Best Worm Drive Saws in 2023 [ 8 Top Picks & Reviews ]

As a woodworker, whether a professional or hobbyist, you must know that the right tool will help you get the best job output. Most likely, you already know the multiple types of saws and their uses. Worm drive saws are among the saws that are available out there.

A worm drive saw is powerful, and is a type of circular saw. However, they are slightly different from the regular circular saws with sidewinder styles. If you need a saw that is stronger than your standard circular saw but not so different in the job handling, then a worm drive saw should be your go-to saw.

So, which is the best worm drive saw out there? That is what we will be discussing in this article today.

Let’s get on with it, shall we?

Quick list – 4 Best Rated Models of Worm Drive Saws

1. No products found. Worm Drive Circular Saw. –(Top Picks)
2. No products found. Worm Drive Saw. –(Lightweight)
3. No products found. Magnesium Hypoid Worm Drive Saw. –(Best Value)
4. No products found. Worm Drive Saw. –(Top Quality)

Key Advantages of a Worm Drive Saw

There are several advantages of a worm drive saw. However, here are some of the common benefits of these saws;

• Offer torque. If you need to handle tough cutting jobs, a worm drive will offer around 4,500RPM to help you with that.
• Offers a clear cutting line view. The blade is placed on the left. So, a right-hand user will have a better view of the cutting line.
• They can easily be used with one hand, especially by experienced users. Their compact design also helps with this.

Summary of our Favorites (Updated in 2022)

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The 8 Best Worm Drive Saw Reviews

Not every saw you see out there qualifies among the best. It can be challenging to find the best saw to handle your projects, but here are the best nine worm drive saws you should consider buying.

1.  DEWALT (DWS535B) 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw,

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Overview

The DEWALT DWS535B comes with a powerful 15Amp motor that is capable of delivering top no-load speeds of 4,800RPM. This way, you can easily use the saw to handle even the toughest project. Along with that, you get a 53-degree bevel capacity that is meant to handle advanced applications with ease and precision.

This unit is made of strong and durable construction that is meant to serve you for a long time. Thanks to the magnesium construction, this unit will be durable enough even with multiple uses. Even with the sturdy design, this one is still lightweight to offer easy handling and comfort.

User safety is assured with this saw as it comes with an electric brake to stop the blade once you release the trigger. This then helps to limit the possible accidents.

Verdict

So, who would this suit best? This would be a good choice for you if you need a power tool with excellent power that can help you make excellent rip cuts. You’d also enjoy working with this piece if you have a prolonged project. It is slightly lightweight compared to some models out there.

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2.  SKILSAW SPT77WML-Worm Drive Saw.

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Overview

If you thought the previous product was the lightest, then you need to check out this best lightweight worm drive circular saw from Skilsaw.

This Skill Saw worm drive comes in at only 11.5lbs, which won’t cause any exhaustion to your hand as you use it on your projects. But we weren’t just impressed by it for its lightweight design. Rather, we also loved its delivery in general.

The worm drive saw comes with a magnesium construction that makes it both lightweight and sturdy enough. If we were giving suggestions, we’d suggest this one to a farmer. It also comes with a 15-amp dual-field motor that will offer enough power for all your projects around the farm.

Another plus feature of this worm drive saw is the on-tool multi-function wrench that helps you when you want to change the blade. Also, it helps you when maintaining the brush and oil. Furthermore, there is a 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade to get you started as soon as you purchase this saw.

Verdict

If you are a farmer or a DIY specialist that needs a decently powerful worm drive saw for regular projects, then this would be your best pick. But if you need one that can handle heavy-duty projects regularly, you’ll need to look for another saw.

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3.  Makita 5377MG Magnesium Hypoid Worm Drive Saw.

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Makita 5377mg Review

Comfort and better control are some of the things that most woodworkers look for in a saw, and this saw scores decently in those areas.

One thing that makes this among the best worm drive circular saws is the fact that it comes with a comfortable design that makes it easy to control. You can make an adjustment with a single hand, thanks to the sizeable levers. The best part is that the levers and the grip are all rubberized. So, no more blisters or tool slips when working with this one.

It comes in at 13.2lbs, which is not too heavy and has a powerful motor to handle your projects accordingly. The saw comes with a 15 amp motor that offers you top speeds of 4500RPM. What’s more, the motor comes with a compressed winding technology. With this technology, you can enjoy a powerful delivery with a compact saw.

You will experience minimal maintenance with this worm drive saw, thanks to the oil bath technology. This one came with an inbuilt fan and sealed gear housing that offers complete oil surface coating.

Verdict

This worm drive saw is one of a kind, especially when it comes to user experience and control. You will have an easy time working with it. Even though it is a little pricey, we still thought it is worth including in your arsenal.

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4.  DEWALT DWS535 Worm Drive Saw.

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Dewalt Dws535 Review

This worm drive circular saw reviews to help you from dewalt brand. It is among the best since it delivers accordingly. In our opinion, this is the best worm drive circular saw 2022.

The first thing to love about this worm drive saw is its lightweight design. It won’t tire your hands when using it. Coming in at only 13.8lbs, this baby stands among the lightest out there. But don’t be fooled by the lightweight of this baby. Actually, it is a very powerful unit to have.

This one comes with a powerful motor that delivers a no-load speed of 4,800RPM. We thought that was reliable enough. It also offers you a cutting depth of 2-7/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1-7/8 inches at 45 degrees. On the other hand, this baby offers you a bevel capacity of 53 degrees. With this baby, you can handle even the complex roofing applications or those compound angles.

Don’t forget that you get bevel detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees for quick and accurate settings to the common angles. By the way, this is a very sturdy unit that features a durable cast magnesium footplate to offer you a strong cutting platform.

 The saw hook is extra wide to accept material up to 2-1/2 inches wide. A tough cord protection system is also on board to offer your four times cord jerk protection.

Verdict 

This unit would be a good pick for anyone looking for a strong and durable worm drive saw for handling any projects at home. It can also be applicable to those professional projects. The price is relatively high but worth every penny.

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5.  DEWALT DCS577B Worm Drive Saw.

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Overview

Here is yet another unit that qualifies as one of the best corded worm drive saws out there. The design is characterized to enhance your accuracy and user experience.

This might just be the lightest worm drive saws out there. It only comes in at 10.9lbs, which will not tire your hands when working with it. You might think that this saw has the least powerful motor, but you’d be wrong to think that. Rather, the saw comes with a powerful motor that can easily clock a top speed of 5800RPM.

This one is made with a high-magnesium body that keeps it sturdy while remaining lightweight. Furthermore, the motor is brushless and offers you smooth and accurate cuts and long runtime. Besides that, you enjoy an electronic bake that helps to stop the blade whenever the trigger is released. This also helps to keep you safe and prevent unnecessary injuries.

The worm drive saw comes with a bevel capacity of 53 degrees with stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees. We loved the integrated dust blower that lets you clear light of sight as you cut through the workpieces. It has a cutting capacity of 2-7/16 inches deep at 90 degrees.

 A rafter hook is also there to let you hang your tools for convenience. By the way, this is a cordless unit. The battery and charger are sold separately.

Verdict

If you are looking for a portable worm drive saw that is not too heavy, this would be a great pick for you. However, it might not be the right choice if you are looking for a powerful saw to handle your heavy-duty projects.

No products found.

6.  SKILSAW SPT70V-11 Worm Drive Circular Saw.

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Overview

This top-rated worm drive circular saw is designed for heavy-duty projects. It has a massive motor that is very reliable as well. The motor is a dual-field type, which means you can say goodbye to the heat buildup as you work with it.

Another impressive feature of this beast is its blade, which contributes to an amazing cutting capacity. Offering a 6.25-inch cutting capacity, this fella assures you of handling whatever task you throw at it. The saw will make clean cuts through 6X and lumber of the same cutting capacity.

It also has two handles that are well placed to offer you better control of the machine as you cut through your workpieces. 

When it comes to the user’s safety. The saw offers you an electric brake, which also betters the jobsite productivity.

Verdict

Is this a worm drive saw worth purchasing? Who should go for it? Honestly, we think this is one of the best value worm drive saws out there. It is worth every penny and would be a good pick for a professional that needs a saw to handle their high-demanding projects.

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7.  Makita 5477NB Worm Drive Saw.

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Overview

If we were to describe the worm drive saws on this list with three words, we would give this one ‘value for money because that is what it is.

This would be the best pick for those that have a heavy project but are also tight on budget. The saw comes with a 15 amp motor that enhances its productivity. It also features a ball-bearing construction that enhances productivity.

The efficient hypoid gears on this unit offer a bigger surface contact, and they also deliver a constant power delivery. Furthermore, the saw comes with an oil bath technology, along with a sealed gear housing that is designed for minimal maintenance.

This saw offers an impressive cutting capacity of 2-3/8 inches at 90 degrees, 1-9/16 inches at 50 degrees, and 1-3/4 inches at 45 degrees. Besides that, the saw offers you a maximum bevel capacity of 0 to 51.5 degrees as well as positive stops at 45 degrees and 51.5 degrees. With these, you can be confident in making truss and rafter cut-outs.

Verdict

All we can say about this worm drive saw is that it is the best unit to pick if you are looking for value for money. The price is unbeatable, and the delivery is equally reliable.

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8.  Bosch CSW41 7-1/4 Inch Worm Drive Saw.

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Overview

This is yet another top-rated worm drive that performs decently as well. This one also comes from a high-reputation brand, Bosch. But we didn’t just pick it for its brand. Rather, we were impressed by its delivery too.

The saw is lightweight at 15lbs and comes with a powerful motor as well. With this worm drive saw, you get a 15-amp motor that offers you enough torque to handle multiple projects. Furthermore, the saw offers a no-load speed of 5,300RPM.

With this saw, you get an onboard multifunctional wrench that allows you to change brush and blade with ease. Plus, you can use the wrench to adjust the lever as well as the blade diamond knockout. What’s more, the saw comes with a tool hook onboard that you can use to store the saw between cuts.

When it comes to the accuracy of the saw, this one delivers accordingly. Equipped with the worm drive design, you can be sure of increased accuracy when working on your projects. The blade is placed on the left side to let you make super clear-cut lines with ease.

Verdict 

If you are on a tight budget, but you still want a reliable worm drive saw with an excellent design and satisfying accuracy, this one would suit you perfectly. You can check some more budget-friendly circular saws that might help you.

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What is Worm Drive Saws Used For?

One thing to note about the worm drive saw is that it comes with added torque and weight. Therefore, they are the best pick for cutting stacks of lumber and knotted wood.

Its immense power allows the saw not only to cut through knotty woods but also for plunge cuts.

Furthermore, worm drive saws will commonly be used in woodworking and construction fields. They don’t possess a narrow profile since the centerline of the motor is parallel to the plane of the blade. In other words, it implies that worm drive saws are perfect to be used in confined spaces.

The large gear teeth of worm drive saws also allow them to have a greater load-carrying capacity.

Worm Drive Saw Buying Guide

Now that you have the best worm drive hand saw reviews, it would be better to consider what you should be looking for when choosing the best unit. If none of the saw we listed above doesn’t suit you,

here are the factors you need to consider when choosing the right unit for you.

Construction/Weight

The first thing you need to consider is the construction of the worm drive saw. You don’t want to work with a unit that is not strong enough to last through your projects. And here, we are not only talking about a single-day project but for months and even years to come. Check that the worm drive saw is strong, sturdy, and durable enough.

Also, ensure that the unit you pick is not heavy. It should be lightweight enough to give you an easy time without leading to exhaustion and fatigue when working with it. Luckily, most worm drive saws are generally lightweight.

Cutting Line Visibility

It is important to consider how well you can see the cutting line when you are working with the worm drive saw. Ideally, check that the saw is well designed to let you monitor your cutting line, which then betters the accuracy.

If the saw comes with the blade to the left side, then it will most likely offer you a good cutting line visibility.

Cutting Capacity

The main reason for buying the saw is to make cuts on your wood pieces. So, ensure that it has the proper cutting capacity to meet your specific project needs. Here, you will need to look at the cutting depth and relate it to what you want. But I tell you what If you need more accuracy than a circular saw you must have to choose the best track saw on the market to meet your need.

Beveling

Ideally, ensure that the saw offers you a wide range of beveling, which then gives you freedom when working on your workpieces. This is important if you will be making cuts at an angle. Ensure that the saw has bevel stops at the commonly used angles.

Motor

This should be among the top factors to consider. The motor will relate to the power output of the saw. If you need the saw for regular DIY projects at home, then you don’t have to go for high motor power. But if it is for professional use and you need it for handling your heavy-duty projects, then ensure that the motor is powerful enough to handle the project accordingly.

Other features to consider include the ease of changing blades, user experience if you need it corded or cordless, dust blower for better line visibility, as well as price. Don’t forget to go for a unit from a reputable brand.

What Special Maintenance Does A Worm Drive Saw Require

One way of achieving the best delivery from a worm drive saw is by ensuring it is well maintained. The good thing about worm drive saws is that they require limited maintenance. Their low-maintenance nature makes them some of the best power tools out there.

Nevertheless, the most important maintenance tip of a worm drive saw is to change the oil accordingly.

A worm drive saw features an oil-bath gearbox. As you use the saw, the oil will eventually get contaminated. That is why you need to change the oil whenever necessary. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s direction on how to change the oil of your worm drive saw.

Keep in mind that a well-oiled saw is always a happy saw.

FAQs

Q. What Is A Worm Drive Circular Saw

Ans. A worm drive circular saw is a powerful tool that comes with a motor mounted at the rear. It will then be power-driven through two gears that are set at 90 degrees. As a result, it means that the saw will deliver less speed (RPM), but more torque for handling tough projects.

Q: Are Worm Drive Saws Better?

Ans. That depends on what you want, along with your project needs. Generally, a worm drive saw would be the best pick for making crosscuts. Also, it has larger gear teeth, along with a large capacity of carrying more loads than a direct drive. In turn, they offer more power for handling your projects.

Q: What is the Difference Between a Hypoid Saw and a Worm Drive Saw?

Ans. The main difference between these two saws is the transmission of power. Hypoid saws come with bevel gears, like the rear gears of a vehicle, while worm drive works just like the steering gears of a vehicle. If long precision cuts are needed, the two can be used together.

Q: Why is a Worm Drive Circular Saw Better?

Ans. In simple terms, the worm drive circular saw has higher torque, hence better power needed for your projects. They help to cut through complex wood pieces with ease, and they tend to cut more accurately.

Q: How Does Worm Gear Work?

Ans. A worm gear features an electric motor that applies rotational power to the worm. From here, the worm will spin against the wheel. Also, the screwface will push on the teeth of the wheel, and the wheel is the push against or on the load/workpiece.

Video: How to choose worm drive saw

Final Conclusion 

So, there goes the best worm drive saw review. We are confident that you now have enough information to help you make the right choice. Whatever brand and model you choose, ensure that it meets your specific project needs and personal preferences accordingly.