CAT CLASS: HQ-10124

13-15 in Hand-Held Cut-Off Saw

The 13-15 in hand-held cut-off saw — built around the 14 in blade — is the industry-standard size and what most contractors mean by "a cut-off saw." This size delivers approximately 5 in of cutting depth in concrete and asphalt, making it the workhorse for the majority of concrete cutting tasks on job sites. It sits at the top of the hand-held cut-off saw ladder, representing the largest blade diameter in this class.

Models

Brands

Cat classes

Pick a size class — capacity and reach differ across the range.

Key specifications

Specification	Typical range	What it means
Blade diameter	14 in (35.6 cm)	The standard size; defines maximum cutting depth and is universally recognized across the industry
Maximum cutting depth	~5 in	Depth achievable in concrete and asphalt; sufficient for most slab, curb, and utility work
Power source	Gasoline 2-stroke	Most common configuration for portability and power delivery without electrical constraints

How to choose

The 13-15 in size is appropriate when cutting depth requirements approach or reach 5 in, or when the job calls for the standard industry cut-off saw without qualification. This is the default choice for general concrete and asphalt cutting on most commercial and residential sites. The Up to 13 in Hand-Held Cut-Off Saw is the better choice only when lighter weight or more confined working conditions are priorities and cutting depth of 4 in or less is sufficient; the smaller size offers easier handling in tight spaces or overhead applications. No larger hand-held size exists in this class — jobs requiring deeper cuts must move to walk-behind or larger concrete saw equipment.

What this size handles

Cutting control joints and expansion joints in concrete slabs up to 5 in thick
Curb and gutter removal or modification in street and parking lot work
Asphalt patching and utility trench cuts in roadways
Pipe penetrations and openings through concrete walls and floors
Partition wall cuts and doorway openings in masonry construction
Concrete pier and footing adjustments in foundation work

Safety & operation

Blade guard adjustment and proper two-handed grip are critical; kickback risk increases with blade bind
Water attachment for wet cutting controls silica dust; required in many jurisdictions for concrete work
Hearing protection, eye protection, and respiratory protection (even with wet cutting) are standard PPE
Operators must maintain stable footing and avoid cutting above shoulder height where control is compromised

Transport & logistics

Typically transported in service trucks, vans, or pickup beds as part of a concrete crew's toolkit
Weight and size allow one-person carry to the cut location; no trailer or lifting equipment required
Often stored alongside blades, fuel cans, and water supply in mobile gang boxes

Power & supply

Gasoline-powered models use 2-stroke engines requiring mixed fuel (gasoline and 2-stroke oil)
Fuel tank capacity typically allows several hours of intermittent cutting before refueling
Some models available in battery-electric or corded electric configurations for indoor or emissions-sensitive environments

Frequently asked

What is the actual cutting depth with a 14 in blade?

Maximum depth is approximately 5 in when the blade is fully exposed in the cut. Effective depth decreases as the blade wears down or when the guard limits exposure for safety.

Can this size replace a walk-behind saw for most jobs?

For cuts under 5 in deep and jobs requiring portability or access to confined areas, yes. Walk-behind saws become necessary for cuts deeper than 5 in, long straight production cuts, or when operator fatigue is a concern on extended work.

Is the 14 in size suitable for cutting rebar-reinforced concrete?

Yes, with an appropriate diamond blade rated for reinforced concrete. The saw has sufficient power, though blade life and cut speed depend on rebar density and proper wet-cutting technique.