Saws
Best Saw for Beginners
Your first saw should be safe, forgiving, and versatile. We picked saws that are easy to control and hard to hurt yourself with.
What You Need
A lightweight circular saw or jigsaw, safety glasses, a straight edge for guide cuts
Top Picks
Top Pick
#1
DeWalt DCS391B
$129
Why This Pick Wins
6-1/2" 20V circular saw — lighter than full-size, easier to control for beginners
#2
Makita JV0600K
$89
Why This Pick Wins
Top-handle jigsaw with variable speed — the safest saw for learning curves and cuts
#3
Skil DL529501
$99
Why This Pick Wins
Circular saw with laser guide — the laser helps beginners cut straight
Pro Tips
- ✓ Always wear safety glasses
- ✓ Let the blade reach full speed before cutting
- ✓ Never force the saw — let the blade do the work
- ✓ Use clamps instead of your hand to hold the workpiece
- ✓ Never pin back the blade guard — it exists to protect you
- ✓ If the saw binds, release the trigger immediately — binding causes violent kickback
Compare tools side-by-side
Browse All Saws →Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need for best saw for beginners?
A lightweight circular saw or jigsaw, safety glasses, a straight edge for guide cuts
Tip 1 for saws: Always wear safety glasses
Always wear safety glasses
Tip 2 for saws: Let the blade reach full speed before cutting
Let the blade reach full speed before cutting
Tip 3 for saws: Never force the saw
Never force the saw — let the blade do the work
Tip 4 for saws: Use clamps instead of your hand to hold the workpiece
Use clamps instead of your hand to hold the workpiece
Tip 5 for saws: Never pin back the blade guard
Never pin back the blade guard — it exists to protect you
Tip 6 for saws: If the saw binds, release the trigger immediately
If the saw binds, release the trigger immediately — binding causes violent kickback
Which saws brand is best for for beginners?
For saw for beginners, our top pick is the DeWalt DCS391B because 6-1/2" 20v circular saw — lighter than full-size, easier to control for beginners. See our full picks above for alternatives at different price points.