My husband, of course, has tools and uses them. However, I decided I wanted to be able to make projects on my own and learn to use some tools. I researched saws and what type would be the best to start with. We did not have a circular saw and from the tutorials I watched, it seemed a circular saw would be a necessary tool to start with.So I began researching all the various sizes and types and brands of circular saws. I settled on this Craftsman because:1) Craftsman is a trusted name for power tools.2) The price was in my budget.3) The reviews I read were very complimentary.I was so excited (and my husband was too) when it arrived. He took it out of the box and started examining it right away. I took the instructions out of the box and started reading them right away :)I liked the clear instructions provided. The saw itself is heavyduty yet lightweight. Amidst all the warnings of how dangerous saws are to use, I still was excited to try it out.We have an old metal swing frame that I have been wanting to redo. So a couple of days ago I hear a whirring outside as I am washing dishes. My husband had used the saw (I wanted to be the first one to use it but hey LOL!).I went outside and watched as he was sawing the wood for the swing.The saw is very stable. It is easy to keep on a straight line with the v-shaped guide. The safety features with the blade guard and all make me a lot more comfortable in using it. I did try my hand at it and felt very powerful afterwards! I had used my first saw and cut a piece of wood!It did not take long for my husband to finish up this project with this Craftsman circular saw. It works great! No problems. No kickback for us…although my husband has been teaching me what causes this and how to act when and if it does occur.It cuts like a dream and I am excited to start on more projects now. I like the fact that the blade size is standard and so is easy to replace when needed.I also love that it can do a bevel cut! We tried out that feature even though we didn’t really have a need of it for this particular project. So cool! Yes, I am a newbie…but I think this saw will fill my needs as a learner as well as my husband’s needs as the expert.Very pleased with this tool. It even came with a 3 year warranty.Wonderful purchase!*If you found this review helpful, please let me know and click the “Helpful” button below. Thanks!*