Circular saws have traditionally been divided into two distinct but similar-sounding snake categories , rattlesnake and worm drive. These categories usually differ in motor orientation and design, weight, torque and RPM. Perhaps most importantly, worm drive saws are traditionally left-handed blades, while sidewinder locators themselves have right-handed blades. Today, manufacturers produce saws that blur the distinction of blade orientation. Of course, that means we have to talk about it! So when it comes to the left versus right circular saw blade debate, which side are you on?
Here's a tip — it's no accident that manufacturers don't call these saws "right-handed" and "left-handed" saws.
Our professionals will tell you that it all depends on what you are used to and adapting to. In fact, most have both types of saws for different applications. In the conversation between the left circular saw blade and the right circular saw blade, there are some things to consider that are not immediately obvious. Right-handed and left-handed languages are easily confused in this discussion. Some refer to the blade orientation, while others refer to the edge of the user's hand. We'll use the terms blade-left and blade-right to simplify the categories.
Thank goodness this is not a political discussion
It is helpful to consider the advantages and disadvantages of blade-left and blade-right orientations through the four filters. You have sight/line of cut, one-handed or two-handed operation, balance of the saw on the scrap edge, and orientation of the blade to your body. We'll look at each of these ideas from the perspective of a left-handed user and a right-handed user. We also considered each case as if your cut was tearing a length of 3/4" plywood.
Check out our article on the best cordless circular saws. Our selection includes both left-blade and right-blade styles.
right handed left blade
The left knife for right-handed users makes the sight/cut line easy to see with typical one-handed operation. Many tradesmen will hold or stabilize material with their left hand while operating the saw with their right hand. However, for two-handed operation, grabbing the handle with the left hand will not only block the view/cut line window, but also put the left arm/wrist over the blade. Traditionally, all worm drive saws run with the blade facing left.
Also, this orientation may place the weight of the saw on the portion of material that the user wants to keep, making it easier to stabilize the saw during the cut.
- Example: A right-handed person using a worm gear drive.
right handed knife
The Blade-Right is a bit of a challenge for right-handed users, as you have to look over your right shoulder to see the sightline/cut-line window, either one-handed or two-handed. More or less, all corded rattlesnake saws run in a blade-right configuration. Using the saw this way puts the weight of the motor on the scrap edge when you're cutting from the end of a plank or sheet. This means that the saw ends up cutting its own support. Most users have no trouble holding the saw steady, but this can lead to jamming.
- Example: A right-handed person with a conventional wire saw.
If you don't understand what we're talking about, imagine cutting a thin strip out of plywood with a right-blade saw. Unless you twist, the saw motor will be facing you with its weight on the piece that is about to fall off the sheet. With a crosscut, you can flip the orientation and stand on the opposite side of the board. Not so with a piece of plywood or OSB.
left handed left blade
This is the mirror image of the right-handed right-knife situation. In this case, the line-of-sight/cut-line window is somewhat blurred and the user has to look over the left shoulder to see clearly. In this case, the weight of the motor may exceed the scrap edge, which may result in slightly less stability during cutting.
- Example: A left-hander with a worm drive.
left handed right edge
In the end, it's the mirror image of the right-hander's left blade. The sight/cut line window is easily visible to the user through typical one-handed operation, but is obscured if the hands pass over the blade guard. The weight of the saw will most likely exceed the unwasted portion of the material, making the saw and cut more stable.
- Example: A left-hander with a conventional wire saw.
Left vs Right Circular Saw Blades – The Debate Continues
These illustrations of blade-left and blade-right are just a few things to consider. If you don't like the way you cut in, you can start on the other side of the board. Some professionals also consider the trajectory of the wood chip jet. The left blade will cover right-handed users with sawdust over the rip. Of course, the saw itself is important. We've seen both left and right blade circular saws have really bad sightlines!
In the cordless world, manufacturers have traditionally used the right side of the blade on 7-1/4" saw blades and the left side of the blade on 6-1/2" models. That seems to be changing, and you can now often find both tools from the major tool brands. However, depending on the battery platform you are running, your saw size and style may make the choice for you!
We hope you found this discussion valuable. If you're a pro and have some circular saw tips, add them in the comments below or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!