DeWalt 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless Compact Reciprocating Saw DCS367
Quick Takes
4-position blade clamp
Easy lever-action blade release
Increased performance compared to one-handed compact models
Good for working between studs or in limited access areas
Bright LED to illuminate work area
Heavier than other compact reciprocating saws
Lack of vibration reduction
Lacks blade ejection that some other brands compact models include
Real Talk
DeWalt totes the 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless Compact Reciprocating saw as being designed to cut in between studs and in other tight spots more easily than with a traditional reciprocating saw, which makes it a great choice for re-modelers, HVAC, plumbers and electricians. This saw sacrifices a little bit of cutting speed and power for a much more compact and lightweight design when compared to those traditional reciprocating saw models. For even tighter spaces, you will be better served with a one-handed reciprocating saw but what you gain in access you will again trade off in speed. To put it plainly, if you’re going to be cutting some 2x4s and other framing or some conduits, and accessing the area with a full size reciprocating saw will be difficult, then this is a great alternative.
A key feature to me on this saw is the 4-position blade clamp. This adds to the saws versatility and allows you to face the blade in any direction and squeeze the saw into tighter spaces, which is extremely helpful. Another huge plus in my opinion is the side lever blade release, I prefer this release method over wedging my fingers behind the shoe to twist the collar like some other models have incorporated.
This DeWalt compact reciprocating saw has a commendable 1-1/8 in. stroke length that helps it chew through material quickly, however it does not include an orbital setting which could increase the cutting speed even more.
Another feature that is missing is a true adjustable speed control. DeWalt does include a variable speed trigger, think impact driver or cordless drill where pulling the trigger part way starts the tool working at a slower speed, however when you’re wedged into a tight spot and holding the saw out with two hands it’s easier said than done to only squeeze the trigger partially. A nice dial setting similar to several oscillating multi-tools, sanders, routers etc. would be a welcome addition to this reciprocating saw on future models.
Coming in right at 5 lbs. bare weight (no battery) this saw falls right in-line with the rest of the compact reciprocating saw group. As you would expect it’s lighter than a full-size model and heavier than the compact one-handed models.
Pricing
As of writing this, you can pick up the bare tool for $153.47, or as a kit with a charger and (1) 5.0 Ah battery included for $259.99.
What’s Missing
This compact reciprocating saw does not include orbital action, nor does it have adjustable speed (other than the variable speed trigger). It also does not have an adjustable shoe or a rafter hook.
Final Takeaways
The DeWalt DCS367 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion Cordless Brushless Compact Reciprocating saw is an excellent choice for re-modelers, HVAC, plumbers and electricians who need to cut standard thin(ish) materials in between studs or other tight spaces. If you’re looking for the fastest cutting compact reciprocating saw buy it, if you’re looking for reduced vibration or an orbital function pass on this one.
