DeWalt Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw

Using a circular saw without the hassle of cords is a real game-changer, and DeWalt's Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, model DCS590B, promises just that. As someone who frequently tackles a variety of woodworking projects, I was eager to put this tool to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the DeWalt cordless circular saw feels solid and robust. The build quality is impressive, with a sturdy aluminum baseplate and a well-designed ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in the hand. One of the first things I noticed was the weight—it's heavier than some other models, especially when paired with the FlexVolt battery. However, this added weight contributes to a feeling of stability and control during use.

Setup and Features

Setting up the saw was straightforward. The blade installation was simple, thanks to the onboard wrench and blade lock button that make changing blades a breeze. The saw comes with a 7-1/4 inch 24-tooth framing blade, which is suitable for general construction tasks. I appreciated the integrated rafter hook, a small but useful feature that allows you to hang the saw safely when not in use.

Another handy feature is the onboard LED light, which illuminates the workspace. This is particularly useful for making precise cuts in low-light conditions. The electric brake, which stops the blade almost immediately after releasing the trigger, is a significant safety feature that I found reassuring.

Performance

The brushless motor in this saw is a powerhouse, delivering up to 5,500 RPM. This translates to smooth, efficient cuts through a variety of materials. I tested the saw on different types of wood, including pressure-treated lumber, MDF, and plywood. In all cases, the saw performed admirably, cutting through with ease and without bogging down.

One of the standout features of this saw is its compatibility with both 20V and FlexVolt batteries. While I primarily used a 20V 6.0Ah battery during testing, I did notice a performance boost when switching to the FlexVolt battery. The saw felt even more powerful, making it ideal for more demanding tasks. However, it's worth noting that the larger battery does add to the overall weight of the tool, which might be a consideration if you need to carry it around a lot.

Accuracy and Adjustments

One area where the saw could use some improvement is in its factory calibration. Several users have reported issues with the blade and baseplate not being perfectly aligned, and I encountered a similar problem. The cuts were slightly off from the kerf guide, which required me to use the blade itself to line up the cuts accurately. While this workaround is manageable, it's not ideal, especially for those who rely on the kerf guide for precision.

Adjusting the depth and bevel settings is straightforward, with easy-to-read indicators and smooth mechanisms. The maximum depth of cut at 90° is 2-9/16 inches, and at 45°, it's 2 inches, which covers most cutting tasks you'll encounter.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but I was pleasantly surprised by the longevity of the DeWalt cordless circular saw. Using a 20V 6.0Ah battery, I was able to make a significant number of cuts before needing to recharge. The manufacturer claims up to 368 cuts per charge, and while I didn't count each cut, I can attest to the battery's impressive endurance.

Durability and Build Quality

The saw feels incredibly well-made, with durable materials and a solid construction that inspires confidence. However, there have been some reports of durability issues, such as the shoe becoming misaligned or the tool failing after a short period of use. I didn't experience any of these issues during my testing, but they are worth keeping in mind.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Powerful brushless motor delivers up to 5,500 RPM
- Compatible with both 20V and FlexVolt batteries
- Electric brake for added safety
- Onboard LED light for workspace illumination
- Integrated rafter hook for convenient storage
- Long battery life

Cons:
- Factory calibration issues with blade and baseplate alignment
- Heavier than some other models, especially with the FlexVolt battery
- No included parallel fence or storage bag

Conclusion

Overall, the DeWalt Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw is a powerful and versatile tool that excels in performance and convenience. The brushless motor and compatibility with FlexVolt batteries make it a formidable option for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. While the factory calibration issues are a drawback, they are not insurmountable, and the saw's other features and performance largely make up for this shortcoming.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, with some reservations. If you're looking for a cordless circular saw that offers power, versatility, and convenience, this DeWalt model is an excellent choice. However, if precision and out-of-the-box accuracy are your top priorities, you might need to spend some time fine-tuning or consider other options. Overall, the DeWalt Cordless 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw is a robust addition to any toolbox and can handle a wide range of cutting tasks with ease.