Navigating the world of saws can be a bit tricky, especially when trying to decide between a circular and worm drive saw. Think of them as siblings in the saw family – similar, but with their own unique quirks.
Stuck on which to choose? No worries! Let me enumerate the strengths and weaknesses of each, and arm you with some handy tips for your next purchase.
What are Worm Drive Saws?
A worm drive is a powerful circular saw with its rear attached at the end, making it efficient for working in tight or enclosed spaces. It’s heavier than the typical circular saw because it has a different metal, and it’s longer, too, given the rear positioning of the motor.
The worm drive is mechanically efficient too, which explains its impressive torque and heftier price. It’s a favorite amongst major renovation jobs, as it can saw through heavy materials like concrete and wet lumber.
The common trade-off with using a worm drive saw is excessive fatigue on the hands and shoulders when used for a longer period.
Features of a Worm Drive Unit + Pros and Cons
A worm drive unit is best for cutting professionals who need extra cutting power, as it has larger gear teeth and a bigger loading capacity which explains its power. It can also produce accurate cuts in a faster motion while preserving reliability.
Its saw blade is on the left side, while a direct drive saw is on the right side. Its power boils down to the two gears set at 90 degrees apart. It has fewer rotations per minute, averaging 4,500, but has more rotational force.
However, even if the power engages professionals, the large cutting capacity makes a worm drive an off-choice for home users who only opt for home renovations. The extra weight can also cause adversities for some.
What I Like
- It has a large cutting capacity
- It has an impressive torque and speed
- It can produce reliable cuts
- This saw has a balanced in-line motor
what I Don't Like
- It's more expensive than regular circular saws
- This saw is heavier
- It can cause fatigue easily
What are Regular Circular Saws?
Regular circular saws are power tools often used in place of table saws. It has a motor attached to the side beside the blade and is more popular as sidewinders or direct drive saws.
Sidewinders have a simpler operating mechanism, allowing lesser power consumption, and higher RPM, running at an average of 6,000. It also has exceptional speed, as it functions without any other gears due to its side mounting.
There are an array of direct drive saws that can either be handheld or mounted. It became popular in the mid-19th century as a powerful tool commonly used by saw millers.
Most amateur woodworkers find sidewinder saws fine, as it has a lighter weight, are cheaper and more portable. One common repercussion of the regular circle saw when cutting for professional woodworkers is its off-balance setting, which causes faulty cuts.
Since it relies on spur gear for power, it produces less torque and can only cut in maximum power for lightweight materials.
Features of a Regular Circular Saw + Pros and Cons
Since a regular circular saw doesn’t have additional gears, it’s lighter and easier to use, which makes it popular amongst home users. Suppose you are using sidewinder saws for simple renovations.
Therefore, greater cutting power isn’t required, and the slower cutting speed of direct drives will be apt for simple ripping and cutting.
What i like
- This tool is inexpensive
- It's easy to maneuver
- It is generally portable
- It allows increased mobility
What i don't Like
- Placement of the motor is not best for accurate cuts
- Lower torque and slower cutting speed
- Lower maximum cutting capacity
Similar Features Shared by a Worm Drive and Circular Saw
- Both saws are crafted with steel accordingly to the material they are made to cut
- Both worm drive saws and sidewinder circular saws are cordless
- Both are efficient for rip-cutting and cross-cutting
How are Worm Drive and Regular Circular Saws Different?
Blade Placement
Left-handed chainsaw users prefer worm drive circular saws because they give better-cut line visibility with their blade placed on the left side. On the other hand, direct drive saws are more preferred by right-handed users as it has a blade-right setting.
Torque
Since a direct drive circular saw involves an internal mechanical design, it produces less torque than a worm drive.
The spiral gear that powers a worm drive and its larger teeth enable maximum cutting power and high energy, offering more durability. It also enables users to cater to high shock and tougher DIY projects.
Speed and Accuracy
The type of circular saw can significantly affect speed and accuracy. Worm drive saws have lesser speed and RPM, while sidewinder saws have higher speed and RPM. Meanwhile, the increased torque power of worm drives offset the higher RPM of a direct drive saw.
Both saw types have their strengths, with worm drive saws excelling in accuracy and control, while circular saws prioritize speed and versatility.
Size and Weight
Direct drive saws are lighter and more portable than worm drives, which use extra metal and special housing. DIY users prefer regular circular saws since they only need them for basic cuts and can sit with lower power trade-offs.
Meanwhile, professional cutters opt for a worm drive because it has advantages, especially with long cuts.
Also See: Skilsaw SPT77WML-01 Review
Which is the Better Type of Saw?
Depending on your user type, both saws can generate impressive performance. If you opt for cost-effectiveness, the direct drive saw is better suited. However, investing in a worm drive saw is best advised if you value more power and maximum performance.
My Top Recommendations
1. Skilsaw SPT77WML Worm Drive Circular Saw
The power transfer of the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 draws users to convert from sidewinders to this instead. Since this model is made of magnesium steel, it’s also one of the most lightweight saws available on the market.
Key Features
- Powered by a Dual-Field Motor which keeps the saw cool during use
- Lightest saw in its class, weighing only 11.6 lbs.
- Cut ready depth adjustment level for easy and quick adjustments for different wood depths
2. Skil SPT67M8-01 Sidewinder Circular Saw
Finding a left-blade saw is trouble for most users, and often woodcutters are frustrated with the repercussions of a bulkier model, but what makes the SKIL SPT67M8-01 15 AMP impressive is the adjustable blade-to-base angle.
This saw also has great power and an extended 56-degree bevel adding capacity to make various cuts.
Key Features
- Left-blade for improved cutting sight
- Powerful dual motor
- All magnesium construction alleviates user fatigue [1]
FAQ
How does a worm drive saw function, and what is it best for?
A worm drive saw functions through a powerful motor. The motor positioning at the rear makes this type of circular saw longer than the common models. It also has maximum power and setting where the engine produces more torque but lesser RPM.
The saw’s power is driven through the extra gears, both are set at 90 degrees. I recommend it for users working in tight and confined spaces due to its sleek profile.
Is a worm drive table saw also better than a regular table saw?
If you’re looking for other options that provide high-pressure cross-cuts than a regular table saw unit, the worm drive can attest to delivery of additional force. The only offset is the extra weight and less speed due to its slow RPM.
How do I know if I need a circular saw?
A circular saw is preferable and more cost-effective if you’re into a lot of ripping. Rip cuts are long continuous cuts that slice along the grain. Hence, it also delivers good speed and impressive performance, even cutting smaller wood pieces.
When opting for a circular saw, you can choose between cordless and corded models. Also, you may consider choosing the top circular saws made in the USA if you want to ensure quality.
Conclusion
Think of worm drive saws as the powerhouses – super strong and precise. On the flip side, circular saws are easier on the wallet and great on-the-go. Both give you top-notch cuts. So, what’s your woodworker style? Choose the one that feels right for you!
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
