Hitachi - Model: C7sb2 Circular Saw 15 Amp with 7-1/4-inch 24-tooth carbide blade

Nickname:
Rating:	5 (Excellent) 4 (Good) 3 (Average) 2 (Poor) 1 (Very Poor)
Summary:
Review:

15 amp motor for powerful performance.
55-degree bevel capability.
Soft rubber grip handle for comfort.
Package-includes 24-tooth carbide blade and carrying case.
Hitachi exclusive 5-year warranty.

If you are looking for a good solid saw that won't break the bank, this could be your saw. It is much better than those $40 saws at the box stores, and fairly close to the higher end $150 saws. doesn't have a brake, so keep that in mind while using.

Plenty of power,but you'll need a hammer to adjust the angle or depth.This is not a professional grade saw.

The saw is excellent quality and a very good deal, but I found it for minimally less expensive in Home Depot after placing my online order. The shipping time/delivery time were outstanding; only 4 days after placing the order.

Plenty of power and, contrary to another reviewer, adjustments are simple with large lever-locks. The lack of a blade brake is a negative that can be managed if you're careful. There is no depth-adjustment scale on the saw, but my own experience is that either you just eyeball the depth anyway or, if you're making precision cuts, you measure it with a ruler. There is an angle scale on the bevel adjustment (but again, for real precision you'll want to check this with a protractor). Base plate is a solid chunk of aluminum, which is a blessing. The saw isn't heavy, but it's not balanced quite right, either, being both front heavy and motor-side heavy (as to be expected). Not quite nimble enough to merit five stars, but an easy four.

Consumer Reports (August 2005 Issue) reviewed this saw and recommended it as a Best Buy. If your budget allows, I would recommend going with the Hitachi C7BD2 (also a CR Best Buy). The C7BD2 includes an electric brake for much quicker stopping of the blade and therefore better safety. Like the C7BD2 this saw has a powerful 15 Amp motor and a sturdy alumimum base.

I also wish both saws had better depth adjustment (there are no measurement markings to approximate the depth of cut). Lastly a Laser guide would have been nice.