Milwaukee 6394-21

The 15-amp Milwaukee 6394-21 is recommended in several comparison reviews as the best corded 7.25-inch circular saw. Reviewers praise the Milwaukee for smooth, accurate cuts, easy adjustments, sturdy construction and excellent balance and comfort. It has an electric brake for safety, a Quik-Lok cord attachment and onboard blade-wrench storage. The Tilt-Lok handle adjusts to keep the saw balanced, and a front handle provides extra control. The saw can bevel up to 50 degrees, useful in many remodeling and construction projects. It comes with a soft case and carries a five-year warranty. If you use a circular saw infrequently, however, consider the less powerful and much less expensive Craftsman 10871 (*est. $70).

We found the most recent review of the Milwaukee 6394-21 circular saw at Tools of the Trade magazine, where it's field tested in comparison with 15 other models. Earlier comparison tests at Popular Mechanics and the Journal of Light Construction also include this saw. The similar Milwaukee 6390-21, which lacks the blade brake, is covered in comparison reviews at Consumer Reports, Taunton's 2006 Tool Guide and Wood Magazine. We also found over 50 owner-written reviews at Amazon.com -- useful because many cover months or years of use.