DeWalt DCS331B Jig Saw: QUICK OVERVIEW
Review of: DeWalt DCS331B Jig Saw
Category: Jig Saw
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Accessories
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What We Like
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Buying a new power tool is an important, and potentially expensive, decision. Especially when you are talking about delicate woodwork. But, you also want the best available saw for your money.
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DeWalt DCS331B Jig Saw Review
The DeWalt company has been in the business of tool making for almost a century. Since starting with their first woodworking machines, they have incorporated other tools in their line-up. But, they have never stopped perfecting their woodworking tools.
A few years ago, they started their cordless line. This is the latest in their line of sturdy, quality woodworking tools.
Who is this product for?
This the best jig saw for seasoned power tool owners who already have a supply of 20v batteries. But, newcomers can benefit from this as well. You would just have to buy your own power source.
It is light and sturdy, yet easy to operate. It is good if you have intricate woodwork and are a master carpenter or if you are a hobbyist who does occasional projects. This jig saw will fit the bill in both instances.
What’s included?
The only thing you get in the box is the cordless jig saw. No power-source. No batteries. This is considered a “bare” item, so you would only receive the bare essentials.
Overview of features
The DeWalt DCS331B is a bare, cordless jig saw. This means that it comes with neither batteries, nor a cord, depending on the power source. What it does have is a four-positional orbital action.
With the orbital action, you can trim your cutting time down to a minimum, especially on larger pieces. It’s more aggressive cutting, but you can control the speed and quality.
In addition, this jig saw takes T-shank jig saw blades. This is something you want because it makes changing out blades much easier. The other type requires tools to change out the blade.
To make changing blades even easier, this model offers a tool-less blade change. However, if the blade is not locked into place after changing, it can fall out mid-cut. It happens more often with thinner blades.
Consequently, this jig saw is better for working on wood. If you plan on cutting other materials like metal, it’s not as good since that would require using thinner blades. In addition, you can make bevel cuts with this jig saw. The shoe bevel doesn’t need a key and has detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees. But, it is sometimes difficult to move the bevel mechanism lock from its default position.
This jig saw also has a dust blower to keep that pesky debris off your work. It’s adjustable, too. So, you always have just the right amount to do your work. The speed varies and can reach up to 3000 strokes per minute (spm).
So, it is versatile enough for most woodworking needs. Lastly, it also has an anti-slip comfort grip for your increased control and comfort. But, it could be a little lighter. The heaviness of the saw negates the comfort factor a little.
Alternatives
If the DeWalt DCS331B is not the best jig saw for you, there are other options out there. For example, Bosch offers a similar jig saw. The JS365 is also a cordless model and offers a keyless blade change system as well. Unlike the DeWalt DCS331B, the Bosch jig saw doesn’t have as many problems with the blades jumping out of the saw.
However, it is not perfect. The design of the Bosch JS365 makes it difficult to see the position of the saw. Another alternative you may look at is the Black & Decker BDCJS20C jig saw. This is another 20-volt cordless jig saw. It accepts both U and T type shank blades.
The motor isn’t as powerful, though. It maxes at 2500 spm. But, it is a different option for those of you who are worried about blade issues or the weight of the saw as it is slightly lighter.
Conclusion
The DeWalt family of tools has been dependable in the industry for almost a century. And, there is a reason for that. They deliver quality power tools. The DCS331B model is an example of that. It has everything you need for your intricate woodworking needs. But, it also has some problems.
You may experience the blade falling out of the unit, but if you intend on using it primarily with thicker blades you shouldn’t have problems with this saw. It’s also important to note that the blade issue happens with many keyless-blades changing models. So, if you think this may be an issue you can also try jig saw models that require a key.
Finally, the DCS331B is the best jig saw for anyone who wants a power tool that’s sturdy and built to last. And, it’s the perfect complement for anyone who already has a collection of DeWalt cordless power tools.