9 Best Metal Cutting Saws –2023 [ Which One to Buy? ]

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best metal cutting saw

Having a successful project with excellent finishes depends on the type of tool you use. Typically, it is all about finding the right tool for the job. So, you need the best metal chop saw for your projects.

How do you go about it? Generally, it is all about considering the project needs and what you prefer from the best-rated metal cutting saw.

Are you in a Rush? Need one top-rated metal cutting chop saw quickly? Here’s Evolution Power Tool which is our winner after 18 hours of research!

But still, it is important to consider some of the top-rated models based on the customers’ satisfaction. That being said, we will be exploring some of the best metal Cutting saw 2022 models.

Most Favorites Models Comparison- 2022

Review
Best Value
Makita LC1230 12" Metal Cutting Saw, Blue
Expert's Choice
PORTER-CABLE Chop Saw, 15-Amp, 14-Inch (PCE700)
Best Lightweight
M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
Top Picks
DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)
Title
Makita LC1230 12" Metal Cutting Saw, Blue
PORTER-CABLE Chop Saw, 15-Amp, 14-Inch (PCE700)
M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)
Customer Rating
Weight
42.5 pounds
32 pounds
4.9 pounds
55 pounds
Item Dimensions
13.78 x 22.56 x 17.32 inches
22.69 x 14 x 17.06 inches
14 x 7 x 7 inches
24 x 15.25 x 18.5 inches
Voltage
120 Volts
120 Volts
-
120 Volts
Best Value
Review
Makita LC1230 12" Metal Cutting Saw, Blue
Title
Makita LC1230 12" Metal Cutting Saw, Blue
Customer Rating
Weight
42.5 pounds
Item Dimensions
13.78 x 22.56 x 17.32 inches
Voltage
120 Volts
Expert's Choice
Review
PORTER-CABLE Chop Saw, 15-Amp, 14-Inch (PCE700)
Title
PORTER-CABLE Chop Saw, 15-Amp, 14-Inch (PCE700)
Customer Rating
Weight
32 pounds
Item Dimensions
22.69 x 14 x 17.06 inches
Voltage
120 Volts
Best Lightweight
Review
M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
Title
M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool)
Customer Rating
Weight
4.9 pounds
Item Dimensions
14 x 7 x 7 inches
Voltage
-
Top Picks
Review
DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)
Title
DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)
Customer Rating
Weight
55 pounds
Item Dimensions
24 x 15.25 x 18.5 inches
Voltage
120 Volts

Power Source to Run The Metal Cutting Saw

When choosing the best metal cut-off saw, the first thing you need to consider is the power source. Generally, these types of saws come in three categories based on the power source.

  • It can be gas-powered: which basically runs on gasoline. Gas-powered models tend to be the most powerful and ideal for high-demanding projects.
  • Electricity-powered: which are known as the corded models. They tend to be quieter and lightweight than gas-powered models.
  • Cordless unit: which runs on rechargeable batteries. These ones are highly portable but possess less power.
Power Source To Run The Metal Cutting Saw by toolscritics

9 Best Metal Cutting Saw Reviews

Not every metal cutting saw out there is worth the purchase. Some are over-hyped, and they tend to disappoint when you get to use it for your projects. Nevertheless, here are 9 units you should consider getting.

1.  DEWALT DW872 Metal Cutting Saw.

DEWALT Metal Cutting Saw, 14-Inch Steel Blade (DW872)

Key-features.

  • Multi-Cutter Saw.
  • Specially designed carbide teeth.
  • Quick-lock vise allows for fast clamping.
  • Cuts 4 times faster than chop saws.
  • 15 amp, 4-horsepower motor.
  • Extra-wide solid steel base.

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What We Loved

  • Sturdy and durable housing.
  • Large cutting capacity both for round and rectangle.
  • Ergonomically designed horizontal handle for comfortable handling.
  • Powerful motor.
  • Adjustable 45-degrees quick-fence.
  • Reliable cutting speed.

What Could Be Better

  • Miter options are relatively limited

Dewalt dw872 Review

It is difficult to list some of the best metal cutting chop saws without covering one from DeWalt. We were impressed by the delivery of this saw, and we won’t fail to share our satisfaction with you.

Weighing around 47lbs, this saw doesn’t disappoint in terms of its performance. It comes with a carbide-tipped blade of 14 inches that allows you to handle your projects with ease. But what makes it functional enough is the powerful 4Hp 15 Amp motor. This motor is powerful enough to spin the blade at a no-load speed of 1,300RPM.

There is a patented 45-degree quick-fence that is adjustable to let you make fast and accurate angle cuts. You won’t need a wrench to do this.

Above all, there is a quick-lock vise that assures you of fast clamping on multiple size materials hence enhancing productivity.

Verdict

For those that don’t mind spending that extra dollar for a power tool, here is a good consideration for you. It is sturdy enough and can handle both ferrous and non-ferrous metals with ease. Best of all, it has one of the largest cutting capacities if that’s what you need.

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2.  DEWALT DW872 Metal Cutting Saw.

PORTER-CABLE Chop Saw, 15-Amp, 14-Inch (PCE700)

Key-features.

  • 14-inch blade size
  • 32lb weight
  • 15-amp motor
  • Heavy-duty steel base
  • Spark deflector onboard
  • 3800RPM no-load speed
  • Quick-release material clamp

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What We Loved

  • It’s a powerful tool for handling most projects
  • The sturdy steel base offers more stability
  • It comes with a spindle lock to make it easy to change blades
  • Offers a decent cutting capacity
  • 8ft cable length offers easy maneuverability

What Could Be Better

  • The back fence of the saw is made of low-quality materials

Overview

This is a customer’s choice metal cutting saw that would suit your needs if you wanted a chop saw. It is one model that offers excellent value for money. It is very affordable and it assures you of having an easy time when handling your projects.

With its powerful motor and excellent rotation speed, the saw can cut through most metal pieces with ease.

Besides that, the saw comes with an inbuilt spark deflector that will protect you from flying sparks. In other words, it keeps you safe from the sparks. You may not even need a face protector. There is also a quick-release clamp that gives you an easy time when working with it.

The cutting fence with a miter adjustment lets you adjust the miter angles up to 45 degrees.

Verdict – Who Should Buy It?

This best-rated metal cutting saw would suit anyone dealing with smaller projects and needs something easy to use. So, it would suit beginners and DIYers.

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3. Makita LC1230 12″ Metal Chop Saw

Makita LC1230 12' Metal Cutting Saw, Blue

Key-features.

  • D-shape handle With easy gripping
  • Lock-off button for user convenience
  • 4x faster cutting
  • Carbide-tipped blade lasts 50x longer
  • Powerful 15.0 AMP motor 
  • Power Source: Corded Electric

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What We Loved

  • Comes with a 12-inch durable carbide-tipped blade
  • D-shaped handle for better handling
  • Tool-less guide plate for adjusting the bevel
  • Shavings collection tray onboard
  • The lock-off button prevents accidental startups
  • Large cast aluminum base offers stability

What Could Be Better

  • Not the best choice for repeatable cuts
  • It might not perform well on hard metals

Overview

Our list kicks off with this metal chop saw from a reputable brand, Makita. The construction of this unit makes the cut with regard to its durability and overall performance.

This is a 12-inch saw that offers you power and user-friendliness. You can use it in multiple applications, including industrial metal-cutting. The saw comes with a 15amp motor that spins the blade at top speeds of 1,700RPM.

This means it offers you four times faster cutting for your projects. Besides that, there is a quick-release support fence for adjusting the saw between 0 and 45 degrees for miter cutting. In terms of the cutting depth, this fella offers you a maximum of 4-5 inches.

Verdict

If you want to work with the saw in intervals, you can easily make use of the lock-off button that prevents accidental starting. By the way, this saw comes in at 41.9lbs.

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4.  MILWAUKEE M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw

M18 Fuel Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool)

Key-features

  • 3,900RPM brushless motor
  • 2.25-inch cut capacity
  • 8-inch blade
  • Overload indicator light
  • 12.1lbs weight
  • Onboard chip collection

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What We Loved

  • Excellent power for handling tough jobs.
  • Highly-responsive electric blade brake for safety.
  • Comes with an overload light.
  • Integrated hang hook for easy storage.
  • Tool body blade line cover guides the cuts.
  • Cold cuts to enhance your work productivity.

What Could Be Better

  • Some users thought it was slightly heavy.

Overview

The first thing to take note of about this best metal cutting circular saw is the fact that it comes with a powerful brushless motor. You will be getting a massive 3,900RPMs that assure you fast metal cutting. It is also designed to serve for a long time while delivering the best performance.

By the way, the saw comes with a Red-link Plus Intelligence that helps to maximize the performance while protecting the unit from an overload, over-discharge, or overheating.

There is a dual-action trigger that helps to make work easier for you as you work through your projects. With the onboard chip collection, you can be sure of a clean workspace, which then lets you make accurate cuts.

We loved the fact that it comes with an integrated hang hook that lets you hang it on ladders, or other common materials to prevent it from dropping.

Verdict

This would be a good pick if you are looking for a saw that packs excellent power to handle your projects. The battery life is decently long, but it is slightly heavy, which should be expected for a heavy-duty model.

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5.  Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380

Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380 15-Inch Steel Cutting Chop Saw , Blue

Key-features.

  • Cuts steel plate, square tube, angle iron, pipe, tube & metal roofing.
  • Virtually no heat, burrs/sparks.
  • Hi-torque gearbox.
  • Cut Steel, Stainless Steel, Thin Steel and Aluminum.

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What We Loved

  • It makes cuts with minimal heat or sparks.
  • Durable blade life if used for mild metal.
  • Chip deflection shield protects you from the chips.
  • A pull-out collection tray allows you to dispose of the metal chips when working on your project.
  • It is compatible with multiple blades.
  • 0-45 degree adjustable vice for miter cuts.

What Could Be Better

  • Adjusting the miter blade can be challenging.

Overview

If you need the best steel chop saw for dry metal cutting, this would be a good pick for you. This fella can easily cut metal with minimal sparks or heat. Better yet, you won’t require a coolant for this.

The construction of this saw makes it a good choice too. It comes in at 55lbs and assures you of excellent performance on your projects. The motor on this fella is rated at 15amp and it comes with a high-torque gearbox. The gearbox is meant to reduce the load and improve the steel cutting performance.

There is a heavy-duty cast aluminum base that assures you of industrial metal cutting. The 14-inch blade on this saw is ideal for mild metal, and it can take around 1,000 cuts in 2 by 2 inches mild steel materials.

A quick-release vice is also onboard for quick and secure clamping of different industrial metal materials. This means you can make miter cuts of between 0 and 45 degrees.

Verdict

If you want a saw that can do dry metal cutting with minimal heat and sparks, this would be the best dry cut metal chop saw, this fella can serve you perfectly. Even though the price is a little high, we thought it is worth every penny.

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6.  DEWALT D28710 14-Inch Metal Cutting Saw.

DEWALT Chop Saw, 14-Inch (D28710)

Key-features.

  • On-board wheel change wrench.
  • 45-degree pivoting fence.
  • High performance aluminum oxide grain wheels.
  • Compression spring provides smoother movement.
  • Tool length 18-3/16 IN.

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What We Loved

  • Comes with a decent and durable design.
  • It is cheaper than most metal cutting saws.
  • Quick-lock vise offers material clamping and releasing for user safety.
  • Spindle lock lets you change a wheel with ease.
  • Aluminum oxide grain wheel lets you make accurate and smooth cuts.
  • Reliable round and rectangular cuts.

What Could Be Better

  • You might experience smokes and sparks when using it.
  • It doesn’t support a toothed blade.

Overview

If you are on a tight budget and you also want the best tool to cut metal, this one would be a good pick for you.

Even with its low price point, this saw comes with a 15amp, 4HP motor that can deliver the ideal speed for your project. With this motor, you can be sure of getting top speeds of 3,800RPM. The saw comes with a 1-inch arbor, and it can deliver cutting of 5-inch for round and 4-3/4 by 5-1/8inch rectangular stocks.

We loved that the saw comes with a spindle lock that allows you to make quick changes of the wheel. Speaking of the wheel, this one comes with a 14 by 1-inch wheel onboard. The onboard wheel change wrench lets you store the saw conveniently.

You’ll enjoy the ergonomically designed D-shaped handle that offers more comfort when handling it. In turn, this will help to reduce when you are working on your projects. Keep in mind that the saw comes with high-performance aluminum oxide grain wheels for extra reliability and durability.

Verdict

We can recommend this saw for someone on a tight budget but want a reliable saw for their DIY projects at home. It might not be the best choice for high-demanding projects, but it is not that bad of a choice for mild projects.

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7.  Evolution Power Tools RAGE4

Evolution Power Tools RAGE4 7-1/4-Inch TCT Multipurpose Cutting Chop Saw

Key-features.

  • No heat build up when cutting steel.
  • Multi-Material cutting technology.
  • cuts mild steel with ready-to-weld.
  • A robust, durable base.
  • Chip guard & dust extraction port added.

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What We Loved

  • Compact and portable.
  • Sturdy design.
  • Cuts with minimal sparks and heat buildup.
  • It features a fast action swivel clamp for making 45-degree cuts with ease.
  • Comes with an inbuilt anti-kickback system.
  • It comes at a friendly price point.

What Could Be Better

  • It might not be the best for using it on hard metals.
  • The blade might be too small for thick materials.

Overview

This is a good carbide chop saw that would suit you if you consider one that doesn’t heat up your workpieces. You won’t need coolant when using this saw.

The saw is also compact and very portable. It comes in at 19lbs, making it the lightest on the list. You won’t have a problem carrying it around. Even with its lightweight, this saw comes with a high-quality construction that assures you of sturdiness and durability.

It comes with a 7.25-inch blade that can help you with your projects. You can use it to cut ferrous metals and other non-ferrous metals with ease. Oh, and you can also use it for your wood, lumber, plastic, composite, and other materials.

The ease of use of this saw makes it one of the best out there. It comes with a patented blade that is designed to reduce sparks and heat build-up. Best of all, it comes at a very friendly price tag if you compare it to other best compound miter saw out there.

You can use it to make 0 to 45 degrees angled cuts with ease.

Verdict

This happens to be the lightest and most compact saw on our list. The price point is also friendly enough that you won’t have to break the bank to get it. It would be the best pick for light DIY projects at home.

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8.  DEWALT D28715 Metal Cutting Saw

DEWALT Chop Saw, Quick-Change, 14-Inch, Old Model (D28715)

Key-features.

  • Easily accessible brushes.
  • Powerful 15 amp/5.5 HP motor.
  • Ergonomically designed “D” handle.
  • Heavy-duty, lock-down pin.
  • Adjustable spark guard.

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What We Loved

  • Powerful saw for high-demanding metal projects.
  • D-shaped handle for comfortable handling and better productivity.
  • Large cutting capacity.
  • Delivers no-load speeds of 4,000RPM.
  • Arm’s compression spring offers smooth movement.
  • Adjustable spark guard to protect you from the sparks.
  • Heavy-duty lock-down pin lets you lock the saw head in the carrying position.

What Could Be Better

  • It is somewhat choosy in terms of the blades you use.
  • It doesn’t come with cool down features.

Overview

Here is another top DeWalt metal cutting saw that we thought would be a good pick for the high-demanding projects.

The saw weighs in at around 45lbs, and it comes with one of the highest no-load speeds. The 15amp 5.5HP motor on this one delivers no-load speeds of 4,000RPM. That is the highest on the list. So, this would be the best saw to choose for those high-demanding projects.

Furthermore, this saw comes with a quick-lock vise that lets you clamp on different size materials with ease. We loved the soft start that extends the motor and gear life of the saw. When it comes to using this saw, you will have an easy time, thanks to the ergonomically designed handle. The D-shaped handle lets you control the saw comfortably and with minimal fatigue.

Verdict

What can we say? This would be the best choice for those looking for a sturdy and powerful metal cutting saw. The best part is that the price tag isn’t that bad. It is typically the best choice for a value for the money model.

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9.  Evolution Power Tools RAGE2.

Evolution Power Tools RAGE2 Multi Purpose Cutting Chop Saw, 14-Inch

Key-features.

  • Ideal One saw, one blade, cuts all.
  • Fast action vise clamp.
  • Sturdy pressed-steel base.
  • Rubber adjustable feet.
  • Clean & consistent smooth cuts.

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What We Loved

  • Multipurpose saw.
  • Works with minimal sparks or burrs.
  • Comes at a good price.
  • It doesn’t heat up the material.
  • Comes with a fast-action swivel clamping mechanism.

What Could Be Better

  • Square cuts might not be very perfect.
  • Not the best choice for high-demanding projects.

Evolution Metal Cutting Saw Review

Last but not least, is the RAGE2 metal cutting saw from Evolution Power Tools. One thing that makes this saw a top choice is a technology onboard.

This one comes with a 14-inch 36-tooth TCT blade that will cut through wood, steel, and aluminum with ease. The steel cutting saw comes with multipurpose cutting technology. With this, you can be sure of cutting just about any other material out there.

You can cut through 6mm mild steel with no heat or burrs. Furthermore, you won’t experience sparks with this saw. There is a fast-action swivel clamping mechanism that lets you make 0 to 5 degrees miter cuts. Don’t forget that this one also comes with a high-torque motor gearbox that cuts down the motor stresses and enhances the durability and performance.

We also have to mention that this unit comes with a 15amp motor that offers you no-load speeds of 1450RPM. So, that makes it a good choice for light projects at home.

Verdict

This would be a good choice for those looking for a reliable steel-cutting saw that doesn’t cost much. If you are using this for mild metal that is not so high-demanding, you’ll be satisfied with its delivery.

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Types of Metal Cutting Saw

Besides the type of metal saw based on the power source, they also differ in terms of functions. Here are the common types of metal cutting saws;

Types Of Metal Cutting Saw
  1. Chop metal saw: If you are looking for a reliable saw to cut metals in the least time, the chop metal saw would be a good pick. This is a good choice for making straight and bevel cuts with ease and precision.
  2. Circular metal saw: This model is small and comes with a portable design. It will run with a heat-treated alloy blade or an abrasive disc blade. The blade runs in a rotating motion and you can use this circular saw to cut long and lengthy slices in metal materials.
  3. Reciprocating metal saw: This saw comes with a blade moving in back and forth motions. With this unit, this type of reciprocating saw is best used for demolition projects.
  4. Band metal saw: With the band saw, its blade run horizontally to make quick and easy cuts through metal pipes and other long, heavy models.

Factors To Consider Before Choosing The Best Metal Cutting Saw

Even with the dry-cut metal saw reviews, we have given you, it is important to know how to choose one accordingly. It is not about choosing the most popular, but rather choosing the one that serves you as you want. That being said, here are the top factors you should consider when choosing a good metal cutting saw;

Saw/Blade Size 

First off, you need to consider how big the saw is and the size of the cut it can make. This means that you also have to consider the size of the blade on it. Generally, dry chop saws come in different sizes. If you want one that can easily handle light-duty DIY projects, a 12-inch blade or less should be enough.

But if you will be handling high-demanding industrial applications, go for a saw with at least a 14 inches blade. Generally, consider your project needs when choosing the size of the blade.

Motor/Speed

You also need to consider the motor of the saw when choosing one. The motor should be related to the no-load or highest speed that the saw can deliver. Here, you need to consider what you need and what is best for your project.

For the sold materials, it is recommended to go for the motor that has speeds of more than 3,000RPM. On the other hand, choose a motor with speeds less than 3,000RPM if you will be working on hard metals.

Generally, soft and mild metals are best handled by saws that have high speeds. But low-speed machines are perfect for hard metals. So, choose wisely.

Always remember to keep the speed on the lower side to enhance the result and assure you of safe operation.

Angle Cuts

No matter what cuts you will be making on your projects, you are more likely to make angled cut once or even severally.

In most cases, you will find some of the best metal chop saws that comes with adjustable gauge and tilt abilities. This will let you make angled cuts of up to 45 degrees.

Don’t forget about the safety of the saw and how easy it is to use it. It is important to choose a saw that comes from a reputable brand and one that falls in your budget bracket accordingly.

Metal Cutting Saw – Safety Tips

Whenever you are using a metal cutting saw, or any other saw, you should always observe the necessary safety precautions. Here are some of the safety tips to apply;

  • Always turn off and unplug the saw when not in use.
  • Check the cords for any damage before you start using the saw.
  • Wear the necessary safety gears including gloves, goggles, and earmuffs.
  • You can watch the video to learn more about how to cut metal with a metal cutting chop saw.

FAQs

Q. What Saw Cuts Through metal?

Ans. Above in this article of the metal chop saw reviews we tried to give you what you needed most, Typically, a standard, circular saw can easily make straight cuts through metal. But the main issue is to get a saw that has the right blade to cut through the metal materials accordingly. Ensure that you choose a carbide-tipped blade to help you have an easy time cutting through the metal materials.

Q. Miter Saw Vs. Chop Saw – What’s The Difference?

Ans. These two types of saws have some similarities. However, their main difference lies in the cutting ability. A chop saw will cut angles at 90 degrees and it tends to be large in size. They are also more powerful than the miter saw. But with the miter saw, they can cut not only angled cuts, but also bevel and compound cuts. Generally, a miter saw surpasses the chop saw in terms of versatility.

Q. What is a Dry Cut Metal Saw?

Ans. This is a specific type of saw that is meant to make quick and precise cuts on metal pieces at a particular angle. It is also known as miter or drop saw. But if you need to make a hole on a metal or steel you must have to buy best hole saw for stainless steel. It will ensure a clean working experience ever.

Q. Can I Cut Metal with a Chop Saw?

Ans. Yes, you can use a chops saw to cut through aluminum shapes and trim.

Q. What Saw is Best for Cutting Metal?

Ans. A circular saw is the best choice for cutting metal. However, you must ensure that it comes with the right carbide-tipped blade to help you with your metal workpieces.

Conclusion

So, we know believe you can sort the right metal cutting power tools out there and choose the best metal cutting saw for you. Remember to consider the project needs and relate them to your preferences. Always go for a durable and full-featured saw when picking one. Don’t forget to observe the safety precautions at all times.

2 thoughts on “9 Best Metal Cutting Saws –2023 [ Which One to Buy? ]”

  1. Wow, great review is this about metal cutting saw. Really you have described their features very well. Good job

    Reply

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