5 Best Worm Drive Saws

Worm drive saws are power tools that allow the user to make accurate cuts with little effort. They work by using a geared system of gears and levers that transmits torque from the motor to the blade via an offset handle. 

The result is precise cutting with minimal vibration and less hand fatigue than other saw types like circular or jigsaw blades. The advantage of this design is that it provides continuous cutting action and, unlike most other power tools, does not use electricity or batteries.

Benefits of worm drive saws:

• They are lighter than other saws of the same power. Therefore, they can be used for extended periods without tiring out your body or arms;
• Their size makes them able to fit into many tighter spaces that you would not have been able to reach with a standard circular saw. This is especially helpful when cutting angles in corners and along walls where there may not be much room for error on either side and need extra precision from the blade placement as well as accuracy in cuts being made;
• Because their blades turn perpendicular (at 90 degrees) compared to traditional circular saws whose blades rotate parallel to one another at 0 degrees, worm drive saws’ larger teeth tend to cut through material more quickly due to increased surface area contact;

When you are looking for the best worm drive saw, what do you need to consider? This guide will give you the answers and introduce you to some of the best models on the market. Experts will cover everything from budget-friendly options to high-end products that offer more power and features.

SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Lightweight Worm Drive Circular Saw – the Editor’s choice!

Carrying a lumber-destroying machine like this is nothing to take lightly. Luckily, the remarkably lightweight design makes it easy for you to use your SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Worm Drive Circular Saw without worrying about fatigue.

Check Price

This saw can slice through wood quickly so that you can get back to work on time and finish what you’ve started with ease. With its 48 teeth per blade on both sides and cutting depth of 1 ½ inches at 90 degrees for every bore (plus bevel), there’s practically no job too big or too small when using your versatile worm drive saw.

Low-fatigue lightweight magnesium construction cuts user fatigue down to size, giving you more time on the job and less downtime. The cut-ready depth of cut system ensures accurate metric measurements on lumber while the 53-degree bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts. If you want to get through rounds at turbo speed and without lingering snags, then this is the saw blade for you.

It is constructed with a lightweight magnesium alloy, reducing user fatigue for less downtime. With quick and accurate measurements with a cut-ready depth of the cut system, users are able to complete more cuts in less time.

SKILSAW SPT77W-01 Aluminum Worm Drive Circular Saw – the best for reduced user fatigue!

A lightweight aluminum worm drive circular saw from the experts at SKIL who want to make woodworking a little easier as you cut through projects with these features like an anti-snag lower guard for smooth operation and a 15 amp motor (more power!) that delivers fast and accurate depth measurements.

Check Price

It’s qualified for contractors, pros or DIYers alike. You’ll get less downtime thanks to the lighter design and easy-to-read Depth of Cut System while the 51° bevel allows users to complete a wider variety of cuts. Plus, it’s backed by SKIL Tool’s Lifetime Limited Warranty so your next purchase won’t be needed anytime soon!

The SKIL SPT77W-01 saw is perfect for all skill levels. The lighter weight design reduces user fatigue, giving them less down time and saving you money in the end. This saw comes with 51 degrees bevel angle that lets users complete a wider variety of cuts than their previous saws.

Makita 5477NB 7-1/4″ Hypoid Saw – the best for surface contact!

Forget that rusty relic of the past and get a Makita 5477NB 7-1/4″ Hypoid Saw. This saw is feather-light by design, equipped with an efficient 15-amp motor so you can work faster without getting fatigued.

Check Price

With steel gears operating on the hypoid principle – which means more power and less vibration wear than conventional wieners – this 7-1/2-inch reciprocating saw will have all your projects done quickly while resisting corrosion.

Packed with useful features like positive stops for bevels at 45° and 51.5°, an integral carrying handle on top of the unit to make transportation easier, a blade lock button for increased safety when changing blades, this hypoid saw is really remarkable.

High-quality engineering of this saw never disappoints. Perfect for bevel cuts and truss cutouts, the Makita 5477NB is a powerhouse tool that will always get the job done right.

DEWALT 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw – the best for safety!

The DEWALT 7-1/4 worm drive circular saw is built for job site toughness. The lightweight magnesium and aluminum construction means you can carry it with ease, but the durable footplate provides excellent stability on uneven ground without any wobble. Extra-wide saw hook of corded top accepts materials up to 2-3/4 inch in diameter (70mm).

Check Price

The Toughedcord Cord Protection System is four times better Cord Jerk protection. Adjustable bevel locks to either 45 or 53 degrees and detents at 22.5 and 45 are easy to feel when making adjustments thanks to scribed angles for each position that acts as a guide honing your eye on the degree desired. Ergonomic handle grip delivers increased comfort.

This DeWalt worm drive saw is lightweight, durable, and incredibly accurate. It has a TOUGHCORD Cord Protection System and an electric brake to help prevent kicks. This saw is great for precise cuts with its powerful motor that offers 4x jerk protection.

BOSCH 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw – the best for portability!

The lightweight 15-amp motor Bosch CSW41 Circular Saw is a worm-drive, two-blade, left-side cutter that delivers 5,300 no-load rpm.

Check Price

With magnesium construction and reduced weight for increased comfort and convenience, this tool has the power to handle jobs like ripping boards (using the appropriate blade), cutting plywood, ripping baseboards, or even installing trim without fatigue.

Bosch CSW41 Circular Saw is a lightweight, accurate saw with an easy-to-read blade and powerful worm drive gearing. The sleek design has just about everything you need for cutting tasks around the house.

The anti-snag lower guard protects against inadvertent contact while working in tight spaces sending wood chips flying all over.

The Bosch CSW41 delivers unmatched accuracy and power. Its lightweight aluminum-magnesium construction means that it’ll be easier to handle all day long, reducing user fatigue. At an incredible 5,300 no-load RPM, you won’t have any trouble getting through your tough jobs quickly and efficiently with this saw from Bosch!

The Buyer’s Guide

Types of worm drive saws:

Worm drive saws are typically lighter than other types of a circular saw. They also have longer blades which makes them more accurate when cutting. 

The best worm drive saw for you will depend on your specific needs, but there are a few popular models that are explained in detail below:

1) Worm drive saws with standard arbor

Many homeowners prefer a standard arbor saw over any other type of circular saw. Standard arbors are compatible with almost every blade on the market and they’re lightweight enough to carry around in your home but strong enough to do all kinds of jobs without breaking down or overheating. They can be used for demo work as well as construction projects like installing window sills, cutting decking boards, framing up walls, etc. 

The best worm drive saws with this kind of connection should always have an adjustable shoe that makes it easier to cut at different angles (like 45 degrees). Standard worm drives typically range from 15-20 amps because anything lower than that won’t produce enough power if you need to make deep cuts through wood stud

2) Worm drive sawzall (reciprocating saws)

These tools can be used to cut pretty much anything except metal and masonry materials. These tools use the same blade as their reciprocating counterparts. They can cut through pretty much anything including metal, wood and masonry materials as well as plastic or PVC pipes thanks to their dual-shaft design that allows them to accommodate both standard blades and diamond blade inserts. 

The major drawback is that due to the nature of this type of tool there’s a high chance that your hand will feel a little tired after extended use without any additional support from an auxiliary handle so be sure to check for this feature if it’s important to you.

3) Cordless electric worm drives/cordless power tool combo kits 

They usually come equipped with one battery pack and charger so it is important that you choose wisely if you want to have everything you need in one pack. Cordless electric worm drive kits usually provide less power than their corded counterparts, but they make up for it with convenience and lightness. 

Experts always recommend getting a worm drive saw with at least 15 amp motor because that will ensure enough power for even the toughest jobs, but they usually come in 18-20 amps which is fine too. Also make sure that there are no problems with overheating and overall durability of the tool while checking customer reviews before making your purchase so you don’t end up stuck without warranty or replacement coverage after buying an inferior product.

Main Features:

Motor

The most important consideration is the size of the motor. Most worm drive saws have a minimum power rating of around eight amps and you should choose one with more than this as it will be able to handle tough jobs. 

When you are looking at motors, check out their RPM (revolutions per minute) rating that tells how many times the blade spins in a minute. More RPM means smoother cuts but try not to buy anything too powerful or it may lead to burning marks on the woodwork surface.

Blade quality

First, look at the blade quality. What is your application? If you are going to be working with wood a lot then it’s not necessary that you buy something very expensive because in this case just buying an excellent brand like DeWalt or Makita will do quite fine and there won’t be any need for spending large amounts of money on a pricier saw. 

However, if you work mainly with metal as well as wood, make sure to choose one that has carbide-tipped blades so they can cut through hard metals without suffering damages themselves. There are also special blades made specifically for high-speed steel (HSS) materials such as aluminum. These blades should hold up better than most ordinary CS inverted tooth blades.

Blade size

The other thing worth considering is the blade size. The most common sizes are from about 12 to 14-inch blades, but there are also smaller and bigger ones available for specialized jobs such as heavy-duty cutting or light materials like sheet metal. It’s best if you buy a saw which has an adjustable shoe so that it can cut through different types of wood (with varying thicknesses) without any problems. But even though this isn’t necessary; make sure at least that your saw comes with an anti-splintering device and riving knife because these will help prevent possible injuries in case the piece gets kicked back while you cut it out.

Cutting depth

These saws are designed to cut through a thick wood, so they have special features that make them up for the task. For example, a blade depth adjustment is very important as it allows you to cut easily through different types of materials without having problems with jamming. Some models come equipped with extra deep blades and this definitely adds on top functionality. 

You should also pay attention to the adjustable shoe. The best saws come with a dual-action blade guard that allows you to cut more easily and accurately, without worrying about kickback as it is significantly reduced due to this feature alone. A metal plate on top of the shoe protects against slippage while adding stability for precisely angled cuts or plunge cutting – another important factor, if you are going to use your worm drive, saw every day.

Weight

The weight of a unit is extremely important to consider when shopping for saws. If you plan on using your saw frequently and in different locations, then it’s best that your chosen tool be lightweight; otherwise, carrying around its hefty frame will quickly wear out tired arms. Fortunately, there are plenty of great models available with less than 10 pounds – even some below five! 

While weight is a very important factor to consider, you should also take into consideration how much sawdust or debris it can expel. This capacity serves as an excellent indicator of just how powerful your chosen tool will be; higher horsepower equals more material removed per minute. 

Debris expulsion not only makes for a neater job site but allows for cleaner cuts and more long-lasting blades due to less friction against wood fibers during cutting! If budget isn’t really an issue, experts highly recommend checking out gas-powered models – they usually have far superior power capabilities than their electric counterparts.

Saw Housing

Saw housing types are an important thing to consider when looking for a saw. Depending on the type of job you plan on doing, different housing types may be more useful than others. 

Worm drive saws usually come in one of four major varieties based upon their intended purpose:

• Framing saws usually have a straight handle and are the most adaptable to many job site conditions;
• Crawlspace models, for example, come with an extra-long cord that wraps around the body of the saw while in storage so it can reach outlets even when placed under sinks or on top shelves;
• Most J-handle worm drives will be right angle (RA) varieties that offer high positioning versatility;
• Pistol grip saws are ideal for confined spaces due to their small size and low weight coupled with reduced vibration compared to other types of handles/housing designs;

Other things to consider when buying a worm drive saw:

• Use a metal-cutting blade with diamond teeth that won’t get dull anytime soon. It’s best if they’re replaceable as well so you don’t have to purchase another power tool just because one tooth broke off;
• You should be able to retract its guard from above (so it does not interfere while working) but also keep it secure when in storage/transportation otherwise you’ll risk breaking things around;
• A rubberized grip is good too – this will enable you to work for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued or in pain;
• The best worm drive saws are as sturdy and reliable as possible which means they should be made from materials like aluminum alloy, stainless steel, etc.;
• You have the option to purchase a corded model (with an extension cord) because it’s usually more powerful than its battery-operated counterpart even though there are some exceptions;
• You also need durability when working with wood pieces that tend to bend/flex especially if their cross sections aren’t flat so make sure your power tool can handle this;

Worm Drive Saw Uses

A worm drive saw is a term used to describe circular saws that have the motor and gearbox built into one unit. The most common use for this type of power tool is in construction, but it can also be found in industrial settings as well. For those who are looking for something different than what’s typically available on the market today, there are multiple features you should look out for before making your purchase decision. 

First, the blade on a worm drive saw should be made of high-quality metal that will stay sharp. If you’re looking to cut something with thick walls such as rebar or cinder blocks, then it’s going to need a strong and durable edge. This type of power tool does not only speed up your work but also reduces any potential injuries as well. Safety features are another important aspect you want when shopping around.

Over the years, worm drive saws have been used for different purposes. They are not just meant for cutting wood and other types of soft materials: 

• Cut metal (steel beams) with ease;
• Slice through electrical cords and cables easily;
• Shape foam into beautiful sculptures or furniture pieces that look like actual wood;
• Remove broken bolts to get your car back on the road ASAP without having to wait weeks because of availability at repair shops;
• Cut through water pipes or PVC;
• Remove old insulation during renovations and clean up the worksite quickly to avoid accidents, injuries, noise pollution;

Hypoid Saw vs Worm Drive Saw

There are two kinds of general saws and both serve different purposes. The first is the hypoid saw which has straight teeth that point to the rear, while worm drive blades have angled teeth that face forward toward the material being cut. 

Both blades are used for cutting wood, but the hypoid saw is usually more efficient when cutting softer materials such as plywood or particleboard. The worm drive blade however can be much stronger and typically has a wider kerf (the width of material removed in one pass). This makes it perfect for roughing out large pieces of lumber from big trees.

The teeth on both kinds of blades have to constantly be set against each other, which means that they need some form of lubrication; this is especially true if you’re going through harder woods like oak or mahogany. Without proper care, these files will quickly become gummed up with pitch and resin.

This happens because there are pockets between every tooth where debris is caught, and it won’t be long before the material you’re sawing starts to bind up. This is why a proper lubrication regime and keeping your blade clean are an absolute must when using either type of saw.

Many people find that worm drive blades give them more control over their cuts, but if this isn’t enough for you there’s also a wide variety of accessories available like table extensions or sliding extension tables that can extend your work surface. 

Another option is a router attachment with adjustable height — these allow you to make pass after pass across the same area without having to reposition your board on sawhorses or clamps and they help reduce tear-out by smoothing out rough edges left behind from the cut. However, unless used with a fence, they can be difficult to maneuver.

Another benefit of worm drive saws is that they’re usually quieter and less tiring than hypoid blades because their weight is distributed along the length of the blade rather than concentrated at its ends like an ax or hatchet would be. 

This makes them easier for most people to handle; however, it’s important to note that this might not always apply when cutting through tough, dense materials as some models are very heavy in comparison with others on this list so you need to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before making a purchase.

Safety and Maintenance

All power tools are potentially dangerous. However, there is some specific equipment that can be more harmful than others in certain circumstances. The worm drive saws are no exception to the rule and they come with a few common safety concerns that you need to be aware of before introducing them into your workshop for extended periods of time. 

The first thing that you need to be aware of is the blade. Whenever possible, try not to cut with bare hands on or near moving parts such as blades and gears because this can result in serious injuries if something goes wrong. Wear always gloves when handling these kinds of power tools just in case a slip-up occurs. 

In addition, all equipment should have an emergency stop button that will shut off the machine immediately without having to wait for it to do so automatically after detecting some pressure from your hand or finger somewhere else on its surface. This kind of switch needs to be easily accessible at all times thus it shouldn’t be hidden away behind any barriers where you might forget about its existence while working feverishly on a project. 

Also, consider using a face shield or a pair of goggles to protect your eyes whenever you are working with the worm drive saws. While it might seem like overkill, these two products combined can save your life in case something unexpected happens and will avoid dealing with any potential injuries down the road.

As for maintenance tips, there is one thing that all users must do before storing their power tools away at night and this involves cleaning them properly. Worm drive saws have more moving parts than other types of electric hand-held machinery so they tend to gather up quite some dirt after extended periods of use even if they were well protected against corrosion by means such as paint or electroplating on metals surfaces during production among many others things depending on the specific model in question. 

The best way to deal with this problem is by running some warm water and soap over the blades, gears, motors, and all other components before leaving it dry in a well-ventilated place for at least 24 hours afterward after which you can continue using them as normal again. 

This process will remove any corrosion that might have taken root during its time on your workshop floor combined with keeping it clean from debris accumulated overtime due to regular use among many other things depending on how often you plan on working with these power tools when compared against others available out there within their price range.

Factors to Consider When Buying Worm Drive Saws: A Comparison Table

When it comes to buying a worm drive saw, there are several factors to consider that can greatly impact your decision-making process. To help you make an informed choice, we have created a comparison table of various indicators that are important to consider when purchasing a worm drive saw.

This comparison table provides a quick reference guide to help you assess the key features and specifications of various worm drive saws. By considering the motor power, blade size, cutting depth, bevel capacity, weight, no-load speed, and price, you can make an informed decision about which saw is best suited to your needs and budget.

FAQ

What is the advantage of a worm drive saw?

A worm drive saw is a type of circular saw. The blade spins in one direction and the teeth on the blade are angled to cut into wood as it rotates, resulting in less friction than with other types of blades. Worm gears allow for increased torque by reducing speed, which means that these kinds of drive saws can easily handle wet wood or difficult cuts like cutting through nails without getting gummed up.

Worm drive saws are superior to ordinary drills because the blade turns in the opposite direction of the spindle. The rotation helps pull the blade through what you’re cutting, allowing for smoother and faster cuts. It also reduces strain on your wrist and arm muscles since less force is needed when pushing down during use.

Is a sidewinder or worm drive saw better?

Most people tend to think a sidewinder saw is better than the worm drive, but that’s not necessarily true. Some of them are still powerful and fast enough for most jobs around your home or in your yard. 

However, it’s important to compare the two types of saws. The worm drive is heavier than a sidewinder and has more power behind its blade which makes it easier for cutting through thicker pieces of wood or metal. It also stays cooler during longer projects because there are no gears that will overheat as easily when compared to a sidewinder model. They’re both good options but if you want a tool that can handle any type of task around your home then the worm drive might be better for you.

Why are worm drive saws left handed?

The handle on a worm drive saw is placed to the left of the center and often has an overmold grip that helps with comfort when cutting. This placement allows for natural movements while holding the saw, making it easier to cut straight lines because less force is required than if using a regular power drill.

Who invented the worm drive saw?

In 1923, Edmond Michel created the first electric handsaw. They teamed up with agricultural developer Joseph W. Sullivan to create renovations and establish The Michel Electric Handsaw Company. It was here that the handheld circular saw, as we know it, received its name “Skilsaw”. 

Are cordless circular saws worth it?

The answer is that it depends on your needs and preference, but for some users, they definitely are worth it.  Cordless circular saws are convenient and light, making them ideal for many hard-to-reach jobs. They also help you avoid tripping over power cords accidentally or having to deal with tangled extension cords. 

If they’re cordless, most users can get by without a second battery as well (although your mileage may vary), which is great if one fails in the middle of a job – because that’s just more downtime between projects!

Batteries do contribute heavily towards how fast these tools work though, so cheaper models either have lower capacity batteries or shorter runtime compared to their bigger brothers. This means that while they might not last long enough on some big jobs, you’ll be able to use them continuously on smaller ones without worrying about them running out of power.

If you’re wondering whether cordless circular saws are worth it, the answer is definitely “yes” – especially if you need to work on some jobs that can’t be done with other tools or just don’t want to clutter up your garage/shed with a bunch of bulky equipment for occasional use!

What kind of oil does a worm drive saw use?

A worm drive saw uses oil to lubricate the gears in order for them to run smoothly. This also prevents any wear and tear on both parts since it acts as a barrier between metal-on-metal contact.  The oil must be changed regularly, but the manufacturer should provide a guide with their product as to how often.

Most worm drive saws use SAE 30 weight motor oil or gear lube. Keep in mind that these oils can degrade over time and need to be replaced after they do so – typically every three months for outdoor tools. If you have questions about which type of lubrication is best for your particular model, refer to the owner’s manual provided by the manufacturer.

How do you lubricate a worm drive saw?

Lubricating a worm drive saw is easy. You need to remove the blade, hold it with your hand and put some lubricant on it, then you just slide the blade back in place. Remember that there are different kinds of oils/lubricants available for this purpose so choose one according to what’s best suited for your needs.

What is the difference between worm drive saw and pole saw?

A worm drive saw is a type of circular saw that has a motor located behind the blade. This design allows for increased torque and power, making it ideal for cutting through thick materials like concrete or steel. It is often used in construction and carpentry applications.

A pole saw is a type of chainsaw mounted on an extendable pole. This allows the user to cut branches and limbs from trees without having to climb up into them. Pole saws are usually powered by gasoline or electric motors, and can reach heights of up to 20 feet or more. They are typically used for landscaping and pruning tasks, as well as for trimming hard-to-reach areas around buildings.

What is the cutting capacity of a worm drive saw?

The cutting capacity of a worm drive saw depends on the specific model, but most are designed to cut through materials up to 2-3/8 inches thick. Some high-end models can cut through even thicker materials.

What are the benefits of using a worm drive saw?

Worm drive saws offer several benefits over other types of circular saws. They are typically more powerful, have a longer lifespan, and are more durable. They are also better suited for cutting through thick materials and are generally easier to control.

What are the key features to look for when choosing a worm drive saw?

When choosing a worm drive saw, it’s important to consider the power of the motor, the size and weight of the saw, the cutting capacity, and the durability of the tool. Other important features to look for include the quality of the blade, the ease of adjusting the cutting depth, and the overall ease of use of the tool.

What types of materials can a worm drive saw cut through?

Worm drive saws are designed to cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and masonry. However, the specific cutting capacity of the saw will depend on the type of blade being used and the power of the motor.

How do I properly maintain my worm drive saw?

To ensure the longevity and performance of your worm drive saw, it’s important to keep it well-maintained. This includes regularly cleaning the saw, sharpening or replacing the blade as needed, and lubricating the gears and other moving parts. You should also store the saw in a dry, cool location when not in use.

What safety precautions should I take when using a worm drive saw?

When using a worm drive saw, it’s important to wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection. You should also ensure that the blade is properly installed and tightened before use and that the cutting surface is clear of debris. Always keep your hands and fingers away from the blade and avoid using the saw in wet or slippery conditions.

Can a worm drive saw be used for plunge cuts?

Yes, a worm drive saw can be used for plunge cuts, but it requires a special type of blade designed for this purpose. Plunge cuts are useful for creating openings or recesses in the middle of a workpiece.

What is the difference between a worm drive saw and a regular circular saw?

The main difference between a worm drive saw and a regular circular saw is the type of gear used to transfer power from the motor to the blade. A worm drive saw uses a worm gear, which is more durable and provides more torque than the spur gear used in a regular circular saw. Additionally, worm drive saws are typically longer and narrower than regular circular saws, which can make them easier to control when cutting through thick materials.

What is the maximum blade size for a worm drive saw?

The maximum blade size for a worm drive saw will depend on the specific model, but most can accommodate blades up to 7-1/4 inches in diameter. However, some high-end models may be able to handle larger blades.

Can a worm drive saw be used to make bevel cuts?

Yes, a worm drive saw can be used to make bevel cuts by tilting the blade to the desired angle. However, not all worm drive saws are capable of making bevel cuts, so it’s important to check the specifications of the saw before attempting this type of cut.

What is the difference between a left-handed and right-handed worm drive saw?

The difference between a left-handed and right-handed worm drive saw is the direction in which the blade rotates. Left-handed saws rotate counterclockwise, while right-handed saws rotate clockwise. This can affect the way the saw cuts through certain materials and may make a difference in certain applications.

Can a worm drive saw be used for precision cutting?

While a worm drive saw can be used for precision cutting, it is not typically the best tool for this task. Precision cutting requires a high degree of accuracy and control, which can be difficult to achieve with a larger, heavier saw like a worm drive saw. For precision cutting, a smaller, lighter saw like a trim saw or jigsaw may be a better choice.

Useful Video: 5 Best Worm Drive Saws

Final thoughts 

This guide has been designed to help you find the right worm drive saw for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly tool that still offers features, or something high-end with more power and better performance, hopefully, these product reviews have helped make it easier.