If you’re struggling to find the best worm drive saw, this is the article for you. Worm drive saws are known for lasting longer, giving great sightlines for most users, more torque, power, and accuracy.
With just the benefits listed above, you can see why a worm drive saw will be a fantastic addition to your assortment of tools. But just like most tools, it can be challenging to find the best one for you. So in this article, we’ll cover the top 5 worm drive saws including, the editor’s choice, the best for all-around works, the best cordless, budget-friendly, and the best lightweight option as well.
Whatever your needs are, you’re guaranteed to find a solution here!
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
  |
1. SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
2. Makita 5477NB 7-1/4″ Hypoid Saw
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
3. DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Circular Saw Kit
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
4. BOSCH 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
5. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
1. SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive
Specification
| Dimensions | 24.5 x 10 x 17.5 inches |
| Power source | Corded Electric |
| Speed | 15 Amps |
Skilsaw themselves call this saw the “new boss” for a good reason. The saw tears through anything that it’s faced with, and it boasts a fantastic amount of five-star reviews. So let’s understand why it’s so popular today.
This saw by Skilsaw is a specialty tool, to be sure, but it does it to perfection. This saw is a go-to for cutting larger boards with its cutting capacity. It has a max depth of 6-¼” and 4-5/16” at 45 degrees. Plus, the magnesium footplate and housing make it a powerhouse built to last and provide clean, precise cuts every time. The saw itself is pretty significant, but the housing also provides a nice weight reduction, which is a big plus when working long days.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The magnesium footplate and housing make it durable but lighter than a lot of the competition.
- Adjustable dust port.
- 15 amp duel-field motor.
- Great reviews from consumers.
PROS
- Easily cuts large lumber.
- Durable and lightweight magnesium material.
- Adjustable dust port.
- Electric brake.
CONS
- No warranty.
- The big saw can occasionally become uncomfortable.
- Some consumers have received bad products on delivery.
2. Makita 5477NB 7-1/4″ Hypoid Saw – Best for All-around works
Specification
| Dimensions | 21 x 9 x 12 inches |
| Power source | Corded Electric |
| Speed | 4500 RPM |
Makita has said that this saw is engineered for framing walls, siding, roofs, and floors that use a range of dimensional lumber and engineered lumber. It is a hybrid saw that has a gear system that gives you more surface contact in comparison to conventional saws. All of that makes it a versatile saw that will reliably perform in any type of work.
It’s for that reason that we’re presenting it on this list. Whether you’re just starting on your first project or you’ve been at it a while and need some help, this saw will have your back.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Hybrid saw.
- Oil bath technology and sealed gear housing for less maintenance.
- Oversized top handle for better fit and added comfort.
PROS
- Ease of use.
- Versatile.
- Long-lasting performance.
- Left-side blade.
CONS
- Heavy.
- Not good for left-handed people.
- A lot of torque to the wrist.
- It tends to vibrate.
3. DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Circular Saw Kit – Best Cordless
Specification
| Dimensions | 18 x 9 x 8.2 inches |
| Power source | Battery Powered |
| Speed | 5800 RPM |
DeWalt used to claim this as their most powerful cordless circular saw; although DeWaltalt’s own DCS578 has since dethroned it, it’s still an impressive piece of equipment. The worm drive saw even has the capability to outperform a few of its corded associates.
With a long list of features to go along with this equipment, the saw finds itself in the upper end of the other options you may be considering.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Cordless.
- Magnesium shoe.
- The support handle is wider than other models.
- FlexVolt battery is compatible with a huge line of FlexVolt and 20V max tools.
- Bevel stops at 22.5° and 45°.
- Optional vac adapter is available.
- Blade brake.
PROS
- Great ergonomics.
- Good dust and chip clearing.
- Cordless.
- Great cutting performance.
CONS
- Hesitation on compound cuts.
- Heavy.
- Not an actual worm drive.
Overall: The saw is your pick if you need a cordless one. However, you’ll want to consider the weight and that it’s not a genuine worm drive.
4. BOSCH 7-1/4-Inch Worm Drive Circular Saw – Budget-friendly
Specification
| Dimensions | 18 x 9 x 8.2 inches |
| Power source | Battery Powered |
| Speed | 5800 RPM |
The Bosch worm drive saw is a great lightweight option on the market today, and it comes in at a budget-friendly price. The weight isn’t too bad at 13lb. Bosch decided to build the motor housing and foot out of magnesium to achieve the weight, like many of our other picks on this list. It has a bevel gauge from 0-53 degrees and positive stops at 0 and 45 degrees.
It gives an impressive amount of torque and cutting power, especially for the price point.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Degrees are clearly marked with silver and black markings.
- The lower blade guard has a reliable and straightforward coil spring.
- Built-in rafter hook.
PROS
- Great power.
- Excellent cutting speed.
- Durable.
- Lightweight.
CONS
- The pedestal is not vertical.
- Not flexible.
Overall: This saw is not a stunning option, but it gets the job done when you’re on a budget.
5. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch – Best lightweight
Specification
| Dimensions | 18 x 9 x 8.2 inches |
| Power source | Battery Powered |
| Speed | 5800 RPM |
The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 is the lightest saw in its class, with a weight of only 11.6 lbs. It’s driven by a dual-field motor like the SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive. But, unlike that saw, this one is designed for a specific set of woodworkers. It seems to be aimed at a beginner audience.
That being the case, It’s an excellent first saw for many. It’s easy to use, does the job effectively, and is, of course, lightweight. It has a 53” bevel and cut-ready measurement system that assists any beginner or hobbyist.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The cut depth system helps with accurate measurements.
- An anti-snag lower guard provides smooth operation.
PROS
- Super lightweight.
- 15 Amp power gives fast cuts with less waiting.
- Built-in measurement system.
- Easy to use.
CONS
- The worm gear can require somewhat frequent lubrication.
- Not suitable for professional projects.
- No carrying case.
- Make loud noises.
Overall: It’s a lightweight saw that won’t be good for many other than beginners. So if you intend to use your saw for large projects, look towards one of the alternatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we’ve gone through five saws that are all well-built, highly reviewed, and will serve you well. But each has its own pros and cons, so analyze your picks and think about what you’ll be using the saw for.
If after you’ve done that and you don’t find one jumping out to you, then we’d like to give you the final recommendation of the SKIL 16-5/16 In. Magnesium Worm Drive. The saw is powerful, versatile, and suitable for almost every project; it’s undoubtedly the best choice and will be a reliable saw for you.
Whatever the case, we know you’ll find the best saw for you on this list, and complete any project on your to-do list. We wish you the best of luck!
Other Recommendations:
- Best Drill Press for Woodworking (Reviews and Comparison)
- Best Bandsaw for Resawing (Reviews and Comparison)
- Types of Red Wood
- Best Cordless Jigsaw (Reviews and Comparison)
- Best Cabinet Table Saw (Reviews and Comparison)
I am a woodworker with over 19 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.
