DEWALT DC385B Heavy Duty 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)

Reviews of DEWALT DC385B Heavy Duty 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)

1.) Fast shipping
Reviewed by: Joseph Ngo San Marcos,Tx
Rating:
I ordered the product on Sunday and received it on Friday. Also well packaged.

This is an update. I use this often for work, it works great. The only complaint is the blade release is kind of stiff till it worn a little. Plenty of power with four blade positions, it is hard to complain.

2.) already have batteries...this is your saw
Reviewed by: Somanytools Connecticut
Rating:
this is an updated version to the older 18 volt sawzall....and its worth the step up to even if you have an older model. I bought this saw as my older dewalt finally died...or should i say was wounded in battle with a very stubborn beam. Anyhow parts were more than buying this bare tool so for me the purchace was a no brainer.

now for the scoop:

Pros: a bit more compact than the older units

really nice adjustable shoe

two position chuck

reliable and well priced for a bare tool pro unit

cons: this unit will eat thru batteries like you ain't seen...so have plenty of extras...3 is a bare minimun for demo days ...if your a weekend warrior then 2 is fine.

(I must admit that I hesitate to even list this as a con....this is a bare tool and those buying it should aready be familiar with the dewalt line and have a couple batteries....the xrp's are no better or worse for charge or use time than the new nano's...they are however heavier and do not keep a storage charge as well as the lithiums do....that said the amp hour rating is what determines a batteries run time. period....so if you have batteries enjoy... if not then look for combo kit deals. only the every day guys should be concerned with nano-lithiums as the its more of an issue when they are left in the truck without use then in the garage or workshop on a charger. hence this is a 5 star review for a great tool no matter what battery you use.)




3.) great deal
Reviewed by: pyroperson El Cajon, CA United States
Rating:
Advertised as "refurbished" and it may be, but this item appears and runs as new. Had no scratches, dust, dents, wear or anything that would suggest it is refurbished. Doesn't come with a fancy case or battery, but if you don't need those items, it's a good deal

4.) Love this saw.
Reviewed by: Paul Harris
Rating:
First things first: Check with the seller to see if it's the shorter nano base or the longer XPR base. Both types of batteries will work in any 18 volt Dewalt tool, but the shorter nano batteries might look funny if the saw has a longer base, and the old XPR batteries might look funny on the nano base.

Features:

1) 4 blade positions (up, down, left, right)

2) Lock button (black button an inch northeast of the trigger, see picture). This enables you to carry/store the saw with the battery in place without the ability to accidentally pull the trigger and saw something you didn't mean to (your leg, etc).

3) Removable shoe. The round yellow button towards the front allows you to remove the "shoe" (Black metal piece at end of saw).

4) The tool's not that heavy, I cut a high branch off a tree holding the saw with my arm almost vertical without any problem.


Corded vs cordless: I've had a corded sawzall for about ten years. Worked great when I finished my sister's unfinished basement. I used it over and over and over again. If you just want one for demolition work, or any indoor work where there's an outlet, you might want the corded, especially if you'll be using it a lot continuously (won't need to keep recharging batteries).

That said, I've had branches in the yard for years that I never got around to dragging out the 50 or 100 foot extension to use with the corded sawzall. With this cordless Dewalt that I got just a few weeks ago, I've been filling four yard waste cans a week with fallen branches and dead limbs cut with this saw. And no longer will I put 5 foot plus branches out hoping that they take them, just cut them with this saw. It's actually fun (for now at least).

So for a summary of corded vs cordless: If you have a lot of indoor work, maybe get the corded, you won't have to change batteries (and corded are generally more powerful). If you just use it a few minutes at a time, or have a yard with large branches to cut, cordless is the way to go.

For BIG branches, you can get 12 inch blades here: DeWalt DW4804 12-Inch 6 TPI Taper Back Bi-Metal Reciprocating Saw Blade, 5-Pack


Update: As long as the branches aren't too thick,the Black & Decker NPP2018 18-Volt Cordless Electric Pole Chain Saw, 8-Inch Bar is much better at cutting branches. It's faster, quieter, and doesn't vibrate like the sawzalls, and you can reach much higher without a ladder. I doubt you could cut a 7.5 inch diameter branch with it sideways though (I did with the Dewalt "sawzall"). You could try cutting such a branch from a tree straight across, just make sure someone's filming so you can make 600 bucks on one of those video sites when the branch falls the wrong way and destroys your shed/porch/car/etc.

5.) Dewalt Sawzall
Reviewed by: Big Dog Auburn, WA United States
Rating:
This is a great tool! I upgraded from the Ryobi sawzall. The Dewalt has more power, more run time, cuts faster, and is easier to change blades. The quick change feature works excellent and holds the blade very solidly. The only downside is that this is a HEAVY tool. That means it has very solid construction, but you can get tired or fatigued if using it constantly. You really need 2 hands to hold this. I cut through drywall like butter and 2x6 studs very quickly.

6.) Fantastic saw
Reviewed by: James F NJ United States
Rating:
After a less than stellar experience with the Dewalt 18v Rt. angle drill, I exchanged that tool for this one. What a difference! This saw can go the distance. Good job Dewalt.

7.) DeWalt 18V HD cordless recip saw
Reviewed by: carpenter York, PA
Rating:
Quick ship, easy transaction and awesome product...already had numerous batteries and chargers so the tool only orders are great and cost efficient, thanks, Greg

8.) Does the job
Reviewed by: Woodworker Georgetown Texas
Rating:
I did not know if this thing was going to be much of a tool but had some demolition work to do that was far away from an electrical outlet. I did not need to worry because this tool did great. It is heavier and more powerful than I expected from a cordless.

9.) DeWalt is the best
Reviewed by: Adam
Rating:
I bought the DeWalt DC385B 18v Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool, No Battery) and got a great deal! I looked into getting a brand new one for about $200, this one brand new, with no batteries was $65, and since I already had a couple 18v Dewalt batteries I was sold. It works great and the battery lasts long enough for any and all of the jobs I've used it on. It also came with the all purpose wood/metal blade.

10.) Bare Tool DeWalt DC385B 18v Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Reviewed by: ilandlife 2001 Middletown, Delaware USA
Rating:
This tool cuts metal,wood,drywall like butter. This saw is not the cheap version of the one I had. This bad boy is beef-up and heavier.Once in my hands I knew this tool would preform, and I was right. I highly recommend this saw to all.
This was my first internet purchase at Hardware Sales. They had just what I wanted. I didn't need a whole kit or tool plus battery. All I needed was the tool at a fair price fast. Thanks Hardware Sales

11.) I love it!
Reviewed by: Jack of all trades Albany, NY
Rating:
I bought this on Amazon and I love it. It is compact, powerful, and the blade chabges are very easy (easier than my corded Milwakee).

I especially like that you can put the blade in 4 different positions, which really helps this tool to fit into tight spaces and allow me to work at more comfortable angles.

So far, I am very thrilled with this product, and it seems to have much more power than I would have expected from a battery powered device.

12.) Quality Tool
Reviewed by: Hays_Jayhawk Hays, KS
Rating:
I had a first generation DeWalt 18v cordless that lasted 13 years. I replaced it with this bare tool since I already am vested in DeWalt with drills and an impact gun. It runs so much better than the older ones and has many new blade positions. Its just a great tool. Well made.

13.) Amazon and DeWalt, GREAT combo
Reviewed by: A. Blankenship
Rating:
I have used these DeWalt Reciprocating saws on the job for many years and have been very happy with there products. I already had the batteries and charger so this Contractor Special was just what I was looking for. I also purchased the Heavy Duty Two Tool bag at the same time to carry my new saw in. I couldn't be more happy with these products and the exellent service I recieve when I place an order with Amazon. I always receive my merchendise in 3-5 days without a hitch.

14.) Good tool
Reviewed by: John K. Pawlick New Zealand
Rating:
I have been pleased with this DeWalt tool, just like the other tools I have from them. I would recommend this to tradesman or the handyman.

15.) AWesome saw!!!
Reviewed by: Just a guy Westchester, NY
Rating:
This is a great saw. If you already have 18v Dewalt tools, this lets you only buy what you need - no extra batteries or cases. The tool is brand new and comes with instructions, warranty and single 5/6 starter blade.

I used this all afternoon cutting fallen tree branches. It worked in the rain - getting quite wet and abused - like a champ. It never burned out or even slowed down. When the battery is just about done, it goes from 100% strength to 15% strength within about 5 seconds.

This is fairly heavy, so one handed use is possible but not fun in the long term. The blade can be set in all four directions.

This is really a quality tool and I highly recommend it.

16.) Dewalt Sawzall
Reviewed by: J. Cornelius Parker, CO United States
Rating:
Very happy with the product. It was a great deal and is a great tool!

17.) Nice reciprocating saw
Reviewed by: J. R. Yuhas USA
Rating:
A sawzall without a cord is a handy tool to have. I have used it quite a bit so far for prunning tree limbs. I love the fact that you can mount the blade in four different positions. A sawzall is one of those tools that when you need one there is no substitute. Dewalt quality is very good.

18.) Dewalt 18 volt recip saw
Reviewed by: NFS Florida
Rating:
I bought this saw to replace my 5 year old DeWalt saw (it died) that I use on the job. I was impressed by the new saw's features, in particular the tool less blade receptacle that will take the blades in the standard vertical position but also has an added receptacle that accepts the blades horizontally. The shoe can be adjusted in 3 positions out from the saw as well. These are handy features that my old saw lacked.

19.) reciprocating saw-cordless
Reviewed by: retired wheeling wv usa
Rating:
very good saw, handy for quick jobs. run time per battery is not very long

20.) Yeah baby
Reviewed by: Ranman lansing, ny United States
Rating:
Just baught the saw by itself. Cheap $99. I'm glad I got it. You'll be too.

21.) Well engineered but needs new battery chemistry!
Reviewed by: tool fool Tampa, FL United States
Rating:
This is my favorite out of the 4 "sawzalls" (apologies, Milwaukee) I own/have owned. Just so you know its competition here, I have the corded version of this saw, a cordless 18V Ryobi (not bad, all things considered, but definitely not rugged enough for daily use), Makita's LXT Li-Ion version (a real disappointment that one) and this baby. So far this one is my favorite, and, overall, I am extremely pleased with its performance.

What I like about it:
1. Well-balanced
2. Rugged
3. Good power despite being cordless
5. Not too heavy
6. The "chuck" (collet?)

What needs to be improved:
1. The batteries!

The best feature by far is the 4-position quick-release chuck/collet. It allows you to select the usual "up" and "down" blade orientations, of course, but also "left" and "right" ones. The latter two positions really come into their own when flush cutting up against another surface because they place the blade so close to the edge of the shoe/body of the saw. As far as I know, only the Type 2 version of the DC385 has this, so check carefully if buying a reconditioned or auction item.

There are a couple of features I would like to have: orbital cutting and variable stroke length. Orbital cutting allows a recip saw to zip through wood by scooping out the chips as they are cut. Being able to adjust, or at least choose between several settings of stroke length would make cutting into existing walls without binding the blade or poking through the other side much less likely.

The true Achilles' heel of the DeWalt cordless tool line-up is their continued use of Ni-Cd batteries. Pretty much every other manufacturer of pro-grade cordless tools (well, except Hilti) have switched to Ni-MH and/or Li-ion and shown us just how long a cordless tool can run, and how powerful it can be, compared to its corded counterpart. If this tool will be used daily and/or heavily - e.g., roofing, demolition, rough framing and remodeling - then I feel the XRP batteries just won't keep up. You'll need at least 3 batteries to make it through one day of heavy use. If this is the sort of work you do then you'll probably want to take a good long look at DeWalt's 36V or Milwaukee's V28 tools, but if you use a sawzall for a few quick cuts here and there on the job site - e.g., electrician, plumber - then it'll probably work great for you too.

22.) Dewalt Saw
Reviewed by: N. Stuckart Seattle WA USA
Rating:
This is the perfect saw if you don't need the battery pack or a case. I already had an 18 volt cordless drill. I saved a lot of money by buying the saw only and it works great. I didn't need all the tools that come in a set so this was the perfect solution.

23.) Cordless saw
Reviewed by: xfiles Spokane, WA
Rating:
So far it does very well, only disappointment was it didn't come with extra battery, but it was a gift so I can't complain to much. So far like it alot! Definitely need extra battery.

24.) Great Tool
Reviewed by: nemosemail Clover, SC
Rating:
Great tool. Can't wait for battery technology to come around, so that these tools can get a little lighter. Although, this tool is lighter than my old AC powered Porter Cable Sawzall.

25.) Versatile
Reviewed by: Sherlock Holmes
Rating:
I find this tool to be a great help in some every day tasks. I've had it for short time but it's been used to cut limbs from trees that would have required a manual bow saw, roots that an ax couldn't reach on a large stump I'm removing. and miscellaneous rough lumber pieces. Take a look at the Dewalt web site for some insight into how Dewalt builds better tools with metal instead of plastic. I like this tool and the quality.

26.) DeWalt Sawsall
Reviewed by: Freddie
Rating:
This is a top quality saw. I used it for trimming saplings on a trail using a pruning blade. Some trees were up to 3" in diameter. One caution is to have two fully charged batteries. It takes a lot of juice to run the saw and a back up battery is a requirement for a good day in the woods.

27.) Doesn' t fit the battery
Reviewed by: carolen Bloomington, IN USA
Rating:
For the price, I'm pretty satisfied with this saw. The first time I used it, however, I was rather shocked that the battery fell off. It doesn't quit fit the standard DeWalt batteries. I'm now using a bungy cord to keep the battery in place--which makes it easier than holding the battery on to the saw with one hand while using it.

28.) Battery contact broke
Reviewed by: SirElliott Central Washington
Rating:
This saw was part of a combo pack that I purchased. Within a couple of uses the saw would work intermittently. After some trouble shooting I found that one of the battery contacts isn't stiff enough to make contact with the battery. Bending it didn't work because the metal is too weak to stay in place. The service center said that it would take a couple of weeks to get an authorization and then parts. I need this tool everyday. Right now It has a small piece of wood to hold the contact in place.

In 4 months, 2 of the 4 batteries I purchased stopped working. I'm not impressed

29.) I Do Not Trust Maxtool
Reviewed by: Hearing Impairment USA
Rating:
There was trouble with this order from the beginning and 5 weeks later the Maxtool representative stated we have your money now go away. So stay away from them.DeWALT DC385 18V Heavy-Duty Cordless Reciprocating Saw - Tool Only

30.) Useless
Reviewed by: SRT PA
Rating:
Nowhere in the description did it mention the saw came with no power supply which will now cost me an additional $150.00! The saw, without obviously is useless to me!

Features of DEWALT DC385B Heavy Duty 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)

Due to it's 1-1/8-Inch stroke length and fast 3,000 stroke per minute speed, the DeWalt DC385 18V Heavy-Duty Cordless Reciprocating Saw raises the bar for fast portable cutting. The DC385's keyless blade clamp allows the user to change the blade quickly and easily. An electric brake prevents blades from breaking. It is compact & lightweight tool. The cordless saw has an anti-slip comfort grip which provides increased comfort and control while operating. Features: Compatible with all DeWalt 18-volt batteries (XR, XRP, Nano, XRP Li-Ion) 1-1/8-inch stroke length for faster cutting speed     0-3,000 spm for faster cutting speed     4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased versatility     Lever-action keyless blade clamp for quick and easy blade changes     Anti-slip comfort grip provides increased comfort and control     Pivoting adjustable shoe with open top for maximum visibility     Variable speed with trigger lock for increased blade control What's In The Box: DeWalt DC385B 18-Volt Cordless Heavy-Duty Cordlesss Reciprocating Saw - Bare Tool Instruction Booklet Battery, Charger and Case NOT Included

1.) 1-1/8-Inch stroke length for faster cutting speed;
2.) 0-3,000 spm for faster cutting speed;
3.) 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased versatility;
4.) Lever-action keyless blade clamp for quick and easy blade changes;
5.) Anti-slip comfort grip provides increased comfort and control;

Package Height x Length x Width: 18.4 in. x 18.4 in. x 6.1 in.
Package Weight: 6.4 lbs.

Accessories for DEWALT DC385B Heavy Duty 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)