Top Contractor Picks for Concrete, Asphalt & Steel
Hand-held gas saws are still the go-to cutting tool on construction sites. They deliver more cutting power and runtime than most battery models and handle concrete, asphalt, rebar, pipe, and masonry with ease.
Below are three of the most popular contractor saws used in roadwork, concrete, and utility work today.
1. STIHL TS420
4
Quick Specs
- Engine: 66.7 cc
- Power: ~4.4 HP
- Blade Size: 14″
- Max Cut Depth: 4.9″
- Weight: ~21 lbs
Pros
✔ Extremely reliable
✔ Easy starting system
✔ Excellent balance for handheld use
✔ Massive dealer support
Cons
✖ Slightly less power than Husqvarna K770
✖ Older design compared to newer models
BladeGuy Pro Take:
Still one of the most common saws on jobsites in North America. Tough and simple.
2. Husqvarna K770
4
Quick Specs
- Engine: 74 cc
- Power: ~5 HP
- Blade Size: 14″
- Max Cut Depth: 5″
- Weight: ~22 lbs
Pros
✔ More power than most competitors
✔ Low vibration system
✔ SmartTension belt system
✔ Very durable
Cons
✖ Slightly heavier
✖ Dealer network smaller than Stihl in some areas
The K770 is known for its excellent power-to-weight ratio and strong cutting performance, making it one of the most popular professional power cutters.
BladeGuy Pro Take:
Probably the most balanced contractor saw available today.
3. Makita EK7651H
4
Quick Specs
- Engine: 75.6 cc
- Power: ~4.1 HP
- Blade Size: 14″
- Max Cut Depth: ~5″
- Weight: ~27 lbs
Pros
✔ 4-stroke engine (no oil mix)
✔ Lower emissions
✔ Long engine life
Cons
✖ Heavier than competitors
✖ Slightly less cutting speed
BladeGuy Pro Take:
Great for contractors who hate mixing fuel and want cleaner running engines.
Quick Contractor Comparison
| Saw | Power | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stihl TS420 | 4.4 HP | 21 lbs | Reliability |
| Husqvarna K770 | 5 HP | 22 lbs | Raw cutting power |
| Makita EK7651H | 4.1 HP | 27 lbs | No oil-mix fuel |
BladeGuy Pro Recommendation
For most contractors cutting concrete, asphalt, ductile iron, and rebar:
🥇 Best Overall: Husqvarna K770
🥈 Most Reliable: Stihl TS420
🥉 Clean Engine Option: Makita EK7651H
I have used and sold all 3 and I love the Husqvarna, The Stihl is good, and I wish the Makita was more reliable as I love the brand. But give me the extra power of the Husqvarna and the feel is just better for me
Both Stihl and Husqvarna dominate construction sites worldwide and remain the most common professional disc cutters used in masonry and civil construction.
✅ BladeGuy Pro Tip:
The saw is only half the equation.
The diamond blade you run determines cutting speed, safety, and blade life.
A quality multipurpose diamond blade can cut:
- Concrete
- Asphalt
- Rebar
- Ductile iron
- Brick
- Block
- Pavers
…and save contractors from carrying multiple blades.
.