I picked up a Kobalt chop saw back in 2016, and it was fantastic—really met all my needs until I accidentally dropped it during a move. I recently tried a budget option from Harbor Freight, but that was a major letdown; it was bulky and just didn't perform well. Now, I'm on the hunt for a solid chop saw, ideally in the $200 to $400 price range. Any recommendations?
5 Answers
I know it’s a bit above your budget, but the Dewalt sliding double bevel model is fantastic. It’s perfect for all kinds of cuts, but it’s on the heavier side. If you can snag it during a sale, you might find it closer to $500. For simpler cuts, like your standard 2x4s, a basic model would be a good choice.
You really can't go wrong with the 12" Dewalt. It's a reliable choice and does a solid job with cutting, plus it has great durability.
Just to clarify, when you say chop saw, are you referring to a power miter saw? That terminology can be a bit mixed up sometimes.
If you’re looking to save some money, check out the Hercules from Harbor Freight. It’s a great budget option. But if you want top-of-the-line, go for Festool. That’s hard to beat!
I grabbed the Metabo HPT 10” from Amazon for around $119, and it’s been awesome! If you're considering upgrades, they also have a 12” sliding double-bevel that’s about $389 right now. Definitely worth looking into!