Today's building trends are constantly evolving, from lighter, stronger materials to corrosion-resistant plastics and better insulation. As a carpenter, I can attest to the need for my workplace to change and evolve with these newly developed materials, updated building techniques and simplified working methods. While a cordless saw like the DeWalt DCS391L1 20V Max Circular Saw is suitable for some applications, owning a corded model like the DeWalt DWE575 7.25-Inch Circular Saw is essential to success.
The Case for the DeWalt DWE575 Circular Saw
While newer, lighter, more powerful tools lead to cooler operation, longer-lasting batteries, and better dust removal technology—all of these advancements lead to powerful tool features and much-needed improvements.
Those in the industry know that prolonged or vertical use of heavy tools can lead to fatigue and even bursitis or other joint problems with prolonged use. So when tool companies started looking at lighter tools and shock resistance, I started paying attention. This also got me interested in the DeWalt DWE575 7-1/4" Circular Saw.
What's so great about the DeWalt DWE575 Circular Saw?
DeWalt recently redesigned their current 15 amp circular saw, reducing weight and tweaking a few other features. They now offer the new DWE575 and DWE575SB as flagship models ("SB" models include electric brakes). Weighing 8.8 pounds, these are now the lightest contractor saws in their class, and, my friends, that's pretty sexy in the tool world.
The DWE575 (I'm not using "SB" for now) is designed to cut framing material, plywood, siding and exterior siding, and trim, so we put that to work. We took it to our job site and put it to use to see if it was a serious contender for professional contractors or just for semi-professional contractors who were rude, rude and socially unacceptable. (just kidding.)
lighter is better
The development team at DeWalt appears to have spoken to the tradesman before releasing the DeWalt DWE575 circular saw. Proving to be an improvement and improvement on what was already a great Diamondback. By taking these saws off their predecessor, the DW368, and the similar DW369, the folks at DeWalt were able to take an already great tool and make it even better. Call me a romantic, but the thought that they could take something I love best and improve upon it brings tears to my eyes… just a little.
What are my first impressions of this newer, lighter saw? "Damn! This thing is so light!" It's three-quarters of a pound lighter than the magnesium-sole DW368, and it's still well-balanced, comfortable, and ergonomic. It also has a decent best line of sight. Did I mention this saw is light?
DeWalt also added 1 degree of bevel capacity, allowing it to travel 57 degrees (matching the model number by the way). This saw features an easy-adjust metal miter bar to quickly and easily make miter cuts that other saws can't. This new sidewinder is starting to do a lot of things and I'm starting to wonder if it can jump tall buildings in one jump as well… Any roofers out there? Anyway, I know the added bevel will come in handy in rafter cutting and framing.
Chamfer stop
When we're talking bevels, the DWE575 has bevel stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees, which we've come to expect, and an all-metal, easy-to-operate lever-controlled adjustment. It also has a nice heavy duty aluminum shoe. (Gone are the former defending champion's magnesium shoes.) While the saw is light, it's still strong enough to withstand those inevitable jobsite drops and rough conditions.
The DWE575 also has heavy-duty strain relief on the power cord. (DeWalt calls this their ToughCord system.) Let's face it, as carpenters and contractors, we're constantly using our tools in a way that works for us, and sometimes that means hoisting the saw through a cord. With ToughCord, I feel like I can do it without being tempted by fate.
Tough Choice – DeWalt DWE575 7-1/4 or DWE575SB in Circular Saw?
The two saws are identical except for a few key points. First, the DWE575SB adds an electric braking mechanism that quickly stops the blade when you release the trigger. It also comes with black rubber handles and a contractor bag. Other than that, it's the same tool in every way. Premiums for electric brakes are only $10-20 depending on where you shop, making the DWE575SB (in our opinion) a solid choice for professionals.
Using a Dewalt DWE575 Sidewinder Circular Saw
Out of the box, when set to zero degrees, I found the plate to be at exactly right angles to the blade. I almost (almost!) screamed with excitement when I measured it, because "straight out of the box" accuracy is rarely found these days. The electric brake on the DWE575SB is also very effective, stopping the blade within seconds of releasing the trigger – a really nice safety feature that I really appreciate.
The DWE575 features a ball bearing, anti-snag lower guard design that works flawlessly even in thin cuts and rips. It's smooth, fast, and quiet, and I'll be damned if I can't get it to stick – trust me, I tried.
We've used both saws in our remodeling work over the past six months and compared them to all types of materials. This includes framing lumber, pressure treated lumber, plywood, LVL, we even cut asphalt roofing and sheathing. The last job is about the worst abuse you can give a saw. We've literally shed miles of material since getting it! The saw has performed flawlessly so far and continues to make great cuts (although we did flip the included blade for something higher quality).
The DWE575 is very light and I find it a joy to cut with. However, less weight doesn't mean less power, and a 15 amp motor does everything I'm against it. It cuts as well as my current rattlesnake saw, if not better (brand name kept secret to protect the innocent). I also like the extra long (6ft) power cord. My only criticism of this saw is that I wish it came with a protective carrying case rather than a contractor's bag.
overall impression
The DeWalt DWE575 and DWE575SB circular saws are both light and strong. I have to commend the power cord, electric brake, 2-9/16 inch depth of cut, and 57 degree bevel. All four are outstanding game-changing improvements.
