DeWalt 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The DeWalt 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, model DWS779, has earned its reputation as a robust and versatile tool in the woodworking and construction industries. As someone who has spent considerable time with this saw in my workshop, I can attest to its strengths and areas where it could use some improvements. Let's break down the key aspects of this tool.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the DWS779 feels solid and well-constructed. The stainless steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops ensures that the saw is both durable and precise. The machined base fence support adds to its stability, allowing for accurate cuts every time. One of the standout features is the cam-lock miter handle, which makes adjusting the miter angles quick and straightforward.

However, the saw is quite heavy, weighing in at around 68 pounds. While this adds to its stability, it does make it less portable. If you’re planning to move it around frequently, this could be a drawback. The handles on the sides are sturdy but don’t extend out far enough to support longer lumber, which is something to keep in mind if you’re working with large pieces of wood.

Cutting Performance

When it comes to cutting performance, the DWS779 shines. The powerful motor slices through wood like butter, and the tall sliding fences support up to 6-3/4 inches of base vertically. This is particularly useful for cutting larger pieces of lumber. The saw can bevel 0° to 48° both left and right, offering flexibility for a variety of cuts. The cross-cut capacity is impressive, handling 2 in. x 14 in. dimensional lumber at 90° and 2 in. x 10 in. at 45° with ease.

One issue I encountered was the kickback when pulling the trigger. The saw tends to lift slightly due to the torque of the motor, which can be unsettling if you’re not prepared for it. This is something that requires getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to other brands that don’t exhibit this behavior.

Dust Collection

The dust collection system on the DWS779 is a mixed bag. DeWalt claims it captures over 75% of generated dust, and while it does a decent job, it’s not perfect. The dust port comes out the back, which requires the saw to be positioned further from the wall if you’re using it indoors. This can be a bit inconvenient, but the overall dust collection is better than many other models in this price range. However, I did find the dust chute to be somewhat flimsy, and it occasionally folded up, blocking the tube. This is a minor annoyance that could be easily fixed with a more robust design.

Ease of Use and Adjustability

Setting up the DWS779 is relatively straightforward. The high visibility bevel scale with positive stops makes it easy to set your angles accurately. The saw comes calibrated right out of the box, and I found that it held its settings well over time. The angle adjustments are precise, and the saw remains square even after extensive use.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the dual horizontal steel rails with a clamping mechanism and linear ball bearings. This setup ensures smooth and consistent sliding action, which is crucial for making accurate cuts. However, I did notice some resistance in the sliding action after prolonged use, which required a bit of maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Safety Features

Safety is always a priority, and the DWS779 includes several features to keep you protected. The blade guard is effective, although I did have an issue with a plastic part breaking off during use. This is concerning, especially since it’s a component in the cutting path. DeWalt has issued a recall for this part, and they offer a metal replacement, which I highly recommend getting if you experience the same issue.

The saw also has a safety trigger that must be engaged to start the blade. While this is a good safety measure, it can be a bit cumbersome to use, especially if you’re trying to get a firm grip on the handle.

Value for Money

The DWS779 is priced competitively, especially considering its features and performance. However, it lacks some of the bells and whistles found in higher-end models like the DWS780. For instance, it doesn’t come with a laser cutting guide or a shadow line kit, which can be quite useful for improving cut accuracy. These can be added aftermarket, but at an additional cost. If you’re a professional who values these features, you might find the DWS780 a better investment despite the higher price.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the DeWalt DWS779 is a powerful and reliable miter saw that offers excellent value for money. Its build quality, cutting performance, and ease of use make it a strong contender in the mid-range category. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as the kickback issue, the somewhat flimsy dust chute, and the lack of extended support for longer lumber.

Would I recommend this saw? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re a professional looking for a feature-rich miter saw, you might want to consider the DWS780 or another higher-end model. However, if you’re a serious DIYer or a professional who can live without the extra features, the DWS779 offers a robust and reliable option that will serve you well for years to come.