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When you need to cut metal or hard materials, do you know what kind of tool to use efficiently? Let us tell you about this product.
Cutting metal cannot be done by any other tool you may have used before. You need a product that can handle the indestructible durable nature of sturdy materials.
In such a case, you will need a chop saw to complete the job. The manufacturer knows the amount of work handled, so they make this type of saw stronger than other saws. Also, the strong structure and various useful features of the product are quite popular among many people who want to use it.
One more thing to note is that you should choose the best chop saw for your jobs at home. It affects the long-term use, safety, and the cutting performance.
Now all you need is right in our post. Take a closer look at the following information to find your best chop saw.
First of all, we will bring you the chop saw reviews. Scroll down to read all the top-rated saws on the market.
If you are not completely assured with a too low price range, then how about the best chop saw under $200?
Dewalt D28715 is Quick-Lock Vise for fast clamping on different sizes and a 45° rotating fence that allows quick and accurate angle cutting. You use a steel base to weld jigs or stop directly on it quickly.
Moreover, the saw has a powerful 15 Amp/5.5 HP motor that provides overload protection, increased efficiency, and durability. The engine delivers 4000 RPM, which is ideal for many applications.
With an arbor 1″, it can cut 5″ round or 4-1/2″ x 6-1/2″ rectangle. Besides, it has ergonomically designed “D” handles, providing a more comfortable hand position, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.
To save your time and money, the spindle lock makes making wheel changes quick and easy. And a heavy-duty lock down pin supports the saw head locked in the bearing position without using chains.
For the safety of users, Dewalt D28715 designs the adjustable spark protection to direct the spark out of the work area. The manufacturer also offers 1-year free service, 90-day money-back warranty, and a 3-year warranty.
Finally, a wrench changes the wheel for convenient storage and avoiding the risk of losing the wrench.
Some users mention this weakness of the saw. When you try to cut too fast, the blade will be deflected and your cut will not be straight.
Don’t waste time with a cheaper one, get this one and you won’t be disappointed!
Pros
Good quality and nice work
Well-built and safe
Thermal cutoff switch
Easy material loading
Impressive power and performance
Cons
This saw seems a bit flimsy.
2 – PORTER-CABLE PCE700 – 15 Amp For Increased Power And Durability
The highlight of this saw is its 15 Amp for increased power and durability. To be more specific, this engine can generate up to 3,800 RPM.
Additionally, it can cut up to 45° with a maximum cutting capacity of 4 3/4 x 5 1/3″. So, it’s an excellent choice for using with metal and wood in an amateur factory or by beginners.
Another outstanding feature of PORTER-CABLE PCE700 is the quick release material clamps for non-hazardous cutting and quality fences with an adjustable miter.
In terms of stability, this saw has a heavy-duty steel base and spindle lock for quick blade changes. The 14″ blade diameter is suitable for most applications, 8-foot power cord for easy control and convenient spark deflector for your safety.
The only complaint is the included vise only goes to 45° in one direction. You may find it hard to use for high angle cuts.
All things considered, this 3-year warranty saw is ideal for anyone needing the best chop saw for homeowners or occasional users. Give it a try now.
Pros
Lightweight and low price
Easy to set up and use
Good quality and power
Smooth operation and nice cut
Versatile fence for different angles
Cons
The blade safety shield becomes dangerously loose, and you have to tighten it.
3 – Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw, 14″
The Makita LW1401 is a perfect solution for cutting light-metal tubing, rebar, conduit, pipe, stud,… The list goes on.
In addition, the 1800W motor provides a robust capacity of 3,800 RPM to tackle any demanding metal cutting tasks.
Indeed, we tested the saw power with an 11/16” square tube, a 5″ round stock, and a 3/4” x 9/8” rectangular tubing. The results were very impressive. All of them fell apart after minutes.
With the average weight of 36.6 pounds and a lock pin that protects the cutting head when in the down position, this Makita LW1401 can be transported and stored at ease.
Plus, additional features such as the two-stage lock-off power button, the customizable spark guard designed to divert sparks, and the big yet ergonomic handle are very convenient and user-friendly.
Most noteworthy, it allows users to adjust the fence up to 45 degrees to the left or the right and vice for more versatility. In other words, you can have up to three different locations to handle workpieces of various sizes.
Pros
The product comes with a Makita 1-year warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
It is very versatile and ergonomic.
Great cutting capacity.
Portable.
Cons
Not intended for 45-degree cuts.
The handle is bothersome when you are using the saw.
Best Chop Saw Under $300
1 – Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw 14 In – New Model
$300 is not a really high price range, but we can still find out many excellent chop saws there.
But we do not require that many, we only need the top products.
With the reputation of Makita, it is nothing so strange when we rate the new model of Makita LW1401 as the best chop saw under $300.
This beast is ideal for beginners or people with poor eyesight as the guiding notches will indicate the cut line accurately. Not only that, but there is also a 45-degree pivoting fence to even enhance the precision and performance.
As such, nothing can prevent you from cutting materials into the exact shapes as you desire.
Meanwhile, the strong 1800W motor comes with overload protection and enables users to slice 6mm steel plates without coolant.
Importantly, there is a quick-lock vise that facilitates you to clamp your workpieces quickly and tightly. Then, use the provided tools to complete your cutting tasks in minutes with the most satisfactory results.
Last but not least, with the top-notch warranty of 1 years from the Makita brand, you can completely put your trust in this product. Well, there can be hardly any hassle happening to you with such a fabulous saw.
Pros
It has a robust motor.
The saw provides several supporting tools for better accuracy.
The product features overload protection.
It comes with a 1-year warranty.
Cons
It is not useful for woodworking.
It is not very durable.
2 – Evolution Power Tools R355CPS 14 inch Chop Saw – Multipurpose 36-Tooth TCT Blade
Coming next is Evolution Power Tools R355CPS – a Multipurpose chop saw from Evolution Power Tools. Which great features does this product offer you?
Let’s talk about the 36-tooth, 14” TCT blade brings flexibility in cutting materials including metal cutting, wood, and PVC. It’s so great to cut through materials without heat, streaks, and almost no sparks.
The 15 Amp engine rotates at 1550 RPM, the solid fence, the miter adjustment for up to 45° on the right. The adjustment wheel itself is metal with the plastic knob, and the threaded rod moves smoothly.
Evolution offers the slip on the round material accessory for the clamp. The blade protector is an exciting design to cover the blade edge. The guard part separates in both directions when lowering the blade. It holds in place so you can use both hands during the blade change process.
The handle has a vertical pistol with a simple thumb button to safely override the trigger. Depending on your application, the table may create or breaks for you because Evolution Power Tools R355CPS is quite light and thin compared to what you want to find for professional use.
The clamp has no quick release for fast adjustments. Changing the angle requires an Allen wrench and 15 minutes to finish.
Overall, this saw is a great value and really works for you. The cuts are clean, so just grab and use the product comfortably.
Pros
Smooth and accurate cuts
Heavy and well-made
Simple to use
Fast and clean operation
Great help and time saver
Cons
The saw makes a loud noise when it cuts steel.
3 – Toolman 14” 15A Multi-purpose Chop Saw model 8350
With the low voltage of 110V/60Hz and 15-A power output, Toolman8350 will save you a lot of energy but is still strong enough to cut through toughest objects like thick planks or large metal rods.
But how? Let us tell you something about its superiority.
The saw has a 14-inch blade that can speed up to 3800 RPM to cut in high-efficiency without heating up too much.
It is common sense that if parts of your machine saw, particularly the blade, are often in high temperatures, they are prone to deform.
Furthermore, the UL listed power cord is 6.6 feet in length and comes with a dual insulated plug, so it is very safe and convenient to use.
As the saw merely weights more than 27 pounds, you can move it around the workshop effortlessly.
In fact, the Toolman8350 is one of the most simple and compact models available for home uses.
Pros
Lightweight and durable.
Energy-saving.
Powerful.
Extremely good price for the great value.
Cons
The hinge is somewhat loose, so the blade might drift a bit.
Our chop saw reviews start with the highest grade industrial metal cutting strength from the Evolution power tools: Evolution S380CPS. The 1800 W/15 Amp engine with high torque gearbox reduces engine load and improves steel cutting performance
Let’s find out its great features right now.
The steel blade can survive 20 or more abrasives with the same quality and capacity, saving your time and money. Besides, it can perform more than 1,000 cuts before replacement.
When cutting metal, Evolution steel blade leaves a smooth finish immediately and hardly produces heat, streaks or sparks. You can cut materials quickly instead of waiting for the metal to cool.
With the steel blades, you can cut faster than abrasive blades. An Evolution steel blade can cut through 6 1/2″ thick steel plates, in just 12 seconds. Do not forget to use the heavy-duty cast aluminum base for industrial metal cutting.
Here’s the best part.
The evolutionary blade produces a tiny spark, creates less heat, and is a safer alternative to abrasive materials.
Not only that, it is ideal for cutting steel plates, square tubes, round pipes, scaffolds, i-beams, angle iron, cladding, and sheet metal.
To enhance the saw’s performance, the fast action swivel allows for clean and neat cuts from 0-45° while the pull-out collection tray makes it easy to dispose of metal chips.
Depending on your needs, you can choose full-range blades to cut mild steel, thin steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and wood.
Although the instructions mention a minimum cut of 5/16″, you have no reference to what angle of cut that applies to. Remember not to cut off less than 1″ of material for your safety.
Do not waste your time to research this type of saw, and this model is the best metal cutting saw for the money.
Pros
Fantastic steel cutting
Fast, smooth and accurate
Well-built and steady
Great saw and blade
Clean edge on the cut
Cons
The blade is not square with the deck.
The saw is noisy.
2 – DEWALT DW872 – Multi-Cutter Saw
Multi-cutter saw brings you more benefits than you can imagine. It can cut a variety of materials such as non-ferrous and ferrous metals at constant depth throughout the blade life.
In a comparison of other saws, DEWALT DW872 helps you cut four times faster than a chop saw and eight times quicker than a band saw.
With 14″ blades of 70-tooth and carbide tip, you spend less money per cut than abrasive wheels. At the same time, carbide teeth bring fast, precise, burr-free cuts with cool-to-the-touch and you don’t need to prepare to grind.
For increased performance and durability, you can use this saw with more overload capacity with the 15 amp and 4 HP engine. As a result, the saw has an ability of 5-3/16″ round and a 4-1/2″ x 6-1/2″ rectangle to cut many materials and sizes for various applications.
What’s more?
You use this saw comfortable and conveniently thanks to the horizontal handle that place your wrist in a better position, decreases fatigue, and enhances productivity.
Also, your safety is ensured by fast fences that can adjust 45° to cut angles quickly and accurately without a wrench. And you have the quick lock vise to clamp fast on various sizes of materials to work efficiently.
However, the manufacturer needs to redesign the handle so that users can pull down the cutter without turning on the saw.
To sum up this saw, it is an exceptional cutter and performs very well. We highly recommend anyone who needs a saw that is versatile and portable.
Pros
Amazing cuts
Nice clamping system
Big and ergonomic handles
Thick and sturdy base
Easy to use
Cons
The blade has some wobbles.
3 – Slugger by FEIN MCCS14 – Low Speed And High Torque
If you want a chop saw with low speed and high torque, choose Slugger by FEIN MCCS14 right away to cut clean and quickly materials like steel, aluminum, stainless steel at all angles of 0-45°. The product also produces very little heat during the cutting and has a tray inside the base to help capture the debris.
How about its motor?
The 2200W motor cuts materials up to 5-1/8″ at 90° and 4-1/8″ round at 45°. With UL / CSA approval, this saw has lower safety protection parts automatically retracted for safe operation and substantial base for durability.
As a result, this powerful engine makes metal cutting faster and safer than abrasive saws. Not only that, the saw has a durable structure with cast aluminum base made to withstand harsh conditions.
You should be aware that it throws a lot of chips when cutting and the chip catcher doesn’t catch that much.
All in all, buy this model if you want the usefulness, precision cutting, small form factor, the depth of cut, and the longevity of the blade.
Pros
Spectacular performance
Strong vice
Handy and smooth
Solid and controllable
Cool and polished cuts
Cons
You will need to use hearing protection as it is loud.
4 – MK Morse CSM14MB – 72-Tooth Carbide Blade
The 72-tooth carbide blade of MK Morse CSM14MB provides a safer, cleaner way to cut metal. Along with it is a unique engine that maintains torque at the optimum 1,300 RPM speed for smooth and efficient operation.
Furthermore, it is perfect for implementing framing projects or complicated pipework. It not only cuts through the steel and other hard metals easily but also cut faster, cooler, and longer than most tools you often see at work.
You will be surprised how cool the metal edges are after cutting. The unique metallurgy of the carbide ends produces the minimum heat transferred to the inner plate.
The cutting ability of 6 x 1/4” thick steel for about 12 seconds proves that this saw cuts much faster than abrasive wheels. Not to mention, the cutting system has the strong abrasion resistance and creates more cuts than other systems thanks to the inner hardened steel plates, a combination of tungsten carbide and titanium carbide tips.
On the negative side, you should locate a business who deals with MK Morse to buy saw parts because the company doesn’t sell them directly. For example, purchase a switch from Sears.
In short, this excellent tool is closer to industrial abuse standards. Take it and have your work done fast and accurately.
Pros
Exact and clean cutting
Heavy-duty clamp
Solid and safe
Thick jaws and base
Powerful motor
Cons
Blade changes are not easy.
5 – Makita LC1230 12″- “Tool-Less” Guide Plate
This saw is from an Editor’s Choice with the quick release “Tool-less” guide plate. Thanks to that, you adjust from 0-45° for cutting miter quickly.
With smaller cutting capacity but the best in its class, Makita LC1230 is perfect for small applications of repairing at home. Note that the capacities range from 4-½” at 90° to 3-½” at 45°.
Although the tool is ideal for light works, it has a reliable 15-amp engine that runs over 120 volts and offers a maximum cutting depth of 4.5″ with a maximum 12″ blade with compatible carbide heads.
Another notable feature is its no-load speed of 1,300 RPM and the ability to cut bevels. You can use it easily with a well-balanced D-shaped handle for smooth cuts without trouble.
More than that, the convenient lock button and 2-finger trigger prevent accidental starting for your safety. That’s why the beginners and home users will love it for everyday tasks.
The only complaint is that the chip or dust collection tray is not useful because it catches not many things.
Lastly, you can count on this great saw to do fast work for clean, accurate, and virtually burr-free cuts. Give it a try, and you cannot go wrong.
Pros
Perfect and square cuts
Cool to the touch
Precise and accurate
Quick to adjust
Minimal deburring
Cons
The chain to secure the saw in a down position is old-fashioned.
What Is Chop Saw?
A chop saw is a powerful tool to cut straight wood. It has a shape similar to a circular saw to create precise square cuts for woodworkers or cabinet makers. When using it to create beveled or angled cuts, people call it a miter saw.
The advantage of using chop saw is that the cuts are accurate and the speed is faster than the circular saw, so many users do not need to buy a new circular saw.
Note that the size of the saw blade can cut different wood thicknesses and the special blades can cut metal.
Moreover, this chop saw has many unique features for you to buy. Let’s explore our buying guide of the top-rated chop saws in the next part.
Best chop saw for metal cutting
How To Choose The Best Chop Saw?
Using the great tool can help you to make your jobs done perfectly and quickly. The chop saws have many things to note for the high performance and long-term use. Here are some main features you should consider when choosing the best chop saws:
Blades
You should buy the right metal saw blade to cut cleaner and with higher accuracy. There are two types: cold saw blades and abrasive blades.
Abrasive blades produce a lot of sparks and heat the material while cold saw blades cut through the metal with tiny spark and leave the materials cool after cutting. The cold saw blades also cut materials faster than abrasive saw blades and you can sharpen them to reuse.
KEEP IN MIND that the cheaper blades tend to wear faster and cut harder. On the other hand, the high-quality blades usually come from composite carbide materials which help to cut metal clean without leaving dents or debris. It also has a hood for blades to avoid debris and flying sparks.
For lightweight household applications, a smaller unit with a blade size of 12″ or less is sufficient while the heavier applications and industrial uses need a blade of at least 14″.
Motor
You choose saws with engines of at least 15 Amp. Coupled with the maximum 4 HP motor power for cutting saws, and they will undoubtedly increase productivity for you.
The trick here is to look for a powerful, but low-speed motor saw to cause little or no spark. Then you can use it safely and conveniently.
For example, the soft materials need higher than 3,000 RPM, but you can exceed 3,500 RPM. In contrast, hard metals require a speed of less than 3,000 RPM.
Vise Assembly
A robust vise supports locking tools in place. Several types of saws also have a quick lock or quick release features, allowing fast clamping of multiple material sizes, enhancing the performance of the saw.
Fence
If you want a perfect cutting angle between the plane of the blade and the plane of the longest side of the workpiece, pay attention when selecting a fence. It can facilitate adjustment to position the workpiece at the correct angle.
Deflector of sparks
Most power saws have skewed sparks. You need this feature to deflect sparks out of people and surrounding materials. And remember to select the adjustable deflector.
Other safety features
They are a guard of blade or plate of eye protection in a good chop saw. However, you should wear the appropriate protective gear when cutting with metal chop saws.
Manufacturer warranty
You have three years warranty from the manufacturer for most metal chop saws. At that time, you can safely use it without worrying about damage.
A chop saw is ideal for cutting metal at home or job site
Finally, What Is Your Best Choice Of Chop Saw?
After reading our post, we believe you can find your best chop saw now to use at home or job site. Before paying for any saw, do not forget to think of some saw features including blades, motor, vise assembly, fence, the deflector of sparks, safety features, and warranty.
If you ask us which one we choose, here is our answer. We already bought and used the Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380. It met our demands because of its 1800 W engine with high torque gearbox, cool-to-the-touch cutting, heavy duty cast aluminum base, and 14″ blade.
It’s your turn to follow your own needs and go out there to shop the suitable chop saw.
You can support us to like, share this useful post to someone who wants to buy a chop saw. And ask the questions or comment on your experiences you have with this type of saw here. Your ideas will be beneficial for our readers and us.
DEWALT D28715
PORTER-CABLE PCE700
Makita LW1401
Makita LW1401
Evolution Power Tools R355CPS
Toolman 8350
Evolution S380CPS
DEWALT DW872
Slugger by FEIN MCCS14 
MK Morse CSM14MB
Makita LC1230
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