The Best Worm Drive Circular Saw: A Trusty Tool to Invest In

If you are a passionate woodworker or DIYer, you will know that it is very important to have the best equipment for the job. One tool that has significantly contributed to the ease of woodworking tasks over the decades is the circular saw. It comes in different designs, such as worm drive and sidewinder.

Many framers and carpenters prefer worm drive saws for their torque and left-side blade view. They are heavier and usually cost more than a sidewinder, so it pays to pick the right one.

A note on terms: several saws below, including both Makita models and the DEWALT Flexvolt, use hypoid gearing. They share the worm drive's rear-handle, left-blade layout, so buyers shop them side by side.

OUR TOP PICK

We think the Makita 5377MG Magnesium Worm Drive Circular Saw stands out among the others because it just lets you do your work smoothly and comfortably.

Check Current Price

The Best Worm Drive Circular Saws Are:

Product	Details
1. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw	1. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 5,300 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 11.6 pounds - Power Source: Corded-electric	Check Current Price
2. DEWALT DWS535 Worm Drive Circular Saw	2. DEWALT DWS535 Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 4,800 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight:13.8 pounds - Power Source: Corded-electric	Check Current Price
3. Makita 5477NB Worm Drive Circular Saw	3. Makita 5477NB Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 4,500 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 14.3 pounds - Power Source: Corded-electric	Check Current Price
4. Bosch CSW41 Worm Drive Circular Saw	4. Bosch CSW41 Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 5,300 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 13.2 pounds - Power Source:Corded-electric	Check Current Price
5. Makita 5377MG Magnesium Worm Drive Circular Saw	5. Makita 5377MG Magnesium Worm Drive Circular Saw Our Top Pick	- No-load speed: 4,500 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-coated Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 13.2 pounds - Power Source:Corded-electric	Check Current Price
6. Rockwell RK3440K Versacut Ultra-Compact Worm Drive Circular Saw	6. Rockwell RK3440K Versacut Ultra-Compact Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 3,500 RPM - Blade: One 24T CT blade, one 44T HSS blade, and one diamond blade - Weight: 4 pounds - Power Source:Corded-electric	Check Current Price
7. DEWALT DCS577B Flexvolt Worm Drive Circular Saw	7. DEWALT DCS577B Flexvolt Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 5,800 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 10.9 pounds - Power Source:Battery-Powered	Check Current Price
8. Hitachi C7WDM Worm Drive Circular Saw	8. Hitachi C7WDM Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 5,000 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 15 pounds - Power Source:Corded-electric	Check Current Price
9. Milwaukee 6477-20 Worm Drive Circular Saw	9. Milwaukee 6477-20 Worm Drive Circular Saw	- No-load speed: 4,400 RPM - Blade: 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade - Weight: 15 pounds - Power Source: Corded-electric	Check Current Price

1. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw

The first worm drive circular saw on our list is the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw. SKILSAW is a highly reputable brand in the power tool manufacturing industry, and this worm drive circular saw is one of the best tools the firm has made. This machine comes with a 15-amp dual-field motor that delivers a no-load speed of 5,300 rotations per minute. The dual-field design is meant to help the motor run cooler under load.

This worm drive circular saw comes with a 7.25 inches carbide-tipped blade with 24-teeth that provides a great cutting depth. The cut-ready depth of this machine allows for quick adjustments for ¼, ½, ¾, and 2x ply. The blade is on the left side of the motor. This tool is incredibly light, as it weighs only 11.6 pounds. It also comes with sturdy and durable lower and upper blade guards. This worm drive circular saw offers a bevel capacity of 53 degrees and a maximum cutting depth of 2.375 inches.

The handle is sturdy and comfortable, but it is not completely rubberized. You would also need a wrench to change the blade and oil. This tool is easy to operate and it is ideal for both beginners and professionals. It is ideal for applications such as ceilings, sidings, framing, and decking. You can also use it on hard, soft, and engineered woods.

Specs

• 5,300 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade
• 11.6 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Incredibly light
• Dual copper windings
• Anti-snag low guard
• Easy to use
• Affordable

Cons

• You need a wrench to change the oil and blade
• The handle is not fully rubberized

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

2. DEWALT DWS535 Worm Drive Circular Saw

The Dewalt DWS535 Worm Drive Circular Saw is one of the best worm drive circular saw in the market. Dewalt offers top-quality products, excellent service, and guarantees that tend to stand out from what other brands offer. DEWALT backs it with a 3-year limited warranty, 1 year of free service, and a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. Its 15-amp motor runs at 4,800 rotations per minute and cuts through 2x framing lumber in one pass.

It comes with a 7-1/4-inch carbide-tipped blade. The extra-wide saw hook accepts material up to 2-3/4 inches wide, so you can hang the saw on a joist or rafter. The Toughcord system protects the cord from being pulled out, and the footplate is magnesium.

The changing of the blade is also pretty simple and quick, thanks to the spindle lock that is positioned optimally. Magnesium and aluminum construction keeps the weight manageable for a worm drive.

Specs

• 4,800 RPM
• 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 13.8 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Easy to use
• Lightweight
• Durable blade
• Great cutting depth
• Ergonomic design

Cons

• Heavier than a sidewinder circular saw

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

3. Makita 5477NB Worm Drive Circular Saw

If you are looking for an inexpensive worm drive circular saw with great performance, you should consider the Makita 5477NB Hypoid saw. For increased productivity, this tool comes with a 15-amp motor sized for framing lumber and sheet goods. The motor offers a maximum no-load speed of 4,500 rotations per minute, which is great to accomplish any woodworking task. This tool also offers a great combination of precision and stability; this makes it suitable for even beginners and DIYers.

Makita calls this a hypoid saw: its hypoid gears have more surface contact than standard drive gears and deliver steady power.

This worm drive circular saw comes with a rubberized handle that provides a comfortable and firm grip. The design of the handle also helps to reduce vibration, which increases precision and accuracy while cutting. It comes with a Makita 7.25 inches General Contractor Framing Blade with advanced tooth design. For less maintenance, this machine comes with sealed gear housing and oil bath technology. Makita lists a 0-51.5 degree bevel capacity with positive stops at 45 and 51.5 degrees, useful for truss and rafter cuts.

Specs

• 4,500 RPM
• 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 14.3 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Powerful motor
• Simple to use
• Solid construction
• Ideal for beginners
• Ergonomic handle

Cons

• It is a bit pricey

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

4. Bosch CSW41 Worm Drive Circular Saw

If what you are looking for in a worm drive circular saw is comfort, stability, and control, then the Bosch CSW41 is what you need. This worm drive circular saw is exceptionally lightweight and functional and it comes with many great features at a reasonable price. One of the major reasons why this model is very popular is its advanced lubrication system. This feature helps to keep the gears and part in perfect condition automatically; this helps to increase the durability of the tool. The 15-amp motor of this tool delivers a no-load speed of 5,300 rotations per minute; providing torque for a wide range of applications.

This worm drive circular saw provides better control and comfort. The magnesium construction of the worm drive circular saw also delivers a lighter weight tool to enhance productivity and reduce user fatigue. This saw weighs only 13.2 pounds. The worm drive design also offers increased precision and accuracy. Changing the blade and brush of this tool is not an issue, as it comes with an onboard multi-function wrench. With this feature, it only takes a few seconds to change the blade.

It comes with a large bevel capacity of up to 53 degrees and a positive stop at 45 degrees. The bevel and depth adjustment levers are also easy to access, allowing for quick and easy modifications for multiple cuts. The soft grip on the handle also makes the tool very easy to use. The size of its blade is 7.25 inches and it can cut through 2x materials with ease.

Specs

• 5,300 RPM
• 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 13.2 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Stable and lightweight
• Ergonomic hand grips
• Durable and high-performance motor
• Smooth operations

Cons

• Heavier than a sidewinder circular saw

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

5. Makita 5377MG Magnesium Worm Drive Circular Saw

This is another relatively light rear-handle saw. Magnesium components bring it to 13.2 pounds. Like the 5477NB, it uses heat-treated hypoid gears rather than a true worm gear.

This worm drive circular saw comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers up to 4,500 rotations per minute. It is suitable for professional applications, as it comes with well-balanced magnesium components. The Makita 5377MG comes with a 7.25 inches 24-tooth ultra-coated C.T. saw blade (A-94530-A). It offers a maximum bevel capacity of 51.5 degrees with positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 51.5 degrees. This tool comes with an ergonomic handle that offers a better grip when you are using gloves.

For less maintenance, this tool features oil bath technology with an inbuilt fan and sealed gear housing to ensure 100 percent oil surface coating. The rubberized, large levers of this worm drive circular saw also allow for one-handed, quick adjustments. It also has a cutting capacity of 2-3/8 inches at 90 degrees. The blade also offers clean and fast cuts, thanks to its “M” shaped tooth design.

Specs

• 4,500 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T ultra-coated Carbide-tipped blade
• 13.2 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Nice, smooth operation
• Great balance
• Lightweight

Cons

• It does not come with a vibration reduction feature

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

6. Rockwell RK3440K Versacut Ultra-Compact Worm Drive Circular Saw

The Rockwell RK3440K is the odd one out: it is an ultra-compact saw with small blades, not a full-size 7-1/4-inch worm drive. It suits DIYers who cut sheet goods, trim, tile, plastic, and thin metal with the matching blades.

It comes with a powerful 4-amp motor that delivers a no-load speed of up to 3,500 rotations per minute. It comes with a carry case a three-blade kit that is perfect for a wide range of applications. The slim grip handle and ergonomic design enhances comfort and improves grip and control. It also supports a one-hand operation, which means the other hand would be free to support or hold the material you are cutting.

It comes with an inbuilt laser guide that provides you with precise and accurate cuts. Featuring a 120-inch long power cord, this tool provides you with ultimate freedom during use. Your cut-line will also be free from sawdust, thanks to its dust extraction adapter. This provides you with improved visibility when cutting. It also lets you adjust the depth when cutting through hardwood as well as other surfaces. A lock-off button helps prevent accidental starts.

Specs

• 3,500 RPM
• One 24T CT blade, one 44T HSS blade, and one diamond blade
• 4 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Cuts through a wide range of materials
• High-performance and durability
• Adjustable depth
• Lightweight and ultra-compact design
• Slim grip handle and ergonomic design

Cons

• Not suitable for bulk timber cuts

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

7. DEWALT DCS577B Flexvolt Worm Drive Circular Saw

The DCS577B is another great power tool from DEWALT. This is one of the best worm drive circular saws out there and it comes with some great, unique features. This tool comes with a left-side blade design, providing you with an optimized line of sight. It comes with an efficient brushless motor for accurate, smooth cuts and long runtime. For faster and clean cuts, the motor of this tool delivers up to 5,800 rotations per minute, which is powerful enough to cut through various types of materials.

For durability and high-performance, this worm drive circular saw comes with a high-grade magnesium shoe. An electric brake stops the blade after you release the trigger. DEWALT lists a 53-degree bevel capacity with stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees. For lighter battery options, see our cordless circular saw picks.

DEWALT calls it a worm drive style saw. Its 7-1/4-inch blade cuts 2-7/16 inches deep at 90 degrees, and it runs on 60V MAX Flexvolt batteries, sold separately. It is also pretty easy to use, thanks to its rafter hook. Thanks to its onboard wrench storage, you can change the blade conveniently and easily. This worm drive circular saw can cut through various materials such as lumber, plywood, hardwood, and more.

Specs

• 5,800 RPM
• 7.25 inches, Carbide-tipped blade
• 10.9 pounds
• Battery-Powered

Pros

• Cordless
• Electric brake
• Dust blower system
• Powerful, brushless motor
• Versatile

Cons

• It is a bit bulky and heavy

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

8. Hitachi C7WDM Worm Drive Circular Saw

If you are looking for worm drive circular saw for woodworking, efficiency, and power, you should consider the Hitachi C7WDM Worm Drive Circular Saw. This robust worm drive circular saw comes with a well-made and solid metal housing. It also comes with a powerful 15-amp motor that produces a no-load speed of 5,000 rotations per minute. The motor is powerful enough to cut through several types of materials.

This tool is a bit heavier, as it weighs about 15 pounds. It comes with a 7.25 inches, 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade. This tool offers a maximum cutting depth of 2.4 inches. It also offers a cutting depth of 1.88 inches at 45 degrees. This machine comes with durable gears for longer life and professional results. The depth and bevel adjustment levers enhance toughness and real-world usability.

For easy storage and safer rafter placement, this tool comes with a three-position rafter hook. It also comes with a soft grip handle that provides comfort and reduces vibration. Hitachi's power tool line now sells under the Metabo HPT name, so look for the current version under that brand.

Specs

• 5,000 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade
• 15 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Powerful and durable motor
• Rubber-coated grips
• Well-made and versatile
• Ergonomic design
• Durable gearing

Cons

• It is a bit heavy

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

9. Milwaukee 6477-20 Worm Drive Circular Saw

The Milwaukee 6477-20 is the last worm drive circular saw on our list and it is another great option to consider. This machine is highly durable and it performs very well under heavy load. It comes with a 15-amp motor that delivers a maximum no-load speed of 4,400 revolutions per minute. The blade of this tool can also drive through tough materials with ease, thanks to its hardened steel gearing system.

Checking the oil level is easy thanks to Milwaukee's oil sight glass. It comes with a composite shoe that prevents it from warping or bending. This tool features a full magnesium construction, which contributes to the durability and high-performance of the tool. It has a left-side blade like other worm drives.

This worm drive circular saw is durable and easy to use. However, it is on the higher end of the weight spectrum. This tool might not be our pick, but it comes with a lot of great features that tend to please many customers.

Specs

• 4,400 RPM
• 7.25 inches, 24T Carbide-tipped blade
• 15 pounds
• Corded-electric

Pros

• Suitable for beginners
• 5-year warranty
• Performs well under heavy loads
• The hardened steel gearing system
• Oil site glass

Cons

• A bit pricey
• It is heavy

CHECK CURRENT PRICE

Buyer’s Guide: Things to Look Out For When Buying a Worm Drive Circular Saw

There are certain features and functionalities you need to consider when buying a worm drive circular saw. Here are the factors that matter most.

The Size of the Saw

Worm drive circular saws come in different sizes and shapes, which means they are all not applicable to the same task. Larger tools are capable of cutting through more materials in a single pass than smaller tools. They are also stronger. However, they are weightier. Average models offer more precision than larger models do. The bigger the size of the tool, the larger the blade, and the more the weight.

Compact saws are made for lighter tasks and may need two passes on thick stock, but they are easier to carry. For framing, the standard 7-1/4-inch size is the practical choice.

Motor

These days, for a full-sized worm drive circular saw, it is easy to find a 15-amp motor that delivers a running power of about 4,500 to 5,400 rotations per minute. This is a considerably large amount of power to cut through various materials.

As such, we recommend that you should not settle for anything less than 4,000 rotations per minute. If you settle for something below that, you might likely end up with an unpowered tool. However, there is an exception to mini or compact worm drive circular saws. These models often come with RPMs lower than our recommended figure, but they are designed for specific purposes, and they perform greatly.

Safety Features

Every portable circular saw must have working guards. OSHA requires guards above and below the shoe, and the lower guard must snap back over the teeth when the saw leaves the cut. Never pin the lower guard open.

An electric brake is worth having: it stops the blade quickly after you release the trigger. Also check that the bevel and depth levers lock firmly so the shoe cannot shift mid-cut. Clamp your work and keep both hands on the saw.

Bevel Capacity

Another thing to put into consideration before picking out a worm drive circular saw is the bevel capacity. All worm drive circular saws do come with the ability to cut at a bevel angle. Nevertheless, the best worm drive circular saw will provide you with a larger bevel capacity, which means you can make cuts at greater angles. Some tools also feature bevel stops at frequently used angles.

With this feature, you can lock the machine into position and cut without worrying that you make a mess of the cut. Worm drive circular saws usually come with at least 45 degrees bevel. Nevertheless, some models can go over 50 degrees. Some of the most common bevel stops are 22.5 degrees, 45 degrees, and 51.5 degrees.

Cutting Depth

The cutting depth of a worm drive circular saw is another important aspect. However, the depth of cut varies from model to model. It also depends on the size of the blade as well as its positioning.

Full-size 7-1/4-inch saws cut roughly 2-3/8 to 2-7/16 inches deep at 90 degrees. Compact models cut shallower.

Dust Blower

A dust blower clears sawdust from the line of cut so you can see your mark. Some saws also accept a dust extraction adapter.

The Weight of the Saw

Weight matters on a handheld saw. Full-size worm drives run roughly 11 to 15 pounds, so pick a lighter model if you cut all day.

Conclusion

Worm drive and hypoid saws trade extra weight for torque and a clear view of the blade. Pick the one whose weight, depth, and bevel range match your work.

Our top pick is the Makita 5377MG because it is easy to use, lightweight, and offers great balance, smooth operation, and power.

Sources

• 7-1/4" Magnesium Hypoid Saw (5377MG), Makita
• 7-1/4 in. Worm Drive Circular Saw (DWS535B), DEWALT
• FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Worm Drive Style Saw (DCS577B), DEWALT
• 1910.243: Guarding of portable powered tools, OSHA