Features
- Cuts up to 1590 ACSR, 750 MCM copper, or 1000 MCM aluminum
- Guillotine-style cutter that helps maintain cable profile for connector installation
- Field-serviceable, replaceable blade
- Integrated LED light with approximately 20-second delay for visibility in dim areas
- Kit includes battery, charger, hang hook, shoulder strap, and kit box
- Operates on 20V MAX lithium-ion battery platform
Specifications
| System | 20V MAX |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Power Source | Battery |
| Cable Capacity | 1590 ACSR / 750 MCM Cu / 1000 MCM Al |
| Has Led Light | Yes |
| Is Brushless | No |
| Number Of Pieces | 5 |
| Product Height (In) | 15.75 |
| Product Length (In) | 16.5 |
| Product Width (In) | 5.75 |
| Product Weight (Lbs) | 6.8 |
| Included Items | DCE155 cable cutter, DCB203 battery, charger, hang hook, shoulder strap, kit box |
| Warranty | 3 Year Limited Warranty; 1 Year Free Service; 90 Days Satisfaction Guaranteed |
Cordless cable cutting tool with a guillotine-style blade designed to cut ACSR and large-diameter copper and aluminum conductors while preserving the cable profile for connector installation. The blade is replaceable in the field. The kit includes a battery, charger, and carrying accessories.
DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless ACSR Cable Cutting Tool Kit Review
The DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless ACSR Cable Cutting Tool Kit, model DCE155D1, has revolutionized my approach to cable cutting. As someone who spends a significant portion of their day dealing with various cables, from ACSR to hefty copper and aluminum, this tool has proven to be an indispensable asset.
Performance and Cutting Efficiency
The standout feature of this tool is undoubtedly its cutting capacity. It can handle up to 1590 ACSR, 750 MCM Copper, or 1000 MCM Aluminum with ease. In practice, this translates to a significant boost in productivity. No longer do I have to wrestle with cumbersome ratchet cutters or resort to using bandsaws, which can be both time-consuming and physically taxing. This tool slices through cables like a hot knife through butter, allowing me to focus on other critical aspects of my projects.
Design and Usability
One of the first things I noticed about this cutter is its ergonomic design. The handle is smooth and comfortable, designed to minimize fatigue. This is particularly beneficial during long workdays when repetitive tasks can take a toll on your hands and wrists. The tool is surprisingly lightweight at 7.40 lbs, considering its power, and its compact dimensions (12.75 in. length, 5 in. width, and 7.50 in. height) make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Build Quality and Durability
DeWalt has a reputation for building robust tools, and this cutter is no exception. The construction feels solid, and the guillotine cutter design is both effective and durable. One of the features I appreciate the most is the field-serviceable and replaceable blade. This means that if the blade wears out, I can replace it myself without needing to send the tool in for service, minimizing downtime.
Battery Life and Convenience
The tool is powered by a 20V Li-Ion battery with a 2 Ah capacity. In my experience, the battery life is more than adequate for a full day's work. The kit includes a charger and a hard case, which adds to the overall convenience. The included LED light with a 20-second delay is a thoughtful addition, providing ample illumination in dimly lit environments. This feature is particularly useful when working in electrical panels or other confined spaces where lighting is often poor.
Safety Considerations
While the tool is incredibly efficient, it's crucial to exercise caution. The cutting power is immense, and it's essential to be mindful of where your hands and other body parts are when operating it. As always, appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and protective eyewear, should be worn.
Real-World Applications
In real-world applications, this tool has proven to be a game-changer. Whether I'm working on panels, feeders, or switchgear projects, the DeWalt cutter has consistently delivered. The precision of the guillotine cutter ensures that the cable profile is maintained, which is critical for easy connector installation. This feature alone has saved me countless hours and headaches.
Potential Drawbacks
No tool is perfect, and this one is no exception. While the majority of my experience has been positive, there are a few areas for improvement. For instance, the tool could benefit from a slightly longer battery life, especially for those marathon workdays. Additionally, while the tool is generally reliable, there have been isolated instances where it didn't hold up under extremely demanding conditions. However, these occurrences are rare and do not significantly detract from the overall performance.
Warranty and Support
DeWalt offers a 3-year warranty on this tool, which provides peace of mind. The warranty terms are generous, covering any defects in material or workmanship. In my experience, DeWalt's customer support has been responsive and helpful, should you encounter any issues.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless ACSR Cable Cutting Tool Kit is a remarkable addition to any electrician's toolkit. Its combination of cutting power, ergonomic design, and thoughtful features make it a standout performer. While there are minor areas for improvement, they do not overshadow the tool's overall effectiveness and reliability.
I would highly recommend this tool to anyone in the electrical trade who deals with heavy-duty cables regularly. It not only enhances productivity but also reduces physical strain, making it a wise investment for both individual electricians and larger crews. DeWalt has once again delivered a tool that meets the high standards we've come to expect from the brand.
Project Ideas
Business
Mobile Cable Recycling & Downsizing
Offer onsite cutting of scrap conductors for electrical contractors, utilities, and demolition crews. By downsizing to mill-preferred lengths and separating ACSR, Cu, and Al on the spot, you increase their payout while charging a service fee. The cordless tool eliminates generators, and the replaceable blade keeps uptime high.
Connector-Ready Cut Service
Provide precision cuts that maintain cable profile for immediate connector installation on jobsites (switchgear tie-ins, transformer leads, temporary power). Bundle with labeling and end-cap sealing. Market to ECs who need fast, clean prep without hauling hydraulic cutters.
Renewables O&M Cable Change-Outs
Partner with solar and wind O&M teams to perform safe, efficient conductor segmenting during inverter swaps, combiner box rework, or cable derates. The integrated LED helps in dim enclosures; mobility speeds ladder and trench work. Offer per-cut or day rates with emergency response pricing.
Demolition/Decommissioning Conductor Segmentation
Specialize in cutting and bundling large conductors during facility decommissioning, data center upgrades, and industrial tear-outs. Provide documentation of material weights for recycling rebates and coordinate haul-away. Faster and cleaner than saws, with less deformation for resale or recycling.
Operator-Included Tool Rental
Rent the cutter with a trained operator for hourly or daily rates to small contractors who can’t justify owning heavy-duty gear. Include spare blades, batteries, and a charger to guarantee productivity. Upsell with on-site blade replacement and safety compliance checks.
Creative
Cable Cross-Section Resin Art
Cut uniform slices of retired ACSR, copper, and aluminum cable and encapsulate them in clear epoxy to create wall art, coasters, or tabletops. The guillotine-style cutter preserves the cable profile, revealing strand geometry and steel cores for striking patterns. Label species (ACSR vs Cu vs Al) and wire counts for a STEM-meets-art vibe.
Industrial Trellis and Garden Edging
Form consistent-length segments of aluminum or ACSR to build rugged garden trellises and edging. Clean, burr-free cuts let you clamp segments into ring chains or ladder forms with standard cable hardware. The LED helps when working at dawn/dusk and the cordless power lets you build onsite without dragging cords.
Upcycled Lighting Accents
Create pendant or floor lamps using cable slices as decorative diffusers or counterweights. The preserved profile enables press-fit collars or compression fittings to mount slices safely. Combine different metals for contrast and use the tool’s shoulder strap to comfortably cut multiple pieces on a ladder.
Furniture Pulls and Trim
Cut short sleeves of large-diameter cable to use as drawer pulls or edge guards on industrial-style furniture. The smooth, consistent ends from the guillotine cut accept set screws or end caps. Match finishes (brushed aluminum or patinated copper) for a refined look.
STEM Demonstration Kits
Build classroom kits containing polished cross-sections of 750 MCM Cu, 1000 MCM Al, and 1590 ACSR with labels detailing strand counts and applications. The clean, preserved cable geometry makes differences obvious for lessons on conductivity, tensile strength, and grid infrastructure.