Worm drive saws share the market with normal circular saws on the sidewinder. The two are produced for distinct duties, though similar in building and appearance. Sidewinders are available for light and fast work, while models of best worm drive circular saws can be used for more severe projects.

There are many things to consider in picking up the best circular saws, such as build quality, engine quality, torque, maximum cutting depth, bevel angle capability, housing material, how simple it is to modify a worn blade, and more.

Read on for reviews of some of my best worm drive circular saws and a comprehensive guide on what to look for and how to select the correct saw.

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILSPrice

SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive Skilsaw Circular Saw -...

  • Weight: 2.42 lbs
  • Fits Size: 1-1/2 in
  • Size: 16 in
  • Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 in
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BOSCH 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41, Blue

  • Weight: 1.5 lbs
  • Fits Size: 1 in
  • Size: 10 in
  • Dimensions: 14 x 6 x 3 in
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Makita 5477NB 7-1/4' Hypoid Saw

  • Weight: 3.29 lbs
  • Fits Size: 3/4 to 1-1/2 in
  • Size: 6in,8in,10in,12in
  • Dimensions: 15.24 x 10.75 x 0.98 in
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SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive...

  • Weight: 5.6 oun
  • Fits Size: Range of fastener sizes
  • Size: 6in,8in,10in
  • Dimensions: 12.4 x 9.1 x 0.4 in
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The 6 Best Worm Drive Circular Saws Reviews

1. Skilsaw SPT70V-11 Super Sawsquatch Circular Saw.

SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive Skilsaw Circular Saw -...

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The saw has a long history of existence since it came into use for the first time in the year 1924. Over the years, the parent company has been changing names and buying into other lines of business. However, the production of a circular saw has been constant over the years.

The saw, though small as it is, has a large capacity worm drive that handles big jobs relentlessly. It is powerful and does not get affected by the size of the job.

The blade has a dual field motor that keeps it cool and hence leading to the production of more power while working.

It is durable and can withstand even the toughest or hard surfaces. The saw drives on a 15-amp dual field motor. It has a tough that ensures a straight and accurate cut at all times.

The saw features a 6¼ cutting capacity that makes it to cut once, and in a straight line. It cuts through targets that are up to 6¼ inches wide once. For items that are larger than that, it can do it twice, but not more than that.

It runs on a 120V battery that does not consume much power!

Why this product?

The saws make work easy and accurate because of its ability to cut through thick surfaces once.

“Pros”
  • It is durable and with a big cutting capacity.
  • The product saves on power usage because it runs on a standard 120v battery.
“Cons”
  • It is costly, and many clients might not afford it!

2. Bosch CSW41

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BOSCH 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41, Blue
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: The Bosch CSW41 Circular Saw provides better comfort and control. The tool’s magnesium…
  • ACCURACY: Featuring a worm drive design, the CSW41 offers increased accuracy and precision. The left side…
  • TORQUE: The saw delivers 5,300 no-load rpm but weights only 13.2 lbs. The powerful 15-amp motor provides…
  • CONVENIENT: The CSW41 features an on-board multi-function wrench for blade and brush changes, lever…
  • COMFORT: With an anti snag lower guard, the circular saw provides smooth operation for small cut-off…

The Bosch CSW41 is fitted with a strong, well-made engine running at a variable of up to 5,300 rpm. The engine remains on the cooler side even after extended use thanks to the well-designed lightweight magnesium housing. To further decrease the saw’s weight, the footplate is produced of die-cast magnesium. One of the heavier 7-1/4 “worm drive saws out there is the 13.2lbs CSW41.

The blade that comes with it is a 7-1/4 “normal blade with a maximum 2-3/8” cutting depth. It is possible to adjust the real cutting depth on one of several set rates. The saw also has a helpful bevel ability of53-degree with a favorable 45-degree stop. The blade can cut smoothly through almost any kind of wood thanks to the anti-snag guard on the reduced side.

With decking, bridge building, and framing among its strongest suits, this competent saw can be used for a broad variety of projects. This low-maintenance saw has an integrated multifunctional wrench to replace the blade, engine brushes, and oil.

3. DEWALT DWS535

DEWALT DWS535 7 1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw
  • The product is 7-1/4″Worm DR Circle Saw
  • Easy to use
  • The product is manufactured in China
  • Lightweight 13.8 pound magnesium construction provides optimum user handling
  • Durable cast magnesium footplate provides a tough and solid cutting platform

While some of the worm drive saws can only be used for tiny home projects, a building site’s DeWalt DWS535 is strong enough. Its lightweight construction is extremely sturdy. Magnesium is difficult and light housing. The die-cast magnesium footplate further helps to decrease the saw’s weight. The DWS535 weighs about 13.8lbs in total.

The engine behind this DeWalt is running at 4,800 rpm, slightly smaller than some likewise priced models, but that’s because it’s intended to produce a wonderful torque. The engine has a nice cooling system that allows it to run for hours thanks to the cleverly constructed housing.

The DWS535 comes with a normal 7-1/4 “blade with carbide tips. The maximum cutting depth at an angle of 45 degrees is 2-7/8 “or 1-7/8.” The highest angle is 53 degrees and the stops are set at 22.5 and 45 degrees. Changing blades needs the spindle lock that is included.

4. Makita 5477NB

Makita 5477NB 7-1/4″ Hypoid Saw
  • Efficient hypoid gears deliver more power and greater surface contact than conventional worm drive gears.
  • Powerful 15 AMP motor for increased productivity.
  • Oil bath technology and sealed gear housing for less maintenance.
  • 0º – 51.5º bevel capacity with positive stops at 45º and 51.5º is ideal for truss and rafter…
  • High quality, heat treated hypoid gears are engineered for long lasting performance.

Hypoid gears ensure an almost maintenance-free sawing experience, but how do they add to the velocity and torque of the blade? Thanks to its 15-amp engine with ball bearing building, the Makita 5477NB offers both in abundance. Designed for a variety of uses, the 5477NB stands out as framing, construction, carpentry, OSB, LVL, PSL, and plywood saw.

The Makita 5477NB saw features an oil bath technology sealed gearbox that keeps bearings continuously lubricated. This implies much less maintenance is involved. It ships with a framing blade of 7 1/4-inch with carbide-tipped teeth capable of chewing like butter through nail-ridden wood. Such a blade can heat up fairly fast, which is why Makita carefully adds heat vents to assist dissipate heat and efficiency.

The 5477NB has a maximum no-load velocity of 4,500 RPM, decent according to any standard, and a 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. With a weight of just over 14 pounds, a big ergonomic rubberized grip and quick-access spindle locks and blade wrench buttons for easier blade modifications make the saw easier to manage.

5. Hitachi C7WDM

Hitachi C7WDM 7 1/4″ 15-Amp Worm Drive Circular Saw
  • Hitachi Power Tools has renamed to Metabo HPT. Same great tools, with only a new name.
  • Powerful 15 Amp motor produces 5,000 RPM (no load) forcible power for the toughest cutting jobs
  • Durable worm drive gears for longer life and professional results
  • Steel bevel and depth adjustment levers increase toughness and real world usability
  • Cut capacity: 1-3/4″ at 45 degrees, 2-3/8″at 90 degrees

Power and effectiveness trump looks and convenience for the heavy-duty job. That’s what the solid Hitachi C7WDM worm drive saw behind the philosophy. It comes with a strong, well-made metal housing, a strong 15-amp engine, and a robust blade. It weighs nearly 15lbs, putting it out there among the stronger worm drive saws. A standard 7-1/4 “steel blade with 24 carbide-tipped teeth comes with this powerful saw.

It provides a 2-3/8 peak cutting depth. The cutting depth at an angle of 45 degrees is a respectable 1-7/8.’ The rough building makes it on a building site a nice partner. The C7WDM also includes controls on steel bevel and level adjustment. To alter the blade, you only need a wrench. This saw can manage more challenging and heavier duties.

6. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01

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SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive…
  • Lightest magnesium construction reduces user fatigue for less down time
  • Cut-ready depth of cut system helps with quick, accurate depth measurements
  • 53° bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts
  • 15 Amp of power gives users the power to rip through more lumber in less time
  • The anti-snag lower guard provides smooth operation for small cut-off pieces

A lighter saw can sometimes be a better fit as it is easier to maneuver and hold steadily. When the attribute you are looking for is lightness, you can’t do much better than the circular saw of the 11-pound Skillsaw SPT77WML-01 worm drive. The magnesium-built saw is equipped with a dual-field 15-amp engine with a 5,300 RPM no-load blade speed— significantly faster than many of the options at this price point.

The powerful engine is designed for relatively heavy tasks, so even with heavy usage, it remains cool. The SPT77WML-01 also features a ready-to-use depth adjustment level that allows you to make quick switches between 1/4 ply cuts, 1/2 ply cuts, 3/4 ply cuts, and 2x ply cut. This makes it highly recommended to cut without snagging through thinner materials.

The saw is superbly balanced and has a soft rubber grip that dramatically improves ergonomics. The saw allows you to make a wider range of cuts thanks to its 53-degree bevel, making it the perfect all-in-one circular saw for many projects.

How To Choose The Best Worm Drive Circular Saws

Motor

The motor is a worm drive saw’s most vital component. For anyone, a weak and unreliable engine is no good. It’s pretty standard these days to get a 15 amp producing between 4,500 and 5400 RPM. You’re likely to get an unpowered version if you want one that’s less.

Cutting Depth

Pay attention at both 90 and 45-degree angles to the cutting depth of the saws. Ignoring this might leave you stuck when certain materials need to be cut.

Bevel Capacity

Testing the bevel capacity is critical because it will determine the type of cut you can get. When cutting material at an angle, a wider range will give you more flexibility. Preset bevel stops are also going to make your life much easier.

Weight

As with any handheld instrument, in its usability, weight plays a major role. Weight may not be a problem for quick jobs, but every extra pound will be noticeable for those big projects.

Dust Blower

It may not seem important but an integrated dust blower does wonders for the line of sight of the cutters by making the line of cutting perfectly visible throughout the whole process of sawing.

Cable Length

On each template, attention should be paid to the length of the cable. While you can use an extension cord to repair it easily, it’s better to have a cord out of the box that will be enough for all your projects.

Warranty

We hope this will never be necessary, but reassurance is always nice. It’s a big investment to buy a worm drive saw and not something you want to do every year. Most saws come with a 1-3 year warranty included anywhere.

Final Verdict

What’s the best worm drive circular saws you’ve seen? The Hitachi C7WDM Worm Drive Circular Saw is by far the highest choice with regard to raw value and quality. Great construction quality, a high torque motor with a 5,000 RPM rating, and hard material quality make it one of the most strong and durable circular worm drive saws you will find anywhere.

The saw is a little heavy, but very stable as well. It’s the only saw in this list that comes with two additional blades— something you’re shopping for substitute blades the next time you’re shopping.

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Last update on 2023-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API