Tool Test: In-Line Circular Saws

Production framing is based on the need to turn a huge amount of random length lumber into the semblance of a house in the shortest time possible. I’ve been framing on the West Coast for 28 years, and around here, production carpenters depend on powerful in-line circular saws like no other tool. So what makes these saws so indispensable? In the hands of a skilled carpenter, a framing saw acts as an extension of the arm, rapidly chewing up lumber wherever you point your hand. Because of its linear design and clear line of sight to the blade, in-line circular saws (commonly called “worm drives”) are ideal for handling every type of cutting task professional carpenters encounter. On the