Best Chop Saw Reviews and Top Guide

A chop saw makes fast, square cuts in metal tubing, pipe, angle iron, and studs. There are two main types: high-speed abrasive saws and slower toothed "dry-cut" or cold saws.

This post reviews nine options, from 14-inch abrasive saws to carbide-blade metal saws and one gas power cutter, plus a buying guide and safety basics.

OUR TOP PICK

The Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380 Chop Saw is our top pick for cutting steel. Its carbide-tipped blade cuts with far fewer sparks than an abrasive wheel and leaves cleaner, cooler cuts.

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The Best Chop Saws Are:

Product	Details
1.Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380 (Best Metal Chop Saw)	1.Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380 (Best Metal Chop Saw)	- 55 pounds - 21 x 13.5 x 26 inches - Corded electric - Steel - 120 volts	Check Current Price
2.DEWALT DW872 14-Inch	2.DEWALT DW872 14-Inch	- 55 pounds - 24 x 15.2 x 18.5 inches - Corded electric - 4 HP - 1,300 RPM - 120 volts	Check Current Price
3.Husqvarna 967181002 K760 II	3.Husqvarna 967181002 K760 II	- 24 pounds - 24 x 12 x 12 inches - Gas-powered - 14 inches	Check Current Price
4.PORTER-CABLE PCE700	4.PORTER-CABLE PCE700	- 32 pounds - 22.7 x 14 x 17.1 inches - Electric powered - 14 inches - 3,800 RPM	Check Current Price
5.Jancy Slugger MCCS14 Chop Saw	5.Jancy Slugger MCCS14 Chop Saw	- 54pounds - 14-inches - Electric powered - 60 - 1,300 RPM	Check Current Price
6.DEWALT D28715 Quick-Change	6.DEWALT D28715 Quick-Change	- 45 pounds - 24 x 15 x 16.5 inches - Electric powered - 14 inches - 4,000 RPM	Check Current Price
7.Makita LC1230	7.Makita LC1230	- 42.5 pounds - 13.8 x 22.6 x 17.3 inches - Electric powered - 12 inches - 1,700 RPM	Check Current Price
8.MK Morse CSM14MB Chop Saw	8.MK Morse CSM14MB Chop Saw	- 53 pounds - 22 x 18.5 x 14 inches - Electric powered - 14 inches - 1,300 RPM	Check Current Price
9.Bosch 3814 Abrasive	9.Bosch 3814 Abrasive	- 46.6 pounds - 24.6 x 17.6 x 13 inches - Electric powered - 14 inches - 3,900 RPM	Check Current Price

1. Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380 (Best Metal Chop Saw)

The Evolution EVOSAW380 is a 14-inch dry-cut metal saw with a 15-amp motor. It is our top pick for cutting steel.

It cuts dry, with no coolant, using a slow-turning carbide-tipped blade. That produces far fewer sparks than an abrasive wheel, and the cut piece stays much cooler. Still wear eye and face protection, since hot chips fly.

The heavy base keeps it stable when cutting steel. The quick-release vise holds the work and can be angled for miter cuts.

It takes some practice to learn the right feed pressure, since forcing a carbide blade can chip the teeth.

Specs

• 55 pounds
• 21 x 13.5 x 26 inches
• Corded electric
• Steel
• 120 volts

Pros

• Comes with a carefully positioned trash tray for collecting metal chips.
• Cuts mild steel and other metals with the right blade.
• Replacing different parts, especially the blade, is easy. This means less downtime when working in your workshop.

Cons

• The supplied 14-inch cutting blade is not of extraordinary quality. However, you can easily replace it.

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2. DEWALT DW872 14-Inch (Runner-Up)

The DEWALT DW872 is a 14-inch multi-cutter saw for pros who cut metal every day. Like our top pick, it is a slow-speed carbide-blade saw, not an abrasive chop saw.

Its 14-inch carbide-tipped 66-tooth blade runs at 1,300 RPM on a 15-amp, 4 HP motor. It cuts ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

The horizontal handle keeps your wrist in a comfortable position. The wide steel base is stable, and pre-drilled holes let you bolt it to a bench.

It is heavy, which helps stability but makes it a chore to carry.

Specs

• 55 pounds
• 24 x 15.2 x 18.5 inches
• Corded electric
• 4HP
• 120 volts

Pros

• DEWALT says it cuts angle iron about four times faster than an abrasive chop saw.
• The carbide blade lasts far longer than abrasive wheels, which lowers cost per cut.
• The adjustable Quick-Fence sets angle cuts up to 45 degrees.
• 3-year limited warranty.

Cons

• The chop saw is not suitable for working in areas with no power supply.

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3. Husqvarna 967181002 K760 II (Best Gas Chop Saw)

The Husqvarna K760 II is different from the other saws here. It is a handheld, gas-powered 14-inch power cutter, not a bench-mounted chop saw. It suits job sites with no power.

Its engine produces about 5 HP, and at around 24 pounds you can carry it anywhere. It is mainly used to cut concrete, masonry, and steel with the right wheel.

You hold it with both hands: one on the rear handle and throttle, the other on the front handle. Keep the blade guard in place and stand out of the line of the wheel.

Cutting concrete or masonry releases crystalline silica dust. OSHA's silica rule for construction calls for a saw with an integrated water delivery system that continuously feeds water to the blade when using handheld power saws on these materials, plus a respirator in some cases.

Specs

• 24 pounds
• 24 x 12 x 12 inches
• Gas-powered
• 14 inches

Pros

• The compact and light design of the chop saw makes it easy to carry around and work from anywhere.
• Anti-vibration handles reduce fatigue.
• Works anywhere, with no power cord.

Cons

• Needs fuel mix and engine upkeep.
• Needs water or dust control when cutting masonry.

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4. PORTER-CABLE PCE700 (Best Chop Saw on a Budget)

If you want a chop saw without spending much, the PORTER-CABLE PCE700 is a budget 14-inch abrasive chop saw.

It has a 15-amp motor that spins the abrasive wheel at 3,800 RPM. That is much faster than the DW872's 1,300 RPM, because abrasive wheels and carbide blades work at very different speeds. Only use abrasive wheels rated for at least the saw's speed.

The steel base and quick-release clamp hold the work firmly. The fence adjusts for angle cuts.

It needs mains power. For work far from power, a gas power cutter such as the Husqvarna K760 II is an option.

Specs

• 32 pounds
• 22.7 x 14 x 17.1 inches
• Electric powered
• 14 inches
• 3,800 RPM

Pros

• The chop saw is priced affordably, yet it packs top-rated features.
• It is compact, lightweight, and easy to use in the workshop or around your home.
• Sold with a three-year limited warranty.

Cons

• The blade sold with the chop saw is not ideal for cutting heavy-duty metal such as steel.

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5. Jancy Slugger MCCS14 Chop Saw

The Jancy Slugger MCCS14 is a 14-inch carbide-blade metal cutting saw for steel, iron, and aluminum.

It has a retracting blade guard and an eye protection plate. The heavy base keeps it stable.

Like other slow-speed carbide saws, it generates far less heat than an abrasive saw. A chip tray catches most of the metal chips, though not all of them.

Specs

• 54pounds
• 14-inches
• Electric powered
• 60 Teeth
• 1,300 RPM

Pros

• Cuts steel cleanly with little heat.
• Runs smoother and quieter than an abrasive saw.
• Designed with an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to control the saw.

Cons

• The saw generates some sparks, and some waste chippings are not captured on the trash tray.

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6. DEWALT D28715 Quick-Change

The DEWALT D28715 is a 14-inch abrasive chop saw with a 15-amp, 5.5 HP (max) motor.

The Quick-Lock vise holds different materials firmly when cutting.

The Quick-Change system lets you swap wheels quickly. The adjustable fence handles both 90-degree and angle cuts.

Specs

• 45 pounds
• 24 x 15 x 16.5 inches
• Electric powered
• 14 inches
• 4,000 RPM

Pros

• Run by a powerful 5.5 horsepower motor.
• Its 14-inch blade works with the miter adjustment system for angle cuts.
• Sold with a 90-day money-back guarantee and three-year limited warranty.

Cons

• Like other electric corded saws in this list, this chop saw cannot work when you are off the mains.

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7. Makita LC1230

The Makita LC1230 is a 12-inch carbide-blade metal cutting saw.

Its 15-amp motor turns the blade at 1,700 RPM. It is a good option for cutting pipe, conduit, and angle iron.

The quick-release vise holds the work and speeds up repeated cuts. A chip collection tray keeps the work area cleaner.

Specs

• 42.5 pounds
• 13.8 x 22.6 x 17.3 inches
• Electric powered
• 12 inches
• 1,700 RPM

Pros

• The chop saw is designed with miter adjustments that allow you to make angle cuts.
• Its 12-inch blade features carbide tips that make it effective, long-lasting, and affordable.
• The saw has a heavy base designed from cast aluminum for extra stability when cutting materials.

Cons

• The 12-inch blade has less cutting capacity than the 14-inch saws for large stock.

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8. MK Morse CSM14MB Chop Saw

The MK Morse CSM14MB is a 14-inch carbide-blade metal cutting saw.

The base is heavy molded steel, firm enough for cutting tough materials. A D-handle makes the 53-pound saw easier to carry, and a chip tray in the base catches metal chips.

The 1,300 RPM motor and carbide-tipped blade cut pipe, metal studs, tubing, and angle iron quickly.

The one-year warranty is shorter than some competitors'.

Specs

• 53 pounds
• 22 x 18.5 x 14 inches
• Electric powered
• 14 inches
• 1,300 RPM

Pros

• Makes clean cuts with few burrs.
• Simple controls.
• It is compact and, therefore, easy to use even in narrow areas.

Cons

• It is difficult to use the chop saw in areas with no electricity supply.

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9. Bosch 3814 Abrasive

The Bosch 3814 is a 14-inch abrasive cutoff machine for fast cuts in steel and other metals.

Its 15-amp motor spins the wheel at 3,900 RPM. The motor has protection against overload in tough cuts.

The locking vise holds awkwardly shaped stock. The adjustable fence lets you make angled miter cuts.

Specs

• 46.6 pounds
• 24.6 x 17.6 x 13 inches
• Electric powered
• 14 inches
• 3,900 RPM

Pros

• Strong motor for cutting steel stock.
• Its compact design means you can easily move and use the saw anywhere as far as you have power supply.
• It is designed with quality material to guarantee you longevity. Further, the saw is sold with a one-year limited warranty.

Cons

• If you want to work in an offsite location such as in a campsite where there is no power, this saw might not be appropriate.

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Buying Guide

Chop saws are common in workshops, garages, and job sites for cutting metal tubing, pipe, conduit, and studs. Start with what you will cut most, then compare features, cost, and warranty.

What You Should Know About Chop Saws

What Is A Chop Saw?

A chop saw is a stationary power saw with a blade on a pivoting arm that you lower straight down into the work. It is mainly used to cut stock to length for frames, fixtures, and construction work.

If you target making angle joints, consider going for chop saws that allow you to cut materials at angles. Most of them support 90-degree and 45-degree angle cuts.

How Does A Chop Saw Operate?

You lower the blade into a workpiece that is clamped in the vise. Never hold the work by hand or push it into the blade.

First, put on safety glasses plus a face shield, hearing protection, and gloves, and clear away anything flammable from the spark path. OSHA requires eye protection for anyone using abrasive wheels. Clamp the material in the vise, then start the saw.

Once it reaches full speed, lower the blade steadily along the marked line. Do not force it. When the cut is done, release the trigger and let the blade stop before raising it.

Check that the wheel or blade is rated for at least the saw's RPM, and never mount a toothed wood blade on a high-speed abrasive chop saw.

Materials That You Can Cut With A Chop Saw

Chop saws are used for various reasons. However, because they can only move up and down, they are commonly used to make straight cuts. But some have fence-adjustments that allow you to cut at an angle.

Metal chop saws are built for metal. Use a wood miter saw for wood. Some saws can cut plastic or masonry with the right wheel, but cutting masonry releases silica dust that needs water or dust control.

Features to Look for When Buying a Chop Saw

Here is what to look for in the main features.

Chop Saw Blade

The blade type decides how a chop saw cuts. Chop saw blades fall into two categories:

• Abrasive blades: These blades generate a lot of sparks and leave the workpiece hot immediately after cutting. When the abrasive blades wear down, it implies they have hit the end of life and you need to replace them.
• Cold saw blades: These blades cut metal with no or little sparks at all. If you touch the workpiece immediately after cutting a tough piece of metal, it should be cool. Unlike the abrasive blades, cold saw models are toothed and can be re-sharpened. Note that the blades for cutting different materials such as steel and wood are different.

The saw decides the blade type: abrasive saws run at high speed and need abrasive wheels, and carbide or cold saws run slowly and need toothed blades. Common sizes are 14 and 12 inches, with some 10-inch models.

The Chop Saw Motor

Cutting steel takes a strong motor. Most corded chop saws use 15-amp motors, the most a standard 120-volt circuit supports, which is enough for regular metal cutting.

If sparks and heat are a concern, choose a low-speed carbide or cold saw rather than an abrasive saw.

Safety Features

Look for a retracting blade guard, a comfortable handle that gives good control, a solid vise, and a chip tray.

The Vice Assembly

To be able to cut a piece of metal, it has to be held firmly. Therefore, you should go for a chop saw with a strong vice assembly that can hold different workpieces, including the awkwardly shaped ones. To increase your productivity, consider selecting chop saws that come with additional features such as quick-lock and quick-release options.

Fence

This is another crucial feature that you need to get right when buying a chop saw. Fence is used to provide an accurate cutting angle between the longest workpiece edge and plane of the saw blade. The best option is an adjustable angle fence that allows position workpieces at the targeted angles.

Spark Deflectors

Metal cutting throws sparks, and abrasive wheels throw the most. An adjustable spark deflector lets you aim them away from you and anything flammable.

The Chop Saw Base

Clamp the workpiece and set the saw on a solid base. Most chop saws out there come with bases made of cast aluminum. However, it is also possible to get some saws with stainless steel and cast iron bases.

If you want a firmer base, look for the saws with through holes that allow you to secure on other workbenches. Such a setting is very useful, especially when cutting heavy-duty metal such as steel and iron.

Other Important Things to Look For

Your Budget

Abrasive chop saws are the cheapest to buy, but the wheels wear quickly. Carbide metal saws cost more up front but have a lower cost per cut. The PORTER-CABLE PCE700 above is a good budget abrasive option.

Chop Saw Warranty

Warranties on the saws above range from one to three years. A longer warranty lowers your repair risk.

Brand

Established brands offer better parts and service support. Some common names associated with quality power tools such as chop saws include Bosch, Makita, DEWALT, and Husqvarna.

Final Thoughts

Pick an abrasive saw for low upfront cost, a carbide metal saw for cleaner and cooler cuts, or a gas power cutter for work away from power. If you mostly cut wood, a miter saw is the better tool. Check this article on chop saw vs miter saw.

Our top pick is the Evolution Power Tools EVOSAW380. Its dry-cut carbide blade cuts steel cleanly with far fewer sparks than an abrasive saw.

Sources

• DW872 14 in. (355mm) Multi-Cutter Saw, DEWALT
• 1926.303: Abrasive wheels and tools, OSHA
• 1926.1153: Respirable crystalline silica, OSHA