DeWalt 5 in. Brushless Surface Grinder with KICKBACK BRAKE™ Kit

If you're looking for a grinder that combines power, versatility, and safety, DeWalt's 5 in. Brushless Surface Grinder with KICKBACK BRAKE™ Kit, model DWE46253, might catch your eye. I recently had the opportunity to put this tool to the test on a variety of projects, and here's my experience with it.

Out of the Box

Right from the start, the DWE46253 feels robust and well-built. The brushless motor is a significant highlight, promising maintenance-free operation since there are no brushes to replace. It's a feature that adds to the machine's longevity and reliability, which is always a plus in my book.

Performance and Power

The grinder boasts a 13-amp motor that delivers up to 1800 watts of power. During usage, this translates to a tool that doesn't shy away from demanding tasks. I used it primarily on concrete surfaces, including grinding down high points in a basement floor and removing thinset from a kitchen tile job. In both scenarios, the grinder performed admirably, maintaining a consistent speed and cutting through materials with ease.

The variable speed functionality allows you to adjust the wheel speed for different applications. This feature came in handy when switching between tasks that required different levels of aggression. Whether I needed a gentle touch or a more forceful grind, the DWE46253 adjusted effortlessly.

Safety Features

Safety is always a concern when working with powerful tools, and DeWalt has equipped this grinder with several features to address this. The Electronic Kickback Brake is particularly noteworthy. It activates during pinch, stall, or bind-up events, stopping the wheel and shutting off the motor to prevent accidents. This feature adds a layer of confidence when using the tool, knowing that it can quickly react to unexpected situations.

Additionally, the power-loss reset function is a thoughtful inclusion. After a power outage, the trigger switch needs to be cycled before the grinder can be turned back on. This prevents the tool from unexpectedly starting up, which could be dangerous.

Usability and Comfort

The grinder comes with a bail handle that offers multiple positioning options. This flexibility makes it easier to maneuver the tool in different orientations, reducing fatigue during extended use. I found the handle to be comfortable and intuitive, allowing for precise control.

However, the grinder isn't without its quirks. The dust extraction system, while effective at minimizing debris, has a couple of design flaws. The dust shroud, for instance, tends to get clogged with larger pieces of material, requiring frequent clearing. This can be a bit of a hassle, especially during prolonged tasks.

Another minor gripe is the power on/off switch cavity. When working with wet cutting debris, I noticed that the cavity could fill up, making it difficult to turn the tool off until it was cleaned. It's a small inconvenience but worth mentioning for those who might use the grinder in similar conditions.

Durability and Long-Term Use

Durability is a mixed bag with this grinder. While many users, myself included, have found the tool to be reliable and robust, there have been reports of the grinder failing after a few hours of use. In my experience, the grinder held up well over the course of several projects, but it's something to keep in mind if you're planning on using it heavily.

Additional Features

A feature that stood out to me is the dust extraction capability. When paired with the DeWalt 10-gallon dust extractor, the grinder does an excellent job of keeping the workspace clean. This is especially important when working indoors or in areas where dust control is crucial. The dust collection system significantly reduces the amount of airborne particles, making the environment safer and more pleasant to work in.

Conclusion

In summary, the DeWalt 5 in. Brushless Surface Grinder with KICKBACK BRAKE™ Kit offers a blend of power, safety, and versatility. Its brushless motor, variable speed functionality, and safety features make it a compelling choice for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.

However, it's not without its flaws. The dust shroud and power switch cavity design could use some improvements, and there are concerns about the tool's long-term durability. Despite these issues, the grinder excels in performance and ease of use, making it a valuable addition to any tool kit.

Would I recommend this tool?

Yes, I would recommend the DeWalt DWE46253 for its impressive power, safety features, and versatility. Just be mindful of its potential durability issues and the minor inconveniences related to dust management. If you're looking for a grinder that can handle a range of tasks with efficiency and ease, this tool is definitely worth considering.