Circular saws are a staple tool for any woodworker or DIY enthusiast. They are versatile, powerful, and can make quick work of even the toughest materials.
But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. For many Americans, buying products made in the USA is a top priority. It supports local businesses and helps keep jobs in the country.
So, the question remains: are any circular saws made in the USA?
In this article, we will explore the history of circular saw manufacturing in the USA and take a closer look at some of the top brands that produce circular saws domestically.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a weekend warrior, this guide will help you make an informed decision when it comes to buying a circular saw made in the USA.
Are Any Circular Saws Made In Usa
The short answer is yes, there are circular saws made in the USA. In fact, some of the top brands in the industry have a long history of manufacturing their tools domestically.
One such brand is Lenox Tools, which began as the “American Saw and Manufacturing Company” in 1915. Today, they design, test, and manufacture their products in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts using global materials.
Another brand that produces circular saws in the USA is DeWalt. While they are part of the larger SBD company, DeWalt still manufactures some of their tools domestically. Their 20V Max 6-1/2” Cordless Circular Saw is one example of a circular saw made in the USA.
Milwaukee is another popular brand that produces circular saws domestically. Their M18 Cordless Circular Saw is made in the USA and boasts a maximum speed of 5,800 RPM.
While these brands may not produce all of their circular saws domestically, they do offer options for those who prioritize buying American-made products.
The History Of Circular Saw Manufacturing In The USA
Circular saws have a long history of manufacturing in the United States. Philadelphia was one of the nation’s foremost saw manufacturing centers for much of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Large-scale saw making began locally in the early nineteenth century, and by midcentury, a number of major saw manufacturers operated in the city, including the world’s largest, Henry Disston’s Keystone Saw Works. Disston created a unique company town around his saw works and joined other industrialists in making Philadelphia one of the world’s premiere manufacturing cities.
Saw making remained strong through the mid-twentieth century, after which it went into decline, part of a broader deindustrialization of the region. William Rowland established the nation’s first large-scale, long-running saw factory in Philadelphia in 1804. By the 1820s, Rowland had moved to Filbert Street between Seventh and Eighth Streets, where he employed twenty workers and made saws that the Franklin Institute recognized for their excellence. In 1845 Rowland began making his own steel, and by the mid-1850s he had fifty workers and was producing two hundred saws daily.
Today, some brands continue to manufacture circular saws domestically. Lenox Tools, DeWalt, and Milwaukee are just a few examples of companies that design, test, and manufacture their products in the United States using global materials. While not all of their circular saws are made domestically, they offer options for those who prioritize buying American-made products.
Top Brands That Produce Circular Saws Domestically
If you are looking for circular saws made in the USA, there are several top brands to consider. Here are a few:
1. Lenox Tools – This brand has a long history of producing high-quality tools domestically. Their circular saws are designed, tested, and manufactured in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts using global materials.
2. DeWalt – While DeWalt is part of a larger company, they still produce some of their tools domestically. Their 20V Max 6-1/2” Cordless Circular Saw is an example of a circular saw made in the USA.
3. Milwaukee – Milwaukee is another popular brand that produces circular saws domestically. Their M18 Cordless Circular Saw is made in the USA and boasts a maximum speed of 5,800 RPM.
4. American Carbide Tool – This brand specializes in precision and standard cutting tools, including circular saw blades. All of their products are made in Canton, Ohio.
5. Whiteside Machine Co. – This brand manufactures a complete line of solid carbide and carbide-tipped router bits for woodworking needs. All of their products are made in Claremont, North Carolina.
These are just a few examples of top brands that produce circular saws domestically. While not all of their products may be made in the USA, they do offer options for those who prioritize buying American-made products.
Advantages Of Buying A Circular Saw Made In The USA
There are several advantages to buying a circular saw made in the USA. Firstly, it supports the American economy and helps to create jobs domestically. By purchasing tools made in the USA, consumers can feel good about supporting local businesses and contributing to the growth of their own communities.
Additionally, circular saws made in the USA are often of higher quality and more durable than those made overseas. This is because they are subject to strict manufacturing standards and regulations that ensure they meet certain safety and performance requirements. As a result, consumers can expect their American-made circular saws to last longer and perform better than cheaper imports.
Furthermore, purchasing a circular saw made in the USA means that consumers can have greater confidence in the product’s reliability and safety. They can rest assured that the tool has been rigorously tested and inspected before it reaches their hands, reducing the risk of accidents or malfunctions.
Finally, buying an American-made circular saw can also provide peace of mind when it comes to customer service and support. Domestic manufacturers often have better customer service policies and warranties than overseas companies, meaning that consumers can trust that they will be taken care of if something goes wrong with their tool.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Circular Saw
When choosing a circular saw, there are several factors to consider. These factors can affect the safety, versatility, and durability of the saw, as well as its ability to meet your specific woodworking needs.
Firstly, power is an important consideration. The power of a circular saw is measured in amps or volts, and higher power generally means faster and smoother cuts. However, higher power also means a heavier saw and potentially more difficult handling.
Corded vs cordless is another factor to consider. Corded saws provide consistent power but limit mobility, while cordless saws offer more freedom but have limited battery life and lower power output.
Weight of the saw is also important. A heavier saw can be more difficult to maneuver over long periods of time, while a lighter saw may lack the necessary power for certain cuts.
Blade size and depth of cut are also important considerations. Blade size affects the cutting capacity of the saw, while depth of cut determines how deep the saw can cut into the material.
Bevel stops and max angle are features that allow for angled cuts, which can add versatility to your woodworking projects.
Quality construction is important for durability and longevity of the saw. Look for materials such as magnesium that are both strong and lightweight.
The shoe of the saw should be flat and set parallel to the blade for accurate cuts, while a retracting lower blade guard improves safety by covering the blade when not in use.
Other features such as length of cord, carrying/storage case, dust collection port, and electric brake can also be important considerations depending on your specific needs.
Conclusion: Making An Informed Decision When Buying A Circular Saw Made In The USA
When it comes to buying a circular saw made in the USA, there are a few factors to consider. First, it’s important to determine what features and specifications are necessary for your specific needs. Consider the type of work you will be doing and the materials you will be cutting. This will help you determine the power and blade size you require.
Next, research the brands that manufacture circular saws in the USA. Lenox Tools, DeWalt, and Milwaukee are just a few examples. Look into their product lines and read reviews from other users to get a sense of the quality of their tools.
Price is another important factor to consider. American-made circular saws may come with a higher price tag than imported models, but they often offer superior quality and durability. Determine your budget and decide how much you are willing to invest in a high-quality tool.
Lastly, consider the warranty and customer service offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case of any defects or malfunctions.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can make an informed decision when buying a circular saw made in the USA that meets your specific needs and budget.