Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B) Cordless Circular Saw Review

Craftsman has built a strong reputation in the world of power tools for its commitment to durability, reliability, and consistent performance. The Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B) Cordless Circular Saw exemplifies the brand’s effort to offer a tool that merges the freedom of cordless technology with the power necessary for tackling demanding cutting tasks.

With this model, Craftsman aims to meet the needs of both DIY enthusiasts and professionals by providing a versatile and capable saw. Examining its features and performance will help determine whether it truly lives up to the expectations set by the brand’s legacy.

Overview of the Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B) Cordless Circular Saw

The Craftsman 20V CMCS551B Cordless Circular Saw is part of the company’s V20 lineup, a series of tools that run on a 20V Max lithium-ion battery platform. This cordless saw is designed for those who need a portable, versatile tool without being tied down by cords or the need for outlets.

While it’s clear this model is aimed primarily at homeowners and casual DIYers, it also promises enough power to handle more demanding jobs, making it a potential fit for professionals needing a lightweight and compact saw for smaller tasks.

Key Specifications of Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B)

• Blade Size: 6-1/2 inches
• No-Load Speed: 4,200 RPM
• Max Cut Depth at 90°: 2-1/8 inches
• Max Cut Depth at 45°: 1-9/16 inches
• Bevel Capacity: 0° to 50°
• Weight: 5.3 lbs. (without battery)
• Battery: 20V Max (battery and charger sold separately)

These specifications reveal a tool designed with a balance of power and portability. The 6-1/2 inch blade size allows for a variety of cuts, while the weight keeps the saw light enough for extended use without causing fatigue.

Performance and Power

The CMCS551B’s 6-1/2 inch blade might not be the largest in the market, but it certainly holds its own in terms of cutting ability. The 4,200 RPM motor ensures that the saw cuts smoothly through common materials like plywood, 2×4 lumber, and OSB. While the saw may not be designed for heavy-duty, continuous use in commercial settings, it performs admirably on medium-duty tasks and smaller projects.

One of the key advantages of this saw is its cordless freedom. No longer constrained by the need for power outlets or extension cords, users can easily move around the job site or tackle outdoor projects without hassle. The V20 battery platform means it shares compatibility with other Craftsman 20V Max tools, a significant convenience for those already invested in the ecosystem.

However, it’s important to note that the tool is sold as a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger must be purchased separately. Depending on your current battery collection, this could increase the overall cost.

Ergonomics and Design

At just 5.3 pounds, the CMCS551B is lightweight compared to many corded and even some cordless models. This reduced weight makes it a great choice for overhead work, reducing strain during prolonged use. The compact design is another plus, allowing users to easily maneuver the tool in tight spaces.

The ergonomic handle is thoughtfully designed with a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue. Its rubber overmold provides a secure hold, even when working in less-than-ideal conditions like damp environments.

The saw also includes an electric brake for added safety, which quickly stops the blade after releasing the trigger. This feature is essential for reducing the risk of injury, particularly in busy or cluttered workspaces where every second counts.

Cutting Capacity and Bevel Adjustment

The Craftsman CMCS551B offers a 2-1/8 inch cutting depth at 90 degrees, which is sufficient for cutting standard dimensional lumber like 2x4s. At a 45-degree bevel, the cutting depth reduces to 1-9/16 inches, which is still plenty for most angled cuts required in framing, decking, or trim work.

One of the more impressive features is the saw’s 50-degree bevel capacity. Many saws in this price range offer a 45-degree bevel, but this extra capacity allows for a bit more flexibility, especially in framing or other carpentry tasks that require precise angled cuts. The bevel adjustment lever is easy to use, and the markings are clear and easy to read, making it simple to set up for both common and more complex cuts.

Battery Life

Since the saw is powered by Craftsman’s V20 Max lithium-ion battery, runtime will largely depend on the battery capacity you choose. With the standard 2.0 Ah battery, you can expect enough power to handle a moderate workload, such as cutting through a few dozen 2x4s or ripping plywood sheets.

For larger projects, investing in a 4.0 Ah battery or higher would significantly extend the saw’s runtime, making it better suited for professionals or more demanding DIY tasks. The battery efficiency is good, with minimal drop in performance as the battery drains, but as with all cordless tools, extended heavy use will require multiple batteries or periodic recharges.

Dust Management

One of the more overlooked features in circular saws is dust management. The CMCS551B comes equipped with a dust blower that keeps your cutting line visible by blowing sawdust away as you work. This feature might seem minor, but in practice, it makes a big difference, especially when accuracy is key.

The saw also has a port for a vacuum attachment, which can be connected to reduce the amount of sawdust in your workspace. While this is more of a luxury feature for homeowners, it’s an important addition for professionals working in environments where cleanliness is required, or where fine dust could pose health risks.

Build Quality and Durability

Craftsman has a reputation for producing tools that are durable and long-lasting, and the CMCS551B is no exception. The saw feels solid and well-constructed, with metal components in key areas like the blade guard and shoe plate, where cheaper saws might use plastic.

These durable materials give confidence that the tool can withstand the rigors of regular use without significant wear and tear. However, this is still a mid-range tool designed for DIYers and light-duty professional work.

It lacks some of the higher-end features found in more expensive circular saws, such as advanced motor technology or enhanced build materials, but for its price point, the build quality is more than satisfactory.

Pros and Cons

Who is the Craftsman CMCS551B Best Suited For?

The Craftsman CMCS551B Cordless Circular Saw is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners who are looking for a reliable, versatile tool for a variety of light-to-medium duty tasks. It’s especially appealing for those who are already invested in the Craftsman V20 ecosystem, as the shared battery platform increases convenience and reduces overall costs.

It’s also a good choice for professionals who need a lightweight, portable saw for smaller tasks or quick jobs that don’t require the power of a corded saw. However, for those who require a tool for continuous, heavy-duty cutting, this may not be the most suitable option.

Final Conclusion

The Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B) Cordless Circular Saw strikes a fine balance between affordability, convenience, and performance. While it may not compete with high-end professional saws for continuous heavy-duty work, it’s an excellent tool for homeowners, DIYers, and light-duty professionals who need a reliable and portable saw for everyday tasks.

With its ergonomic design, decent power output, and cordless convenience, the CMCS551B proves to be a worthwhile investment, especially for those who are already part of the Craftsman V20 tool family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Craftsman 20V (CMCS551B) Cordless Circular Saw powerful enough for professional use?
   While the CMCS551B is designed primarily for DIYers and homeowners, it provides sufficient power for light-to-medium-duty professional tasks. Its 4,200 RPM motor can handle common materials like plywood, OSB, and standard lumber. However, for more demanding, continuous heavy-duty use, professionals might prefer a corded saw or a more powerful cordless alternative.
2. What is the maximum cutting depth of the Craftsman 20V CMCS551B?
   At a 90-degree angle, the saw offers a maximum cutting depth of 2-1/8 inches, which is ideal for most general cutting tasks such as working with standard 2×4 lumber. At a 45-degree bevel, the cutting depth is 1-9/16 inches, which is adequate for many angled cuts required in carpentry and framing work.
3. Does the Craftsman CMCS551B come with a battery and charger?
   No, the CMCS551B is sold as a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger are sold separately. It is compatible with Craftsman’s V20 Max lithium-ion battery system, so if you already own other tools from the V20 lineup, you can use the same battery for this saw.
4. Can the Craftsman 20V CMCS551B be used for bevel cuts?
   Yes, the saw has a bevel capacity of 0° to 50°, allowing for angled cuts. The adjustment lever is easy to use, and the saw is designed to handle a variety of bevel cutting needs, giving it added versatility for projects like framing or trim work.
5. How long does the battery last on the CMCS551B circular saw?
   Battery life depends on the type of battery used and the intensity of the cutting tasks. A standard 2.0 Ah battery provides enough power for moderate tasks, such as cutting through a few dozen 2x4s or sheets of plywood. For longer or more demanding tasks, a higher-capacity battery, like a 4.0 Ah, would be recommended for extended use.
6. Is the Craftsman 20V CMCS551B Circular Saw easy to handle for extended periods?
   Yes, the saw’s lightweight design (5.3 lbs without battery) and ergonomic handle make it comfortable for extended use. Its compact size and good weight distribution allow for better control, making it less likely to cause fatigue during longer projects or when used in overhead or confined spaces.
7. Does the CMCS551B have any dust management features?
   Yes, the saw is equipped with a built-in dust blower that clears sawdust from the cutting line, ensuring better visibility during cuts. It also has a vacuum port for connecting a dust collection system, which can help maintain a cleaner work environment, especially when working indoors or in enclosed spaces.
8. Can I use this saw with other blades, or does it only work with Craftsman blades?
   The Craftsman 20V CMCS551B uses a standard 6-1/2 inch blade, which means it is compatible with most blades of the same size from various manufacturers. This versatility allows you to choose different blades depending on the material you’re cutting, such as blades designed for wood, metal, or masonry.