DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Jig Saw Kit

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time in the workshop, I’ve had the chance to try out a variety of tools. Recently, I got my hands on the DeWalt Cordless Jig Saw Kit, model DCS331M1, and it has quickly become one of my go-to tools for woodworking projects. Here’s a detailed dive into my experience with this jigsaw, touching on its strengths, a few shortcomings, and whether it's worth adding to your collection.

One of the first things I noticed about this jigsaw is its build quality. The tool feels solid and well-constructed, which is what I’ve come to expect from DeWalt. The all-metal, lever-action, keyless blade change is a standout feature. It makes swapping out blades incredibly quick and hassle-free. This is a huge plus when you're in the middle of a project and need to change blades frequently.

The shoe bevel is another feature that deserves praise. It has detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, making it easy to set up for bevel cuts. This adjustability is quite handy, especially when working on more complex projects that require precise angled cuts. The shoe itself is sturdy and does not flex, which contributes to more accurate cuts.

When it comes to performance, the variable speed trigger is a game-changer. It allows for precise control over the speed, ranging up to 3,000 strokes per minute. This versatility makes it suitable for various materials and cutting applications. Whether you’re making delicate cuts in thin plywood or powering through thicker hardwood, this jigsaw handles it all with ease.

One of the features I found particularly useful is the adjustable dust blower. It does a decent job of keeping the cutting line clear, which is critical for maintaining accuracy. While it doesn't eliminate all the dust, it significantly reduces the amount that obscures your view. This is a thoughtful addition that enhances the overall user experience.

The 4-position orbital action is another highlight. It allows you to adjust the aggressiveness of the cut, which is beneficial for balancing speed and cut quality. For rough cuts, you can set it to a more aggressive mode, while for finer, more precise cuts, a lower setting ensures smoother edges.

Comfort is key when using any power tool, and this jigsaw doesn’t disappoint. The anti-slip comfort grip is well-designed and reduces hand fatigue, even during extended use. The tool is a bit on the heavier side, but I found that the extra weight actually helps in keeping the jigsaw steady during cuts. It also contributes to the overall durability of the tool.

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, and this jigsaw comes with a 4Ah lithium-ion battery. In my experience, the battery life is quite impressive. It lasted through several hours of continuous use, which is more than sufficient for most projects. However, if you’re planning to use it for extended periods, having an extra battery on hand is advisable. The high power draw can deplete the battery faster than you might expect, especially when working on more demanding tasks.

One minor downside is the lack of an LED light. While not a dealbreaker, having a built-in light would have been a nice touch, especially when working in dimly lit areas. Also, the dust blower, while effective, could be a bit stronger. It does a good job, but there were times when I had to manually clear the dust to maintain a clear line of sight.

Despite these minor shortcomings, the overall performance and features of this jigsaw make it a valuable addition to any workshop. It’s robust, versatile, and user-friendly, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned woodworkers. The ease of blade changes, adjustable speed, and bevel settings provide a level of flexibility that is hard to beat.

In terms of value, the DeWalt Cordless Jig Saw Kit is a solid investment. It comes with a 3-year warranty, which offers peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. However, do note that getting warranty service might be a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re far from a service center.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. It’s a reliable, high-performing jigsaw that makes woodworking projects easier and more enjoyable. The combination of its build quality, feature set, and ease of use makes it a standout choice. While there are a few areas where it could be improved, these are relatively minor and don’t significantly detract from its overall performance.

If you’re in the market for a new jigsaw, the DeWalt Cordless Jig Saw Kit is definitely worth considering. It brings a lot to the table and is likely to meet the needs of most woodworkers, whether you’re tackling a simple DIY project or a more complex woodworking task.