Hey everyone! I'm a beginner looking to invest in my first power tool. I don't have enough space or money for a table saw yet, but I eventually want a SawStop since I'm not the handiest person. I have some thick slabs (just over 2 inches) I need to rip, and I also have plans to work with reclaimed oak beams (6" x 4"). My primary projects will include making small furniture, boxes, and possibly an electric guitar.
I've been eyeing the Makita corded track saw, which seems great for woodworking with clean cuts, but it has a max cutting depth of 2". My thoughts are that I could make a full cut on one side and then turn it to cut the other, but that sounds tricky for alignment and might impact cut quality. On the flip side, I found Makita's corded and cordless circular saws that fit their tracks, which could cut up to 4" deep with a 10.5" blade. This could be more efficient for my beams, even if it might not be as clean as the track saw. I'm curious about whether a good blade can bridge the quality gap between a track saw and a circular saw.
What do you all think? Has anyone tried the Makita circular saw with a track, and how does it compare to a dedicated track saw?
2 Answers
I’ve got the Makita plunge/track saw and absolutely love it! Just make sure to get the tracks, as it's crucial for precision. For those thicker beams, it can be beneficial to have someone experienced help out; cutting large boards can be challenging. If you’re not regularly working with thick wood, consider renting a larger saw when you need it. Another trick is to cut both sides of the board while leaving a thin 'bridge' in the middle, which you can finish with a handsaw.
Honestly, a 10.5" circular saw can be a bit overkill for basic framing tasks. I'd suggest starting with a smaller saw that can handle your dimensional lumber without being too heavy. If you're mainly working with thick stock and don't have access to a band saw, consider paying a pro to cut your beams for you. Also, if you're not dealing with sheet goods much, a circular saw might just be more practical and versatile for you than a track saw.