Finally switched to a track saw after 15 years of using a circular saw

Honestly, I always thought track saws were overpriced and a circular saw with a straight edge was good enough. But last month I had to cut 20 sheets of 3/4 inch plywood for a kitchen job in Portland, and my arm was killing me from clamping guides every time. Borrowed a buddy's Makita track saw for one afternoon and the cuts were dead straight, no tearout, and I finished in half the time. Anyone else made the switch and feel dumb for waiting so long?

2 comments

2 Comments

nora_campbell661d ago

I dunno man, I get the appeal but I still rock my old circular saw with a homemade straight edge jig. Spent maybe $40 on a piece of aluminum track and some clamps, and it's been flawless for years. Track saws are a lot of money for something that just saves you a few minutes of setup time. Plus my cuts come out just fine if I take my time and use a good blade. Not sure why everyone's so quick to drop hundreds of dollars on the latest tool when the old way works.

the_jennifer23h ago

The 20 sheet job is exactly what broke me too honestly lol. I was doing a big pantry remodel in Beaverton and after day one of clamping that heavy homemade straight edge onto 3/4 inch ply I couldn't feel my left arm. My buddy let me borrow his Makita and I finished the other 15 sheets by lunch the next day. The dust collection alone was worth it for me since I'm working in people's kitchens and not outside. I still have my old circular saw for rough framing and stuff but for sheet goods the track saw paid for itself in saved time on that one job. My cuts went from decent to perfect and I don't have to fight with clamps slipping anymore. Feels silly I spent years telling myself the old way was fine when this exists.