DeWALT DW705 – An Impressive Saw
From time to time we like to share with our readers the good and bad about specific power tools. Sometimes manufacturers get it completely right and sometimes manufacturers get it completely wrong. We feel that the DW705 is a great saw. Here is what we like about it:
The DeWalt DW705 Heavy-Duty 12†Compound Miter Saw is a power saw with precision cutting. At nearly $300 retail, it is a little more expensive than some other brands. We think it is well worth the extra cost – it’s an investment that will give you precise and consistent cuts for years. With a 15 Amp motor and 4000 RPM, you are sure to have the power you need.
The 12†blade (part# DW3123) gives you more versatility in cutting than the 10†blade. The cut capacity of the saw miters 48 degrees to the left and right with solid detents at 15, 22.5, 30, 45, and 0 degrees both directions. The detents make it very easy to cut quickly at commonly used angles. The secondary angle does not have detents, but we’ve found it to be easily adjustable. It bevels 48 degrees to the left and 3 degrees to the right.
The DW705 comes fully assembled right out of the box, and it includes a 12†diameter saw blade, a blade wrench in a wrench pocket, a side table extension kit and dust bag. The horizontal trigger caught us off guard at first, but after using it for a while, we found we preferred it to the vertical trigger.
Some find the DW705 heavy at 40 lbs, while others find it to be light for a miter saw. The addition of a workbench will certainly add to the weight and bulk when moving. This saw has an oversized “D†handle. For you lefties out there who find standard tool features limiting, it gives a big surface to hold onto, and you may find it more comfortable than the pistol grip.
The electric brake stops the blade the moment your finger leaves the trigger, so there is little wasted time getting the saw ready to go again. While there is a retractable blade safety cover to help prevent accidents, there is no extra safety button on the tool, so be careful when working with it.
The most common problem we’ve found is the electric brake. If you are having problems, the brushes (147097-05) or switch (391926-00) are cheap and easy to replace. If that doesn’t fix the problem, cleaning the commutator on the armature may help. The connection between the brushes and the commutator must be good for the brake to work.
Bearings and gears do wear out occasionally as well, so make sure you keep an eye on those to make sure your saw stays in top condition.
The DW705 a high-end tool that’s easy to use for the average DIYer while being tough enough for the contractor, and it has continually impressed us.
