DeWalt 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE

As someone who frequently undertakes a variety of construction and demolition tasks, I was eager to get my hands on the DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE. This saw promises a lot, from increased power with FLEXVOLT batteries to a robust, durable build, and I was keen to see if it lived up to its reputation.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight of the saw. At 7.7 pounds (without the battery), it's heavier than some other models I've used, but it feels substantial and well-balanced. The rubberized grip is comfortable, and the overall build quality exudes durability. This is not a flimsy tool; it's built to withstand tough job site conditions.

The saw comes with a keyless lever-action blade clamp, making blade changes quick and straightforward. This feature is a significant time-saver, especially when you're in the middle of a project and need to swap out blades frequently.

Power and Performance

One of the standout features of this saw is its compatibility with both 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries. Using a standard 20V battery, the saw performs admirably, slicing through wood, metal, and PVC with ease. However, when I attached a FLEXVOLT battery, the difference was palpable. The increased power is immediately noticeable, making light work of even the most challenging materials like cast iron and steel beams.

The variable-speed trigger allows for precise control, which is essential when you need to start cuts slowly to avoid damaging the material. The saw ramps up to full speed smoothly, reaching up to 3,000 strokes per minute, which is more than sufficient for most tasks.

Ergonomics and Usability

Despite its heft, the saw is surprisingly easy to handle. The weight distribution is balanced, making it less fatiguing to use for extended periods. However, if you're working overhead or in tight spaces, the weight can become a bit cumbersome. The ergonomic design does help mitigate some of this, but it's something to consider if you often work in less-than-ideal conditions.

The LED light is a nice touch, illuminating the cutting area and making it easier to see what you're doing in low-light conditions. While it's not the brightest light I've seen on a tool, it does the job well enough.

Versatility and Blade Positioning

One area where the saw could improve is in its blade positioning. The blade clamp only allows for two directional placements, unlike some older models that offer four-way blade positioning. This limitation can be a bit frustrating when you're trying to make cuts in awkward angles or tight spaces.

That said, the saw's performance more than makes up for this minor shortcoming. Whether I was cutting through wooden studs, metal pipes, or even thick tree branches, the saw handled everything I threw at it with ease.

Durability and Reliability

Over several weeks of rigorous use, the saw has shown no signs of slowing down. It's taken a few drops from moderate heights without any issues, and even a dunk in a muddy puddle didn't seem to affect its performance. This tool is designed to be tough, and it lives up to that promise.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the DeWalt 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw performs admirably in this regard. With a standard 5Ah 20V battery, I was able to get through a full day of intermittent use on a single charge. Switching to a FLEXVOLT battery not only increased the power but also extended the runtime, allowing for even longer periods between charges.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw with FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE is a powerful, durable, and versatile tool that excels in a variety of cutting tasks. Its robust build and impressive power make it suitable for both professional contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts.

While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as its weight and limited blade positioning options, these are outweighed by its numerous strengths. The ability to use both 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries adds a level of flexibility that is hard to beat, and the saw’s overall performance is top-notch.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend this saw to anyone in need of a reliable, powerful reciprocating saw. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a weekend warrior tackling home improvement projects, this tool will not disappoint. Its combination of power, durability, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit.