DeWalt Cordless Cable Stripper

Electricians and contractors, meet your new best friend: the DeWalt Cordless Cable Stripper (model DCE151B). As someone who frequently works with large electrical cables, I found this tool to be a game-changer. It's packed with features designed to make the task of stripping cables both safer and more efficient, and it delivers impressively on both fronts.

First off, the Cordless Cable Stripper is designed to handle a wide range of cable sizes, stripping copper and aluminum cables from #6 AWG to 750 MCM CU and 900 MCM AL. This versatility is a huge plus, especially if you're dealing with different types of cables on a regular basis. The tool's depth gauge ensures consistent cable stripping up to 4 inches, which helps maintain precision and avoids the guesswork often involved in manual stripping.

One of the standout features is the quick release bushings, which make it incredibly easy to switch between different cable sizes. This is particularly useful when you're in the middle of a job and need to quickly adapt to a different cable. The variable speed trigger with a reverse function gives you full control, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the specific requirements of the cable you're working with.

Safety is another area where this tool excels. The onboard LED light is a thoughtful addition that illuminates your workspace, making it easier to see what you're doing, especially in low light conditions. The E-CLUTCH™ system is a lifesaver, literally. It helps maintain control if the tool jams, preventing potential accidents that could occur with traditional stripping methods.

What really sets this tool apart is its compatibility with bushings from other brands like DEWALT, Greenlee®, and Ripley®. This flexibility means you can use the bushings you already have, saving you the hassle and expense of buying new ones. However, it's worth noting that the bushings are not included with the bare tool, which could be a drawback if you're not already equipped with the necessary bushings. DeWalt doesn't offer a set of bushings, which means you'll need to buy them individually, adding to the overall cost.

In terms of performance, the Cordless Cable Stripper is top-notch. It's quick, efficient, and significantly safer than using a knife. I found it particularly useful for factory wiring of 3/0-500MCM cable, where it saved a ton of time and effort. The tool is also surprisingly compact and lightweight, weighing in at just under 47 ounces, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver.

The battery-powered operation is another advantage, freeing you from the constraints of a power cord and making it easier to use in various locations. The tool's dimensions (8.46 inches in height, 11.2 inches in length, and 2.95 inches in width) make it compact enough to fit into tight spaces, yet substantial enough to handle heavy-duty tasks.

Despite its many advantages, the Cordless Cable Stripper isn't without its drawbacks. The most notable issue is the availability and cost of the bushings. If you don't already have them, you'll need to purchase them separately, which can add up quickly. This can be frustrating, especially if you're eager to start using the tool right out of the box. Additionally, while the tool claims to strip #6 cables, some users have noted that it struggles with smaller sizes, performing best with cables starting at 1/0.

In conclusion, the DeWalt Cordless Cable Stripper is a highly effective tool that offers a range of features designed to make cable stripping safer, faster, and more efficient. Its compatibility with various bushings, variable speed control, and safety features make it a valuable addition to any electrician's toolkit. However, the additional cost and availability of bushings are factors to consider before making a purchase. If you already have the necessary bushings or are willing to invest in them, I highly recommend this tool for its performance and ease of use. If not, you might want to look for a more comprehensive kit or be prepared for the extra expense.