Top 9 Best Worm Drive Saw (2024 Ultimate Guide)

Looking for the best worm drive saw?

Fantastic. You are in the right place!

In this ToolsGaloreHQ.com guide you will learn:

  • Key technical parameters to                  consider
  • Difference between sidewinder            and worm drive saw
  • Comprehensive list of best worm          drive saws
  • And so much more!
best worm drive saw
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SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw
  • Light magnesium construction
  • 53 degree bevel
  • 24 tooth carbide blade
  • Light magnesium construction
  • 53 degree bevel
  • 24 tooth carbide blade
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Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41
  • 13.2 lbs(5300 no load RPM)
  • Multifunctional wrench
  • Anti-snang lower guard
  • 13.2 lbs(5300 no load RPM)
  • Multifunctional wrench
  • Anti-snang lower guard
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Makita 5377MG 7-1/4" Magnesium Hypoid Saw
  • 15A Motor
  • High quality, treated hypoid steel gears
  • Oil bath technology
  • 15A Motor
  • High quality, treated hypoid steel gears
  • Oil bath technology
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Cuz-D INDUSTRIES Straight Flush Saw
  • Strong ergonomic design
  • Built in rip guide
  • Rotating handle
  • Strong ergonomic design
  • Built in rip guide
  • Rotating handle
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DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, 15-Amp, Worm Drive
  • Durable magnesium footplate
  • Extrawide sawhook
  • Electric brake stops
  • Durable magnesium footplate
  • Extrawide sawhook
  • Electric brake stops
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SKILSAW SPT70V-11 SUPER SAWSQUATCH 16-5/16" Worm Drive Circular Saw
  • Large capacity worm drive saw
  • 15 A dual field motor
  • 16-5/16 inch SkilSaw blade
  • Large capacity worm drive saw
  • 15 A dual field motor
  • 16-5/16 inch SkilSaw blade
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SKILSAW SPTH77M-12 TRUEHVL Worm Drive Lithium-Ion 7-1/4 in. Cordless Saw
  • Cordless and very flexible
  • Rugged TRUEHVL battery
  • 7-1/4 inch cordless worm drive saw
  • Cordless and very flexible
  • Rugged TRUEHVL battery
  • 7-1/4 inch cordless worm drive saw
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Makita 5477NB 7-1/4" Hypoid Saw
  • Efficient and well designed hypoid gears
  • 51.5 degree bevel
  • Oil bath technology
  • Efficient and well designed hypoid gears
  • 51.5 degree bevel
  • Oil bath technology
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Skilsaw 8-1/4 Inch High Torque Motor Aluminum Worm Drive Saw with Diablo Blade
  • Die cast aliminium housing
  • 60 degree bevel
  • 8-1/4 inch blade
  • Die cast aliminium housing
  • 60 degree bevel
  • 8-1/4 inch blade
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Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On October 4, 2024

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

The SKILSAW SPT77WML is a very special worm drive saw. It is made from a very light weight magnesium build, providing for a super light overall worm saw.

SKILSAW has also incorporated their proprietary Dual-Field motor. This technology was specifically designed to improve the effectiveness of their worm drive saw product.

The SPT77WML also has a 53 degree bevel which will allow for cutting and sawing via a variety of angles.

This worm drive saw also has a 24 toothed carbide blade which provides for robustness and overall smoothness.

It comes designed with a saw hook that will really make it easy to provide for rafter replacement.

This saw is also great for performing plunge cuts. The worm saw is equipped with a stable  foot plate has indentations, line guides and lower guard lift level to ensure consistency when performing the plunge cut.

SKILSAW SPT77WML is equipped with a combination blade that is great for both rip and cross cuts.. The floor plate is perfectly level and can easily slide across the longitude of any plywood with different thicknesses (i.e. ¼, ½ or ¾ ply).

It is also very simple and easy to change the change the blades, using the spindle lock on the side of the worm drive saw.

This worm saw also has a oil plug with and on saw lubricant instruction to allow for ease of oil changes to the gears.

The beautiful thing about this worm drive saw, is that it has a very long cord making it easily superbly versatile to be used in a variety of different circumstances and settings.

The most impressive feature for me about this word drive saw, is that it is extremely light weight. Coming in at 11.5 lb.

This weight makes it well adapted for overhead cuts and working above the ground on rooftops or in attics.

The increased visibility when you are cutting cannot be understated as well.

One of the things I always check for when reviewing worm saws is the product manual, warranty information and parts list.

I can tell you that the SKILSAW SPT77WML worm saw has exceptional and very intuitive user manual. It comes in 3 different languages, namely English, Spanish and French – hence covering a large demographic of potential users.

They also provide great work area safety, electrical safety and service information which is great for ensuring the longevity of the worm drive saw and the overall wellbeing of you (the operator).

When it comes to the assembly of the circular saw, they provide great information in terms pictorial guides on how to connect the saw shaft, inner washer, blade, outer washer and the blade stud to the overall light weight magnesium housing of the worm saw.

The entire package also comes together with a wrench. This wrench has the purposes of loosening/tightening the blade bolt, the brush caps, bevel depth lever and the diamond arbor knock off.

The versatility of this circular saw, combined with it’s strong brand reputation and innovative design makes the SKILSAW SPT77WML one of the saws on the market.

Read More:>>>> Best Folding saws for any outdoor adventure

best worm drive saw

Why this guide for the best worm drive saw

A worm drive saw is a must for any serious carpenter or woodworker.

They are exceptional tools that have inline motors coupled with a gear train that powers the circular saw.

Worm drive saws also provide for exceptional handling and greater line of site whilst cutting through wood. 

Their shape and streamlined nature make it great for plunge and rip cuts, in a variety of different positions. Be it overhead, gravity-led or by using a table top for support.

However, looking for the correct one can be a a bit of a challenge, as historically most people are more familiar with the sidewinder saw than they are with the worm drive saw.

On top of that there are so many options, from so many different suppliers, how do you know which one to choose?

No need to worry. I have undertaken this task for you.

I have literally gone through tons of datasheets, product manuals and this coupled with my own experience have undertaken the task of presenting to you in this guide all you need to find the best worm drive saw.

I have done all the work for you, so you do not have too.

Furthermore, I always keep this post updated. Making sure that you are getting the best information when it comes to selecting a worm saw.

Read More:>>> Lets look at a deep dive between Echo vs Stihl Chainsaws

What are the important features of the best worm drive saw

There are a couple of features about your worm drive saw that I believe are important to understand so that you fully appreciate what makes the best worm drive saw the best.

Why choose the worm drive saw instead of your typical sidewinder saw

The word drive saw is quite different to the sidewinder saw. It is manufactured to have larger circular saw teeth.

What this means is that as you are cutting the saw blade is able to provide a larger load overall in term of carry capacity and torque than the sidewinder saw. Therefore overall your worm drive saw is typically more powerful than your sidewinder.

This does have a couple of draw backs. The additional power and torque, add more weight to the worm drive saw. Practically making it heavier than your sidewinder.

This is not particularly an issue. It just means that you need to be mindful of when and were you will be using your worm saw.

I would not recommend using it for jobs that require you to work in positions were you must extend your arms or where you need to balance the saw above your head.

best worm drive saw


The worm drive saw would be very challenging to operate in this manner. Were it really becomes useful is when you are sawing in the direction of gravity.

This is either by using a plunge cut, or by sawing through wooden sheets at an angle in a downward direction.

Overall the worm drive saw is easier to maneuver as it is more streamlined in it’s design. This is a massive plus when working onsite were you need to make cuts in a variety of circumstances, especially if you are creating formwork or removing the formwork post concreting.

The nimbleness and compact design of the worm drive saw make it perfect for such types of jobs.

The only issue about using your worm drive saw is that due to the manner and setup of the gears setup perpendicularly to the saw blade, they will need to be actively oiled using lubricant to ensure that it works without breaking down.

The sidewinder uses a motor and gear configuration called a spur gear. This is practically a gear that ensures that the motor is inline with the circular saw blade. The issue with this setup is that the sidewinder becomes quite bulky in terms of shape and form.

If I could give any advice, they both work fantastically and it is not a matter of worm drive saw vs sidewinder saw. But it’s more a matte of when to use which one.

They are both tools I would recommend you incorporate into your tool box.

In this guide we will give you the best worm drive saw products you can find on the market.

Read More:>>> Learn how to rip cut with a circular saw

Corded vs cordless which one is best

The worm drive saw has incredible safety mechanisms, via an automatic stop switch on the rear handle. Whether you are using a corded or a cordless saw.

The cordless option is battery driven. What this means is that this worm drive saw is typically heavier than its corded counterpart.


The cordless option has much better close control due to it being battery driven. This means that when you release the saw trigger you get a sudden stop in speed. The corded option’s ramp down in speed is not as fast.

Practically speaking, if you are going to be working in a crowded area using a corded saw will basically add to the congestion in the area. Creating an additional tripping hazard.

The corded option has one benefit over the cordless saw that is often not stated is that the cord can basically act as a rope when working on ladders at heights. This small detail is significant because without the cord, you would need to transport the worm drive saw using one hand.

This becomes a big safety hazard at heights where stability is critical.

Key technical Parameters of a worm drive saw to consider

Motor Housing

This is a very important feature, most worm drive saw manufacturers produce motors that are capable to operate and provide current from 6A to 15A. The motor is also very influential in determining the no load RPM speed.

Also take a look at the gear configuration, when it comes to worm drive saws there are two typical types:

  • Hypoid gears
  • Typical worm drive gears

The difference between these two is to be found within the power transmission. The word drive operates and functions similar to steering gears found on your car, whilst the hypoid is typically made like a bevel gear.

They both work fantastically well and often you will find that in certain circular saws they can work together especially for long cuts to reduce overall friction.

Bevel Capacity

Bevel is basically a smart word for making angle cuts through material such as wood. They are typically achieved in accordance with the ability of your saw to provide an angle to the magnesium base plate.

This bevel is quiet easy to find and adjust. If you have trouble locating it, I would advise revisiting the user manual.

But under normal circumstances, it would be found on the front end of your circular saw, with an indentation alongside the straight line indent.

best worm drive saw


Overall Weight

As with any hand power tool, weight is a massive feature that should be considered before making a purchase. When it comes to worm drive saws, this is no different.

Typically these machines range from 8.5 lbs. on the low end (SKIL 5280-01) to weights that almost reach 15 lbs. (Makita 5377MG) on the upper high end with more powerful motors and larger blade diameters.

From my experience you really do not want to be going for a circular worm drive saw that weight anything above 14.5 lbs. in general. The reason for this is quiet simple, you lose on flexibility when it comes to the cuts you can perform.

If you are a weekend warrior or DIYer, you will find that the worm drive saw (due to it’s long sleek design), is perfect for use at height, on the roof or when shaping trusses.

The tool is not only useful for bench top applications.

However, as you can imagine, if you were to use this tool for over head cuts working against gravity – you will feel every additional ounce(gram) of weight.

Another reason is when working on construction sites, you often must carry around your power tools. After a long and hard day at work having a light power tool can make the world of difference.  

Ergonomic Features

The worm drive saw is a power tool, and it typically works and functions in very different, rugged situations. However it definitely helps when the tool is designed for purpose.

This means that it has large handles with great rubber extensions and grips. If the saw requires oil changes to the gears the oil indicator/level is visible and clear.

The best worm drive saw has all the feature above incorporated.

Read More: >>> Learn the secrets to cutting wood without a saw

Detailed Review of Top 9 Best Worm Drive Saw Options

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

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15A

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inches

Tool Weight

11.5 lbs

Mains Power Supply

110V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

1 year

Pros

  • Accurate depth measurement and quick adjustments 
  • Powerful 15A dual motor for efficient cuts
  • 24 toothed carbide blade with multifunctional wrench
  • 53 degree bevel wide cutting range

Cons

  • You will need to add gear lubricant on arrival and upon first use.

Option #2: Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15A

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inches

Tool Weight

12.3 lbs

Mains Power Supply

110V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

1 year

Pros

  • Great accuracy and power
  • Large gearing ratio for compact size
  • 15 A Motor for very high torque
  • Die Cast Magnesium Footplate for great strength
  • Bevel with 53 degree capacity and positive detend at 45 degrees
  • 5300 no load RPM

Cons

  • Some buyers wish that it had switchable mains power supply between 110V and 220V

More info

The Bosch 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw CSW41 is a very powerful and versatile tool.

It is made of a light weight magnesium die cast which provides great strength for the foot plate. This also improves the overall weight of the worm drive saw – coming in at 13.2 lbs.

It provides 5300 RPMs at no load with a powerful 15 A motor. Making it well adept to performing cuts on almost any piece of wood.

The featherboard multifunctional wrench is also another great feature of this worm drive saw. This coupled with a clear line of sight during a cut provides unrivalled clarity of the cut line

This Bosch worm drive circular saw is definitely a cut above the rest. It is sturdy and compact with a carbide blade and 13 inch diamond arbor.

It is a very accurate saw as well, coupled with a 45 degree bevel angle and detent which is a mechanical arrestor of rotation at 45 degrees. These two set of maneuverable angles make this worm saw very agile in different cutting situations.

The Bosch CSW41 also has an anti snag lower guard, providing additional safety and protection during the saw. This guard also allows for smooth operations.

The rear and front handles are ergonomically designed to allow for comfortable grip and comfortable use, especially when the saw is being operated throughout the day.

It is also designed for storage with many onboard features such as a built in storage hook and level adjustment to make sure that the machine fits quite comfortably in your tool shed.

It comes with a product manual in 3 languages, however I did struggle to find a parts list which is something I did not like about this worm drive saw.

Apart from that however, the user manual is standard. It provides for the typical safety information (mechanical and electrical) and operational instructions.

This is an absolute workhorse of a saw, and it is definitely one of the best worm drive saws you will find on the market.

Option #3: Makita 5377MG 7-1/4" Magnesium Hypoid Saw

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15A

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inches

Tool Weight

12.3 lbs

Mains Power Supply

110V

Corded/Cordless

Corded (10ft)

Warranty

1 year

Pros

  • Electric with 10ft corded power cable.
  • 4500 RPM (No load)
  • Retractable hook
  • Large rubberized levers allowing for ease of adjustment
  • Light weight magnesium saw (13.2 lbs)
  • 15A motor

Cons

  • Some buyers wish the tool had better dust extraction.

More Info

The Makita 5377MG worm drive saw is a great saw to have in your tool box.

This worm drive saw is equipped with magnesium components that provide for the overall lightweight of 13.2 lbs.

It is a compact tool, very adept to working onsite and in environments that require heavy duty tools. One thing I found extremely interesting about this saw is the oil bath technology.

This technology is created primarily with an onboard fan and gear seal to make sure that the oil coating requires the least amount of maintenance.

It is equipped with an incredibly large cutting capacity which is 2-3/8’’ at 90 degrees. Allowing for stoppers at 3 different angles namely: 22.5, 45 and 51.5 degrees.

This worm drive saw is the best when it comes to least maintenance. It has very good quality, heat treated and hypoid steel gears that back up the point of low maintenance.

Anyone that has used a worm drive saw will tell you that comfortable handles mean the world, especially when cutting for a long duration of time. The Makita 5377MG worm drive saw is equipped with rubber grip handles and adjustable rubberized levers. Making for complete ergonomic design and comfort.

This tool due to it’s low weight is perfect for building framing walls, flooring, carpentry and roof work were lumber is involved.

It is also vey adept and performing plunge cuts, rip cuts and sawing through thin sheets of plywood.

What I also really like about this worm saw is the 10ft power cord. This is longer than what you would usually expect by more than 2 ft.

The website also gives so much more additional information as opposed to other saw manufacturers. Which I really like.

It has a maximum cutting capacity as shown below:

  • 90 degrees: 2-3/8 inches
  • 45 degrees: 1-3/4 inches
  • 50 degrees: 1-9/16 inches
 This Makita saw comes with instruction manual and Parts breakdown.

Option #4: Cuz-D INDUSTRIES Straight Flush Saw

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

6.5A

Saw Blade Diameter

5-7/8 inches

Tool Weight

14.3 lbs

Mains Power Supply

110V - 120 V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

Lifetime

Pros

  • Cutting capacity from -5 to 65 degrees
  • Built I grip guide makes for more accurate cuts
  • Rotate and lock handle in place (45 degree angle for bevel cuts)
  • Multiple different blade saw types
  • Easily cut through 2x2 or 2x4 boards easily.

Cons

  • Plastic shield is a bit soft, and the handle can be exhaustive for people with large hands.

More info

The Cuz-D is a wild card on the list of the best worm drive saws.

It looks different, but is surprisingly very ergonomically designed and functional. It has a trigger-actuated lower guard that protects the blade and the operator during any cut.

This feature is generally standard amongst worm drive saws, however I must say that the feature of it being trigger-actuated is innovate and provides the required safety.

This saw has a minimum and maximum bevel cutting range from -5 degrees to 65 degrees. This is a really industry leading in terms of bevel range.

Most of the top tier manufacturer of circular saws only have a bevel angle of 45 degrees.

What I also found quite interesting about this saw, was that it has a recessed blade that cuts deeper than 8-1/2’’ under controlled cutting conditions.

The dust extractor and removable blade cover are good for keeping the workspace clear and clean and you cut through the piece of wood.

You can also use this circular saw to perform rip and plunge cuts. The deployable front deck works as a fulcrum point for you to move smoothly and accurately into the plunge cutting area.

It is made of a magnesium allow. This is particularly important for worm drive saws, in terms of flexibility and their overall weight.

The handling of the saw also allows for a twist-lock handle and remove rip guide with ergonomic handles.

The circular saw is slightly smaller than the other popular choices and this can be seen with an amperage rating of 6.5A.

Cuz-D is a fairly new manufacturer of worm drive saws. They supplement this by providing a lifetime warranty. Which is fantastic and the reason this saw makes the list of the best worm drive saws.

They also provide reasonable information in terms of a user manual. One thing I would say however is that it is not very thorough when it comes to maintenance and operations.

However, with all these things considered Cuz-D INDUSTRIES Straight Flush Saw is a great tool overall and definitely work checking out.

Option #5: DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw, 15-Amp, Worm Drive

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15 A

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inches

Tool Weight

15 lbs

Mains Power Supply

110 V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

3 year warranty

Pros

  • 53 degree bevel (detents @ 22.5 & 45)
  • 7-1/4 inch worm drive circular saw
  • Larger geared teeth
  • Powerful 15 A Motor

Cons

  • The blade lock is not intuitively designed

More info

DeWalt is a company synonymous with exceptional power tools. Their Worm drive saw is no different.

Designed with a lightweight magnesium and alimunium core. This tool is durable flexible and built for operations in heavy duty and hostile environments such as construction sites and woodworking sheds.

It is equipped with a 53 degree bevel that has detents at 22.5 and 45. Allowing for a lock-in mechanism and consistent cutting at different angles.

What I like about DeWalt in general is that their power tools are easily customizable. The DeWalt DWS535B Worm Drive Saw accepts the custom dual port rip guard which can be purchased as an additional extra.

This makes rip cutting so much more smoother and safer. Due to the inline motor design, you will benefit from great line of sight as you are sawing through wood, with the front and rear end handles providing additional ergonomic features in terms of grip and comfort.

Making this saw perfect for all day heavy duty jobs.

They another very interesting feature when it comes to the cord. It is designed with what DeWalt refers to as TOUCHCORD technology. This provides your corded worm drive saw with additional protection. Especially in circumstances where you will be working with other people in the same area.

The Electric brake stop is a brilliant feature, Most corded circular saws have a ramp up and ramp down rate when it comes to power and torque through the blade. DeWalt have gone to lengths to ensure that this rate is as slow as possible, especially when ramping down.

The extra wide saw hook is also another impressive feature, especially when using the worm drive saw at different locations and heights.

This worm drive saw also has very decent no load speed of 4800 RPM, especially when taking into consideration the 15 A motor. It has 1400 inches/pound of torque – making this a very impressive power tool for almost all your cutting applications.

One thing I did not like however was that it is not as intuitively designed as the other options. The interlock is a little difficult to use and can often cause the worm drive saw to get stuck in the off position.

It is also comparatively heavy for a magnesium designed worm drive saw, although it works alright when using both hands.

There is also a slight bit of vibration when the motor is not operating at full load speed, but this generally disappears after the motor has been running for sometime.

This DeWalt tool comes with great resources in terms of a user manual and product list inline with all of DeWalt products and which is expected.

 Overall this tool is a beast. When looking for the best worm drive saw. It is definitely worth taking a look at the DeWalt DWS535B circular saw.

Option #6: SKILSAW SPT70V-11 SUPER SAWSQUATCH 16-5/16" Worm Drive Circular Saw

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15A

Saw Blade Diameter

16-5/16 inch

Tool Weight

27.3 pounds

Mains Power Supply

120 V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

180 Day Stay True + 1 year Limited 

Pros

  • Multifunctional wrench
  • Large 16-5/16 inch worm drive saw
  • 6-1/4 inch cutting capacity
  • Durable magnesium construction
  • 15 Amp dual field motor
  • 56 degree bevel capacity with lock in stops at 0 and 45 degrees

Cons

  • Due to its greater capacity, it also carries a bit more weight.

More info

SKILSAW SPT70V-11 SUPER SAWSQUATCH is an absolute workhorse of a worm drive saw.

It has a huge 16-5/16 inch Skilsaw blade, although it is generally lighter than it’s competitors is still remains a bit of a heavy cutter overall.

Besides that it has a 15 A dual field motor coupled with brass worm drive gearing, for great torque throughout the different motor speed ranges.

It is equipped with very tough magnesium die-cast footplate design coupled with ergonomic handles that function even under the toughest of working environments.

As with all other worm drive saws, it has a bevel stop of 53 degrees, with lock in stop points at 0 and 45 degrees.

One thing worth noting though is that this machine operates with 120V mains supply. If you have a 110V supply, it is worth either getting an adapter/power supply source that can handle the power and current if you want to use this worm saw.

Coming in at 24.5 x 10 x 17.5 inches (LxWxH) it’s a little bit on the larger side. But this increase in size comes with greater power and cutting range which makes it worthwhile.

The saw boasts an incredible cutting capacity of 6-1/4 inches which allows it to easily cut through 2x4 or even thick board with relative ease.

It also has a 120 inch cord, which is more than adequate when working onsite.

One thing worth considering however when looking to purchase this saw blade is that the stock carbide blade is not as powerful as the diablo blade for example, it cuts very slowly – so using a more specialized circular saw blade will definitely be an extra plus when using this saw.

It is also a bit cumbersome when longer to make longer rip cuts especially into 6x6 wooden posts.

This worm drive saw is best used when it is operated on a flat surface such as a table top.

This model also has a no load speed of 2500 RPM, coupled with base plate dimensions of 9-3/4 x 24-7/16 inch (WxL), makes for a sturdy, strong a stable cut through wooden beams.

Due to it’s powerful design, so people might be tempted to try and use this worm drive saw to cut through concrete and cement. I would strongly recommend against it.

This particular model of circular saw is made and designed to function on wooden beams and flat sheets of plywood.

This worm drive saw has great user manual, which is typical of any SKILSAW product.

If you are looking for a rugged and high powered worm drive saw, with a great cutting capacity and slightly large interchangeable blade. Then this SKILSAW SPT70V-11 SUPER SAWSQUATCH is definitely worth investigating further.

This is one of the best worm drive saws on the market without a doubt for all the reasons above.

Option #7: SKILSAW SPTH77M-12 TRUEHVL Worm Drive Lithium-Ion 7-1/4 in. Cordless Saw

Specification

Value

Battery Capacity

5Ah

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inch

Tool Weight

11.1 pounds

Mains Power Supply

N/A (Battery Powered 48Vdc)

Corded/Cordless

Cordless

Warranty

1 year


Pros

  • Fully charged battery with TRUEHVL technology, able to make 425 continuous cuts
  • Rugged magnesium construction, brushless motor and electric close control
  • Multi-function wrench with a vacuum adapter

Cons

  • The advertised weight is not the same as actual weight (actual is about 13 lbs)
  • Due to the battery it’s a bit challenging to perform plunge cuts.

More Info

The SKILSAW SPTH77M-12 is Skil’s flagship cordless saw. It is ergonomically designed with a Lithium Ion battery pack using SKIL’s own proprietary TRUEHVL™ trademark.

On thing that is quite impressive about this tool is that the battery is quick charging (0 to full charge in 1 hour) and it is fitted a 24 tooth carbide blade, with a multi-functional wrench.

As with all modern worm drive saws, this one is also designed with a magnesium frame and footplate. Making it lightweight, durable and perfect for rugged and difficult job sites.

In fact for the additional size that comes with an onboard battery, this worm drive saw is quite compact in it’s design. Coming in at 8.66 x 18.23 x 11.09 (HxLxW) inches.  

The brushless motor allows for seamless control and cutting efficiency. Making it easy to perform rip cuts, plunge cuts and different angles cuts without the need to worry about being connected to a mains power supply.

This flexibility cannot be understated, the battery has a charge life equivalent to 425 continuous cuts operating at 48V.

Skil is well known for providing additional inhouse technologies to their worm drive saws. They have incorporated their patented Stay Cool ™ technology into the SKILSAW SPTH77M-12.

This is superbly innovate because it practically ensures that each battery cell is kept and an optimal temperature. This ensures that the it will be able to operate at full speed and load for an extended period of time.

It has a vacuum adapter as well that fits 3.5cm, 1-7/8 inch and 2-1/2 inch hose.

It has incredible no load speed of 5800 RPM, coupled with a saw blade of a standard 7-1/4 inches.

The Diamond arbor allows for the facilitation of cawing capacity of 1-15/16 inches (45 degrees) and 2-3/8 inches (90 degrees).

One thing that I did not particular like about this worm drive saw, is that the advertised weight seems to be a little understated. In reality it is actually about 13 pounds when all is ready for cutting.

It is also surprisingly very efficient and effective when it comes to the use of gear oil lubrication.

It is a fantastic worm drive saw for any weekend warrior and DIYer. It even won an award from Pro Tool Innovation in 2019 for it’s excellent value for money, advanced ergonomic features and great innovations.

This is truly the best cordless worm drive saw on the market, one I would strongly recommend you have a look at

Option #8: Makita 5477NB 7-1/4" Hypoid Saw

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

15A

Saw Blade Diameter

7-1/4 inch

Tool Weight

14.3 pounds

Mains Power Supply

120 V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

1 year


Pros

  • 15 A motor with ball bearing construction
  • Oil bath technology with sealed gear housing
  • Very large Cutting capacities (2-3/8’’ @90 degrees, 1-3/4’’ @45 degrees, 1-9/16’’ @50 degrees)
  • 51.5 degree bevel with positive stoppers at 45 degrees and 51.5 degrees. Making it fantastic for Truss and Rafter cuts

Cons

  • The safety locking mechanism is not intuitively designed and can be a bit difficult to operate.

More Info

The Makita 7-1/4 Inch Hypoid Saw (5477NB) model is a fantastic worm drive saw.

It is specifically designed and made for your people who require a saw for framing, roofs, floors, lumber applications and for rip cutting sheet stock such as plywood.

For a worm saw that has a blade diameter of 7-1/4 inches it has a powerful onboard motor capable of producing 15 A. Making it rugged and very powerful.

Furthermore this saw has 2300W of output power, operating effectively with a no load speed of 4500 RPM.

It is slightly on the heavier side though, which is a bit of a drawback, especially when you want to use the saw at various for above head applications.

However it should be noted that this additional weight allows for the great range of cutting capacities, namely (2-3/8’’ @90 degrees, 1-3/4 inches @ 90 degrees and 1-9/16 inches @50 degrees). Making this superbly versatile and able to seamlessly cut through almost any size of wood with ease.

It has a bevel capacity of 51.5 degrees, with a positive stop at 45 degrees and 51.5 degrees respectively. Making it a home builder and woodworkers dream. Especially if you need to trim and cut trusses and rafter cut outs.

Internally this worm drive saw is an absolute workhorse, it has oil bath technology, coupled together with hypoid gears which deliver exceptional power per unit than the more conventional worm drive gears found on the market.

This small but important addition gives you a tool that requires very little in terms of additional maintenance, and if taken care of properly, the Makita 7-1/4 Inch Hypoid Saw (5477NB) can be a reliable addition to any weekend warrior, DIYer or woodworking professional's tools box.

One other thing I love about this worm drive saw is that it has larger than usual handles, making it superbly comfortable to use when operating and performing cuts over a prolonged period of time.

This saw is designed to be used for wooden applications, and I would not recommend that it be used on any other surface.

Another negative is that you will need an adapter to power this saw at 110V. The Makita is also very quiet and works surprisingly well for both right and left handers.

Typical of all worm drive saws, you get a great line of sight as you rip cut through boards.

This saw comes with a great user manual, parts list and operating procedures. Making it very intuitive to use. The Makita brand is very well established so you can be assured that you will get superb after sale support if you ever need it.

Option #9: Skilsaw 8-1/4 Inch High Torque Motor Aluminum Worm Drive Saw with Diablo Blade

Specification

Value

Motor Amperage

22A

Saw Blade Diameter

8-1/4 inch

Tool Weight

18.5 pounds

Mains Power Supply

120 V

Corded/Cordless

Corded

Warranty

1 year


Pros

  • Powerful diablo blade
  • Exceptional 60 degree bevel
  • Large 8-1/4 inch blade
  • Durable gear housing

Cons

  • Heavier than other saws with similar motor amperage

More Info

The Skilsaw 8-1/4 Inch High Torque Motor Aluminum Worm Drive Saw with Diablo Blade is a heavy duty power tool equipped with some very interesting features.

It is made of alimunium instead of the common magnesium, making it slightly heavier, although more stable and sturdy.

The most impressive feature about this saw is it’s ability to bevel 60 degrees. This makes it incredibly easy to make angled cuts.

It is also equipped with a high torque 15 A motor. This tool Is slightly heavier than the other options but it is superb for rip cutting and long operational hours.

If you are a DIYer with very specific needs from your worm drive saw, this is one of the best.

My Overall #1 Top Pick

All the worm drive saws found within this guide are exceptional choices.

However the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw. Takes the number #1 spot for me.

This saw is super light and punches well above it’s weight in terms of power especially through rip cuts. The 15 Amp motor is in the higher range making it very powerful.

I also really like the anti snag guard. Safety is super important when using such tools and I must say that this guard not only ensures safety, but it also acts as a smooth guide when rip cutting.

The Dual Field motor design is also great for keeping the motor cool, especially when it is being used for an extended period.

Check out the pricing on Amazon here

Final Thoughts on the Best Worm Drive Saw

Choosing a good worm drive saw can be a bit challenging. However – I hope this exhaustive guide has given you better insights to make a more informed purchasing choice.

I must say this circular saw is a must have for any weekend warrior, professional carpenter, woodworker or part DIYer.

With it’s wide application use, you cannot go wrong.



Mogale Modisane, PrEng

Mogale Modisane, PrEng

Mogale is a professional engineer (PrEng). With experience working on large-scale Solar, Wind, and Hybrid Projects. He has been exposed to multiple tools throughout his career and has a keen interest in breaking down the often murky world of power tools, machines, and measurement equipment making them more accessible and understandable to everyone.

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Mogale Modisane, PrEng

Mogale Modisane, PrEng

Mogale is a professional engineer (PrEng). With experience working on large-scale Solar, Wind, and Hybrid Projects. He has been exposed to multiple tools throughout his career and has a keen interest in breaking down the often murky world of power tools, machines, and measurement equipment making them more accessible and understandable to everyone.

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