DEWALT DWS716 Miter Saw Review Powerful Double-Bevel Compound for Precision Cuts

Description

Positives of the DEWALT Double-Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Using the DEWALT Miter Saw, Double-Bevel, Compound, 12-Inch, 15-Amp (DWS716), I noticed several standout features that truly make this tool shine for anyone serious about woodworking or professional carpentry. This saw is powered by a 15 Amp motor driving 3,800 RPM, which means it slices through materials like a hot knife through butter. The stainless-steel miter detent plate with 14 positive stops impressed me the most, offering repeatable accuracy that I could rely on for precise cuts without constantly recalibrating. The cam lock miter handle makes adjusting angles quick and easy, something I appreciated during longer projects.

The tall sliding fences support large crown molding up to 6-5/8 inches nested and base molding up to 6-1/2 inches vertically, which made handling larger trim pieces much less of a headache. Plus, the lightweight design and built-in carry handle made moving the saw around my workshop surprisingly effortless for a tool this powerful.

• Powerful 15 Amp motor with 3,800 RPM for clean, smooth cuts
• 14 positive stops on the miter detent plate for consistent accuracy
• Tall sliding fences accommodate large crown and base moldings

Areas of Concern

Despite the many strengths, a few things gave me pause. The weight of 48.3 pounds, while manageable, felt a bit cumbersome when I had to move it around repeatedly during a busy day. For a “lightweight” claim, I expected something closer to 30-35 pounds. Another snag was the dust collection system. Although the high-efficiency dust duct targets dust at the cut point, it still left quite a bit of fine dust around the work area, meaning I had to do extra cleaning after each session.

The battery-powered feature is a bit misleading. It actually requires a power cord, which limits portability if you’re not near an outlet. Also, the blade included is carbide-tipped and 12 inches, which works great for most jobs, but I found it less ideal for ultra-fine finish cuts compared to some specialty blades I own.

• Heavier than expected for a “lightweight” saw
• Dust collection could be more effective
• Not truly cordless—needs power outlet nearby

Performance and Precision

The saw’s double-bevel design allows bevel cuts from 0 to 48 degrees on both left and right sides, which is a fantastic feature for complex trim work and compound angles. I enjoyed the smooth sliding action, which lets you cut wider boards without struggle. The miter capacity of 0 to 50 degrees left and right covers practically every angle I needed for framing and molding tasks.

The 80-tooth blade delivers clean cuts, but for super delicate trim, I swapped it out for a blade with more teeth. The cam miter lock system worked flawlessly; I could quickly adjust and lock angles with confidence, a huge time saver when switching between different cuts. Repeatability was a highlight here—the saw gave me consistent results across multiple cuts.

Versatility and Usability

This tool’s versatility impressed me. Supporting 6-5/8-inch nested crown molding and 6-1/2-inch base molding vertically means it can handle most home improvement and professional finish carpentry jobs without a hitch. The vertical clamp keeps materials secure, which I found essential for safety and precision.

The built-in carry handle is handy, but carrying it across rough terrain or uneven surfaces still requires some strength due to its weight. The saw’s dimensions (about 27 x 22 x 20 inches) make it relatively compact for a sliding miter saw, but you’ll need a sturdy workbench for it.

Alternative Offerings

Comparing this model to other popular miter saws, such as the Bosch GCM12SD or Makita LS1019L, the DEWALT stands out for its robust motor and double-bevel capability. The Bosch offers slightly better dust collection, and the Makita is lighter, but DEWALT’s positive stop system and cam lock handle provide unmatched accuracy and ease of use.

In contrast, some competitors boast cordless options, which are more convenient for portability, but they typically compromise on power and run time. For pure power and precision on a corded saw, this one holds its ground well.

Price Worthiness

Assessing the value for money, this saw sits in a mid-to-high price range for a compound miter saw. Given its durability, powerful 15 Amp motor, and precision features, I believe it delivers solid bang for the buck. People who need a reliable saw for framing, molding, and detailed carpentry will find it a smart investment. However, casual users or hobbyists might find it a bit hefty and expensive compared to simpler models.

The limited warranty provides peace of mind, which is important when investing in power tools. Considering its build quality and features, the saw justifies its price point if you frequently work on projects requiring precision cuts.

Build Quality and Design

The stainless steel components and brushed finish give this saw a professional and rugged look. The detent plate and handle feel durable, and the overall construction exudes reliability. The sliding fences are solid and don’t flex under pressure, which is crucial for accuracy.

Though it’s labeled “battery powered,” the real-world application is corded, so if portability is a must, this might be misleading. The rectangular blade shape and carbide tips stand up well to heavy use, but swapping blades isn’t the smoothest process — the wrench included is necessary but could be more ergonomic.

User Experience and Practical Notes

My family, especially my son who’s just getting into woodworking, found this saw quite user-friendly. The positive stops at common angles like 0, 22.5, 33.9, and 45 degrees made it easy for him to execute cuts without much supervision. The dust bag, while helpful, doesn’t catch everything, so safety goggles and a mask are still a must.

I appreciated the thoughtful design around angle adjustments and clamping, which saved me time and reduced frustration. However, the saw’s weight and need for a power outlet mean it’s better suited to a fixed workspace rather than on-the-go jobs.

This DEWALT model impresses with its power, precision, and versatility, making it a solid choice for professionals and serious DIYers. Yet, the weight, dust collection, and portability factors are worth considering before making a purchase.

Additional information