Kobalt XTR KXCS 124B-03 24-Volt 7-1/4-in Circular Saw Review

Cutting Performance

In all fairness, the Kobalt XTR KXCS 124B-03 Max Brushless Cordless Circular Saw has impressive cutting capacity backed by its high-quality and sturdy design. The motor delivers dependable power at 5,500 RPM which, for a cordless circular saw, is compelling.

The Kobalt is also capable of pulling off an impressive cutting depth with its 7-1/4-inch saw. So it is ready to compliment large, demanding jobs that were formerly allotted to corded saws.

Now, this cordless circular saw can handle all of that, and probably more, based off on how sturdy and dynamic its design is.

Complementing the strong motor quality, the Kobalt also offers an electric brake, 0-56-degrees cutting bevel angle, and other ergonomic features. More on that a bit later on but with regards to enhancing performance – these features are productive and easy to maintain.

The 2-1/2-inch cutting depth at 90-degrees coupled with the bevel angles allows better handling, navigation, and consistency in performance. Something a professional contractor expects from a cordless circular saw as much as a DIY enthusiast.

Ergonomics

The Kobalt offers an electronic brake that prevents accidents or blade damages. It will immediately stop the blade from rotating at high speeds once the trigger is released. It doesn’t cause reversing, for better protection and safekeeping.

The way that the Kobalt does this is by reversing the power flow to the blade. And not reversing the movement of the blade itself. The reverse power causes the blade to immediately stop rather than rattle or vibrate out of the control.

This delivers smoother blade performance, consistent stability, and long-term durability. While in circular saws the electronic brake is a basic feature, to have it on a cordless circular saw of this scale and power, it’s definitely a premium pick!

The Kobalt also includes a built-in LED light that works accurately and effectively. It does provide enough light to illuminate the entire cutting line. Improving cutting visibility, maximizing productivity, and ensuring a safe and comfortable working environment.

What I especially loved about the Kobalt is the way it maintains faster-cutting speed without making too loud of a noise. So with regards to ease of use, it doesn’t disappoint in the slightest.

It feels lightweight to work with, especially for long hours. I don’t have to stick to working during the daytime because the LED light provides enough light for a night’s work. And the electronic brake ensures that the blade doesn’t get damaged. And amazingly so, it also allows the motor to function at its top speeds for a long, long time.

Comfortable Handling

One thing that stands out in the Kobalt, apart from its ergonomics, is the movement. The shoe design is dependably secure and stable. This means it doesn’t cause too much resistance as you cut. Friction is the silent killer of circular saws. It can make or break a handy power tool.But with Kobalt, relatively speaking, the friction is to the minimum. It glides smoothly and consistently over wood.

When you compare this to other top competitors like the Makita or DeWalt, for example. Then the Kobalt is definitely an upgrade. It doesn’t stick as much and offers a comfortable edge over cordless circular saws that do start to drag towards the end a bit.

If you’re a beginner or an occasional DIY user, you won’t notice this slight difference in friction as much. But for a professional, it’s definitely something to count on.

Another thing that elevates the movement of the Kobalt is the guard design. Overall, the Kobalt has sturdy and protective housing. It works at a good angle with a grip-focused handle. So you hold the machine in a user-friendly and convenient way right from the start. No need to push harder or move to a different position to angle the blade accurately to cut along the wood.