I keep this one in the garage and don't let the employees use it. They get the $40 on sale circular saws :)
I own 2 DW368 saws, they are different types One is a type 1 the other a type 3 The type three has a lever for the bevel adjustment rather than the knob as shown in photo, making adjustments easier. This saw fits really well in my hand and has a great balance to it. Bogs down a bit in wet lumber. My biggest issue is when cutting compound miters for roof framing, the guard kinda gets hung and needs a helping hand.
I bought one of these units for cutting out vents on the roof and man does it do a good job, tones of power, cuts through layer upon layer of ashphalt, wood and nails. It has been known to blow a few breakers in its day, but a great product. The only downside is its expensive, that being said its paid for itself a hundred times over.
I run a lot of guys and we have had several of these. We have replaced the triggers in all 5 and have had 2 of them smoke out in employees hands. This wouldn't surprise me given the work we do with these but we have Makitas that are twice as old that are as good as new. I will never purchase another one.
I own two of these bad boys. They are reliable, have plenty of power, and can be used for either ripping through lumber,using a diamond blade to cut through bricks and concrete, or accurately cutting finish boards. The key is to keep it clean, always store in the durable plastic case, and change the blades often. Don't uselessly burn up the motor of a great saw by using an old blade! It's worth the cost of a few new blades to keep your saw around for years of service! Have a good one, Tom Thompson
I love this saw. It is very comfortable and smooth. The only problem i have noticed with all 4 of our saws (this model) is that the brake wears out after a few months. I don't mind it unless I am ripping something where the rip doesn't go the full length.
This saw is a good piece of kit for any carpenter. I have this model and the slightly more expensive model with the plastic base.
For starters lets talk safety. This saw features your standard blade guard which protects the user from accidental blade contact. However on the flip side this saw has no blade brake. Once you release the trigger the unit does not stop immediately but rather winds down for several seconds. Personally I prefer the unit with the brake as there have been a instances where the saw jams and bucks when cutting wood that I would value a faster blade stop.
Now for convenience. This saw features adjustable depth and bevel settings. The bevel setting has positive detents for 22.5 and 45 degree cuts. As a framer these are some great features as when its time for bevel cuts I loosen the bevel lock arm and listen for the first or second click to determine my bevel. This saves time from having to look at the bevel gauge trying to set the table for these common cuts. As for the adjustable depth this saw lacks an easy access locking arm. The arm is located between the handle and the upper blade housing which makes for some frustration, especially during winter use when gloves come into play. The other top handle saw dewalt makes has the depth locking arm on the outside of the unit for quick access. What I cant figure out is why they don't interchange the design onto this saw as most of the parts seem interchangeable.
In summary dollar for dollar this saw will get you away from cheaper brands and into dewalt (which I.M.O is a great company for power tools). At ruffly $80 less than the model with blade brake and high impact base it will make a great saw for anyones tool crib. However, if you use a skill saw everyday I would highly recommend the more expensive model.
Cheers,
John
My deWalt saw has been thru hell. I bought it to use on a make shift sliding siding cut table. its been dropped, left in the weather beat all to heck and it still cuts noce in straight
I replaced a Porter Cable that was stolen with this saw. Broke the thumb latch for the guard the second day I used it. Has good power to weight ratio for what I do. Decent all around saw. Probably not for hard core framing!
Miss the left hand Porter Cable!
This is my favourite saw that I have. Primarily because of its light weight. I have yet to find a lighter saw thats durable.
I have dropped these off of walls and they still work great. I have 2 right now and am thinking about replacing my older saw with a new one.
asel.mike
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