Saw it wrong and it’s back to square one — here’s how to get it right

August 22, 2025

Sawing Made Simple: Which Cordless Tool Suits Your Weekend Project Best?

When DIY comes knocking — whether it’s a custom shelf for the hallway or cutting new kitchen bench tops — knowing which power tool to grab makes all the difference between smooth sailing and a swear-filled Saturday.

Two contenders often pop up when tackling woodwork: the cordless circular saw versus the trusty jigsaw. Both are powerful. Both are portable. But they shine in different ways — and you don’t want to learn that the hard way mid-project with a half-cut piece of pine and a confused look on your face.

Let’s break down the difference — without the fluff

You don’t need to be a tradie to understand this. It’s not about specs or brand loyalty. It’s about what cuts clean, works with your hands, and gets your vision across the finish line.

What is a Cordless Circular Saw Good For?

"Think of a cordless circular saw as your go-to for straight, long, clean cuts — the kind that make you feel like you’ve really built something." — Candeece, Hardware Specialist

It’s fast. It’s strong. The circular saw handles thick timber sheets, plywood, and decking timber like butter. If you’re building a shed base, ripping down fence panels, or trimming benchtops, this tool won’t let you down. The cordless factor means freedom to move — no tangled cords or extension lead gymnastics.

Pros:

Great for long, straight cuts – even through thick timber
Quicker and cleaner on bulk cutting jobs
Excellent for framing, fencing, and outdoor builds
Swift and efficient – a weekend saver

Watch out for:

Less suitable for curves or detail work
Can feel bulky if you're after precision control

So, Where Does the Jigsaw Shine?

Picture this — you’re tracing gentle curves on a piece of pine to create a scalloped edge for a kids’ toy box lid. That’s where the jigsaw slides into its moment of glory.

The jigsaw is more delicate, more flexible — it’s your creative sidekick. It handles tight corners, notches, and flowing shapes like a champ. It might not be as fast on straight cuts, but what it lacks in speed, it makes up for in finesse.

Pros:

Perfect for curves, cut-outs, or custom-shaped pieces
Lighter and easier to guide freehand
Less intimidating for beginners
Great for décor projects, shelves, crafting, and smaller timber jobs

Things to keep in mind:

Not as clean on long, straight cuts
Slower – better suited to smaller projects

Real Talk: You Don’t Always Need Both

Before you start stockpiling tools like it’s an apocalypse, think about this — what kind of projects do you actually tackle? Are you more likely to build a raised garden bed or hand-cut wooden clouds to go above a toddler’s cot?

One regular popped in last week with a plan to build a row of wooden window boxes — needed straight cuts, consistent sizing, and fast progress after hours. She left with a circular saw and a big grin.

Another local was crafting a timber archway for wedding signage and wanted fine shaping and scroll-like detail. You bet the jigsaw made her day easier.

Still Not Sure? Here’s a Quick Cheat Sheet:

Go for a cordless circular saw if: You want speed, long straight cuts, or are doing structural work
Go for a jigsaw if: You want to shape, curve, and create detail — or you’re brand new to power tools

Bonus Tip: Choose Your Blade Like You Choose Your Recipe

Want a smoother edge? Use a finer blade. Need to rip through treated pine or recycled timber? Look for something tougher. Ask in-store and pick the blade that suits your timber and your end goal. It’s the secret sauce no one talks about.

Final Thought: What Kind of DIYer Are You Becoming?

The right tool isn’t just about function — it shapes your confidence. Are you the kind of person who sees a room divider in a recycled pine panel? Or someone who sees a slab of MDF and thinks ‘new hallway bench’? Either way, having the tool that feels right in your hand — that does the job just how you pictured it — is what makes DIY feel its best.

Pop in store if you're still tossing up — we’re here to help you find your perfect match. No jargon. No pressure. Just real talk and the gear that’s right for you.

Cheers to making sawdust and Saturday magic,

Candeece