DeWalt Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Kit

Owning and operating a chainsaw has always been somewhat of a mixed experience for me. The hassle of dealing with gas, the noise, and the maintenance often felt like a necessary evil for the power and performance I needed. However, when I got my hands on the DeWalt Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Kit (model DCCS677Y1), my perspective began to shift.

Power and Performance

The first thing that struck me about this chainsaw was its power. The DeWalt model boasts a 60V MAX system and claims performance comparable to a 50.2 cc gas chainsaw. My initial skepticism was quickly dispelled when I put it to the test. The saw handled a 10-inch diameter ash tree with ease, cutting through it cleanly and swiftly. The brushless motor, which DeWalt claims can deliver nearly 4 HP, certainly lived up to its promise.

One of the standout features is its torque. Even when tackling thicker logs, the chainsaw didn't slow down, maintaining consistent power throughout each cut. This reliability is crucial, especially for those of us who often find ourselves dealing with larger, tougher wood.

Usability and Comfort

One of the biggest advantages of this chainsaw is its ease of use. The absence of a pull rope and the need for gas makes this tool incredibly convenient. Starting the saw is as simple as pressing a button, and the variable speed trigger allows for better control during operation. This is particularly beneficial for those who may not have the physical strength to handle a gas-powered saw.

The chainsaw weighs about 12.6 lbs without the battery, and around 16 lbs with the battery and oil. While it is comparable in weight to a gas chainsaw, the balance and ergonomics make it comfortable to use over extended periods. The handles are well-designed with a thick, grippy rubber that reduces hand fatigue, a feature I greatly appreciated during longer sessions.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a common concern with cordless tools, and this chainsaw is no exception. The kit comes with a 12 Ah 60V FlexVolt battery, which provided enough power for approximately an hour of continuous cutting in my experience. For larger jobs, having a second battery is almost a necessity, as the included charger is relatively slow, taking a couple of hours to fully charge the battery.

One issue I encountered was that the battery can overheat during prolonged use. When this happens, the saw shuts down until the battery cools off, which can be frustrating if you're in the middle of a big job. A workaround I found useful was to swap out the battery and let the overheated one cool down while I continued working with a fresh one.

Maintenance and Durability

The automatic lubrication system is a blessing, significantly reducing the need for manual oiling. The oil reservoir has a translucent section, making it easy to check the oil level at a glance. However, I did notice that the oiler can sometimes stop working, which seems to be a common issue. Regular checks and ensuring the system is clean can mitigate this problem to some extent.

The tool-required chain tensioning system works well and holds the chain tension settings very effectively. I found the onboard wrench convenient, though it's somewhat hidden and can be tricky to remove from its slot in the handle.

Durability is a mixed bag with this chainsaw. While the motor and cutting performance are robust, the overall build quality could use some improvements. The plastic chassis, while durable, doesn't inspire the same confidence as metal-bodied chainsaws. Additionally, the bar is relatively thin and can get pinched easily, affecting the chain's performance.

Noise and Environmental Impact

One of the most significant advantages of this chainsaw is its quiet operation. Unlike gas chainsaws, which are notoriously loud, this model is much quieter, making it more comfortable to use without ear protection and less disruptive to neighbors. The absence of combustion fumes is another plus, allowing for indoor use if necessary.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The DeWalt Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Kit is an impressive tool that offers a blend of power, convenience, and environmental benefits. Its performance rivals that of many gas-powered chainsaws, making it a viable option for both homeowners and professionals. The ease of starting, consistent torque, and reduced noise make it particularly appealing for those who may find gas chainsaws cumbersome.

However, the chainsaw is not without its flaws. Battery overheating and the need for frequent recharges can be limiting factors, especially for larger jobs. The build quality, while generally good, leaves room for improvement, particularly in the durability of the bar and chain tensioning system.

Would I recommend this chainsaw? Yes, but with some caveats. If you are a homeowner or someone who needs a reliable chainsaw for occasional use, this model is an excellent choice. The convenience and performance outweigh the minor inconveniences, and the environmental benefits are a significant plus. However, for heavy-duty, professional use, you might find the limitations in battery life and build quality more noticeable. In such cases, having a backup saw or additional batteries would be advisable.

Overall, the DeWalt Brushless Cordless Chainsaw Kit is a strong contender in the cordless chainsaw market, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gas-powered models.