DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw Review Powerful Cordless Tool with Keyless Blade Change

Description

Robust Design and Build Quality

Testing the DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw, Tool Only (DCS331B) revealed that its all-metal lever-action keyless blade clamp is a serious upgrade from older models I’ve used. This feature makes switching blades a breeze—no fumbling with screws or tools. The all-metal keyless shoe bevel, adjustable with detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, impressed me with its precision and ease of use. The rugged construction feels solid in hand, and the rubberized handle provides a comfortable, anti-slip grip that reduces fatigue during longer cutting sessions. Whether working on wood or metal, the tool exudes durability without feeling bulky, weighing in at a manageable 5.56 pounds.

Performance and Versatility

The variable speed trigger offers control from a gentle crawl up to a rapid 3,000 strokes per minute (SPM), which I found invaluable when switching between delicate curves and aggressive cuts. The jigsaw’s 4-position orbital action lets me adjust the blade’s movement for different materials, enhancing cut quality for wood and speeding up tasks on softer materials. This versatility means it handles everything from thin plywood to sheet metal with surprising ease. The included carbon steel blades (two, in fact) held up well, especially with the T-shank blade compatibility ensuring a secure fit during intensive cuts.

User-Friendly Features

I appreciated the adjustable dust blower, which cleared sawdust from the cut line, keeping my vision clear and my cuts accurate. The removable shoe cover also protects surfaces from scratches, which is a thoughtful addition for working on finished or delicate materials. The keyless blade change mechanism not only simplifies swapping blades but also saves time when switching between tasks. This jigsaw runs on a 20V battery, which I had to source separately, but it’s compatible with other DEWALT 20V tools I own, making battery management straightforward.

Positive Features

• Quick and tool-free blade changes thanks to the all-metal lever-action blade clamp
• Versatile bevel adjustments with four precise detent settings
• Variable speed range up to 3,000 SPM for handling diverse materials
• Effective dust blower keeps the workspace clean and visible

This combination of precision, control, and ease-of-use makes the jigsaw a reliable go-to for both DIY projects and professional tasks.

Limitations

• The tool is sold as “tool only,” meaning the battery and charger are not included, which could add to the initial investment.
• The weight, while reasonable, could feel a bit heavy for extended overhead or fine-detail work, especially for those not used to power tools.
• The dust blower, while helpful, doesn’t eliminate all debris, so some cleanup is still necessary to maintain a clear cut line.
• Although the blade change is effortless, the absence of a blade storage compartment on the tool itself means keeping spare blades organized falls entirely on the user.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the jigsaw’s performance and features outweigh the inconveniences.

Alternative Offerings

Comparing this unit to other cordless jigsaws like the Makita XVJ03Z or Bosch JS120B, the DEWALT jig saw stands out for its all-metal, tool-free blade clamp and more versatile bevel adjustment settings. Makita offers a lighter model that some might prefer for intricate work, but it lacks the robust metal construction that gives this DEWALT tool its durability edge. Bosch models, while affordable, often fall short on speed variability and orbital action options, limiting their versatility on different materials.

The DEWALT’s compatibility with a wide range of T-shank blades and its adjustable dust blower also give it an advantage for users who want cleaner cuts and quick blade swaps without fuss. However, some competitors bundle batteries and chargers, which might appeal to first-time cordless tool buyers looking for an all-in-one package.

Value Proposition

Considering its solid build, extensive features, and performance capabilities, this jigsaw offers strong value for money for anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking. The price to quality ratio leans in favor of the buyer, especially if they already own compatible 20V batteries from the brand’s ecosystem. For those needing a reliable, durable, and versatile cordless jigsaw, investing in this model feels like getting your money’s worth.

It doesn’t come cheap compared to basic models, but the extra features like the 4-position orbital action and precise bevel adjustments justify the investment. Users who plan to use the jigsaw frequently will appreciate how the tool handles varied cuts without sacrificing control or comfort.

Handling and Comfort

The anti-slip comfort grip is a standout feature for me. It reduces hand strain and provides a solid grip even when my hands were sweaty or dusty. The balance of the tool, combined with its ergonomic design, makes it easier to maneuver during intricate cuts. However, I noticed that the weight distribution could feel a little front-heavy during prolonged use, which might affect precision for some users.

The variable speed trigger responds smoothly to pressure changes, allowing gradual acceleration, which is perfect for delicate cuts or when working close to edges. This feature alone makes a difference in the quality of the finished workpiece.

Summarizing the Positive Features

• Durable all-metal construction with easy bevel adjustments
• Variable speed up to 3,000 SPM and 4 orbital settings for precision
• Keyless blade changes that save time and hassle
• Dust blower and removable shoe cover for cleaner, scratch-free work

Summarizing the Negative Features

• Battery and charger sold separately, increasing overall cost
• Relatively heavy for detailed or overhead tasks
• Dust blower doesn’t fully clear all debris
• No onboard blade storage for quick access to spares

My family, especially my teenage son who has just started exploring woodworking, found this jigsaw easy to handle and versatile enough for various projects around the house. It’s a tool that suits both novices and pros, with enough features to keep up with demanding tasks but intuitive enough for beginners to learn quickly.

Additional information