DeWalt Cordless Chainsaw

As an avid DIY enthusiast and a long-time user of DeWalt tools, I was eager to get my hands on the DeWalt Cordless Chainsaw, model DCCS677B. The promise of a powerful, battery-operated chainsaw that could potentially replace my gas-powered saws was intriguing. After using it extensively, I have mixed feelings about its performance, build quality, and overall value.

Performance and Power

One of the standout features of this chainsaw is its power. DeWalt claims that it offers 20% more peak power than a 50.2 cc gas chainsaw, and in my experience, it lives up to that claim in many ways. The saw has ample torque and can cut through a 17-inch white oak log in approximately 15 seconds with the appropriate battery. This level of performance is impressive for a cordless tool and makes it suitable for a range of cutting tasks, from trimming branches to felling medium-sized trees.

However, the power comes with a significant caveat: battery life. Using a fully charged 9Ah FlexVolt battery, I found that the chainsaw drained the battery quite rapidly. For instance, a fully charged battery lasted just enough to cut through a few sections of a 12-inch pine tree. If you're planning to use this saw for extended periods, you'll need multiple batteries on hand, which can be both costly and inconvenient.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the DCCS677B is a mixed bag. On the positive side, the chainsaw features real bucking spikes and two nuts with metal grommets through the guard housing, which contribute to good chain tightening. The auto-oiling feature also ensures continuous lubrication, which is essential for maintaining the chain's efficiency and longevity.

Unfortunately, the chain tensioning system leaves much to be desired. The tensioning adjustment screw is prone to malfunction, making a "plastic-like clicking sound" and failing to tighten the chain properly. This issue became apparent after just a few uses, and it's a significant drawback for a tool that's supposed to handle heavy-duty tasks. The plastic components in the tensioning mechanism seem to be the weak link, and this is a design flaw that DeWalt needs to address.

Usability and Comfort

In terms of usability, the chainsaw is relatively easy to handle. It's heavier than I expected, but the weight is manageable and contributes to its stability during cutting. The limited kickback protection with chain brake is a valuable safety feature, especially for less experienced users. The saw's noise level is also lower compared to gas-powered alternatives, making it more pleasant to use in residential areas.

One of the advantages of a battery-powered chainsaw is the ease of starting. There's no need to deal with the hassle of pull-starting a gas engine, which can be a significant relief for those with shoulder or arm issues. Simply insert the battery, and you're ready to go. However, the battery life and charging speed are areas that need improvement. The 12Ah batteries tend to get hot and quit quickly, and the charging time can be a limiting factor if you don't have multiple batteries on hand.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintaining the DCCS677B is relatively straightforward, thanks to the auto-oiling feature. However, the chainsaw does have a tendency to leak bar and chain oil, which can be messy and inconvenient. Additionally, finding replacement parts and chains can be challenging, as they are not readily available at local retailers. This can be a significant drawback if you need to make quick repairs or replacements.

The durability of the chainsaw is another area of concern. The chain tensioner issues, combined with the plastic components, raise questions about the long-term reliability of the tool. In my experience, the chainsaw performed well initially but started showing signs of wear and tear relatively quickly. This is disappointing for a tool that's marketed as a heavy-duty option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DeWalt Cordless Chainsaw DCCS677B has several commendable features, including impressive power, ease of use, and lower noise levels compared to gas-powered saws. However, it falls short in critical areas such as battery life, build quality, and durability. The chain tensioning mechanism, in particular, is a significant flaw that can hinder the tool's performance and reliability.

Would I recommend this chainsaw? It depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you already have a collection of DeWalt FlexVolt batteries and need a cordless chainsaw for light to medium-duty tasks, this tool could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. However, if you're looking for a reliable, heavy-duty chainsaw for extended use, you might want to consider other options or stick with a gas-powered model.

Ultimately, the DCCS677B has potential, but it needs some design improvements to truly compete with its gas-powered counterparts. If DeWalt addresses the chain tensioning issues and improves battery life, this chainsaw could become a top choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. For now, it's a tool with impressive capabilities but also notable limitations.