DeWalt DW535 7-1/4″ Worm Drive Circular Saw Preview

DeWalt released its newest worm drive 7-1/4″ circular saw, the DW535, which is geared for framers, concrete formers, and other professional circular saw users. What’s new in this saw is its use of DeWalt’s new Toughcord cord retention and protection system, something that finally takes into account the fact that most contractors and construction workers let down their tools via the extension cord when on ladders or second stories. The system works by reinforcing the cord at its entry point with a stiff boot and also integrating a 45 degree angle plus four discrete anchor points. When you look at the tool, and DeWalt’s provided cutaways of its internals, you can easily tell this is a serious quality tool that is meant for the professional end user.

DeWalt DW535 7-1/4" Worm Drive Circular Saw Overview

The DeWalt DW535 7-1/4″ circular saw is geared for framers, concrete formers, and other professional circular saw users who need maximum ripping power. What’s new in this saw is its use of DeWalt Toughcord cord retention and protection system, something that finally takes into account the fact that most contractors and construction workers let down their tools via the extension cord when on ladders or second stories. The system works by reinforcing the cord at its entry point with a stiff boot and also integrating a 45 degree angle plus four discrete anchor points. The shoe is made from cast magnesium, which we like due to its lightweight properties and the general quality of the metal.


Editor’s Note: Check out our 7-1/4″ circular saw shootout review for the latest in cordless technology.

DeWalt DW535 Worm Drive Saw Features

When you look at the tool, and DeWalt’s provided cutaways of its internals, you can easily tell this is a serious quality tool that is meant for the professional end user. If you don’t like getting scratches and marks on your tools, go buy something a little daintier – this saw looks like it’s meant to be tossed around.

DeWalt DW535 worm drive saw

The DeWalt DW535 (and the similar DeWalt DW535T) includes a true worm drive mechanism for longer life and higher torque, thanks to the direct-drive mechanism which eliminates one of the key areas where torque is wasted on sidewinder saws. This new saw also has a generous 53-degree bevel and DeWalt included detents at both 22.5 and 45 degrees, for the most common cut angles.

DeWalt DW535 worm gears

The DWS535 comes with an extra wide two-stage saw hook for modern engineered lumber up to 2-1/2″ thick, with a top section that is perfect for standard engineered lumber. A top-access spindle lock makes it easy to change blades with a minimal amount of tools and time wasted. To cap it off, the DW535 Worm Drive Saw has dual ports in the shoe which work with DeWalt’s new DWS5100 Dual Port Rip Guide for accurate rip cuts up to a 14-1/2″ capacity. We also liked the way that the motor just about rests on a standard piece of 3/4″ plywood, which acts as an additional guide and stabilizer for longer rip cuts.

“The advanced features and durability enhancements of the DWS535 Worm Drive Circular Saw are a direct result of countless interviews with users and extensive field testing. We are confident that the DWS535 represents a major step forward for worm drive circular saws.”

– Jon Bigden, Product Manager for DeWalt

DeWalt is also offering  the DWS535T which features the less common, but convenient, Twist Lock plug. This tool looks to be a big contender for framers and carpenters who are wanting to update or replace an older product with a solid performer. While the DW535 isn’t exactly lightweight, its heft is certainly indicative of its build quality and level of performance we expect to see in the field.

Related articles