DeWalt 60V MAX* Brushless Cordless 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw Kit

As a professional contractor, I've had the opportunity to use a wide variety of miter saws over the years. Recently, I got my hands on the DeWalt 60V MAX* Brushless Cordless 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw Kit, and I have quite a bit to say about it. This saw is packed with features and promises to bring a lot to the table for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Performance and Power

First and foremost, the power of this cordless miter saw is genuinely impressive. The 60V MAX* battery delivers robust performance, easily cutting through a range of materials, including MDF base molding and pressure-treated lumber. The brushless motor contributes significantly to this power, ensuring smooth and efficient cuts. I’ve put it through its paces on various job sites, and it consistently delivers precise cuts without bogging down, even on thicker materials like 4x4s.

Battery Life

Battery life is often a concern with cordless tools, but this saw alleviates those worries. The 9Ah battery provides a substantial amount of runtime, allowing me to make up to 675 cuts in 3 1/4 in. MDF base molding or 255 cuts in 4x4 pressure-treated lumber on a single charge. This longevity is enhanced by the regenerative braking technology, which extends the battery’s runtime. For most of my projects, a single battery charge has been more than sufficient, and the charging time is relatively quick, minimizing downtime.

Design and Build Quality

The overall design and build quality of the saw are outstanding. DeWalt has a reputation for creating durable and reliable tools, and this miter saw is no exception. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport from one job site to another, which is a significant advantage for someone like me who is always on the move. The saw's fit and finish were excellent right out of the box, with everything perfectly tuned.

Adjustability and Precision

One of the standout features of this miter saw is its adjustability. The double-bevel and sliding capabilities provide a high level of versatility, allowing for a wide range of cuts. The miter adjustment mechanism is precise and reliable, whether using the presets or not. Similarly, the bevel adjustments are easy to make, although I did notice some inconsistency with the tilt clamping mechanism. While it worked fine for me, I can see how it might be a point of frustration for others.

The saw's Cutline blade positioning system is another highlight, offering an accurate indication of the cut line. This feature, combined with the overall precision of the saw, ensures that my cuts are consistently accurate and clean. The depth of cut stop also works well, adding another layer of reliability to the tool.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is a crucial aspect of any saw, especially for indoor projects. The DeWalt miter saw features a dual-fitting dust port that is compatible with DEWALT extractors and standard vacuums. In my experience, the dust capture system is quite effective, capturing up to 94% of dust. However, the placement of the dust extraction port could be better. In some scenarios, the dust tends to blow back, which can be a bit annoying. A cordless vacuum option would have been a perfect complement to this cordless saw.

Durability Concerns

Despite its many strengths, there are some concerns regarding the saw's durability. I've read about and experienced some issues with the saw's longevity. In a few instances, the saw stopped working after a few weeks or months of use. While DeWalt's customer service was responsive and provided replacements, the fact that these issues occurred in the first place is a bit concerning. For a tool at this price point, I expect a higher level of reliability.

Additional Features

The saw also includes several other thoughtful features that enhance its usability. The bevel-gear transmission ensures efficient cutting, while the LED light provides better visibility in low-light conditions. The saw can cut a maximum of 6-1/2 inches vertically and 12-3/16 inches wide, which covers a wide range of applications. Additionally, the included 12-inch blade with a 1-inch arbor is high-quality and performs well across different materials.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the DeWalt 60V MAX* Brushless Cordless 12 in. Double-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw Kit is a powerful and versatile tool that brings a lot to the table. Its cordless design, combined with impressive battery life and cutting performance, makes it a valuable asset for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The build quality and adjustability are top-notch, ensuring precise and reliable cuts.

However, the durability concerns and the placement of the dust extraction port are areas where the saw could see some improvement. If DeWalt addresses these issues, this miter saw would be nearly perfect.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, with some reservations. If you need a powerful, portable miter saw that delivers precise cuts and can handle a variety of materials, this DeWalt saw is an excellent choice. Just be mindful of the potential durability issues and ensure you have a good warranty in place. For those who prioritize cordless convenience and cutting performance, this miter saw is worth the investment.