Ever wished you could make perfectly straight cuts on wood, just like the pros? If you’ve ever tried to cut a long piece of plywood with a regular circular saw, you know how wobbly and uneven the lines can get. It’s frustrating when your projects don’t turn out as clean as you imagined.
Choosing the right track saw kit can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, features, and prices to consider. You want a kit that’s easy to use, makes accurate cuts, and lasts a long time, but figuring out which one is best can be a real headache. You might worry about spending too much money on something that doesn’t meet your needs.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great track saw kit and guide you through the important things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident about picking the perfect kit to make your woodworking projects look amazing. Let’s dive in and discover how to get those clean, precise cuts every time.
Our Top 5 Track Saw Kit Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Track Saw Kit Detailed Reviews
1. Milescraft 1409 Track Saw Guide – Universal for 7-1/4″ Circular Saws
Rating: 8.5/10
Transform your DIY projects with the Milescraft 1409 Track Saw Guide. This universal guide works with most 7-1/4” circular saws, making it a versatile addition to your workshop. It helps you make straight, accurate cuts, even if you’re not a seasoned pro. The sturdy aluminum construction means it’s built to last, and its low profile lets you tackle various cutting depths.
What We Like:
- It fits most circular saws with blades up to 7-1/4 inches.
- You can make 50-inch cuts right away, and extend it further with extra parts.
- The all-metal design makes it strong and prevents bending for better accuracy.
- It’s low profile, allowing cuts up to 1-3/4 inches deep, good for most doors.
- The red cutting strip helps guide your saw and reduces splintering.
- Milescraft makes tools that help you finish projects fast and easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- It doesn’t work with most worm drive saws.
- To connect two guides, you need to buy extra connectors.
This track saw guide is a solid tool for anyone looking to improve their cutting accuracy. It’s a great way to get professional-looking results on your home improvement tasks.
2. Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
The Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw Kit is a powerful tool for woodworkers. It comes with a stackable tool case and a 55″ guide rail. This saw helps you make clean, precise cuts. It’s blue and is a corded power tool.
What We Like:
- The powerful 12 AMP motor cuts through many materials easily.
- You can change the speed from 2,000 to 5,200 RPM with a dial. This helps you match the speed to your project.
- It cuts cleanly, leaving a smooth, splinter-free finish.
- The saw can cut up to 2-3/16 inches deep at a 90-degree angle. It can also cut 1-9/16 inches deep at a 45-degree angle.
- It can bevel from -1 to 48 degrees, with set stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees.
- The electronic speed control keeps the speed steady even when the saw is working hard.
- The included guide rail helps you make straight, accurate cuts every time.
- The stackable tool case keeps everything organized and easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The guide rail is 55 inches long, which might be too short for some longer projects.
- While the kit is great, the price might be a bit high for beginner woodworkers.
This Makita plunge saw kit offers excellent precision and power for your woodworking needs. It’s a valuable addition to any workshop for anyone who values quality cuts.
3. DEWALT Circular Saw
Rating: 8.6/10
The DEWALT Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, TrackSaw Kit (DWS520K) is a powerful tool for anyone who needs to make super straight and clean cuts. This kit includes everything you need to get started with track saw cutting, which means no more wobbly lines or splintered wood. It’s designed to work with special tracks that guide the saw, ensuring perfect cuts every time, no matter which direction you’re cutting.
What We Like:
- It gives you perfectly straight, splinter-free cuts every time.
- The 12 Amp, 1300 Watt motor cuts through tough wood easily.
- You can cut wood up to 2-1/8 inches thick at a 90-degree angle.
- The saw has a special anti-kickback system to keep you safe.
- The low-profile guard lets you cut in tight spots.
- The depth scale is accurate and even accounts for the track’s thickness.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial cost of a track saw system can be higher than a regular circular saw.
- You need to buy the dual-edged tracks separately to get the full benefit.
This DEWALT TrackSaw Kit is a fantastic investment for serious DIYers and professionals who demand precision. It makes complex cuts simple and delivers professional-looking results.
4. DEWALT 60V MAX* Circular Saw
Rating: 9.4/10
The DEWALT 60V MAX* Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, Cordless TrackSaw, Tool Only (DCS520B) offers a powerful and precise cutting experience for DIYers and professionals alike. This cordless track saw is designed for making incredibly straight and clean cuts, making it ideal for projects where accuracy is key.
What We Like:
- The zero-clearance TrackSaw™ cutting system creates perfectly straight cuts without splintering.
- It works with TrackSaw™ dual-edged tracks for guaranteed straightness.
- The saw has a continuous anti-kickback mechanism and a riving knife that stops kickback.
- Its straight plunge mechanism offers comfortable use.
- The enclosed low-profile guard captures about 90% of dust for a cleaner workspace.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a tool-only purchase, so you’ll need to buy batteries and a charger separately.
- The initial investment for the track system can be significant.
This DEWALT TrackSaw™ is a game-changer for anyone who needs clean, precise cuts. It brings professional-level accuracy to your workshop or job site.
5. WEN 7.25-Inch Track Saw (CT1274) and 110-Inch Track Saw Track Guide Rail Bundle
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to make clean, straight cuts with the WEN 7.25-Inch Track Saw and Track Guide Rail Bundle. This powerful tool is designed to help you tackle all sorts of woodworking projects, from cutting large plywood sheets to making precise angled cuts. The track saw itself is versatile, allowing you to make deep cuts and even bevel cuts with adjustable speed for just the right control. Plus, it uses standard saw blades, making it easy to find replacements. The included 110-inch track guide rail is a game-changer for breaking down big materials like 8×4 plywood sheets. It’s also a flexible system, working with several WEN track saw models and even popular brands like Makita and Festool.
What We Like:
- The track saw can make rip cuts up to 2.6 inches thick, which is great for many projects.
- You can make 45-degree bevel cuts up to 1.85 inches thick.
- Variable speed from 2000 to 6000 RPM gives you good control.
- It accepts standard 7-1/4-inch blades with 5/8-inch arbors, so you have options.
- The bundle includes a 48-tooth carbide-tipped blade to get you started.
- The 110-inch track guide rail is perfect for cutting large plywood sheets cleanly.
- This track guide rail is compatible with many WEN track saws and other popular brands.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the track guide rail is long, some users might need even longer sections for very large projects.
This WEN bundle offers a fantastic way to improve your cutting accuracy and efficiency. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about woodworking.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Track Saw Kit
Track saws are amazing tools. They help you make super straight cuts in wood. This guide will help you pick the right track saw kit for your projects.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you buy a track saw kit, look for these important things:
Power and Motor
- Motor Power (Amps or Watts): More power means it can cut through thicker or harder wood easily.
- Variable Speed: This lets you adjust how fast the blade spins. Different woods need different speeds.
Blade and Cutting Capacity
- Blade Diameter: Bigger blades can cut deeper. Common sizes are 6.5 inches or 7.25 inches.
- Cutting Depth: Check how deep the saw can cut. Make sure it’s enough for the wood you use.
The Track
- Track Length: Tracks come in different lengths. Longer tracks are good for big sheets of plywood.
- Track Connectors: Some kits let you join tracks together for even longer cuts.
Safety and Control
- Anti-Kickback Pawls: These stop the saw from jumping back towards you.
- Dust Collection: Good dust collection keeps your work area clean and helps you see your cut line.
- Ergonomics: How the saw feels in your hands matters. Look for comfortable grips.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a track saw kit affect how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Saw Housing: Most saws have a strong plastic or metal housing. Metal is usually tougher.
- Track Material: Tracks are often made of aluminum. Good quality aluminum is strong and won’t bend easily.
- Blade Quality: A good blade has sharp teeth made of strong metal. This makes cuts smoother and lasts longer.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a track saw kit better, while others make it worse.
What Makes it Better
- Precision Engineering: When parts fit together well, the saw works smoothly.
- Durability: Tools built with strong materials will last a long time.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make reliable tools.
- Included Accessories: Extra blades, different dust bags, or a good carrying case add value.
What Makes it Worse
- Cheap Plastic Parts: These can break easily.
- Wobbly Tracks: If the track isn’t stiff, your cuts won’t be straight.
- Poor Dust Collection: This makes a mess and is bad for your health.
- Lack of Safety Features: Missing safety parts is a big problem.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Track saws are great for many jobs.
- Making straight cuts on large sheets: Cutting plywood or MDF for cabinets or furniture is much easier with a track saw.
- Trim work: You can get clean, precise cuts for baseboards and crown molding.
- DIY projects: From building shelves to creating custom furniture, a track saw helps you achieve professional results.
- Cabinet making: Precise cuts are key for building cabinets that fit perfectly.
Using a track saw is different from a regular circular saw. The track guides the saw, so you get very accurate cuts every time. It’s like having a built-in guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a track saw kit?
A: A track saw kit usually includes a track saw, a guide track, and sometimes extra blades or a carrying case. It’s a set of tools made to cut wood very straight.
Q: Why is a track saw better than a regular circular saw?
A: A track saw uses a guide track. This track makes sure the saw moves in a perfectly straight line. A regular circular saw needs a separate guide or a lot of skill to make straight cuts.
Q: Can I use a track saw kit for small projects?
A: Yes, you can. While they are great for big sheets, they also work well for smaller cuts. You just need to make sure your track is the right size for your project.
Q: How do I keep my track saw clean?
A: Clean the saw and the track after each use. Use a brush to remove sawdust from the track and the saw’s base. Make sure the dust collection port is clear.
Q: What kind of wood can a track saw cut?
A: Track saws can cut many types of wood, like plywood, MDF, solid wood, and even some plastics. The power of the saw and the type of blade will affect how well it cuts different materials.
Q: Do I need to buy extra tracks?
A: It depends on your projects. If you often cut very long pieces of wood, you might need to buy longer tracks or connectors to join them together.
Q: Is a track saw safe to use?
A: Yes, track saws are designed with safety in mind. Features like anti-kickback pawls help prevent accidents. Always wear safety glasses and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: How long should a track saw blade last?
A: The lifespan of a blade depends on how much you use it and the type of wood you cut. A good quality blade can last for many projects. You’ll know it’s time to replace it when cuts become rough or difficult.
Q: Can I use a track saw without the track?
A: While some track saws can be used without the track like a regular circular saw, you lose the main benefit of precision. The track is what makes a track saw special.
Q: What is the most important feature to consider?
A: The most important feature is often the quality of the guide track. A stable and well-made track ensures accurate cuts. The saw’s power is also very important for different cutting tasks.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!