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Table of contents

Rockwell RK3440K vs. Skilsaw SPT77WML-01

Considering a new circular saw? Compare the benefits of the Rockwell RK3440K and Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 and make a smart purchase!

Lets compare these two circular saws: the Rockwell RK3440K and the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01.

Rockwell RK3440K
Skilsaw SPT77WML-01

Features & Benefits

You can read our roundup of the best compact circular saws and the best full-size circular saws.

Power & Motor

Both products are corded and run on 120 V. The RK3440K draws 4 amps. The SPT77WML-01 draws 15 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the circular saws.

The RK3440K has a motor that spins at 3500 rpm and the SPT77WML-01 has a motor that spins at 5300 rpm. But you shouldnt get too caught up in the RPM numbers, since the manufacturers test them under ideal conditions, and they dont have a direct correlation with the saws real-world ability to handle various types of material.

The RK3440K has a direct motor. The SPT77WML-01 has a worm-drive motor. Worm-drive motors are longer and heavier, but often more powerful and easier to control due to the weight being more centered.

Blades & Capacity

The RK3440K takes 3 3/8 diameter blades and has a 19/32 arbor. The SPT77WML-01 accepts 7 1/4 diameter saw blades and has a 5/8 arbor. Most 8-to-10blades have a 5/8arbor hole, so this size arbor provides a lot of choices.

The RK3440K can bevel its blade up to 0° and is able to cut up to 1 1/16 at a 90° angle. The SPT77WML-01 can bevel the blade up to 53°, will cut up to 2 3/8 deep at 90°, and can cut up to 1 15/16 at an angle of 45°.

When beveling the saw, most circular saws will have positive stops at common angles such as 45° and 90°. This ensures you are making precise cuts. Some saws have additional stops at other angles.

The Skilsaw has stops at 45°.

Both saws have the blade on the left side of the unit. Right-handers sometimes find it easier to see and control blades mounted to the left, while left-handers might find the same true for right-mounted blades.

Pros & Cons

Lets take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.

For the Rockwell:

Pros

  • Very lightweight
  • Laser guide for accurately following cut lines

Cons

  • Safety mechanism can be confusing, requires pushing plate down onto work surface

For the SPT77WML-01:

Pros

  • Lots of torque for cutting difficult material
  • Good build quality
  • Blade-left design provides good visibility
  • Easy to track straight cut lines

Cons

  • Heavier than most direct-drive saws

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side look at these productsspecs. You can view comparisons of the Rockwell RK3440K with other products

and comparisons of the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 with other products.

Rockwell RK3440KSkilsaw SPT77WML-01
Rockwell RK3440K
Skilsaw SPT77WML-01
BrandRockwellSkilsaw
Power Typecordedcorded
Power - Voltage120 V120 V
Power - Amps4 A15 A
No-load RPM3500 rpm5300 rpm
Blade Diameter3 3/8”7 1/4”
Maximum Bevel53°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)1 1/16”2 3/8”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)n/a1 15/16”
Arbor Size19/32”5/8”
Dimensions19 1/2” L × 7” H
Weight4 lbs11.5 lbs
Blade - Sideleftleft
Drive Mechanismdirectworm-drive
Stopsn/a45°
Warranty1 year
Pros
  • Very lightweight
  • Laser guide for accurately following cut lines
  • Lots of torque for cutting difficult material
  • Good build quality
  • Blade-left design provides good visibility
  • Easy to track straight cut lines
Cons
  • Safety mechanism can be confusing, requires pushing plate down onto work surface
  • Heavier than most direct-drive saws
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