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  1. #1
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    Default CIRCULAR SAW - Stanley VS Makita

    OK, after my introduction in the other section of the forum, I am ready with the first question.
    I need to buy most of the tools, so the topic is: CIRCULAR SAW.

    I would like to avoid buying cheap brands and I understand that generally Bunnings is good to buy many tools and materials for woodworking, but NOT for power tools.

    I have done some research and fixed a budget of $130 max for a circular saw.

    I thought that Makita HS7600SP (1200 W) would be my choice, until when the Stanley FME301-XE (1650 W) caught my eye.
    I was wondering, why for the same price can I have more power with the Stanley saw, considering that they should be both good saws? Also noted that Makita is very common on the second-hand market, while Stanley power tools are almost non-existent on Gumtree.

    Please see below for the price of the new saws (both $119).
    Makita HS7600SP 185mm Circular Saw 1200W | Get Tools Direct

    Stanley 1650W Circular Saw FME301-XE | Get Tools Direct

    I am not too up to date in terms of brands, so in my mind Makita is one of the top brands for power tools (made in Japan?) while Stanley is also another reputable brand, mostly known for hand tools (made in the US?). Right/Wrong?

    If I can have 1650 W power for the same price, generally my approach is 'more is better'. However, I would llike to hear your comments/suggestions about the above saws. Am I missing something?

    Thanks all !

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  3. #2
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    Looking at the two I personally would go for the Stanley; mainly because the base is a solid casting and not a pressing like the Makita. Additionally it also has a decent length power cord (4m compared to the Makita’s 2m). I tend to ignore power ratings as they only reflect how much magic smoke they inhale rather than how many ponies they put out.

    See if you can actually handle both of them and work out which one feels better in the hand. You want to compare how easy they are to adjust the depth of cut and how good (or bad) the fence is. Grab hold of the shaft and see if you can detect any in and out play in the bearings when you waggle and push & pull it. If all else is equal then the only other difference between them will be how noisy they are and how long they’ll last before the brushes and/or bearings flog out; the last one is more relevant to an industrial or trade setting because for DIY use either will probably outlive you!

    Stanley own Dewalt, Porter-Cable and Sidchrome to name a few, they merged with Black & Decker about 10 years ago so their full company name is actually “Stanley Black & Decker”.
    Nothing succeeds like a budgie without a beak.

  4. #3
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    Default

    That's great advice! Thanks Chief!
    Just another question: would you consider a second-hand circular saw? I have found some bigger saws (235 mm) at around $50, branded Hitachi.
    However, from the pictures it looks like an old model, and the blade looks a bit rusty, so not 100% sure if that would be a good buy.
    Would Hitachi be a reliable brand? Other entry-level good brands for a circular saw you would buy?

  5. #4
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    You will struggle to find a tradesman with a Stanley power tool, the reason you see Makita ones on gumtree is because they sell thousands and thousands of them, mostly to tradies and have been doing so for over thirty years, whilst Stanley has a name in hand tools they are not known for power tools and you won’t find many retailers selling them
    The Stanley saw maybe ok but I would be sticking with what the professionals buy if they are in the same price range.
    The power difference ( if there is one) is of no advantage for that type of saw so I wouldn’t be concerned about that aspect. Both saws would be made in China, very few products are made in Japan now.

    Another aspect to consider ( with all tools) is ergonomics. Some brands are awkward to use as in hold and be able to see what you are doing.
    Nothing wrong with buying from Bunnings if they have the model you are after, some items they have have say the cheaper plastic chuck or pressed metal soleplate on saws but other items are the same you get anywhere else

  6. #5
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    Just another point to consider, the Stanley saw is quite a bit heavier than the Makita. Also I noticed on the site you linked they have the Hitachi saw which looks like a nice saw and it comes with two blades so may be a good option to consider as well.

  7. #6
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    Personally I would not purchase any thing with the Stanley name on it these days.

  8. #7
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    Another thing to consider is if you need to buy a number of power tools have you considered getting a package deal on some cordless tools?

    Tax time is fast approaching and before too long the likes of Total Tools, Sydney Tools etc will start having some sales. Usually this time of year the manufacturers start offering pretty decent bonus offers via redemption which can offset the initial outlay.

    Food for thought.

  9. #8
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    Thanks all for your inputs.
    I hope you will forgive me, but.... I suddenly bought a second-hand DeWalt !

    I found a DWE560-XE in a cash converter near home for $80 and couldn't help myself.
    Like this: Dewalt 184mm Compact Circular Saw 1350w. #DWE560-XE

    Unless I bought a lemon, it should be perfect for my needs. Fingers crossed

  10. #9
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    G'Day Kuriatko, While looking around for tools, secondhand, don't discount older tools from deceased estates, clearance sales and garage sales as if they are in fair condition they can be as good as a new cheapie from the hardware or tool shop.
    You can build up a good array of power tools and hand tools without breaking the bank.
    If buying new look for what is being used by all the trades [save up spending the dollars once] and buy them from the trade tool stores,not a green warehouse or similar.
    Cheers, crowie

  11. #10
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    Really good advice from Crowie, Kuriatco; buy quality, buy once.

    Certainly the biggest mistake most of us has made is in buying crap tools. Repeatedly.

    I have done it, Crowie's done it. I try real hard not to do it again - I will probably fail!

    Makita and Stanley tools priced at $119 will probably be made in China - at that price they are probably not "trademan's quality".

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