Introduction
Cordless tools have embraced the lithium-ion technology wholeheartedly, and circular saws are no exception. Gone are the days of settling for smaller models; now, 7-1/4-inch circular saws have arrived, claiming to rival the performance of their wired counterparts. Today, we dive into the world of cordless circular saws with the brand new DeWalt DCS570 20V Max Circular Saw.
Unveiling the DeWalt DCS570 20V Max Circular Saw
You might find the DeWalt DCS570 rather familiar, and you wouldn’t be wrong. It bears a striking resemblance to its twin brother, the FlexVolt 60V Max circular saw. The primary difference lies in the motor. As the name suggests, the DeWalt DCS570 operates on a 20V platform, which naturally implies a slight power loss. The question remains: Is this just a larger-bladed 6-1/2″ model, or does the new motor offer some extra torque to the brushless motor?
Editor’s note: This is the original review, but the rating has been updated to reflect the results of our cordless circular saw shootout.
Top 5 Features of the DeWalt DCS570 20V Max Circular Saw
Before delving into the details, here are the top five features that caught my attention.
Brushless Motor
With regards to cordless circular saws, brushless motors are the gold standard. While Ridgid’s Gen5X model performs admirably with its 4-pole brushed motor, it is no match for the expectations of professionals accustomed to the performance of wired models. To truly compete, brushless is the way to go.
Blade Brake
Unlike mechanical brakes, electronic blade brakes are present on brushless motors. This enables the implementation of quick-stop solutions. The DeWalt DCS570 Circular Saw’s brake reacts swiftly, greatly reducing the risk of injury or workpiece damage.
Ergonomics
I am particularly fond of DeWalt’s cordless tool handles, and the same comfortable handles are featured on this circular saw. The ergonomically contoured handle, along with the overmold, provides an excellent grip. Notably, the support handle, or pommel, is offset to alleviate wrist strain while cutting.
On the downside, the push-in trigger safety falls short in comparison to the preferred push-down safety mechanism. The push-down safety requires two distinct movements to activate the trigger, making it more secure. However, the push-in safety mechanism on the DeWalt DCS570 serves its purpose.
Adjustment
Smooth depth-of-cut and bevel adjustments are essential, and the DeWalt DCS570 delivers on both fronts. The lock remains securely in place without being frustratingly difficult to release. Moreover, DeWalt includes detents at 22.5 and 45 degrees for easy and precise bevel cuts.
Rafter Hook
Personally, I believe that all cordless tools should come equipped with a belt hook or rafter hook. Whether climbing a ladder and needing to secure the tool to a tool belt rig or simply wanting to avoid bending over to put it down, a rafter hook proves invaluable. Regrettably, the DeWalt DCS570 omits this feature.
The DeWalt DCS570 Circular Saw also boasts other notable features, which include a bright LED tangent light, bevel brakes at 22.5 and 45 degrees, a metal blade guard, a 7-1/4″ blade, and a right-blade orientation.
Performance
Over several weeks, the DeWalt DCS570 underwent rigorous tests, including crosscuts and rips through various materials such as plywood, rough lumber, pressure-treated wood, and even the dreaded MDF. Beginning with test cuts in 1/2″ plywood using the Irwin Weldtec blade, the saw effortlessly breezed through, as one would expect. Any circular saw struggling with such a basic task should be promptly returned or discarded.
Moving on to 3/4″ plywood, the saw maintained its confidence, providing ample speed. At this point, I started considering the possibility of the DeWalt DCS570 keeping pace with wired saws. Making crosscuts in 2 x 6 rough timber, including a few split-cuts for better evaluation, confirmed that this model is a legitimate contender in the 18V/20V Max class of circular saws.
The bevel adjustment, particularly at 45 degrees, impressed me with its ease of use and the convenience of the detent system. The bottom plate smoothly slides and firmly locks into place when detents are engaged.
Cutting at a 45-degree angle in pressure-treated wood and rough lumber further solidified my belief that the DeWalt DCS570 can replace a wired circular saw without sacrificing performance. Of course, this assumes that runtime is not an issue. With that said, the saw is more than capable of providing a solid day’s work. And even if you push its limits, cycling two batteries on the charger will likely outpace your work speed.
Compared to its stronger sibling, the FlexVolt circular saw, the DeWalt DCS570 exhibits smoother sliding on its aluminum base plate. The coating on the base plate poses no hindrance, allowing the saw to glide effortlessly through materials.
The Bottom Line
The DeWalt DCS570 stands as a worthy replacement for your wired Diamondback model. While the worm drive boasts greater torque, both the DeWalt FlexVolt Circular Saw and the Makita 18V X2 LXT Rear Handle Saw offer power boosts. However, the DeWalt DCS570 provides owners of DeWalt 20V Max tools with a compelling reason to stay within the brand’s flagship cordless line.
Highlighted by the XR brushless motor and blade and bevel brakes, the main features of the DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Circular Saw truly shine. Although the absence of a rafter hook is disappointing, the saw’s impressive performance and ergonomic design compensate for this minor setback.
As a standalone tool, the DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Circular Saw retails at $159, offering exceptional value for its performance. It is undoubtedly one of the best options currently available.
Features of the DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Circular Saw Maker
- Brushless motor delivers 5,200 RPM to maintain speed under load
- 7-1/4″ blade provides 2-9/16″ cutting capacity at 90°
- 57° bevel capacity with positive stops at 45 and 22.5 degrees for added versatility
- Available with rubber overmold for improved control
- Blade brake stops the blade upon trigger release
- Offers wired capacity
- Durable high-grade aluminum base for precise cutting
- Maximizes uptime and durability for superior performance
- Includes 7-1/4″ (184mm) circular saw, 7-1/4″ blade, and blade replacement wrench
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Circular Saw Specifications
Models: DeWalt DCS570B (Bare), DeWalt DCS570P1 (Kit)
Power: DeWalt 20V Max or FlexVolt battery pack
Blade Size: 7-1/4″
No-load speed: 5200 RPM
Maximum cutting depth: 2-9/16″
Maximum Bevel: 57 degrees
Bare Weight: 8.16 lbs
4.0 AH Battery Weight: 9.52 lbs
Weight with 9.0 AH FlexVolt battery: 11.04 lbs
Price: $159 (bare), $279 (kit with one 5.0 Ah battery)
Warranty: 3 years
Ready to take your woodworking to new heights? The DeWalt DCS570 20V Max Brushless Circular Saw awaits on Amazon.