What You Need to Know: Skil 40V Circular Saw

As far as the Big Boss Skil 40-volt in-line circular saw goes, I can say that, out of the gate, this thing does not have a “motor.” It has a “power plant.” For anybody following along, the once junk-drawer brand Skil is now a serious pro brand. And even though I’m trying to keep track of how the Skil 40V performs for this tool review, it’s still an actual job site.

How does the Skil 40V perform?

Cutting deck framing is in-line saw country. Some years ago, this job used to mean worm drive action. These days, even the ole wormie is a cordless direct drive. And the 40-volt Skil doesn’t disappoint.

Dust

The dust ejects through the handle, out to the right side of the saw–which I like and it’s very innovative. There is a fitting intended for connecting to dust collection. Nice that it’s there, but I didn’t use it. I’m more worried about mud and thunderstorms than dust for my work. It also clogged. Removed, the saw churned dust through the system.

Power

From a power and run time standpoint, it was all go all the time with this dual battery unit (two 20-volt battery packs). One thing I did notice compared to my true in-line corded worm drive: The Skil 40V is taller than the old school saw. There’s more of it in every day use (minus the cord).

Blades

Last thing: Like every Skil saw I’ve had, the blades that ship with the saws are pretty terrible. Not the end of the world. I’d rather have outstanding fit and finish, a stout shoe, and a saw that gets me from A to B without complaining, like cutting deck joists.

Verdict

Powerful, well-designed tool that delivers on its promises of keeping you moving without complaint.

Tip: Containing the off-cuts and trash

Anything that hits the ground doesn’t stay there long. I keep the trash can–a 20-gallon Rubbermaid Brute hits the sweet spot for me. It’s big enough to hold enough debris, and small enough that I can lift the liner (Husky from THD all day) out when full. It’s right next to the jobsite office, which is my OmniTable Plus. So bottles and cans (and clap your hands) and other jobsite detritus has an immediate home.

We think working neat keeps us moving forward fastest.

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