Kobalt Updates Its 24V Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw And Adds A Surprise New Feature
As Kobalt refreshes its initial run of 24V cordless tools, the next-generation models aim to offer a more compact package without sacrificing performance. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Kobalt 24V cordless 6 1/2-inch circular saw to see how it compares to the original.
Kobalt Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw Performance
For starters, you can find the updated saw under the model number KCS 124B-03 and it’s a replacement for the KCS 6524B-03. It doesn’t compete with or replace the XTR 7 1/4-inch version (KXCS 124B-03) that maintains its status as Kobalt’s top-of-line cordless option.
The brushless motor turns the 6 1/2-inch blade at 5500 RPMs. The previous model ran at 5400 RPM, so there’s a bump in overall speed that results in faster cutting.
On the other hand, you lose a little bit of capacity. The first generation model cut up to 2 7/16 inches at 90°, matching some 7 1/4-inch saws. The updated model has a max capacity of 2 3/16, dropping about a 1/4-inch from what we had previously. At 45°, the capacity is 1 5/8 inches.
In terms of consequences, it’s a minor difference. The saw still has enough to cut through 2x material in one pass at both 90° and 45°. It’s also enough to rip cut three stacked sheets of 3/4-inch (technically, 23/32-inch) OSB subfloor or plywood.
Kobalt Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw Design
Ergonomics
While we didn’t have any complaints with the size and weight of the original saw, the latest Kobalt cordless 6 1/2-inch circular saw manages to drop about a 1/4-pound. Bare, it weighs just 6.5 pounds and a 4.0Ah battery makes it a very manageable 8.3 pounds. Kobalt could have shaved more weight by going with a plastic blade guard the way many saws in this class do, but we prefer the greater durability of metal and we’re willing to have the slightly higher weight that comes with it.
The handle design doesn’t stray much, maintaining its inline positioning from the main handle to the front pommel. The pommel is agreeably large enough to fill your hand and the entire handle section has a generous covering of rubber overmold.
Adjustments
The bevel adjustment uses a standard clamping lever, though there’s no stop for the 45° angle as there is on some saws.
Blade depth adjustments are very different and we love the design. Instead of a clamping lever, you pinch a release to adjust the depth. There are plenty of detents to lock the depth into for even those of you who demand precision.
As for measuring the depth, you’ll find marks just above the adjustment mechanism that expose as you change the depth.
Dust Control
Rather than having a removable vac adapter that connects to the back of the blade cover, Kobalt sticks it on the front section pointing away from you. It has about 45° of rotation to help you manage your hose or adjust for any wind you’re dealing with. If you’re using the saw without a hose, we recommend pointing the nozzle down to help keep the dust off of you.
The adapter has a 1 1/4-inch diameter.
Additional Highlights
- LED light
- Electronic blade brake
- Aluminum shoe, blade cover, and blade guard
- Rafter hook
- Includes 24T blade
Kobalt Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw Quick Comparison
| Original KCS 6524B-03 | Next-Gen KCS 124B-03 | |
| Blade Size | 6 1/2 inches | 6 1/2 inches |
| No-Load Speed | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Max Cut Capacity | 2 7/16 inches | 2 3/16 inches |
| Max Bevel | 50° | 50° |
| Bare Weight | 6.7 pounds | 6.5 pounds |
Kobalt Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw Price
Lowe’s sells the Kobalt KCS 124B-03 as a bare tool for $129.00 in-store and online. There’s no kit option available at the time we’re writing, but there’s a better-than-average shot we’ll see some combo kits featuring this saw in the future. It comes with a 5-year warranty.
The Bottom Line
With the Kobalt 24V cordless 6 1/2-inch circular saw, the design team took a very good saw and made it even better. Its performance bump along with a solid design, compact size, and that fantastic new depth adjustment makes this a winner for serious DIYers and value-minded Pros.
Kobalt 24V Cordless 6 1/2-Inch Circular Saw Specifications
- Model: Kobalt KCS 124B-03
- Power Source: Kobalt 24V Max battery
- Cut depth: 2-3/16 in. (90º), 1-5/8 in. (45º)
- No-Load Speed: 5,500 RPM
- Arbor: 5/8 in.
- Max bevel: 50 degrees
- Weight: 6.5 lbs (bare), 8.3 lbs. (with 4.0Ah battery)
- Warranty: 5-year limited
- Price: $129 (bare tool)
