Hercules Saw

As I stand in my workshop, sawdust coating my boots and the familiar scent of freshly cut pine filling the air, I can’t help but reflect on my journey with power tools. After fifteen years of building everything from birdhouses to built-ins, I’ve learned that the right saw can make the difference between a weekend of frustration and a project you’re proud to show off. Today, I want to share my experiences with a brand that’s been turning heads in the tool community—Hercules.

Finding the right saw for your specific needs is arguably the most important decision you’ll make for any woodworking or construction project. Too much power and you’ll waste money; too little and you’ll waste time. That sweet spot is what we’re after, and Hercules has been making a compelling case for itself in the mid-tier power tool market.

When Harbor Freight launched their Hercules line in 2017, many tool enthusiasts (myself included) approached with caution. Harbor Freight’s reputation for budget tools meant expectations were tempered. But after putting several Hercules saws through their paces on countless projects, I’ve developed a genuine appreciation for what they offer at their price point. Let me walk you through everything you need to know before deciding if a Hercules saw belongs in your arsenal.

The Hercules Saw Lineup: More Versatile Than You Might Think

The first question most people ask is: “What kinds of saws does Hercules actually make?” The lineup is more comprehensive than many realize, covering most bases for both professionals and weekend warriors. Here’s what’s currently available:

Circular Saws

The backbone of the Hercules lineup is their 7¼-inch circular saw. Available in both corded and cordless variants, these are workhorses designed for framing, ripping boards, and making quick, straight cuts. The corded model delivers 15 amps of power—standard for professional-grade circular saws—while the 20V cordless version provides surprising freedom without sacrificing too much cutting power.

The first Hercules saw I purchased was their corded circular saw. At $119.99 (often on sale for less), it was significantly cheaper than comparable DeWalt or Milwaukee options. What impressed me immediately was the solid feel—die-cast aluminum housing instead of plastic, a responsive trigger, and smooth depth and bevel adjustments.

The cordless model runs about $149.99 for the bare tool (without battery and charger), putting it squarely in the middle of the market for cordless circular saws. If you’re already invested in Hercules batteries, this becomes a compelling option.

Miter Saws

Hercules offers 10-inch and 12-inch compound miter saws, with the 12-inch version available in both single and dual bevel configurations. These range from $199 for the basic 10-inch to $349 for the 12-inch sliding dual-compound version.

I’ve spent considerable time with the 12-inch sliding model, and it’s become a mainstay in my workshop. The dual-bevel functionality allows for cutting crown molding without flipping the piece, a small convenience that saves significant time over a large project. With a crosscut capacity of up to 2×16 at 90 degrees and 2×12 at 45 degrees, it handles most trim and framing tasks with ease.

Reciprocating Saws

Perfect for demolition work, the Hercules reciprocating saw (often called a Sawzall, though that’s technically Milwaukee’s trademarked term) comes in corded ($99.99) and cordless ($129.99 bare tool) versions. The 12-amp corded model delivers 3000 strokes per minute—comparable to professional brands—while the cordless offers slightly less at 2800 SPM but with the convenience of portability.

Table Saws

The newest addition to the Hercules family is their 10-inch jobsite table saw. At $399, it’s one of the pricier Hercules offerings but still undercuts comparable professional models by $100-200. With a 15-amp motor, 24-inch rip capacity, and solid fence system, it’s aimed squarely at contractors who need reliability without breaking the budget.

Specialty Saws

Hercules has been expanding their specialty saw offerings, including:

• A compact jigsaw ($99.99 corded, $129.99 cordless)
• An 8¼-inch track saw system ($299.99 with track)
• A 5-inch oscillating multi-tool ($69.99 corded, $99.99 cordless)

Hercules vs. The Competition: David Among Goliaths?

Let’s address the elephant in the workshop: How does Hercules stack up against established brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Ryobi?

After using tools from all these manufacturers, I’d place Hercules in an interesting middle ground. It’s priced similarly to Ryobi but often delivers performance closer to the professional brands. Here’s my honest assessment after extensive use:

Build Quality

Hercules tools feature surprisingly robust construction. Metal gearboxes, brushless motors in newer models, and quality bearings contribute to a tool that feels substantial in your hands. The fit and finish isn’t quite at the level of Milwaukee or Makita, but it’s noticeably better than many other mid-tier brands.

The trigger mechanisms feel responsive, depth adjustments remain locked during use, and vibration is well-managed across their saw lineup. These aren’t minor points—they’re the difference between a precise cut and a do-over.

Power and Performance

In terms of raw power, the specifications of Hercules saws often match those of professional brands. The 15-amp motors in their corded circular and table saws deliver comparable RPMs and torque to more expensive alternatives. Where you might notice a difference is in sustained heavy-duty use—professional brands are engineered for all-day, every-day abuse that most DIYers will never approach.

The cordless lineup is where a more noticeable gap emerges. While Hercules’ 20V batteries are decent, their power management and runtime don’t quite match the sophisticated battery platforms from Milwaukee or DeWalt. For occasional use, this difference is negligible, but for professionals who rely on cordless tools all day, the premium brands still justify their cost.

Durability

This is where experience comes in handy. I’ve been using my Hercules miter saw for three years now, and it’s held up admirably through multiple kitchen renovations, a deck build, and countless smaller projects. The brushes are still good, the fence remains true, and all adjustments work smoothly.

That said, Hercules doesn’t have the decades-long track record of the established brands. Long-term durability remains something of an open question, though initial signs are promising. Harbor Freight has been steadily improving their quality control, and the Hercules line benefits from this focus.

Warranty and Support

Hercules tools come with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and a 2-year limited warranty. This falls short of the 3-5 year warranties offered by premium brands but exceeds many budget options. The real test comes when something goes wrong—and here, Hercules has an advantage in Harbor Freight’s expanding physical presence. You can return or exchange tools at any Harbor Freight location, whereas warranty service for other brands often requires shipping tools to service centers.

Where to Buy: The Harbor Freight Connection

One significant limitation of Hercules tools is their availability. They’re manufactured exclusively for Harbor Freight, meaning you can only purchase them through Harbor Freight stores or their website. This contrasts with brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee, which are available through numerous retailers, often creating price competition.

The upside is consistency—Hercules tools maintain stable pricing without the wild fluctuations seen with some brands across different retailers. Harbor Freight also runs frequent promotions on Hercules tools, including substantial discounts during major holidays.

For many buyers, the lack of retail options is offset by Harbor Freight’s expanding footprint. With over 1,100 stores across the United States, most urban and suburban dwellers have a location within reasonable driving distance.

The Price Factor: What You’re Really Paying For

Let’s talk dollars and cents—often the deciding factor for many tool purchases. Hercules positions itself as a “prosumer” brand, offering near-professional performance at mid-range prices. Here’s how the costs break down:

• Hercules 7¼-inch Circular Saw: $119.99 (corded) / $149.99 (cordless, bare tool)
• Hercules 12-inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw: $349.99
• Hercules Reciprocating Saw: $99.99 (corded) / $129.99 (cordless, bare tool)
• Hercules 10-inch Jobsite Table Saw: $399.99
• Hercules Jigsaw: $99.99 (corded) / $129.99 (cordless, bare tool)

These prices typically land 20-30% below equivalent professional-grade tools from DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita, but 10-20% above consumer-focused brands like Ryobi. This positioning makes Hercules particularly appealing to:

1. Serious DIYers who need reliable performance but can’t justify professional-grade prices
2. Starting contractors who need to build out their tool collection while managing cash flow
3. Professionals who need secondary tools for less-frequent tasks

It’s worth noting that the total investment increases if you’re buying into the cordless ecosystem, as you’ll need batteries and chargers. A starter 20V 4.0Ah battery and charger bundle from Hercules runs about $99.99, comparable to other mid-tier systems but without the variety of tools available on more established platforms.

Woodworking with Hercules: Precision Where It Counts

As someone who splits time between rough carpentry and finer woodworking projects, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the Hercules lineup’s versatility. For woodworking specifically, the miter saw and table saw are where the Hercules brand really shines.

The 12-inch sliding miter saw holds its calibration well, a critical factor for precise joinery and trim work. The blade that comes with it is adequate for construction but worth upgrading if you’re doing finer work. I swapped in a Diablo 80-tooth fine-cutting blade, and the combination produces clean, splinter-free cuts in hardwoods and veneered plywood.

The table saw features a surprisingly good fence system that locks firmly and remains parallel to the blade—essential for safe, accurate ripping operations. At 10 inches with a standard 5/8-inch arbor, it accepts all standard blades, allowing you to customize for your specific woodworking needs. The included riving knife and anti-kickback pawls are properly designed safety features often compromised on cheaper saws.

Where Hercules falls slightly short for fine woodworking is in specialty applications. They don’t currently offer a band saw, scroll saw, or dedicated track saw system (though their circular saw can be used with aftermarket tracks). For these tasks, you’ll need to look elsewhere or adapt existing tools.

Cordless vs. Corded: Making the Right Choice

Hercules offers most of their saws in both corded and cordless configurations, prompting the eternal question: which is right for you?

In my experience, the decision comes down to your specific working situation:

When Corded Makes Sense

• You primarily work in a fixed location with reliable power
• You need maximum sustained power for extended cutting sessions
• You’re on a tighter budget (corded models are typically $30-50 cheaper)
• You don’t want to manage multiple battery systems

When Cordless Shines

• You frequently work in locations without easy access to power
• You need the flexibility to move around a large workspace or jobsite
• You value the convenience of quick setup without hunting for outlets
• You already own Hercules batteries from other tools

The performance gap between corded and cordless has narrowed considerably in recent years. Hercules’ cordless circular saw, for instance, delivers about 90% of the cutting power of its corded sibling—more than enough for most applications. The cordless reciprocating saw similarly performs admirably in all but the most demanding demolition tasks.

Battery life remains the primary limitation. With a 4.0Ah battery, expect roughly 30-45 minutes of active cutting with the circular saw before needing a recharge. For occasional DIY use, this is rarely an issue, but professionals should consider investing in multiple batteries or sticking with corded models for power-hungry applications.

Material Versatility: What Can Hercules Saws Cut?

Understanding a saw’s cutting capabilities is crucial for selecting the right tool. Here’s how the Hercules lineup handles different materials:

Wood and Wood Products

As you’d expect, all Hercules saws excel with lumber, plywood, OSB, and other wood products. The circular and table saws power through 2x material without bogging down, while the miter saw makes clean crosscuts in hardwoods and softwoods alike.

For finer materials like hardwood veneers or melamine, blade selection becomes critical. The stock blades are workable but upgrading to a higher tooth-count blade dramatically improves results.

Metal Cutting

Several Hercules saws can cut metal with the appropriate blades:

• The reciprocating saw handles steel pipe, rebar, and non-ferrous metals with bi-metal blades
• The circular saw can cut thin sheet metal, aluminum, and copper with specialized metal-cutting blades
• The oscillating multi-tool works for small metal cutting tasks with the right attachments

For serious metal cutting, however, Hercules lacks dedicated metal-cutting saws like bandsaws or cold cut saws. This is one area where specialty tools from other manufacturers might be necessary.

Masonry and Tile

With diamond or abrasive blades, the circular saw can make cuts in concrete, brick, and stone. However, this generates significant dust and should only be attempted with proper dust collection and respiratory protection.

The oscillating multi-tool works well for grout removal and small tile cuts, though a dedicated tile saw would be preferable for extensive tile work.

Plastics

Most Hercules saws handle plastics well, though proper technique is important to prevent melting. The jigsaw excels with plastics, providing clean cuts without the heat buildup of higher-RPM tools.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Hercules Saw Running Strong

Like any power tools, Hercules saws require regular maintenance to perform at their best and maximize lifespan. Here’s my maintenance routine that has kept my Hercules tools running smoothly:

Daily/Per-Use Maintenance

1. Blow out dust using compressed air (focusing on motor vents and moving parts)
2. Check blade condition and tightness
3. Inspect power cords for damage (corded models)
4. Wipe down surfaces, especially guide rails and adjustment mechanisms

Monthly Maintenance

1. Clean and lubricate all moving parts with dry lubricant
2. Check and tighten all screws and fasteners
3. Clean or replace dust collection bags/filters
4. Inspect brushes on non-brushless models

Annual Maintenance

1. Complete teardown and deep cleaning
2. Check gear lubrication (re-grease if necessary)
3. Test and calibrate all adjustments
4. Inspect batteries for damage or degradation (cordless models)

One advantage Hercules has over some competitors is the relative simplicity of their designs. While they incorporate modern features, they avoid overly complex mechanisms that can be prone to failure. Parts that typically wear first—brushes, bearings, switches—are standard sizes often compatible with those used in other major brands.

Blade Changing Made Simple

Changing blades is a regular part of saw ownership, whether from wear or switching between different materials. Here’s a quick guide for the major Hercules saw types:

Circular Saw

1. Unplug or remove battery
2. Depress spindle lock button
3. Use included wrench to loosen arbor bolt (counterclockwise)
4. Remove old blade and mount new one, ensuring teeth face forward
5. Tighten arbor bolt securely

Miter Saw

1. Unplug saw
2. Raise blade guard and locate spindle lock
3. Press spindle lock and loosen arbor bolt with provided wrench
4. Replace blade, ensuring rotation direction matches indicator
5. Retighten bolt and lower guard

Table Saw

1. Unplug saw
2. Remove throat plate
3. Raise blade to maximum height
4. Use included wrenches to loosen arbor nut (counterclockwise)
5. Replace blade, reinstall throat plate

Reciprocating Saw

1. Unplug or remove battery
2. Rotate blade clamp collar
3. Remove old blade
4. Insert new blade and release collar to lock

All Hercules saws use standard blade sizes and arbor configurations, giving you access to the full range of specialty blades available on the market. This compatibility is a significant advantage, allowing you to optimize performance for specific materials without being locked into proprietary systems.

Safety First: Using Your Hercules Saw Responsibly

No tool review would be complete without addressing safety. Power saws account for thousands of injuries annually, many of which are preventable with proper precautions.

Hercules saws incorporate standard safety features including:

• Blade guards
• Electric brakes on higher-end models
• Trigger locks to prevent accidental activation
• Riving knives on table saws
• Anti-kickback pawls

These features are only effective when used properly. Here are the non-negotiable safety practices I follow with any saw:

1. Always wear appropriate PPE—safety glasses, hearing protection, and dust mask at minimum
2. Never disable or remove safety guards
3. Maintain firm control and proper body positioning (never cut toward yourself)
4. Secure workpieces properly before cutting
5. Maintain awareness of cord/battery position to prevent cutting
6. Ensure blades are sharp—dull blades require more force and increase kickback risk
7. Wait for blade to stop completely before setting down the tool
8. Disconnect power source before changing blades or performing maintenance

Perhaps the most important safety tip: respect the tool. Complacency leads to accidents, especially with tools you use regularly. Approach each cut with focus, even if you’ve made that same cut hundreds of times before.

Real-World Performance: My Hercules Saw Projects

Theory and specifications only tell part of the story. To truly evaluate a tool, you need to put it through real-world applications. Here are some projects where my Hercules saws have proven their worth:

Kitchen Renovation

My Hercules 12-inch miter saw was the MVP during a complete kitchen remodel. The dual-bevel feature made quick work of crown molding installation, while the extended cutting capacity handled 12-inch wide cabinet panels without issue. After two weeks of daily use, the saw maintained its calibration without adjustment.

Deck Construction

Building a 400-square-foot cedar deck put the circular saw through its paces. The corded Hercules model ripped hundreds of feet of decking without overheating or bogging down. Depth adjustments stayed locked even after repeated bumps and repositioning on the jobsite.

Built-In Bookcase

For finer woodworking, I used the Hercules table saw to dimension shelving for a floor-to-ceiling bookcase. With an aftermarket Freud combination blade, the cuts were clean enough to glue without jointing. The fence remained parallel throughout dozens of rip cuts in maple plywood.

Emergency Plumbing Repair

When a pipe burst inside a wall, the Hercules reciprocating saw made quick, controlled cuts through drywall and studs to access the damaged area. The compact design allowed operation in the tight space, and the variable speed control prevented cutting too aggressively near the pipes.

Professional Viability: Can Contractors Rely on Hercules?

As someone who straddles the line between serious DIYer and occasional professional work, this question interests me deeply. Can professionals who depend on their tools daily stake their reputation on Hercules?

The answer is nuanced. For many contractors, especially those in specialized fields or working solo, Hercules offers sufficient quality at a price point that helps manage overhead. The savings compared to premium brands can be significant when outfitting a complete tool collection.

However, there are legitimate concerns that professionals should consider:

1. Limited service network – While Harbor Freight handles warranty claims, they don’t offer the same comprehensive repair services as DeWalt or Milwaukee service centers.
2. Battery system limitations – The Hercules 20V system has fewer compatible tools than established systems from major manufacturers, potentially limiting future expansion.
3. Jobsite perception – Tool choice sometimes affects client perception. In high-end residential or commercial settings, clients may question the use of less recognized brands.
4. Parts availability – Long-term parts availability remains an open question as models evolve.

For contractors in certain scenarios, Hercules makes perfect sense:

• Starting contractors building their first tool collection
• Established pros who need backup tools for assistants
• Specialists who need task-specific tools used infrequently
• Mobile contractors who face higher tool theft risk

Convenient Features: Lasers, LEDs, and Beyond

Modern saws incorporate various convenience features that, while not essential, can significantly improve the user experience. Hercules has progressively added these features to remain competitive:

Laser Guides

The Hercules 12-inch miter saws include integrated laser guides that project a cut line onto your workpiece. These are adjustable for blade offset and provide a useful visual reference for quick cuts. In my experience, the laser is adequately bright for indoor use but can be difficult to see in direct sunlight.

LED Work Lights

Newer Hercules models feature LED work lights that illuminate the cutting area. These are particularly useful on the circular and reciprocating saws when working in darker environments or inside cabinetry. The LEDs are thoughtfully positioned to avoid casting shadows from the tool itself.

Dust Collection

Dust management varies across the lineup. The miter saws include a dust bag that captures roughly 60-70% of sawdust—better than nothing but not comparable to connecting to a proper dust extractor. The table saw features a 2½-inch dust port compatible with standard shop vacuums.

The circular saw lacks dedicated dust collection, though aftermarket solutions can be adapted. This is one area where improvement would be welcome in future generations.

Ergonomic Grips

Comfort during extended use has clearly been considered in the Hercules design. The grips feature overmolded rubber with texture patterns that remain secure even with sweaty hands. Trigger placement and activation force are well-balanced, reducing hand fatigue during repetitive cuts.

Accessories: Expanding Your Capabilities

The right accessories can dramatically extend a saw’s versatility. Here’s what’s available specifically for Hercules saws:

Blades

Harbor Freight offers Hercules-branded blades for all their saws, ranging from general-purpose to specialized cutting. These are decent mid-range options, though I’ve found that upgrading to premium blades from Diablo, Freud, or similar manufacturers noticeably improves cut quality.

Stands and Tables

The Hercules miter saw stand ($149.99) is a sturdy, collapsible option with integrated supports and material stops. It’s compatible with most brands of miter saws, not just Hercules.

For the table saw, an outfeed support ($49.99) attaches directly to the rear of the saw, providing additional stability for longer stock.

Dust Collection

While not Hercules-specific, Harbor Freight’s dust collection accessories work well with the Hercules lineup. Their 4-inch dust collection system can be adapted to the table saw with standard fittings.

Jigs and Guides

Hercules offers few proprietary jigs, but their saws accept standard aftermarket options:

• The circular saw works with universal edge guides and track systems
• The table saw accepts standard miter gauges and sleds
• The jigsaw can use commercially available circle cutting guides

Different Saws for Different Tasks: Miter vs. Circular

Understanding the fundamental differences between saw types helps ensure you select the right tool for your projects. Let’s compare two of the most common types in the Hercules lineup:

Miter Saw Strengths

• Precision crosscuts at exact angles
• Repeatable cuts for trim, molding, and framing
• Stable platform for consistent results
• Better dust collection capabilities
• Safer for beginners (fixed cutting position)

Circular Saw Strengths

• Portability to bring the saw to the material
• Ability to make rip cuts along a board’s length
• More versatile cutting (can make plunge cuts and curves with practice)
• Generally less expensive
• Can cut larger sheet goods too big for a miter saw

For new workshop setups, I typically recommend a quality miter saw as the first major saw purchase. It handles 80% of cuts needed for common DIY projects with greater safety and precision than a handheld circular saw. The Hercules 10-inch compound miter saw offers exceptional value as an entry point at $199.

However, for those who need to work with sheet goods or perform renovation work in existing structures, a circular saw might be the more practical first purchase. The Hercules corded circular saw at $119 represents an excellent balance of performance and value.

The Ideal DIY Hercules Saw: My Recommendations

After years of using various Hercules saws, I’ve developed clear preferences for different applications. If you’re building a workshop from scratch, here’s how I’d prioritize Hercules saw purchases for maximum versatility:

For the Beginning DIYer:

1. Hercules 10-inch Compound Miter Saw ($199) – Handles crosscuts, angle cuts, and basic trim work with excellent precision
2. Hercules Corded Circular Saw ($119) – For ripping boards and cutting sheet goods
3. Hercules Jigsaw ($99) – For curves, cutouts, and detail work

This three-saw starter collection covers 90% of DIY cutting needs for under $420—less than the cost of many single professional-grade saws.

For the Serious Hobbyist:

1. Hercules 12-inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw ($349) – The increased capacity and dual bevel feature save significant time on complex projects
2. Hercules 10-inch Table Saw ($399) – For precise ripping and dado work
3. Hercules Cordless Circular Saw ($149 + batteries) – For jobsite flexibility
4. Hercules Reciprocating Saw ($99) – For demolition and rough cutting

This expanded collection enables more sophisticated projects while still representing excellent value compared to premium brands.

For Mixed Woodworking/Construction:

If you regularly switch between fine woodworking and construction tasks, I’d recommend:

1. Hercules 12-inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw ($349)
2. Hercules 10-inch Table Saw ($399)
3. Hercules Cordless Circular Saw Kit with batteries ($249)
4. Hercules Cordless Reciprocating Saw ($129 bare tool)
5. Hercules Oscillating Multi-Tool ($99)

This combination provides workshop precision and jobsite flexibility with both corded and cordless options.

The Verdict: Is Hercules Right For You?

After thousands of cuts across dozens of projects, my assessment of Hercules saws is overwhelmingly positive given their price point. They represent excellent value in the mid-tier market, delivering near-professional performance at significantly lower cost.

Are they perfect? No. The limited distribution through Harbor Freight only, the newer battery platform with fewer compatible tools, and the shorter warranty compared to premium brands are legitimate considerations. For professionals who push their tools to the limit daily or work in remote locations where immediate replacement isn’t possible, the premium brands still justify their higher costs.

However, for serious DIYers, weekend warriors, and even many contractors, Hercules offers an appealing compromise between budget limitations and performance requirements. The build quality significantly exceeds the price would suggest, and the three-year track record of the brand shows promising durability.

My personal experience has been that Hercules saws perform at about 90% the level of professional brands at roughly 70% of the cost. For most users, that math makes perfect sense. The 10% performance difference typically manifests only in edge cases—the hardest materials, the longest continuous use, or the most precise requirements.

If you’ve been hesitant about Hercules based on Harbor Freight’s earlier reputation for budget tools, it’s worth giving the current generation a serious look. The company has made substantial investments in quality control and design, resulting in tools that deserve consideration alongside established brands.

Whether you’re building out your first workshop or looking to expand your existing collection without breaking the bank, Hercules saws offer performance that will satisfy all but the most demanding professionals. After all, the best tool is the one that helps you complete your projects with confidence, regardless of the name on the label.