With so many different compound miter saws on the market, it’s been challenging for me to determine which ones will deliver the precision I need. Without proper research and testing, I might end up with a tool that doesn’t cut straight and clean.
Here, I’ll share an in-depth DeWalt DWS779 review to help you decide if this top miter saw is a good purchase.
What I Like
- It boasts a 15-amp motor that delivers up to 3,800 RPM, making it a great choice for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
- 12-inch blade is ideal for large materials up to 5 inches or more.
- Dual horizontal steel rails with linear ball bearings and innovative clamping mechanisms provide superior durability and stability during use.
- Cam-lock miter handle allows consistent results without compromising accuracy.
- Automatic electric brake, adjustable depth stop, and has a blade wrench
- Stainless steel miter detent plate enhances durability and accuracy.
- Zero to 48-degree bevels.
What I Don't Like
- While the miter saw does come with a dust collection bag, some users have found that it doesn't do the best job of capturing all of the sawdust generated during use.
- No laser or LED guide light included
Design, Size, and Weight
I’m impressed by its sleek and modern design, which I find both attractive and functional. The stainless steel miter detent plate, in my opinion, adds to its accuracy and ease of use. Additionally, the cam-lock miter handle with detent override and the adjustable depth stop have consistently delivered precise results for my repetitive cuts.
The 12-inch blade is ideal for cutting large materials, and the miter saw can accommodate different arbor sizes, making it adaptable to various materials.
In terms of size and weight, the DeWalt DWS779 dual bevel sliding saw is a compact and lightweight miter saw that is easy to move around and transport. It weighs 56 pounds, making it easy to store in small spaces.
DeWalt DWS779 Features
Overview of Specifications
- Dimensions: 21 x 17 x 17 inches
- Weight: 56 pounds
- Speed: 3800 RPM
- Bevel angle: 45 degrees to the left, 45 degrees to the right
- Blade size: 12 inches
- Blade material: Stainless steel carbide-tipped
- Arbor size: 5/8 inch
- Amps: 15 amps
- Warranty period: 3 years limited warranty
Motor Power
This sliding compound miter saw is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that can deliver up to 3,800 RPM, making it capable of handling even the toughest cutting tasks with ease.
We tried cutting dimensional lumber, and it did its job really well. Moreover, its motor is located above the hinge and uses a V belt drive to power the blade.
Bevel Cuts
The DeWalt DWS779 can make bevel angle cuts up to 48 degrees to the left and right, providing various angles for different projects.
Adjusting and locking the bevel system is quite straightforward and convenient for users like me who need to switch between different angles. All I have to do is loosen the head, then turn the bevel lock knob, and finally, adjust the position of the saw head either to the right or left. It’s a user-friendly process.
Miter Angles
I noticed that the DeWalt DWS779 can handle miter angle cuts up to 50 degrees to the left and 60 degrees to the right. What’s particularly helpful is that it comes with 10 positive stops at common angles on both sides. This feature makes it a breeze for me to swiftly and precisely set the miter saw to my desired angle.
Positive Stops
This sliding compound miter saw has ten predetermined positive miter angle stops, in addition to the option to select your own custom bevel angle. These factory-set cutting options enable you to alternate between preset angles for customized joints quickly.
Sliding Rail
The DeWalt DWS779 is a dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw with a sliding rail system that allows the saw blade to move along the rails for wider cuts.
The sliding rails system is precise and made from durable materials, and the miter saw has a powerful motor. To use it, unlock the blade and slide it to the desired position before locking it and making the cut.
Blade Quality and Arbor Size
It comes with a 12-inch carbide blade that is designed to cut through different materials with precision and ease.
The blade is made of high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use even cutting dimensional lumber, and can last long. We also find the blade guard as a convenient safety feature.
DeWalt DWS779 has 5/8 inches arbor size. The larger arbor is typically seen in most 12-inch compound miter saws, while the 5/8-inch arbor is more commonly used in smaller saws.
Cutting Capacity: Is it Good for Bigger Materials?
Yes, the DeWalt DWS779 miter saw has a cut capacity that makes it suitable for cutting larger materials.
Its 12-inch blade can handle materials up to 6.75 inches maximum cutting thickness and up to 2×14 inches at 90 degrees, making it suitable for larger cuts. We also noticed that its sliding feature allowed us to make cuts on wider boards.
Based on the product testing, the DeWalt miter saw can cut 2 x 14-inch timber at 90 degrees and 2 x 10 inches at 45 degrees using its rail feature and machined base fence support. So, if you’re focused on cutting depth, then this tool is the ideal miter saw for you
Performance and Accuracy
For me, when it comes to a miter saw, performance and accuracy are absolutely crucial, and the DeWalt DWS779 doesn’t disappoint. Thanks to its robust motor, sturdy blade, and advanced features, it consistently provides me with reliable performance and exceptional accuracy.
The machine’s cam-lock miter handle ensures consistent results, and its stainless steel miter scale or detent plate enhances durability and makes cutting tasks easier.
Moreover, the machine’s incorporation of a sliding rail and double bevel design expands its cutting capacity and versatility, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of projects.
The double bevel design also adds another layer of flexibility, as it allows the saw to tilt in both directions, enabling angled cuts on both sides without the need to reposition the workpiece.
One of the minor downsides we found in this DeWalt sliding miter saw is the lack of a laser or LED guide light, but this can be solved by purchasing one separately and installing it on the unit.
Dust Collection System
It has a dust collection system that captures dust and debris produced during cutting, helping to keep the workspace clean and safe.
However, we have noted that the dust extraction system could be more efficient, as we experienced that the dust bag may need to be emptied frequently during extended use.
While the dust collection is not perfect, it is still a useful feature that can help to minimize airborne particles and maintain a cleaner work environment.
Accessories/Box Items
In the package, I found not only the miter saw itself but also some valuable accessories. These include a vertical material clamp, a handy dust bag, a durable 12-inch stock blade with carbide tips, and a blade wrench that makes tightening and replacing the cutting edge a breeze, without needing an adjustable spanner. It’s a comprehensive setup.
Customer Reviews
From DIYers, industry experts, and pro-woodworkers who use this tool regularly. They praised this tool, highlighting its smooth rail action, convenient features, large timber capacity, and accurate positive stops.
However, we saw some users from different Dewalt DWS779 reviews complain that the dust storage fills quickly and lacks a laser guide to see the cut line.
Despite these minor issues, all users agreed that the DWS779 is a great saw and precision tool that delivers accurate cuts every time, unlike other brands.
Top Alternatives for the DWS779
1. DeWalt DCS361M1
If you’re looking for a more portable DeWalt sliding compound miter saw, consider the DCS361M1 saw instead of the DWS779 DeWalt miter saw.
The Dewalt DCS361M1 saw is much lighter, weighing only 36 pounds, and it runs on a 20-volt lithium-ion battery [1] instead of requiring a main power source.
It’s priced similarly to the DWS779 saw and has a smaller blade size of 7.25 inches, but it’s faster with a speed of 4100 rpm than the DWS779’s 3800 rpm.
2. DeWalt DWS780
When I was in the market for miter saws, I came across both the DeWalt DWS779 saw and the newer DWS780 saw.
The main differences between these tools are that the DWS780 saw comes with the XPS CUTLINE blade positioning system, which shines a light and creates a shadow on the board, an improved dust collection, and it also weighs 56 lbs and comes with a 60T blade.
3. Tacklife PMS03A
In terms of features, such as a 15 amp motor and a 12-inch blade with a speed of 3800 rpm, this Tacklife model is comparable to the DeWalt DWS779 saw. The only difference is it has the added benefit of a laser marker for improved accuracy and real-time cutting positioning.
It’s also priced more competitively than the DWS779 saw and is lightweight at only 46 pounds. The Tacklife PMS03A saw has a maximum 45-degree bevel, which is slightly less than the 48 degrees of the DeWalt.
FAQ
What reputable stores sell the DWS779?
The DeWalt DWS779 or even their other DeWalt miter saws can be purchased from various reputable stores, including but not limited to Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, and Ace Hardware.
It’s always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase from any store.
Where can I read the manual for the DeWalt DWS779?
You can obtain the DWS779 user manual guide from the official DeWalt website. The manual is available in both English and Spanish.
How do miter and bevel cuts differ?
Miter cuts are angled cuts made across the face of a board, typically at a 45-degree angle, to join two pieces of wood together at a corner.
The only difference is a bevel cut is made through the board thickness, used to create angled edges or join two pieces of wood together at a non-90-degree angle.
Is DeWalt an American Manufacturer?
DeWalt is a brand of power tools and hand tools that are owned by the American company Stanley Black & Decker.
However, some DeWalt products may be manufactured outside the United States, as is common in the global manufacturing industry.
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Review Conclusion: DeWalt DWS779 Compound Miter Saw
Overall, the DeWalt DWS779 Compound Miter Saw is a sturdy and reliable tool that delivers precise and accurate cuts. Its powerful motor, combined with a durable blade, makes it an ideal choice for professionals and DIYers alike.
It consistently exemplified solid performance under an affordable price, making it a worthwhile investment.
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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