Accessories

Skil saw warped base plate
My new Skil SHD77M arrived. I heard that there was a problem of the base plate not being flat, but assumed Skil had fixed that. Mine is way out of flat! The whole saw rocks as you place it on the work piece. So, back she goes. What a pain.

Finally got a decent circular saw
After too many years of unsatisfactory results with yellow and gray sidewinder circular saws, I decided I deserved a good worm drive saw. All the reviews of the Skilsaw were pretty positive, and I liked the idea that Bosch had continued making such an old design with limited changes. First use was a revelation, As many have noted, the saw tracks very well, and following a line is no longer a WAG as with a sidewinder. Some other handy features are the depth markings on the shoe adjuster, the folding hanger hook, and even the sole plate has been thoughtfully dimensioned to 1 1/2" on one side of the blade and 3 1/2" on the other. Can you say, "Standard 2 x 4 size"?
In spite of light alloy usage, this a heavy machine. I suppose the weight is something of an advantage as the power output is substantial. It amazes me to see videos of pros using this tool with one hand on framing jobs at scary heights. All in all, a good product, good enough that finding one on eBay for much below market doesn't happen very often.

jb

Good
Shipped & delivered as expected. Shipment arrived in great condition and I would deal with the merchant again.

New and improved with 15 Amps?....MADE IN CHINA
I was considering "trading up" from my old 13AMP SHD77M to this new 15AMP version for only one reason: the additional power. Honestly, I've never found a job that the 13AMP saw couldn't handle. In fact I'd rate that saw a solid 5-stars. That thing is designed to last forever with proper care, and is simply a marvelous machine. But what can I say? If additional power is available, I like to have it. Why did I stop dead in my tracks?

This 15AMP model is now made in China! My trusty 13AMP was made right here in the USA from domestic components. This Chinese saw may look similar to my saw and may work just fine, but I'm not willing to take that chance at this price. If you want to take that chance, be my guest. However, in my experience the raw materials that go into Chinese products have left something to be desired in terms of quality; especially metal parts. In fact, just yesterday, I had a new Chinese tool from a quality name brand crumble in my hands like peanut brittle. I can't say 100% for sure that this will happen with this new Chinese saw, but I sure wouldn't take a bet that it wouldn't either. Americans aren't perfect, but I've found that tools made in the USA have seldom, if ever, let me down. China tools well...it's not a question of "if"; it's a question of "when".

Another consideration you need to make is that the additional power of 15 amps will require a heavier gauged extension cord, and that means extra money if you don't already have a big cord. You could use a 50ft. 14 guage cord with the old model, but this one is going to require at least a 12 guage cord at that length. Additional power also equals additional strain on the gears and internal mechanics. Better pray the Chinamen who made it used some durable, quality steel.

Worm Drive Saw
Skil SHD77M 7-1/4-inch Mag Worm Drive Saw I Keep three worm drive saws on the Job. The first saw I reach for is the 7 1/4 inch Mag. For deeper cuts I use an 8 1/4 saw. For concrete,masonry and stone I use a modified 8 1/4 inch unit with an added water cooling jet.