DeWalt Cordless Pole Saw

As an avid user of various outdoor power tools, I recently had the opportunity to put the DeWalt Cordless Pole Saw (DCPS620B) through its paces. With a long history of using both gas-powered and cordless tools, I was keen to see how this cordless option stacked up, especially given DeWalt’s reputation for quality.

The first thing you notice about the DeWalt pole saw is its build quality. It features an 8-inch low-kickback bar and chain, designed to make the cutting process safer and more efficient. The saw also comes equipped with an automatic oiling system, which is a fantastic feature to keep the chain well-lubricated without manual intervention. However, this brings me to my first point of contention: the oil leakage. Even when stored properly, the pole saw tends to leak oil quite a bit, which can create a mess in your storage area. It’s worth noting this issue could be minimized by emptying the oil reservoir after each use, but it’s an added step that some might find cumbersome.

One of the standout features is the brushless motor, which is known for its efficiency and long lifespan. The motor performed admirably in various cutting scenarios, showing decent power and speed. I used a 5Ah battery, which provided a good balance between weight and runtime. The saw handled branches up to 3-4 inches in diameter without much struggle, although it did tend to bog down slightly with thicker branches, especially when cutting from underneath.

The pole saw's extension capability offers up to 15 feet of reach, which is a significant advantage when tackling higher branches. However, using the saw at full extension presents some challenges. The pole tends to flex a bit, making precise cuts a bit tricky. The weight distribution also becomes more noticeable as you extend the pole, with the saw feeling top-heavy, which can lead to quicker fatigue during extended use.

From a usability standpoint, the DeWalt pole saw is fairly user-friendly. It’s easy to set up and get running, and the comfortable grip handle makes maneuvering the saw straightforward, at least for shorter tasks. That said, the design could benefit from an auxiliary handle for better control, especially when the pole is fully extended. The trigger mechanism also feels a bit stiff, which might cause some discomfort during prolonged use.

Battery life is another crucial aspect, and here the DeWalt saw performs well, provided you use an adequately sized battery. A 2Ah battery would be insufficient for extended tasks, but with a 5Ah or larger battery, you can expect a reasonable period of uninterrupted work. One minor downside is the lack of included battery and charger, which means additional purchases if you don’t already own DeWalt 20V batteries.

In terms of performance, the tool delivers well on its primary function—cutting branches. The chain speed and cutting efficiency are good, and the low-kickback bar enhances safety. However, the saw does require periodic chain sharpening to maintain optimal performance, which is standard for all chainsaws but worth mentioning for those new to using such tools.

One notable design flaw is the inability to use the cutting head with just the base section of the pole. This limitation means you’re always dealing with a longer tool, even when a shorter length would suffice for close or tight work. This adds to the top-heavy feel and can make the tool more cumbersome to handle.

Despite these drawbacks, I found the DeWalt Cordless Pole Saw to be a valuable addition to my tool collection. It is especially useful for those who already own other DeWalt 20V tools and batteries, as it integrates seamlessly into that ecosystem. The convenience of a cordless design cannot be overstated, eliminating the hassle of dragging around extension cords or dealing with gas engines.

The saw’s durability appears robust, with well-built components that should stand up to regular use. However, the pole connections could be more secure, as they tend to develop play over time, which can affect the overall stability of the tool.

In conclusion, the DeWalt Cordless Pole Saw offers a mix of strong performance and user-friendly features, balanced by some notable design and usability issues. If you have a lot of tree trimming tasks and prefer the convenience of a cordless tool, this saw is worth considering. However, if you need a tool for more heavy-duty or extended use, or if the potential for oil leaks and the top-heavy design are deal-breakers for you, you might want to look into other options.

Overall, I would recommend the DeWalt Cordless Pole Saw for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable tool for occasional tree trimming and already have DeWalt batteries. Its ease of use, cutting efficiency, and the convenience of being cordless make it a solid choice, despite its few shortcomings.