DeWalt Cordless Press Tool with Jaws

The DeWalt Cordless Press Tool, model DCE200M2K, is a welcome addition to any professional plumber's toolkit. From the moment I picked it up, I could tell this tool was designed with both functionality and user comfort in mind. Weighing in at just under 8 pounds, it strikes a balance between being robust enough to handle tough jobs and light enough to be comfortably portable.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of this press tool is its 360° pivoting head. This makes it incredibly versatile for working in tight spaces, which is often a challenge in plumbing jobs. The head pivots smoothly and locks into place securely, giving you confidence that it won’t shift during a press. The tool is also coated to prevent corrosion, a thoughtful touch that ensures longevity, particularly in environments where it might be exposed to moisture.

Performance

The tool is built to handle a variety of pipe materials, including copper, stainless steel, black carbon steel, and PEX. It supports pressing pipe fittings ranging from 1/2" to 4" in copper and stainless steel, and 1/2" to 2" in black carbon steel and PEX. This versatility is a significant advantage, as it means you don’t need multiple tools for different materials.

The press tool comes with six jaws sized 1/2 in., 3/4 in., 1 in., 1 1/4 in., 1 1/2 in., and 2 in. These jaws are easy to swap out and fit securely, ensuring a precise press every time. The tool's ram force ranges between 7645 to 8550 lbs, providing ample power to create a secure, leak-proof connection.

Usability

One of the features I particularly appreciate is the onboard intelligence system. This system logs press cycles and provides diagnostic information, which is invaluable for maintenance and ensuring the tool is performing optimally. The Crimp Connect software is another excellent addition, providing detailed reports on press cycles and tool calibration. This level of detail helps in maintaining the tool and ensuring it is always ready for use.

The forward/reverse switch is intuitive and makes the tool easy to operate, even for those who might be new to using press tools. The LED light is a small but significant feature, illuminating the work area and making it easier to see what you’re doing, especially in poorly lit spaces.

The tool also comes with a shoulder strap, which is a nice touch for portability. It allows you to carry the tool hands-free, which can be a real advantage when moving between job sites or when working in areas where you need to carry multiple tools.

Battery Life and Charging

The tool comes with a charger and two batteries, which is a practical inclusion. Having a spare battery means you can always have one charging while the other is in use, minimizing downtime. The onboard diagnostics also provide information on battery life, so you’re never caught off guard with a dead battery.

Durability and Reliability

In terms of durability, the DeWalt Cordless Press Tool holds up well. I’ve used it extensively, and it has consistently delivered reliable performance. However, it’s worth noting that, like any tool, it’s not immune to issues. There have been instances where users have reported the tool breaking after a certain number of crimps. While my experience has been positive, it’s something to be aware of.

DeWalt’s customer service is generally excellent, which is reassuring if you do encounter any issues. They have a good reputation for handling repairs and replacements efficiently.

Areas for Improvement

While the tool is impressive, there are a few areas where it could be improved. Some users have expressed a desire for a smaller version of the tool. While the current model is versatile and handles a wide range of pipe sizes, a more compact version could be beneficial for even tighter spaces or smaller-scale jobs.

Another area for potential improvement is the initial package. While the tool, charger, and batteries are included, jaws are not. For some, this might be an inconvenience, especially if they don’t already own compatible jaws from other tools.

Conclusion

Overall, the DeWalt Cordless Press Tool is a robust, versatile, and user-friendly addition to any professional’s toolkit. Its 360° pivoting head, wide range of supported materials, and intelligent onboard diagnostics make it a standout choice. While there are some areas for improvement, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

I would highly recommend this tool to any professional plumber or contractor. Its performance, ease of use, and thoughtful design features make it a valuable investment. Whether you’re replacing miles of copper piping in an old building or working on a smaller residential project, this tool is up to the task.