Best Worm Drive Circular Saws With Reviews For The Money In 2022 (Updated)

If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best worm drive circular saw is, then we recommend the DEWALT DCS577X1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 7-1/4” Worm Saw as the best one.

If you work on heavy-duty woodworking projects, you know how vital it is to have a good worm drive circular saw. Not only is it more powerful than other saws, it tends to be a more substantial tool that also costs more. Buying a worm drive circular saw in an investment that will easily pay for itself since it is useful for both DIYers and professionals. Here are a few tips on what to look for in the best worm drive saws in 2022 and a few worm drive circular saw reviews to help you to start shopping.

Our Top Picks (Best Circular Saw Worm Drive)


All Rounder

Makita 5377MG 7-1/4" Magnesium Hypoid Saw
  • Most powerful and comfortable.
  • Lightweight and long lasting.
  • Very easy to set depth.

Budget Friendly

Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41
  • Outstanding Cutting power.
  • Very lightweight and accurate.
  • Good torque

Top Rated 8 Worm Drive Circular Saws In 2022

Best Worm Drive Circular Saw Reviews In The Market In 2022


DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Circular Saw Kit, 7-1/4-Inch, Worm Style, 9.0Ah Battery (DCS577X1)

Making accurate and smooth cuts, the Dewalt FLEXVOLT Worm Style Saw Kit comes equipped with a 9.0Ah battery. The saw features a line of sight that is optimized with a left side blade as well as a rear positioned handle for easy line of sight. The integrated dust blower also provides you with a clear line of sight as you cut.

Using a high-grade, durable magnesium shoe, the FLEXVOLT Worm Style Saw Kit has a long run time using an efficient brushless motor. With the electronic brake, you can help to stop the blade once the trigger is released. This saw gives you a bevel capacity at 53 degrees and includes stops at 22.5 degrees and 45 degrees.

The FLEXVOLT is a framing saw that is similar to a worm drive saw and cuts to a depth of 2-7/16 inches at 90 degrees. Featuring a rafter hook for storage convenience, the saw also comes with an onboard wrench storage feature that is handy when you are changing out blades. This is a versatile saw that works on flooring, dimensional lumber, hardwoods, plywood, and oriented strand board (OSB), plus it is used by many professionals including general contractors, carpenters, concrete formers, and framers.

Pros

  • The battery will last you pretty much all-day  
  • Set up is very easy and it makes accurate cuts.
  • This is a very powerful and efficient saw

Cons

  • It isn’t really a worm drive, but works like one.
  • It is a pretty heavy saw with the battery
Makita 5377MG 7-1/4" Magnesium Hypoid Saw

This very lightweight saw weighs only thirteen pounds thanks to the use of magnesium. The Makita 5377MG Hypoid Saw uses dense windings to create a maneuverable and compact saw that uses a maintenance-free, a precision-machined, hypoid gearing system. Giving you more power than regular worm drive gears, these hypoid gears are heat-treated so they don’t wear quickly.

This 15 AMP industrial motor gives you 4,500 RPM along with well-balanced magnesium components creating a lightweight but powerful saw that can be used for professional applications. The hypoid gears giving you better surface contact so you get more power over a larger area increasing durability and power. With a large cutting capacity, the Makita 5377MG features a maximum bevel capacity of 51.5 degrees and positive stops at 22.5 degrees, 45 degrees, and 51.5 degrees allowing for fast changes.

The Makita 5377MG also features a larger clearance from the blade case to the rear handle and a better grip when you are using gloves or if you have large hands. You also get a larger space for a better view of the table between the housing and the blade. This easy to use saw also includes easy to see bevel markings and visible depth with ergonomic hand grips to give you better control while reducing user fatigue.

Large levers provide fast, one-handed adjustments that improve your efficiency while the "M" shaped tooth design maximizes your cutting performance giving you a fast and clean cut that will last longer. Created to take on a variety of projects, the Makita 5377MG also makes plunge and bevel cuts and will work on other materials such as metal and masonry. With compressed winding technology, the Makita 5377MG provides you a more compact saw that still delivers the durability and performance you need at the job site.

Pros

  • Powerful saw with good balance  
  • Has easy to see sight lines with accurate table marks.
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Doesn’t get bogged down
  • Incredible stable saw that has nice smooth operation
  • Performs way beyond your expectations

Cons

  • Need to increase the cut depth.
  • Saw’s vibrations can cause the front hinge pin to back out
Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41

Giving you versatility and power, the Bosch CSW41 7 Worm-Drive Circular Saw features a large gearing ratio in this compact saw. With a durable magnesium housing, the Bosch 7 also comes with die-cast magnesium footplate both giving your reliable use with sturdy construction. This durable saw has a quick 15-amp motor providing fast cuts and a 5300 no-load rpm rating.

The Bosch 7 has a design with a left-side blade placement giving right-handed users a clear line of sight. This professional level saw gives you power with plenty of torque and a rigid housing to stop the blade from wobbling. The lightweight magnesium housing also allows it to run cooler and prolong the life of the tool.

This well-built saw also features a 53-degree bevel capacity with a positive detent at 45 degrees allowing you the versatility to make a wide range of cuts. The Bosch 7 also includes a bevel-adjustment lever that are easy to access so you can make fast changes for advanced projects or for multiple cuts. This easy to handle tool also comes with an on board wrench so you can quickly change the oil, brushes, or blades.

The Bosch 7 is a lightweight tool that also comes with a soft grip on the handle to less user fatigue as well as control for projects like deck building, sheathing, framing, bridge, building, and concrete form-building. Offering better precious and accuracy, the Bosch 7 also comes with an anti-snag lower guard giving you smoother operation and increase your productivity.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty and well built 
  • Blade placement allows for you to see the cut and make sure its straight.
  • Beautiful design and is great for professional use
  • Excellent piece of engineering
  • Feels great handling it
  • Great amount of power that gives you smooth cuts

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with oil in it.
  • On the heavy side

4.SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Worm Drive Circular Saw Reviews-Lightest worm drive saw

SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw

Weighing only 11.6 pounds, the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 is the most lightweight saw in its class. Featuring an all-magnesium construction, this saw can give you enough torque and power for your most difficult projects. With a 15-amp dual-field motor, you can power through your job while the motor stays nice and cool.

Including a maximum cutting capacity of 2-3/8 inch at 90 degrees, it also comes with a maximum bevel capacity of 53 degrees with positive stops at 0 degrees and 45 degrees. This is the perfect saw when working on ceilings, siding, decking, and framing. Capable of working with engineered, hard, and soft woods, the Skilsaw gives you enough power to cut through more lumber quickly for increased efficiency at the job site.

It also includes an on-tool multi-function wrench for fast brush and blade changes as well as oil maintenance. The Skilsaw also includes a 24-tooth carbide-tipped SKILSAW blade so you can start work right out of the box. The Cut-Ready depth of cut system lets you make fast and precise depth measurement while the anti-snag lower guard gives you smoother operation for those smaller cut-off pieces.

Pros

  • A good degree of tilt in comparison to competitors    
  • Handy blade wrench that stores on the saw.
  • Nice lightweight saw that has an easy to read degree indicator
  • Easy to change bevel and set depth
  • Comes with a convenient rafter hook
  • Smooth operation that is quieter than its competitors

Cons

  • Blade lock position is awkward.
  • Needs rubber inserts on the handles to improve the grip
DEWALT DWS535 7 1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw

Easy to use and lightweight, the Dewalt DWS535 7-1/4" Worm DR Circle Saw is user-friendly and includes time-saving features. With magnesium construction, this saw gives the user more strength and comfort as well as optimal user handling. Providing accurate and clean cuts, this heavy-duty worm saw includes a durable, cast magnesium shoe giving you a solid and tough cutting platform.

With a no-load speed of 4,800 rpm, the Dewalt DWS535 has a bevel capacity of 53 degrees, a 2-7/16-inch depth of cut at 90 degrees, and a 1-7/8-inch depth of cut at 45 degrees. Able to handle compound angles and the most advanced roofing applications, you save time with quick and precise bevel detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees. The Dewalt DWS535 also has a spindle lock that is accessible from the top for quick and easy blade changes so you won’t have to stop work for too long.

This professional level saw has increased versatility with the included saw hook that takes material up to 2-1/2 inches wide. The Dewalt DWS535 also includes a TOUGHCORD Cord Protection System which has four-times better cord jerk protection making operating this saw safer.

Pros

  • Easily cuts through thick and tough pieces of wood  
  • Professional grade saw that can be used on the job site.
  • Powerful, easy to use, and lightweight
  • No torque twist when you start it up
  • Features a handy cutting line indicator
  • It is a nice and quiet saw

Cons

  • Does not come with oil in it.
  • A complicated machine that really needs understanding before use
Makita 5477NB 15 Amp 7-1/4-Inch Hypoid Saw

Combining power and efficiency, the Makita 5477NB Hypoid Saw features a 15 AMP motor along with easy to use features that give you excellent cuts and a high-level of performance. Engineered for use on floors, roofs, siding, and framing wall, the Makita5 477NB is perfect for commercial use giving you increased productivity. The efficient hypoid gears provide better surface contact and give you more consistent power.

The Makita 5477NB also requires less maintenance with its sealed gear housing and oil bath technology, plus the hypoid gear are heat treated to ensure long-lasting performance. The Makita5477NB also features an advanced tooth design with specially set carbide tips that can withstand harsh conditions like cutting up nail-embedded wood. Heat vents are also strategically placed in the blade design to help release heat while increasing performance.

The 15 AMP motor comes with ball bearing construction to increase productivity. The Makita 5477NB also features an ergonomically designed grip and an oversized handle for more comfort and control. A chemically treated base plate will resist warping and rust to give you outstanding cuts.

The Makita a5477NB also has a large cutting capacity and a maximum bevel capacity of up to 51.5 degrees with positive stops at 45 degrees and 51.5 degrees making it perfect for rafter and truss cut-outs. Fast depth and bevel adjustments are due to the large levers while the lower guard design gives you better performance when making narrow and bevel cuts. This easy to use saw also comes with a reinforced ten-foot cord for use out at the job site and brushes that accessible externally so they are easy to replace and help to extend the saw’s life.

Pros

  • Good saw for commercial use  
  • Great quality that requires little maintenance.
  • Has accurate cutting guides along with a high torque motor
  • A lot quieter than its competitors
  • Gives you tons of torque

Cons

  • A little on the heavy side.
  • Hex wrench will fall out when you use the saw
Hitachi C7WDM 7 1/4

Designed for longevity and power, the Hitachi C7WDM is a circular saw with a 7-1/4-inch worm drive. The 15-amp motor is powerful and makes tough cutting jobs effortless. Easy and fast, it has a handle with a soft grip that gives you vibration reduction and comfort.

Perfect for heavy-duty construction, the Hitachi C7WDM is capable of producing professional results. With a rafter hook and steel levers, it has features that increase its real-world usability and toughness. Plus, you get two premium 7-1/4-inch framing blades and the Hitachi five-year tool warranty.

With 5,000 RPMs, you get the forcible power you need to take on the toughest cutting jobs. The Hitachi C7WDM comes with both depth and steel bevel adjustments as well as a cut capacity of 1 ¾ inch at 45 degrees and 2 3/8 inches at 90 degrees.

Pros

  • It cuts smooth and fast  
  • This saw has great power and easy adjustments
  • It has a nice balance and absorbs vibrations

Cons

  • It is heavier than expected.
  • It tends to get bogged down
SKILSAW SPT79-00 15-Amp MEDUSAW Worm Drive Saw for Concrete, 7

Ready to use right out of the box, the Skilsaw MEDUSAW was created for cutting and scoring concrete precisely. Featuring a powerful worm drive power train, the MEDUSAW comes with a pivoting pointer and a Cut-Ready adjustable plunge lock to give you unmatched convenience and precision. Plus, it comes with a best-in-class 15 Amp Dual-Field motor designed to keep your motor cool to extend its lifespan.

With the integrated dust management system, you can take the dust away, whether the job is dry or wet. This system is OSHA compliant and can be used with its vacuum attachment for dry cuts and to a standard hose for wet cuts. This saw also comes with rust-resistant fasteners and brackets to help extend its life.

The included multi-function wrench helps with brush and blade changes that can be used to replace foot wheels and securing a water feed attachment. The seven-inch MEDUSAW has a maximum cutting capacity of two-inches at 90 degrees. This is the perfect saw for use with limestone, bluestone, granite, landscaping blocks, asphalt, and for cutting and scoring concrete.

The retractable front pointer guides and Cut-Ready adjustable plunge lock helps guide you along cut lines and will retract in tight spaces. The MEDUSAW also includes Gfci protection helps to reduce the risk of shock to the user.

Pros

  • This is an easy to use saw that is great at dry cuts  
  • It isn’t too heavy to use all-day.
  • It is great for decorative work

Cons

  • It doesn’t cut very fast.
  • It isn’t good for big projects.

Buying Guide: Best Worm Drive Circular Saws In 2022


What Is A Worm Drive Circular Saw

A worm drive saw is a type of circular saw that features a rear motor and gears that orient at 45-degree angles. A worm drive saw turns the blade using a threaded worm drive that runs down the shaft.

It threads the connected gears to the blade arbor turning the blade with more torque, so it’s easier to cut difficult and dense pieces of wood.
A worm drive saw is a longer, stronger, and heavier saw than others on the market, but its durability also helps it to last longer. Its heavy weight is often seen as a drawback, but you can find a worm drive saw in a lightweight version made of magnesium construction that still retains a good amount of torque.

Magnesium construction also helps to dissipate heat which will help the tool last longer.
When you use a worm drive saw, you can do your work faster and more efficiently. While it gives you a great amount of torque, a worm drive saw does come with a slower blade speed.

The blade is found on the left side which gives you a nice and clear line of sight when you are making right-handed cuts. You also get a motor housing that is more rigid, so it doesn’t wobble as much.

Features to Look for in a best Worm drive circular saw (Advantages)


Motor

Typically found in the back of the casing, the motor gives you quick transfer of power increasing the amount of torque the tool has. Where the motor sits tells you how stable the worm drive circular saw is. Usually, a worm drive circular saw with have a 15-amp motor that gives you around 4000 RPM which is enough power for both DIYers and professionals.

Reliability

To ensure stability and accuracy, your worm drive circular saw should be made from durable materials that won’t bend or wear off. The weight of the tool will also determine its reliability since lightweight worm saws have issues with stability and precision. As you shop, remember that it is important to find a good balance between price, power, quality, weight, and stability

Visible Cutting Line

It's extremely important that you are to see the cutting line as you work. Worm saws that have bad designs where you can’t see where you are cutting should be avoided. Not only does it make it hard to be precise with your cuts, but it’s also a safety hazard as it makes it harder to operate the saw.

Beveling

Your saw will need a wide range if you plan to do any beveling so that you will have the freedom to cut wood at an angle. With bevel stops at commonly-used angles, it makes it easier to do you work which can be helpful for those that can’t waste time making adjustments.

Housing

Finding out what the saw is housed in is an important consideration as it will tell you how well it will hold up to extended use and impact its weight. Both light and strong, magnesium housing is a good choice. Cheaper versions can have the saw housed in materials that are plastic like which won’t last very long.

Blade Changes

After some use, the saw’s blade will need to be replaced. The frequency of blade changes all depends on how often you use the saw. If it is frequent or you are sawing denser woods, having a simple lock that opens allowing the blade to be changed quickly is a handy feature. It all depends on how heavy your level of use is.

Maximum Cutting Depth

Depending on the projects you are working on, it is important to have a tool that can cut at both a 90-degree angle and also a slanted angle. If you are only cutting plywood occasionally, it doesn’t make a big difference. But if you are taking on thicker projects, it is an important feature.

Final Note

There is no doubt of how useful a worm drive circular saw is, especially for folks who work with wood on a regular or professional basis. A saw like this gives you more reach while making a cut, and also allows you to cut multiple sheets of wood at once.

Worm drive circular saws also have the ability to bear heavier loads thanks to their sizable gear teeth. While they do not always have as high an RPM as a regular circular saw, they still provide a ton of torque to make up for it.

Of course, deciding on which track saw to buy (or which one to buy next) can be a difficult task. These saws do tend to be quite expensive, but they also save you a lot of time and work. And they can sometimes last you for years without much need for maintenance.

So you should definitely do your due research before investing in such a major tool, especially if it is for your professional work.

Try to identify the best worm drive circular saws in 2022 and worm drive circular saw reviews, which can really help you decide on the right one for you. Once you buy it, you will definitely see what all the hype is about.


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Author Profile

Robert Patrick
Robert Patrick is the Chief Editor of Tools Adventure.He spent around 25 years in the construction and woodworking industry as a professional worker.Based on his experiences with the different type of tools; he is sharing his opinion about various tools so that a beginner can get started right away.Happy reading!