Best Saw to Cut 4×4 (Reviews and Buying Guide-2022)

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Planning to cut through a 4×4 piece of wood? Well, you might be surprised with the limited options available in the market. Even then, choosing the best saw to cut 4×4 will not be a walk in the park. You are likely to find yourself at cross paths as all the available models promise to deliver the desired results.

In this article we hope to ease your decision making process as you gear towards owning the right saw. Besides, we hope we will answer some of the questions that may have been bugging you. While all the products have their unique features, the Dewalt 7-1/4” circular saw happens to be my favorite. Its compact design and lightweight makes it easy to handle. Despite its small size, it is a powerful saw that is able to generate up to 5,100 revolutions per minute making your work fast and precise.

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Top 03 Best Saw to Cut 4×4 Reviews and Buying Guide

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Product-01: Makita 16-5/16” Circular Saw W/Electric Brake

Salient Features

  • Amps: 15 amps
  • Max Watts Out: 1800 watts
  • No Load Speed: 2,300 RPM
  • Bevel Capacity: 45 degrees
  • Bevel Stops: 0 and 45 degrees
  • Electric Brake: Yes
  • Blade Diameter: 16-5/16 inches
  • Depth of Cut at 90 degrees: 6-1/4″
  • Depth of Cut at 45 degrees: 4-3/16″
  • Tool Weight: 28.7 pounds



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Made in the United States, Makita Circular Saw weighs only 28.7 pounds and measures 24-1/4 inches long. Its compact design makes it easy to operate and handle. Upon delivery, you should find three essential items inside the box; a 32 tooth blade made of carbide, a Hex Wrench #6, a saw storage holder and a Rip fence.

Its large capacity blade cut differently depending on the angle you use. At right angle it cuts 6-1/4” in a single pass and 4-3/16” when inclined at 45 degrees. It is powered by a powerful 15 Amp motor that allows it to cut through even the hardest of lumber.

The shaft lock allows you to quickly change its blade without the need of extra tools. The blades are made of carbide which is durable, rust resistant and easy to clean. To ensure an amazing cutting experience that is incident free, Makita saw features a blade stabilizer which maintains a stable blade rotation.

When holding the handle of this saw, you could not be more comfortable. The grip is great and your hands are protected against sores. Your neighbors do not have to knock on your door every time you are working. Makita produces only about 87dB of noise which is not enough to wake even the lightest of sleepers.

Another unique feature that makes it easy to operate is its electric brakes that further increases on its productivity. Makita Company has been developing power tools for many years now. They are reputable for their high quality products that are affordable and easy to use.

Pros:

  • 1 year warranty
  • Affordable
  • Quite operation
  • Comfortable handle
  • Durable
  • Easy to operate

Cons:

  • Requires experience
  • Power is required to operate

Product 2: Skilsaw SPT70V-11 Super Sawsquatch 16-5/16” Worm Drive Circular Saw

Salient Features

  • Amps: 15 amps
  • Max Watts Out: 1800 watts
  • No Load Speed: 2,500 RPM
  • Bevel Capacity: 45 degrees
  • Bevel Stops: 0 and 45 degrees
  • Electric Brake: Yes
  • Blade Diameter: 16-5/16 inches
  • Depth of Cut at 90 degrees: 6-1/4″
  • Depth of Cut at 45 degrees: 4-5/16″
  • Tool Weight: 48  pounds



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Items included in the package during delivery are; a saw stand, a 32 tooth 16-5/16” carbide blade, an auxiliary handle, a multi-purpose wrench and the Super Sawsquatch Worm Drive Saw. All that you need to get the saw running is included saving you the hustle of going to make extra purchases. Also saves you money.

The Super Sawaquatch Worm Drive Circular Saw allows you to cut through the toughest of materials with ease. Whatever type of cut you want, this saw by Skilsaw promises to deliver. Placed flat on the working surface, this saw can cut through 6x with a single cut.

This handheld saw features a magnesium plated blade that guarantees you straight clean cuts every time. The magnesium coating prolongs its durability, is rust free and cleaning could not have been any easier.

Its compact design and 27.3 pounds makes it easy to carry around as well as easy to maneuver during use. Its 120 inches long cord gives you the flexibility of moving about your work surface with no restrictions. Even though, the long cord could easily tangle quickly becoming a headache.

It is powered by a 15 Amp double field motor, further improving its efficiency. You will be able to cut through the thickest of woods with little or no effort at all. An electric brake that automatically stops the blades adds to its convenience.

Pros:

  • 1 year warranty
  • Durable
  • Easy to handle
  • Long cord for flexibility
  • Light

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Requires electricity to operate

Product 3: Dewalt 7-1/4 inch Circular Saw with Electric Brake

Salient Features

  • Amps: 15 amps
  • Max Watts Out: 1950 watts
  • No Load Speed: 5200 rpm
  • Bevel Capacity: 57 degrees
  • Bevel Stops: 22.5 and 45 degrees
  • Electric Brake: Yes
  • Blade Diameter: 7-1/4 inches
  • Depth of Cut at 90 degrees: 2.55 inches
  • Depth of Cut at 45 degrees: 1.9 inches
  • Tool Weight: 8.8 pounds



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The Dewalt Circular Saw weighs 8.8 pounds and measures 7.2 inches long making it the lightest circular saw. You can conveniently carry it around and use it with ease.

Its small size may deceive you into thinking it is not worth your time. However, a closer look at its properties will have you disregarding this misconception. It is a powerful small tool that is capable of making 5,100 revolutions per minute. It cuts through wood fast saving you time.

Its 7-1/4 inches circular saw blade can cut at different depths depending on the inclination of the saw. You can cut up to 2.55” deep when inclined at right angle while at 45 degrees you can only cut up to 1.9” deep.

Your package should contain the following: a blade wrench, two 7-1/4” circular saw blades – a plain one and the other that is carbide tipped, an instruction manual and a good quality storage bag. All accessories you need are provided by the manufacturer, saving you money. Storage is also made easier.

Of course you are not planning on purchasing another saw anytime soon. Dewalt circular saw prolongs its life by incorporating several features. To protect against cord pull outs during use, Dewalt has utilized the Tough Cord cord system.

Its ergonomic handle strengthens your grip making it almost impossible for the saw to slip from your hands during use. Cutting through wood has never been any easier. This Circular Saw features an integrated dust blower that cleans the area you are about to cut for enhanced visualization.

Pros:

  • Portable
  • Easy to handle
  • Durable
  • Affordable
  • Easy storage
  • Auto dust blower

Cons:

  • No warranty
  • Requires power to function

Which Saw is right for you to cut 4×4

As is rule, saws are available in different types and sizes, each more suitable for one purpose than the other. Saws sporting the 7-1/4” blade cut 2-1/2” deep at right angle and slightly less when inclined. The 6-1/2” blade cuts a maximum depth of 2-1/8”.

This means that these two blades cannot cut through a 4×4 in one pass. You will have to make several cuts, which may compromise on the quality of your cut. If not, you can consider other options including the beam saw or fitting your saw with a larger blade.

How to Cut 4×4 Using a Normal Sized Circular Saw ?

When using a normal sized circular saw to cut through a 4×4, you will have to make several passes which could interfere with the quality of your cut. To ensure this does not happen, here are a few steps you could follow.

Step-01

Besides the circular saw and its blade, ensure you have a speed square and a pencil. Start by securing your work piece into position. Measure and mark where you intend to cut. Using the speed square, mark on all sides of the post ensuring the lines coincide at right angle.

Step-02

With the blade at 900 to the shoe plate, make your first pass. Turn the work piece 450 and make another pass. Turn and repeat until you attain a notch which will guide you where the blade will pass. Follow the lines accurately and you will achieve a clean cut.

What is the Best Circular Saw Blade Size to Cut a 4×4?

As already mentioned, the 7-1/4” blade and the 6-1/2” cut maximum depths of 2-1/2” and 2-1/8” respectively. The 10-1/4” blade cuts a depth of 3-13/16” while the 12” blade has a maximum cut depth of 4”.

Despite its said cut depth, the 12” blade barely makes a clean 4” deep cut in one pass. You may consider fitting your saw with a larger blade, though this could pose problems. For starters, you may find it difficult to fit the two. The larger blade is heavier and you will not be able to ensure the blade stays in position all the time.

Why Beam Saws are the Best to Cut 4×4 Lumber?

Beam saws are a new type of circular saws that have been recently introduced into the market. Makita and Skilsaw were the first to launch beam saws. They are heavy, with the lightest weighing 27 pounds, due to their huge 16-3/16” blade and huge motor.

Their size makes them ideal for effortlessly cutting through 4×4, saving you time and energy. They are specially designed for huge pieces of lumber, therefore you do not have to be worried about your safety. Besides, they can still be used on small woods.

Conclusion

By now you may have already realized there are aren’t many options to choose from when planning to cut through a 4×4. Still, you may find yourself confused when trying to choose the best saw to cut 4×4.

Cutting through a 4×4 is not a task you carry out often, unless you are a professional. Therefore, if it is a onetime thing, you can use your usual circular blade and make several passes or you can purchase a larger blade and fit it into your old saw. Safety is not assured and you will definitely take longer and use more energy.

Those that regularly have to cut 4×4 should consider buying a good quality saw that will be able to make a 4” deep cut in one pass. It saves you time, energy and protects you against unnecessary injury.

FAQ’s

[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”How do you cut a 4×4 angle?” answer-0=”Assemble the tools you will require, including safety gear. A miter saw will be most appropriate for this task. Set the piece of wood in the miter box and hold it in position. Place the saw in position and start cutting without rushing. The miter saw is sharp giving you precise cuts. Place next piece of wood in the miter box and immediately insert the saws so you can obtain an angle similar to the previous one. ” image-0=”” headline-1=”h3″ question-1=”How do you cut a notch in a 4×4?” answer-1=”Many may find it intimidating to try and cut a notch on wood. I am here to assure you it is a very simple task. Before you start working assemble the following tools; hammer, chisel, saw, workbench, vise, safety googles, cloves, pencil and a set square. Start by measuring the notch and marking it on your wood. Put on your gloves and safety googles. Using a hand saw, start cutting along the line you have marked until you attain the right depth. Do the same for the other vertical line. Using your hammer and chisel, remove the wood in the middle of your notch. Carefully clean up the notch by removing any additional wood present. Your notch is now ready to be fitted with its wood partner. ” image-1=”” headline-2=”h3″ question-2=”How do you cut a 4×4 fence post? ” answer-2=”You will require the following tools measuring tape, speed square, pencil/chalk and a circular saw. Also ensure you protect yourself from falling wood/metal pieces. Measure and mark to the desired height. Mark on all the four sides, ensuring the lines coincide. Align the blade of your saw with the front mark and cut through as deep as possible, usually not more than 2-1/2”. Remove the saw and reposition it on the opposite side of the post. Cut through again until the top falls off. If you are not able to cut through the post using two cuts, you can cut through again from the 3rd side. ” image-2=”” headline-3=”h3″ question-3=”How do I combine two 4×4 posts? ” answer-3=”After assembling the tools you will require, mark where you want to install the lag screws on the face of the post. Ensure they are evenly spaced. Three are enough, though four will be best if the post is more than 6ft tall. With your 3/8” drill bit, drill holes through the marks you just made. Align the post you just drilled with the post you intend to pair it with. Drill through the hole on the drilled post to help mark where you should make your mark on the next post. Separate the posts and wrap tape 3” from the end of your drill bit. Drill through the marks you have made until the tape reaches the hole. Align the posts once more, and insert a lag screw into one of the openings. Screw it into position using the socket wrench. ” image-3=”” count=”4″ html=”true” css_class=””]

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