07-07-2015, 06:23 PM
BernDog wrote:
I would buy in this order, due simply to versatility.
1) corded circular saw
2) Miter saw
3) cordless circular saw
If you're going to buy one thing, go with 1. If you're going to buy two things, I'd consider 2 and 3, but it depends how much you'd use it, and what kind of projects you'd be doing with the circular. 1 and 2 might be a better choice.
This is the right answer. A corded circular saw is a very flexible tool that can be used for many purposes (and it's portable and powerful). A miter saw only does one thing. A cordless circular saw is convenient, but even the best of them are just not powerful enough for many projects and the batteries get sucked dry pretty quickly, leading to frustration. They are only good for those projects where you've just got a couple of cuts and where running a power cord is a nuisance.
If you do go with the circular saw, be sure that you get one that takes a rip fence accessory or buy an aftermarket saw guide (kreg makes a good inexpensive one, there are others out there too) to vastly increase the versatility and accuracy of the saw.