DeWalt Double Edge Pull Saw

As a seasoned carpenter and woodworking enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to test a wide range of tools over the years. One of my recent acquisitions is the DeWalt Double Edge Pull Saw (DWHT20216). DeWalt has a solid reputation for producing quality tools, so I was particularly excited to put this one to the test. What follows is a comprehensive review based on my hands-on experience with this saw.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this saw is its thoughtful design. The blade is 250 mm (9.84 inches) long, and the overall tool measures 10.43 inches in length, 4.9 inches in width, and 1.6 inches in depth. Weighing in at just 0.86 lbs, it feels well-balanced and easy to maneuver.

The blade is flexible, which is a key feature for making flush cuts. It has two sets of teeth: fine finish teeth on one side for precise cuts and coarse teeth on the other side for handling tougher materials. The handle is ergonomic and made from a bi-material construction that provides a comfortable grip, even during extended use.

Performance

The DeWalt Pull Saw is designed to excel in several different cutting scenarios, such as cutting dowels, drywall, shims, trim, and framing. In my testing, I found it particularly effective for fine trim work and cross-cutting smaller pieces of wood. The fine teeth provide a clean, smooth cut that’s essential for finishing work, while the coarse teeth are robust enough to tackle rougher tasks.

When cutting through dowels, the flexible blade allowed me to press the saw flat against the surface for a flush cut. However, I noticed that even with careful handling, the coarse teeth on the opposite side occasionally left scratches on the workpiece. This wasn’t a deal-breaker for me, but it’s something to be mindful of if you’re aiming for a pristine finish.

Versatility

One of the standout features of this pull saw is its dual-sided blade. The ability to switch between fine and coarse teeth without changing tools is a significant time-saver. I used it for cutting baseboards when installing a vanity and trimming dowel rods flush with the surface. It performed admirably in both tasks.

The flexibility of the blade also allows for cutting in tight spaces and odd angles, making it a versatile addition to any toolbox. However, I did find that the blade’s flexibility was somewhat limited compared to traditional Japanese saws, which are known for their extreme flexibility and ability to make delicate, precise cuts.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is one area where the DeWalt Pull Saw falls short. While the blade is sharp and effective out of the box, I experienced some issues with the teeth breaking after only a few uses. This is particularly disappointing given DeWalt’s reputation for high-quality, durable tools.

Another significant drawback is the lack of replacement blades. Once the teeth are damaged or the blade becomes dull, you’re left with no option but to purchase a new saw entirely. This lack of replacement parts is frustrating and seems wasteful, especially considering the otherwise sturdy construction of the handle.

Storage and Portability

The saw is fairly compact and easy to store. The handle is removable, which makes it convenient to stash in a toolbox. However, it’s worth noting that the blade doesn’t fold into the handle, so you’ll need to detach it for storage. While this isn’t a huge inconvenience, it’s an extra step that could be avoided with a more integrated design.

Additionally, the saw doesn’t come with a scabbard or blade cover, which would have been a nice touch for protecting the blade and ensuring safety. I recommend wrapping it in a cloth or using the original packaging for storage to keep the blade sharp and avoid accidental cuts.

User Experience

Using the DeWalt Pull Saw is generally a pleasant experience. The ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods, and the dual-sided blade adds a layer of convenience. However, the saw does have a tendency to bind and stick during use, particularly when making deeper cuts. This can disrupt the flow of work and requires extra effort to get the blade moving smoothly again.

The saw’s performance on different types of wood was a mixed bag. While it handled softer woods like pine with ease, it struggled more with hardwoods like oak. The fine teeth are excellent for precision work, but the coarse teeth could use some improvement in terms of cutting efficiency and smoothness.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt Double Edge Pull Saw is a versatile tool that offers good performance for a variety of cutting tasks. Its dual-sided blade and ergonomic handle make it a convenient choice for both fine and rough cuts. However, its durability issues and lack of replacement blades are significant drawbacks that can’t be ignored.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a versatile, easy-to-use pull saw for occasional use, the DeWalt Pull Saw is a solid choice. Its design and performance are commendable, and it’s particularly useful for trim work and cutting in tight spaces.

However, if you’re a professional or someone who requires a more durable tool for frequent use, you might want to consider other options. The lack of replacement blades and the tendency for the teeth to break are concerning, and there are other saws on the market that offer better durability and flexibility.

In summary, the DeWalt Double Edge Pull Saw is a good tool with some notable limitations. It’s a valuable addition to a toolbox for specific tasks but may not be the best choice for heavy-duty or professional use.