Metabo HPT Adds Capable 6 1/2-Inch Track Saw to their MultiVolt Lineup
Track saws aren’t typically a core tool for most contractors, but they’re essential for Professional carpenters and woodworkers. The Metabo HPT MultiVolt Track Saw has many of the key features that we look for in a Pro-grade tool, but how does it perform? Let’s find out!
Want to see more circular saw reviews? Check out our top picks for the Best Cordless Circular Saws!
Pros
- Confident cutting power
- Smooth plunging action
- Variable speed dial
- Extremely accurate
- Corded or cordless operation
- Lifetime tool warranty
- Excellent value
Cons
- Some plastic components feel flimsy
Using The Metabo HPT MultiVolt Track Saw
- No-Load Speed: 2,500 – 5,200 RPMs
- Max Cut Depth: 2-5/8 in. (0°), 1-3/4 in. (45°)
- Max Cut Depth with Track: 2-3/8 in. (0°)
- Max Bevel: -1° – 46°
- Blade Size: 6-1/2 in.
As we’ve seen with most track saws, the Metabo HPT sticks with a 6 1/2-inch blade. That’s great since you’ll be able to continue using the blades you already rely on.
The brushless motor powers this blade up to 5,200 RPMs, which is a solid top speed for a Pro-grade track saw. Better yet, there are 12 speed settings that allow you to dial in your speed to match the material. Having variable speeds makes this saw ideal for cutting various materials, including standard construction lumber, PVC, plexiglass, gypsum board, and even aluminum.
If you’re new to track saws, Metabo HPT’s trigger safety design is different from what you may expect if you’re used to cutting with a standard circular saw. Rather than using an ambidextrous push-in or push-down switch to the side of the handle, it’s a button that sits on top. Simply slide it forward to release the trigger and plunge action.
The plunging action is exceptionally smooth and easy to control—a critical characteristic of any high-end model. I especially love the large side handle because it feels more secure than a various other pommel grip designs.
When you’re using a rail, there’s an adjustable cam mechanism to help you dial in a precise cut with a smooth track glide. It’s one of those subtle differences that makes track saws better for precision cutting than buying a third-party rail system for a standard circular saw. We used the rails that Metabo HPT supplied and got a perfect fit and the smooth gliding action you look for during woodworking projects.
Overall, this saw is a winner, but Tom and I had some concerns about a few of the plastic components as we used it. The bevel adjustment dials, plunge stopper, and blade lock lever are all made of tool plastic rather than metal. It doesn’t affect the function at all and it does help shave some weight, but it’s something to keep an eye on if you or your crew are rough on tools.
Metabo HPT MultiVolt Track Saw Design Notes
- Model: Metabo HPT C3606DPA
- Power Source: Metabo HPT 36V battery
- Weight: 9.7 lbs. (bare tool), 11.9 lbs (with kitted 4.0Ah battery)
Weight
When we talk about circular saws, weight isn’t typically a major factor, and this is especially true with track saws. Of course, you still have to transport it between jobs, but as far as the work goes, a little extra weight can actually be a slight advantage.
This saw weighs 9.7 pounds as a bare tool and 11.9 pounds with the kitted 36V 4.0Ah battery. If you wanted to lighten the load, you could go with the smaller 2.5Ah battery, just keep in mind you’ll have to recharge more frequently. Alternatively, you can even use Metabo HPT’s AC adapter since this saw is on the 36V system.
Dust Port
Metabo HPT’s dust port is pretty interesting compared other options because it not only rotates but also has detents, so you can also lock into position. This is a nice feature that allows you to direct sawdust away from the cut or position your vacuum hose so it’s out of the way.
Like most track saws, Metabo HPT doesn’t include a sawdust collection bag, so if you’re working indoors, I recommend using a vacuum. The adapter will accommodate either a 1 7/8-inch or 1 1/4-inch hose.
Blade Depth Adjustment
Adjusting the cut depth is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things to know before you get started. First, this saw has a max cut depth of 2 5/8 inches. However, that number drops to 2 3/8 inches when using a track. It’s only a slight difference, but it’s good to know ahead of time.
To adjust the depth, press the green button on the sliding depth guide and move it into position. The scale is marked in 1/8-inch increments, but there are detents every 1/16-inch for increased accuracy. Additionally, you can manually decrease the plunge depth by gently pulling upward on the depth guide.
There’s also a micro-adjustment knob so you can dial in the precision even further.
If you’re using this saw with a guide rail, be sure you set your depth using the “GR” cut depth marking to compensate for the added height.
Bevel Adjustment
You won’t find too many surprises when it comes to adjusting the bevel, but this saw does have one pretty slick trick. Its bevel capacity ranges from -1° to 46° which gives professional woodworkers an advantage while performing complex joinery tasks.
There are positive stops at 0° and 45°, but if you want to access the 46° or -1° mark, just press the green undercut button and tighten down the locking screws. There are also a couple of adjustment screws that help keep the saw cutting square and accurately.
One of the more unique features of this track saw is the multi-joint bevel adjustment arms. What is that, you might ask? Well, Metabo HPT equipped this saw with a set of metal arms that keep the blade position constant even while the saw is cutting on a bevel.
Traditional circular saws have two cut-line guides molded into the shoe that help align the saw for cutting at 0° and 45°. Since track saws are typically used in conjunction with a guide rail, the blade position must remain constant to ensure accuracy.
The sturdy metal arms glide smoothly and don’t appear to flex, even when under load.
Blade Changes
Swapping out blades is a little more complex than using a standard circular saw, but once you understand the steps, it’s as simple as can be.
Start by removing the battery and positioning the plunge stopper in the green blade change zone between 3/4-inch and 1-inch. Next, flip the blade change lever on the stopper 90° to the right, and then lower the saw until it engages with the stopper and locks in place.
From here, it’s just a standard blade change using the onboard hex wrench located on the left side of the motor housing. Once everything is reassembled, flip the blade change lever back to its original position to disengage the locking mechanism.
Additional Features
- Adjustable blade window
- Compatible with all Metabo HPT MultiVolt batteries
Metabo HPT MultiVolt Track Saw Price
The Metabo HPT track saw retails for $499 as a kit and includes a 4.0Ah battery, charger, and storage box. It’s backed by a lifetime tool warranty, a 2-year battery warranty, and a 1-year charger warranty. This price point is very reasonable for a kit, especially compared to Makita and Bosch’s track saws.
You can also get Metabo HPT’s 63-inch aluminum track for $99.
The Bottom Line
Long story short, Metabo HPT absolutely nailed the MultiVolt track saw in both form and function. The performance level is right on par with what we expect from a Pro-grade tool, and the overall design makes this saw easy to use, even for beginners. We do have lingering concerns about some of the plastic components, but if you’re looking to replace your old corded track saw, Metabo HPT’s is a compelling option!
