One thing I would not be without on a circular saw no matter what brand is a Freud Diablo Blade.
I think on a circular saw, the blade and the operator are the biggest ingredients to a quality cut. After that, a flat table, and ease of height/bevel adjustment. That being said, I run a POS saw my dad picked up for me at a farm sale, practically new at the time, and a "name brand" I had never heard of nor seen another since. I think he paid $7 for it, and I promptly spent $40-50 on 2 blades for it (a finish and a framing blade)...best seven dollars my dad ever spent on me. Biggest complaint is the adjustments...they stay put, but are a pain to get where you want them...definately features I'll look for when this one dies, and to answer your question, I'd likely start my search with Milwaukee and Porter Cable
Chuck
Thanks Gents, there is some good grist for the mill here, as always you guys came through. I have a few to look at.
T