GAME CHANGER
Rating: 5
This monster is a million times better than the makita that we've all been forced to use because there was really no alternative. The blade position and larger table make it so much easier to operate and make precise cuts. Combined with the dust expulsion, being 5 lbs. lighter, and saving $100, I see no reason why anybody would choose the antiquated relic from years past. Skil has done a great job with re-inventing the beam saw and the travel case is the icing on the cake! So happy I pulled the trigger and bought this game changer which I am certain will make me more productive, efficient and the envy of the entire job site,( probably get a raise as well!) It's easy to zero out and adjustments if need be . Had it for not even a week and I've got other carpenters trying to rent it from me, sorry bro this is one tool I don't lend to anyone except my mentor who I know will treat it with the same respect I give it! Well done Skil! And thank you!
by on 2020-08-31T17:00:00
Skilsaw 16 5/16" Super Sawsquatch
Rating: 5
I was a little intimidated at the size of this saw at first but after the first cut through my project cedar 4"x10" cedar I feel in love. The ergonomics and balance and power are all well balanced. It had not trouble with the worm drive to power through any cut. I do not regret buying it and am looking forward to the next time I use it.
by rcwoodguy on 2020-07-23T17:00:00
powerful smooth cutting circular saw
Rating: 5
This large saw allows me to cut straight through 4x4 or even 6x6 lumber with only one pass. It will even cut a 4x4 at a 45 degree angle. The worm gear drive is powerful and tends not to kick with proper feed. The included quick latch down stand makes transport easy without scratching my truck.
by Barry on 2020-04-07T17:00:00
It's everything I thought it would be.
Rating: 5
Not much to say. If you want to do a good job on beam work this is the only way. Super good saw. Works well. Handles great considering the size. Its also surprisingly light.
by on 2020-04-24T17:00:00
Awesome Saw
Rating: 5
The saw is awesome good power, nice balance. Being able to place the auxiliary handle in different positions is very useful. I changed blades for a better crosscut, blade that comes with the saw would be good for ripping, stock blade has too much tear out for crosscutting.
by Frankie623 on 2020-09-13T17:00:00
Beats Makita Hands Down
Rating: 5
While we haven't had a huge amount of time to try out the capabilities of this saw, we have been able to use it long enough to see that Skilsaw has done its homework when breaking into the market with this 16- 5/16" beam saw. We are one of the leading timber frame companies on the East coast. We still craft all of our frames with circular saws, mallets and chisels. The majority of our timbers are Douglas Fir in sizes ranging from 4" up to 14". The Sawsquatch allows for a cutting depth of 6 1/4", which is standard to this size of saw.
Some PROS:
*The saw is very lightweight at 27 lbs. to make long work days much easier in toting around a large beam saw. Even our Business Manager was able to pick up the saw and use it for the first demo cuts!
*The arbor bolt does not over tighten, thus allowing the blade to move smoothly and not bind up.
*The saw stand is incredible, also lightweight and allows the saw to clamp directly on to the stand to easily transport the saw across the shop.
*The saw offers two handle positions - one for straight cuts and one that makes bevel cuts much easier.
*The worm drive allows for much more power in the cutting process.
*Easy setup right out of the box with a wrench that attaches directly to the saw base.
*No need to purchase an additional $400 saw base that was needed on the old and new Makita saws.
Some CONS:
*It is more difficult to see the back of the blade for cutting and following a line. We will continue to look for ways to make this work.
*The cutout on the saw base for the blade is quite wide, which may cause a problem if the amount you are cutting off the beam is smaller. This cutout will want to lodge in that opening. Again, we will follow up on this item.
*Unsure of repair abilities over time with accessibility to parts, etc. but assume that they will be available.
CONCLUSION: This saw is one of the best we have seen and will certainly be joined by others over the years. We currently own (3) old Makita beam saws that we are finding it difficult to find parts and pieces for repair. I'm sure our supply will begin to have many more Skilsaw tools in it! We also highly recommend their 10- 1/4" circular saw as well. We will update as we continue to use the saw.
by Lancotf on 2018-03-19T17:00:00
It's a quiet beast!
Rating: 5
This saw cuts thick wood like butter! Very smooth cuts. The design and storage case are solid. It's large but easy to handle.
If you need to cut thick wood (3-inch plus).
My first experience with Skil was over 35 years ago with house framing and truss building. This saw seems to be true to the standard Skil set years ago.
by Larryboy on 2020-05-31T17:00:00
Amazing saw
Rating: 5
after seeing other reviews I purchased this beam saw. It may be large but I truly was impressed not by the amazing features but how it powered through various thick boards with precision to help me finish some of my projects. I now have many more projects lined up to replacing some large beams in my very old house.
by Gary on 2020-06-01T17:00:00
Excellent saw!
Rating: 5
We are using the saw to cut PT rough sawn 6x6's and 8x8's for timber retaining walls, bridges, and docks. Has great balance, weight, and power.
by Jeff H on 2020-10-12T17:00:00
Another beam saw
Rating: 3
My rating is preliminary. I have cut timbers for set of timber trusses. The saw is a bit noisy compared to Makita. It has sufficient power and the sole plate is great, much better than Makitas . I have had same size Makitas for almost 40 years. Remarkable stamina but shoddy sole plates and is direct drive with blade on wrong hand for me. Happy to have Skil but the test is how long it will run. I have had a Skil 7 1/4 since 1965 and it never faltered. As professional builder I use power saws a lot. I have 20 circular saws. The Bosch as Skil actually showed some improvements in design and has held up . I will write more after I have cut out this 50X70 roof and the rest of timberframe shop. Skil beam saw will be first line of action cutting all green Lutz spruce, 6X8 through 12. Happy with saw so far.
by Old Bull Carpenter on 2020-08-09T17:00:00
