

From my own experience, the Skilsaw is great feature and performance wise, but the battery life, weight and the price absolutely suck. They've introduced nothing else that runs on their battery platform except a larger 10 1/4" version. I ran one for two months and went back to my 36V Makita that's four years old now.

[@Jeff-rk8hq]

Coincidentally They just dropped a video on the skil rear handle

[@buickratrod]

@@Ponchodvr4lfe weird. We had one on our jobsite and the battery lasted forever. And once you put that big battery on it felt so balanced. We would fight our who would get it over our Makitas

[@LeeTillbury]

You've failed again the 36v Makita does NOT have on board wrench storage!

[@michaelmcewan5074]

Once again an amazing tool review! Thanks Rob and the Tool Box Crew! I love these tool test videos, they’re so in-depth and informative. 👍 Love the channel as always!

[@CSLFiero]

I would have never guessed a saw with 2 batteries would weight nearly the least. my 36v makita feels heavy, but I guess I'm just spoiled!

[@Tool_Addicted_Carpenter]

Pretty crazy that if you buy that Makita 36V kit and choose the jigsaw you can return the jigsaw for $102 and pay $148 for the saw with 2 batteries and a charger. Same for their sidewinder. I was considering dropping the $300 for both but I just have way too many saws already. Their cordless biscuit joiner is the only Makita I carry these days.

[@luisinhoens90]

That's what I did 2 months ago but it came with a sawzall. My rear handle 36V circular saw came up at $165 after I returned the sawzall. Best value on the market

[@jimkane9832]

Where did you find this deal?

[@Tool_Addicted_Carpenter]

@@jimkane9832 Home depot stores or online/app. What you do is add the saw to the cart and you can pick a free tool. You want to pick the jigsaw as a free tool because it's the most expensive option which means it has the highest return value. So when you add the rear handle or sidewinder saw kit and the jigsaw to your cart you will see that the individual return price on the jigsaw is $100. That brings the saws down to $148. Just return the jigsaw and bam, you have two saws, two chargers, and four 5.0 batteries. Hands down the best deal on the market for a long time now.

[@Tool_Addicted_Carpenter]

@@jimkane9832 $148 each saw*. $300 total. Sorry I made it sound like $148 for both.

[@plgard]

Already asked a few times… Where’s the Skilsaw cordless TRUEHVL⁇ I think it’s the only true worm drive, and the original rear handle‽

[@ConcordCarpenter]

I believe your correct on the true worm drive mechanism - They were invited to participate but failed to respond

[@plgard]

@@ConcordCarpenter: Not exactly a vote of confidence on their part.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

@@plgard no, I think it’s more of being asleep at the wheel. What are these companies use PR firms to do their work for them

[@franklong6269]

I own the Milwaukee 2830-20, which you tested and I agree with these points: 1. I don't like the thumb trip safety on the trigger. The pressure point on your thumb is irritating. Milwaukee should redesign this. However, the saw is useable as is. 2. I don't like the detent for the blade change. It is weak and irritating. 1. I worked my way as a professional framer and the Milwaukee has the best rafter hook by far. The Makita's will wobble on a rafter. The Milwaukee will be much more stable. I have used both types of rafter hooks on different songs. 2. Many tests I have seen on reviews state that the Milwaukee is far more powerful than the DeWalt. While I admire your test, I am not sure that it demonstrates the actual power (torque) and endurance of the saw. It appears that your test favors saws with higher RPMs, but that is not the only factor to consider on cutting ability. I think ripping solid lumber would have been a better comparison. As a framer, when I had to rip lumber in a hurry, I forced my Skill 77 worm drive through the lumber and it would heat up that saw, which was the standard of the industry for decades. That is the real world. In real construction, you don't have time to wait on the saw, and typically, framers apply a significant amount of force when ripping solid wood (like 2" x 4" boards). That would be the acid test of real power, in my opinion, but then it would be subjective, as you note. Still, that type of test would really show you the power king. But again, I compliment you on constructing an unbiased test. That extreme use power on the job is what I needed when time was short. 3. A second really good test for actual power would be to rip 2" x 4" boards at a 45 degree angle. That kills almost all saws - even Skill worm drive corded saws (they heat up big time). 4. I don't think that you can compare power between saws without accounting for the various types of batteries. I think you mention this. A 6Ah Milwaukee battery might not be equivalent to a Makita 6Ah battery. Probably, you could use watt-hours, which is what you did - and I commend you for that. However, I still don't think using watt-hours is and apples to apples comparison. One good example that illustrates this is that Milwaukee has just come out with their "Forge" batteries which are considerably smaller, but far more powerful than earlier generations of M18 batteries. A 6Ah Forge battery will probably increase the Milwaukee saw power by 5% - 10%. The 6Ah Forge battery actually puts out more power than the 12Ah "High Output" Milwaukee batteries. To be fair to you, this is a really complex problem because of the wide variances in battery design. Having said all this, I compliment you on a great review. It is extremely difficult to accurately portray what these saws will do on the job in professional framing projects. You did a superb job of providing an effort to create an unbiased test, and I agree with many (but not all) of your measurement metrics. Great job!

[@CorwinBos]

I definitely agree with this review. Makita has really come on strong in the last couple of years, and I can admit this being a die hard red tool owner. I can see a use case for these tools, like when you need something to do cuts in places a cord just isnt ideal. Sheeting a roof would be a great example, not a ton of cuts, and convenience is a good thing, but a tied off cord will save your saw from hitting the ground sometimes too. How would these saws stand up to a corded version? Im pretty sure a corded worm drive does have more power to the point you could probably double the weight on your test sled and it wouldnt stop. Another consideration is how long a battery will last, not only in cut time, but before it starts to lose its capacity? The cost of large batteries is a TCO item that needs to be considered and is too often forgotten. One other downside to battery power is cold weather, the batteries just dont hold up. I consider my Skil worm drive best on the ground, cutting non stop all day, but its a tank. I use a Milwaukee sidewinder in the rafters as its lighter but most importantly the stupid guard doesnt jam at the worst time when cutting hips, rafter tails, angles, and other weird crap which is an issue Ive seen with Makita and Dewalt saws.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Corded word Rivne’s are more powerful but these saws will do everything they do. They all have teather loops for working up high

[@jncn1490]

The Flexvolt is more powerful then any corded saw, both rear handle and top. As a framing co. I guarantee it. Throw the Milwaukee away and get a dcs578 and the rear handle and 2/12ah bats.

[@CorwinBos]

@@ConcordCarpenter Rob, Im not disagreeing with your review, I think in certain applications the cordless stuff is superior. A tether is fine, but then your tying the saw down just like it has a cord. As far as power, I just want a fair review. I know cordless stuff has its place, but I simply cant stall a corded worm drive, but I can cause a cordless saw to go into overload and stall pretty easily, especially ripping lam beams or the like. Lets test the saws to failure because lets face reality, the guys on framing crews arent easy on their tools, and corded versions of these tools are far more durable. Cold weather performance is also never truly tested. In Wisconsin we frame year around, even in zero weather, and anything battery powered really suffers.

[@CorwinBos]

@@jncn1490 I have framed for 30 years, and my old Milwaukee has seen alot of wood in its day. Ive beat the hell out of it, bent the shoe a few times, replaced the brushes once, but it still runs and cuts true. That being said, I see your point, but my biggest complaint with alot of saws is that the stupid guard jams at the worst time. Hanging off the end of a hip, cutting with a bevel and angle, thats the worst time to be forced to have 2 hands on a saw, and is honestly the primary reason Ive always kept my Milwaukee. Personally, Im heavily vested in Milwaukee M18 so I would just buy that version and call it good enough. Would it replace my corded saw? Probably not.

[@MatthewCote]

@@jncn1490 this is 100% true. The dewalt rear handle flexvolt is way more powerful than my corded skil. I’m a framer in Canada and all we use is flexvolt saws, all through the winter.

[@3vil3lvis]

If you are using a saw every day, the Metabo 36v wins for its light weight and AC battery adapter. If you are a DIY occasional user the Makita 36v is the best value when on sale @ $250 for the saw two 5.0Ah batteries and a free tool (Toolnut is offering the $179 3-1/4-Inch Planer as a free tool option). The Dewalt 60v wins for most powerful and will probably continue to win this category when the higher capacity powerstack batteries arrive.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Weight is important

[@id36651]

This is a great comment. I purchased the metabo framing nailer as Makita just couldn't get one done. Now I have a full set of HPT tools and the saw is amongst my favorite tools ever. In real life, I can't even find a time that my X2 out performs the Metabo and the Metabo has way better run time plus the weight savings is just nuts. I'm a Makita guy but I guess that's changed

[@bigmanoncampus150]

Would have loved to see the skill saw in this head to head, I think Larry haun would be impressed

[@franklinavenue8703]

I bought the Milwaukee M18 and I couldn’t be happier

[@WarmongerSmurfOnXbox]

So I’ve full invested in the Milwaukee line, and not going to change. Does anyone else watch, just hoping “their” company will do well?

[@jordanduncan8731]

Yes

[@mr.t9976]

Makita 36V has the best value at Home Depot too. You get it with 2 5Ah batteries, dual charger, AND a free tool for $250

[@makingstuff242]

if im doing a lot of engineered lumber and beams i use my dewalt. It's hands down the fastest and most powerful no doubt, But for every day work I use my makita

[@rickyperkins232]

I am not impressed with the line of. Sight on the DeWalt but it is power and has that damn high pitch noise

[@jncn1490]

Hands down Flexvolt…try the dewalt dcs578. Hands down the best top handle also

[@garykintzler4273]

Thank you for during this I was on the fence but not any more.

[@seakadventurer1330]

Made a sheath out of gorilla tape on the top of the metabo that the wrench frction fits in and put of perfectly. Easily overcome problem, they should have a slit in bottom of handle. Oh well, so light and smooth. My father has the Makita 36 volt. I like the handling of the metabo quite a bit more.

[@johng1097]

Why didn’t you include the Skil cordless rear handle ??? It gets great reviews - but it would be great to see how it compares to Dewalt, Mikita, and Milwalkee…

[@ConcordCarpenter]

We asked for it they didn’t send it

[@jarodneedham7326]

OSHA time weighted decibel rating is actually 85db per 8 hour

[@grantwilliams630]

Well I’m glad the dewalt looks pretty good. I really need a rear handle saw and I’d like to avoid buying more batteries

[@Sparkystacoma]

I love my Milwaukee as it's has larger hand hole but that dewalt is a beast and the Makita 36v is so smooth. Not enough to make me change brand but flex has made some. Sweet attempts

[@rickyperkins232]

I am actually surprised these guys did test for Dust extraction. My Milwaukee with the screwed on Dust extraction is between between me, the saw and the line of sight so I tape it shut. The Flex has a feature that clears dust from the line of sight. No one talks about that. Also in dark or dim light areas when framing or general cutting Fex has the best lights, Flex plunge cutting operation beat the competition along with Dewalt. I don't think I support where Flex comes in because it is a superior tool. The fact the the Dust shout on the Flex can rotate to clear dust exhaustion in any direction is simple amazing and they didn't mention it, I don't get it. The run time on that Flex is days no mention on that. I am a Milwaukee guy but I am getting that Flex because I see exactly what it can do.

[@jncn1490]

Milwaukee is for plumbers…Flexvolt is for professional framers and construction

[@rickyperkins232]

@@jncn1490 are you calling me a Farmer. Lol.

[@baseballdude8491]

The flex has some nice fueturs but it's a brick We have switched the the.Metabo HPT as it is a joy to use all day and can be used in spots where the heavier saws, DeWalt, Flex, Milwaukee are just not practical

[@Sparkystacoma]

@@jncn1490 I gotta say that sparky's love milwaukee as a lot of toys.... uh tools they make are for electricians. especially the M12 line up.

[@kirkdunn1379]

as a contractor and tradesman I dont really put much into tools......you can get sideways with numbers and data how is the balance, feel, reliability and useability of the tool..thats all i care about....I had a 36v makita but preferred a corded skilsaw over it for use, plus i have all makita tools, so made it alot easier....not having a cord was the only plus.....it got stolen so am getting the Metabo for the weight just like corded tools certain brands have their strength and weakness but once you pick a format your stuck with it.....I liked the old way better but cordless tools are good enough now where having them is worth not having a cord..... the safety switch on cordless skilsaws is anti safety, it makes it more dangerous to use these tools in awkward angles.....get rid of it, shouldnt be using the tool if you cant safely operate one like normal

[@ravenousvisages]

I got the Makita 36v when it first came out. Love the little green light, telling me that it’s gone into beast mode- and it’s just impossible to stop in a non-binding cut. The only problems I’ve had are with the rafter hook literally falling off because dust compacted and pushed the pin out. Look close at that pin, it sits right to the edge of a pinch point. I’ve got the HPT now and it clearly outperforms the Makita, plus comes with a dust port. If you’ve ever tried to special order a dust port from any hardware store, you know just how much time and effort has been saved when it is just included. Forget the blade wrench, I’ve got plenty of wrenches- how convenient is it when you can also use an allen or a hex driver? Ya’ll missed the boat on the most vital safety features. Dust collection (I want to live forever), and kickback protection. Skil had a real gem with the dust port built into the handle- whatever happened there? Isn’t there some advantage of the brushless motors being able to sense binding and cutting off the power? I know that if you start with the blade in contact, it will instantly cut off. I’ve never had a problem with kickback on either of these saws. Is it because of the brushless motor?

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Great feedback - thanks

[@eapa37]

That Makita 36v has a dust port now. The earlier ones didn't come with it.

[@balonator1232]

How dare you talk bad about the mighty 36v makita

[@ravenousvisages]

@@eapa37 That’s awesome! Hmmm… It must be so new that Makita’s own website doesn’t have it? I found several dust ports for 6.5” saws, and one for the corded 7.25”…. Is there even a hole where the dust port can screw into??? I think it’s just easier when it comes in the same box with the saw. I once ordered a replacement dust port for makita 10” miter saw…. Gave up on it after waiting over 6 weeks and instead duct taped an old hose end onto it.

[@jimkane9832]

You are the only person I've ever heard say that the Metabo outperforms the makita. Everyone likes the Metabo because of its light weight.

[@DesignsElement]

Own both skilsaws and the performance/features outweigh the weight by a long shot. They had a deal on to get the 10 1/4'' free with the 7 1/4'' kit which made the price better. Each battery will last a half to full day, depending on what you are doing. If you go through the battery in less time you should be setting up a miter station with stops to increase productivity.

[@markknister6272]

Love my Mikita 36v saw!!

[@GregBrecker]

I love my Makita rear handle saw! So nice to use.

[@theholisticnd]

You should add the Skil 2x 20v Read Handle saw to this post, I think we would have a nice surprise

[@mattwood1977]

7:28 the makita 36v and 40v platforms are actually the same, it’s just 40v max and 36v nominal but they should both be considered 36v for watt hour purposes. Same with the Dewalt 60v. It’s actually 54v nominal

[@histguy101]

Except on one, you need to hang 2 batteries on.

[@Jerry-zz2eu]

They are the same voltage, but one uses two batteries and the other uses 1. They called it 40v to differentiate from 18x2.

[@davetaylor4741]

I have the Dewalt as you say I am on that platform. Good saw as long as you don't use Dewalt blades. Wonder if their new blades will be any better.

[@mikeredhead2894]

Another great video my guys. I enjoy the quick but detailed reviews. Thanks.

[@f7730]

Thank you again. Always looking forward to watching your head to head videos.

[@AvihayBar]

As always, quality content! Thanks for the video!

[@nazarkharyk1124]

Perhaps you'll change your mind about the flex saw when you start using the right size of the battery (10.0) that comes with the kit and not the 6.0 😅

[@brianf9619]

I bought 2 of those Makita 36 volt rear handle circular. saw kits on sale for $250 With the 2 Free batteries and the bottom of the deck that slides on the wood was like Sandpaper when cutting , they didn't slide at all , I basically had to push them through the wood , it was almost like trying to cut a straight line with a Crooked Blade , so I'm thinking the Deck Itself was crooked on Both saw and that's why they were on sale ....Anyways , I brought them both Back ... Just a Heads Up Guys ....👍🖖

[@anthonyL1776]

Skil is the best hands down. They paved the way for every circular saw. Battery operated circular saws just can’t keep up when I’m framing. No matter what brand. It has to be corded.

[@nodoubt46able]

keep drinking that koolaid, and dragging that cord pal, you must have some kind of brain damage......

[@straight_to_finish]

I might have to reconsider team red brand loyalty after this review!

[@foxwood67]

Milwaukee needs gen 2. Last place 👎. Funny the Acme tools mention. I just purchased a new Rolair compressor from them last week.

[@idoit4urmom]

Great informative video as always, thanks for doing what you do

[@Jonesocinco]

Just my opinion but the bevel scale on the makita saws isnt well marked or intuitive. The controls are nice though.

[@247Combat]

I like the makita saws but does seem kind of biased review since the 36v makita saw does NOT have on board tool storage either and yet no points were deducted on that saw like the metabo🤔. Also with Flex you have a number of battery selections to adjust weight as wanted, it can go very light with the 2.5 or 3.5 stacked lithium batteries to give a makita like weight, or up to 10 stacked lithium for max power and run time. Also Flex has a rear base plate sight line, led light and sight line blower. Why werent these features mentioned cuz all those other saws dont have those features. Both Flex sight lines 0 & 45 are accurate on the Flex, not so much on the other saws. I own both the Makita XGT 40V and the Flex and I give a slight edge to the Flex using the 5ah battery perfect weight and balance and runtime. Another big point is the ease of battery swap when sweaty on the Flex, the battery compartment springs really spring the battery up and out when you depress to release battery another feature no other saw has. I love both saws but I cut straighter on the Flex saw, when Im working out of a garage the led light is very useful. Also the fact I can flip over the dust port on the Flex when im doing 45 degree cuts so it doesnt interfere with the sightline is good and i cant so that with the makita dust port. My list would look like this 1) Flex, 2) Makita XGT, 3) Metabo HPT mostly cuz of pure weight & 45 visual sight line but 45 markings are off , 4)Dewalt close to Flex in performance but heavier & limited to the heavier batteries 5) Makita the double battery thing bugs me though, 6)Milwaukee. I appreciate your review and opinions though you have good content. God bless!

[@InNerdimensional]

I got the Makita 36v saw for $249 with 4 5ah batteries and a simultaneous dual rapid charger

[@hatrack8846]

Not sure why everybody is saying makita is the best. I work with a crew of guys, two have makita, one has milwaukee, and I have dewalt and when we're working together the dewalt is the most used saw. I do agree makita is smoother however I'm sooner to reach for power over smooth. My opinion the dewalt also cuts bevels better.

[@juancastro5015]

Wouldn’t recommend the Milwaukee saw. I’ve had 2 and they both got wet by a sudden rainstorm one day at work and they don’t work anymore. Went with the makita and it’s been soaked in rainstorms 3 or 4 times now and it works like new

[@ChrisBranleh]

Appreciate the videos. I really enjoy them and they do help with future purchases!

[@JoeC92]

Waiting for a portable bandsaw comparison. Only used the Milwaukee but find the new ones to be garbage (M18 medium, not the deep cut) the M18 deep cut is nice

[@rexradar9297]

Would loved to see the cordless Skilsaw vs the rest here. The 7" is a true worm drive. Although there is nothing else on the battery platform. For fun add a comparison the Skilsaw 10", even though it is a different class.

[@MatthewCote]

We’ve got one at work, it’s alright but less powerful than most of the other saws. The batteries are huge and don’t work properly in the cold. I wouldn’t buy it personally.

[@keithfiredive]

I’m very glad I got the Milwuakee. It fits me. I’m always in last place.

[@carlosgavino6874]

It's the first tool you see or spot on almost every job site dont be so tough brother

[@jpbiscaro8694]

Glad I went makita xgt

[@CB-hr6zs]

I love my makita 36v rear handle circular saw I currently own 2 of them

[@ProxyFinal]

I am surprised the 36v Makita came in second outbeating the 40v cousin

[@bluemantom77]

Awesome video I'm glad you made it you might have to revisit this video and make a second has Ridgid got a rear handle circular saw coming they showed that in the new tool release video and skill got a dual battery rear handle circular saw

[@blamuk]

Question: for this test and the sidewinder saw tests were they all tested using 8lbs of pulling force for the cut? I'm trying to compare the rear handle and the sidewinders cut times. And it looks like a much heavier weight was used for the rear handle saws?

[@jeremiahbuck95]

Anyone tried the new ridgid 7 1/4 rear handle saw? Seems pretty cool. They say it’s the lightest and very powerful.

[@whatthehellimbored]

I have the DeWalt and it's a beast.

[@nodoubt46able]

yeah, but its still a default.....

[@herbertmoore8623]

I wanted to see the Skilsaw truehvl in a head to head with every rear handle saw!

[@thehourglasswithaman]

Skill saw is the same head company as flex

[@mattryan1986]

Slight error in your watt hour calculations is that makita 40v saw isnt actually 40v .....its 36v and batteries configured the exact same as the metabo hpt so the watt hour is actually the same at 144wh

[@DC9V]

Awesome video! Great testing methods!

[@eelspear.3686]

Do you think the weight of the saw affected their performance when being pulled by the weight? I feel as though there should have been a weight ontop of the saw to simulate the down pressure of a user

[@immanuelkuhrt8508]

Thanks! I love your reviews 🙂

[@IMPACT-NATION]

Flexvolt rear handle for me💪