Choosing between a corded jigsaw or a battery operated tool boils down to preference. On one hand, you have a more dependable power source that does not require recharging, on the other hand, it is a jigsaw that allows more mobility.
For those who prefer the latter or whose work would have them benefit more from a cordless option, the Dewalt DCS331B 20-Volt, MAX Li-Ion Jigsaw is one often recommended by users. It is a high powered, high-speed jigsaw from a reputable manufacturer and also has the convenience of an easy to operate design and a dependable battery set.
Does it deserve a space in your workshop? We took it upon ourselves to conduct a Dewalt DCS331B review and highlight some of its features that may just convince you to grab this jigsaw for yourself.
What We Like
- The jigsaw is a powerful machine that can max out at 3000 SPM.
- Its cordless design means that it can be taken in most places that do not have a power plug.
- The blade provided is able to cut through different materials with a smooth finish.
- The machine employs a keyless blade change system.
- Despite its weight, a user can still have the perfect and secure hold with its anti-slip grip.
- It has adjustable orbital settings to complement the speed.
- The installed adjustable dust blower contributes to both the accuracy and convenience of the jigsaw.
- It can be used both at home and at work.
- Built to last yet still comes with a 3-year limited manufacturer warranty.
What We Don't Like
- Does not come with a built-in light laser.
- Quite heavy at 5.4 lbs.
- The jigsaw can only operate with T-shank blades.
- The batteries and the recharging device are not provided with the purchase.
DEWALT DCS331B Main Features
Power
For a price that is higher than most of the available of jigsaws, you can expect the Dewalt DCS331B to be packing more power than usual. And indeed, you get that from the machine that can top up to 3000 strokes per minute (SPM). The speed can be controlled through the trigger to achieve the desired result. The power of the jigsaw also depends on the top quality of its materials, which leads us to our next point…
Powerful blade
The efficiency of a jigsaw depends on many things, but it is indisputable that much of the burden rests on the blade being used. The cutting material that the DCS331B employs is impressive and of high quality, and is able to cut through different materials smoothly: wood, plastic, metal, aluminum are just a few. It is also easy to direct when cutting. The jigsaw requires T-shank blades to be mounted.
We have a minor objection on the design that would prompt a user to pull out the blade after extensive use. Doing so is easy in principle, but not so much in the application; the blade can be uncomfortable to touch and may require an added layer of protection to the hands such as gloves.
Effortless blade replacement
Changing the blade under normal circumstances is easy, though. In our tests during our Dewalt DCS331B review, we found that it has a keyless blade change system for fast and efficient replacements.
Accurate and precise cuts
This jigsaw takes on different features to ensure a smooth and seamless work on a variety of materials. For one, a user can shift through the different orbital settings to do varied cuts that are still consistent in quality, regardless if they may be straight lines or curves.
Another is the adjustable shoe bevel that can be angled at 0, 15, 30 and 45 degrees. The Dewalt DCS331B also comes with a dust blower. This could be adjusted as necessary and clear out debris for easier and clearer cutting of your material of choice.
Built to last a long time
Durability is often expected for the Dewalt DCS331B’s price point, and in this area, the jigsaw does not disappoint. The manufacturer has ensured that the materials that went into its creation are high-quality metals, with no part spared.
In case it gives out sooner than expected, Dewalt has its customers covered with a limited warranty of three years.
Made for your convenience
We have already mentioned that the Dewalt DCS331B is of the cordless variety, and that has its advantages. With this jigsaw, you will not be limited by the inaccessibility of a power supply or even just an extension cord.
This means you can take it in most places granted that its batteries have been fully recharged or at least hold enough juice. There is minimal planning required save for charging ahead of your scheduled saw work. What’s more, it can be employed in both home and professional settings.
Convenience may not be the first thing in mind to customers given the jigsaw’s weight (the machine is 5.4 lbs heavy), but Dewalt slightly makes up for it with an anti-slip grip. This at least adds a feeling of security when operating the machine.
A feature mentioned earlier, the dust blower that can be adjusted, is also a point for the jigsaw’s convenience. With it installed, there is little to no need to wipe off the dust to clear the lines on your work.
A powerful and reliable battery system
Dewalt always worries over having to charge the equipment often by requiring 1.5, 3.0 and 4.0 Ah batteries for the jigsaw. The run time before the battery needs to be recharged is impressive.
However, the necessary parts to power the DCS331B — both the batteries and the charger — are not provided by the brand. These must be bought in addition to the jigsaw itself.
Other accessories included
Besides the Dewalt DCS331B jigsaw, the package should include a T-shank jigsaw blade and a kit box.
DEWALT DCS331B Review Conclusion
The Dewalt DCS331B is a powerful and versatile jigsaw that can do both straight and curved cuts seamlessly. It boasts of a cordless design that makes it easier to bring in most places. The batteries are capable of sustaining the jigsaw for many hours, but these are sold separately.
You can think of the DCS331B as an investment. It may not be as cheap as other options in the market, but you can count on it to last you years for its durable design. Even if saw work is just a hobby, you can use the machine to perfect your craft with the versatility and accuracy it provides. The three-year warranty that comes with the product does not hurt in case the condition of the jigsaw needs to be reassessed.
See the Dewalt DCS331B compete head to head with other top jigsaws on here: https://www.sawinery.net/jigsaw/best/
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