Festool 576164 Cordless Carpentry Track Saw HKC 55 EB-F-Basic

happy as hell , last saw ill ever buy

If you’re in the market for a high-quality cordless carpentry saw, the Festool 576164 HKC 55 EB Basic is a solid choice—though it comes with a price tag that might make some hesitate. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses after putting using it for a few months.Build Quality & ErgonomicsAs expected from Festool, the HKC 55 feels premium. It’s built like a tank but still maintains a well-balanced and ergonomic feel in hand. The magnesium base plate keeps it lightweight while maintaining rigidity, and the handles have a comfortable, non-slip grip. The controls are intuitive, and the plunge mechanism operates smoothly.PerformanceThis saw is a beast when it comes to performance. The EC-TEC brushless motor delivers impressive power for a cordless unit, making cuts feel effortless. Whether you’re ripping sheet goods or cross-cutting framing lumber, it handles the job with zero bogging down. The guide rail system (if you pair it with one) ensures ultra-straight, precise cuts every time.The included FSK cross-cutting rail is where this saw really stands out. It effectively turns the saw into a portable miter saw, allowing for repeatable, dead-on accurate angled cuts—a game-changer for framing and roofing work.Battery LifeBattery life is solid with Festool’s 18V system, but as with most high-powered cordless tools, you’ll want an extra battery on hand if you're cutting all day. The saw is efficient, but cutting thick stock will drain the battery faster. If you already own Festool’s 18V ecosystem, this is an easy add-on.Dust CollectionOne of Festool’s biggest selling points is dust management, and the HKC 55 doesn’t disappoint. When hooked up to a Festool extractor, it captures a significant amount of dust—something you won’t get with most cordless saws. Even without an extractor, the built-in dust port helps keep the mess down.What Could Be Better?Price – Festool tools are never cheap, and this saw is no exception. If you’re not already in the Festool ecosystem, the buy-in can be painful.No Battery Included – This is the Basic version, meaning you don’t get batteries or a charger. If you’re starting from scratch, the kit version is a better buy.Blade Changes Require a Tool – Not a huge deal, but some saws have tool-free blade changes now.Final VerdictIf you need precision, portability, and power, the Festool HKC 55 EB Basic is a top-tier cordless carpentry saw. It’s especially great for framers, roofers, and trim carpenters who demand clean, accurate cuts without being tied to a cord. The FSK guide rail system is what sets it apart, making it a worthy alternative to a small miter saw for on-site work.That said, the price is steep. If you’re already invested in Festool, it’s a no-brainer. If not, you’ll have to decide whether the premium is worth it. For serious pros, the answer is probably yes.Rating: 4/5✔️ Pros: Excellent build quality, powerful motor, precise cuts, great dust collection, FSK guide rail system.❌ Cons: Expensive, no battery included, tool-required blade changes.

Are use this saw in tandem with a Collins stair gauge and dust extractor to cut stringers treads and risers on multiple stair projects and my work has never been better. The 18t is perfect for stringers and the 48t blade makes clean easy cuts in 1” oak for risers and treads. Power could be a little bit better but I ain’t using it to build decks so no complaints.Big battery makes it about half a day of heavy cutting and recharged before you’re back from lunch. Get two if you’re really worried about it.It’s also compatible with my longer tracks so I can use it as a 2” tracksaw if need be.Great little saw. Takes some getting used to but works a charm.

Hi,There was nothing I didn't like. The ordering process,delivery,and especially the engineering,quality,and all around design is nothing short of brilliant. Thank you!My Best,Jeffrey M. Sebastian

This saw combined with the FSK rail is perfect for small jobs. I just used it to frame a small (8'x12') shed and am convinced of its value. This compact package can do the work of a circular saw and miter saw and is much easier to pack around. The FSK rail is as good as a miter saw for repeatable cuts. Not as fast but just as precise and much faster than laying out angles with a square. Power is pretty good for an 18v saw. Ripping 2x stock is no problem and battery life is pretty good. The smallish blade means compound cuts in 2x material may not be possible. You probably won't find replacement blades at your local box store so it is best to keep a spare on hand. I wouldn't want to frame a house with this thing but for small jobs it is perfect. The optional dust bag catches the bulk of the sawdust. It is pretty expensive at $45 but will save a lot of clean up time. Despite the high price tag durability remains a big question mark. I have had several Festool products fail on me within the first year. Their warranty service is excellent but I would be a lot happier if I never had to experience it. All things considered the convenience and efficiency make this saw a good value.