When it comes to high-quality power tools, DeWalt is a name that stands out. In this article, will compare two popular miter saw models from DeWalt: the DW716 and the DWS780. These miter saws are designed to provide precise cuts and reliable performance for a variety of woodworking projects. By examining their features, applications, accessories, and safety measures, you can make an informed decision on which model best suits your needs.
Dewalt DW716
Overview
The DeWalt DW716 is a versatile miter saw designed to provide precise cuts and reliable performance for a variety of woodworking projects. With its powerful motor and cutting capabilities, it offers a range of features to enhance accuracy and ease of use.
Features of the DeWalt DW716
The DeWalt DW716 is a compound miter saw that offers a variety of features designed to enhance its functionality and performance. Here are some notable features of the DeWalt DW716:
- Power and Performance: The DW716 is powered by a robust 15-amp motor, providing ample power for cutting through various materials with ease. It offers a cutting capacity of up to 6-1/2 inches vertically and 2×8 inches horizontally, allowing for versatile cutting applications.
- Compound Miter Capability: This saw features a compound miter system, enabling users to make bevel cuts and miter cuts simultaneously. It offers a bevel range of 0 to 48 degrees to the left and right, allowing for precise angle cuts.
- Dual Bevel Design: The DW716 incorporates a dual bevel design, meaning it can tilt in both directions (left and right) for bevel cuts. This feature enhances its versatility, as it eliminates the need to flip the workpiece to make bevel cuts from the opposite direction.
- Adjustable Miter Detent Plate: The miter detent plate on the DW716 is adjustable, with 11 positive stops for improved accuracy and ease of use. It allows for quick and precise setup of common miter angles, enhancing productivity and consistency in cutting tasks.
- Tall Sliding Fences: The saw is equipped with tall sliding fences that support crown molding vertically, providing increased cutting capacity for larger workpieces. The fences slide out of the way easily for bevel cuts, allowing for efficient operation.
- Cam Lock Miter Handle: The DW716 features a cam lock miter handle, which provides quick and accurate miter angle adjustments. This handle securely locks the miter angle in place, ensuring stability and precision during cutting.
- Lightweight and Portable: Despite its powerful motor and robust construction, the DW716 is designed to be relatively lightweight and portable. It features a compact and ergonomic design, making it easier to transport and maneuver on job sites.
- Dust Collection System: This miter saw incorporates a dust collection system that helps keep the work area clean and minimizes airborne particles. It can be connected to a vacuum or dust collection bag to efficiently capture dust and debris.
Applications, Accessories, And Add-Ons For Dewalt DW716
Applications
The DeWalt DW716 compound miter saw can be used for various applications in woodworking, carpentry, and construction projects. Here are some common applications where the DW716 can be utilized:
- Crosscutting: The DW716 is excellent for making accurate crosscuts in lumber and other materials. It can be used to cut boards, trim, framing materials, and more with precision and efficiency.
- Miter Cuts: With its adjustable miter detent plate and wide miter range, the DW716 is ideal for making miter cuts at different angles. It allows for precise cutting of moldings, picture frames, door and window casings, and other trim work.
- Bevel Cuts: The dual bevel design of the DW716 enables it to make bevel cuts in both directions. This feature is beneficial for tasks like cutting crown molding, baseboards, and other angled cuts.
- Compound Miter Cuts: The combination of miter and bevel capabilities in the DW716 allows for compound miter cuts, which are commonly used in intricate woodworking projects. This feature is particularly useful when creating decorative moldings and furniture pieces.
Accessories and Add-ons
Accessories and add-ons can further enhance the functionality and convenience of the DeWalt DW716. Some notable accessories include:
- Miter Saw Stand: A miter saw stand provides a stable and elevated platform for the DW716, allowing for comfortable and precise cutting. It also improves mobility and provides support for longer workpieces.
- Dado Blade Set: A dado blade set can be used with the DW716 to make dado cuts, which are wide, flat-bottomed grooves. This accessory is handy for tasks like creating dado joints, rabbets, and other specialized cuts.
- Laser Guide System: Adding a laser guide system to the DW716 can help improve cutting accuracy. The laser projects a visible line onto the workpiece, indicating the exact path of the cut.
- Dust Collection Attachment: While the DW716 has a built-in dust collection system, attaching a shop vacuum or a dedicated dust collection attachment can enhance dust and debris extraction, keeping the work area cleaner and improving visibility.
- Workpiece Clamps: Using workpiece clamps or hold-downs can secure the material firmly to the saw’s fence, preventing any movement during cutting and ensuring safer and more precise results.
It’s important to note that some accessories and add-ons may require specific attachments or modifications to be compatible with the DW716. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions when selecting and installing accessories for the saw.
Pros and Cons of the DeWalt DW716
Pros of the DeWalt DW716:
- Power and Performance: The DW716 features a robust 15-amp motor, providing ample power for cutting through various materials with ease. Its cutting capacity allows for versatile applications in woodworking and construction projects.
- Compound Miter Capability: With its compound miter system, the DW716 enables users to make bevel cuts and miter cuts simultaneously. This feature enhances efficiency and precision in cutting tasks.
- Dual Bevel Design: The dual bevel feature of the DW716 allows the saw to tilt in both directions, eliminating the need to flip the workpiece when making bevel cuts from the opposite direction. It enhances versatility and saves time.
- Adjustable Miter Detent Plate: The adjustable miter detent plate with positive stops makes it easy to set up common miter angles accurately. It enhances productivity and consistency in cutting tasks.
- Tall Sliding Fences: The tall sliding fences on the DW716 support crown molding vertically, providing increased cutting capacity for larger workpieces. They can be easily adjusted and help maintain stability during cutting.
- Portability: Despite its power and performance, the DW716 is relatively lightweight and portable. Its compact design and ergonomic handles make it easier to transport and maneuver on job sites.
Cons of the DeWalt DW716
- Limited Cutting Capacity: While the DW716 offers a decent cutting capacity, there may be instances where it falls short for larger or more demanding cutting tasks. In such cases, a larger saw with a greater cutting capacity may be required.
- Dust Collection Efficiency: While the DW716 has a dust collection system, some users may find that it doesn’t capture all the dust and debris generated during cutting. Additional measures, such as using a shop vacuum or dust collection attachment, may be necessary for optimal dust control.
- Cost: Compared to some other miter saw models in the market, the DW716 can be relatively expensive. It may not be the most budget-friendly option for users who have limited funds or require a basic miter saw for occasional use.
- Noise and Vibration: Like many power tools, the DW716 can produce noise and vibrations during operation. While it is within the expected range for a miter saw, it’s important to use appropriate hearing protection and ensure a stable work surface to minimize vibration.
- Availability of Accessories: While the DW716 is compatible with various accessories, some users may find that certain accessories or add-ons specifically designed for their needs are not readily available or may require additional modifications.
Overall, the DeWalt DW716 is a powerful and versatile compound miter saw with several notable features. It provides reliable performance for a range of cutting applications, but potential limitations should be considered based on specific project requirements and budget constraints.
The Dewalt DWS780
Overview
The Dewalt DWS780 is a professional-grade miter saw designed to deliver accurate and efficient cuts. It is a versatile tool suitable for both professional contractors and woodworking enthusiasts.
Features of the Dewalt DWS780
- Powerful Motor: The Dewalt DWS780 is equipped with a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers high-performance cutting for various applications.
- Cutting Capacity: With its 12-inch blade, the DWS780 offers impressive cutting capacity. It can make crosscuts up to 2 x 16 inches and miter cuts up to 2 x 12 inches, allowing for a wide range of cutting tasks.
- XPS Cross-Cut Positioning System: The standout feature of the DWS780 is the XPS cross-cut positioning system. This innovative system casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece, providing a precise cutting guide without the need for a laser. It enhances cutting accuracy and visibility, ensuring precise and clean cuts every time.
- Bevel Capacity: The DWS780 offers bevel cutting capacity up to 49 degrees in both directions, allowing for a wide range of bevel cuts. This flexibility enables users to tackle various cutting angles and achieve precise bevel cuts for their projects.
- Tall Sliding Fence: The tall sliding fence of the DWS780 supports crown molding up to 7-1/2 inches nested and base molding up to 6-3/4 inches vertically. This feature facilitates precise miter cuts, making it ideal for trim carpentry and crown molding installations.
- Stainless Steel Miter Detent Plate: The durable stainless steel miter detent plate features 10 positive stops, providing accurate and repeatable cutting angles. This feature allows for quick and easy setup when making common miter cuts.
- Dust Collection System: The DWS780 is equipped with a dust collection system that allows you to connect a vacuum or dust extractor. This feature helps keep your work area clean and minimizes airborne particles for a healthier working environment.
- Integrated Cutline Blade Positioning System: The integrated cutline blade positioning system provides an adjustable LED light that casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece. This feature improves visibility and allows for precise alignment when making cuts.
- Durable Construction: The DWS780 features a rugged construction, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability. It is built to withstand the demands of professional use and challenging job site conditions.
- Versatile Applications: The Dewalt DWS780 is suitable for various applications, including trim carpentry, cabinet making, furniture making, flooring installation, deck building, and general woodworking projects.
- Safety Features: Similar to the DW716, the DWS780 incorporates essential safety features, including a blade guard that covers the blade when not in use and an electric brake that rapidly stops the blade for added user protection.
Applications of DeWalt DWS780
- Trim Carpentry: The DWS780 is well-suited for precision cutting of trim materials such as baseboards, crown molding, and window casings.
- Cabinet Making: With its accurate cutting capabilities, the DWS780 can handle various cabinet components, including shelves, panels, and face frames.
- Furniture Making: The DWS780 is capable of making precise cuts for furniture components like table legs, chair rails, and cabinet doors.
- Flooring Installation: Whether it’s hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring, the DWS780 can assist in making accurate cuts for a professional installation.
- Deck Building: The DWS780 is suitable for cutting deck boards and railing components, ensuring clean and precise cuts for a well-constructed deck.
- Renovation and Remodeling Projects: The DWS780 is a reliable tool for various renovation and remodeling tasks, including cutting materials like drywall, plywood, and trim for room transformations.
Accessories and Add-ons for Dewalt DWS780
- Dewalt Miter Saw Stand: Enhance stability and support for your DWS780 with a compatible Dewalt miter saw stand, allowing for convenient and secure operation.
- Dewalt Miter Saw Blades: Choose from a variety of Dewalt miter saw blades designed for different materials and cutting applications, ensuring optimal performance and clean cuts.
- Extension Wings: Extension wings provide additional support and stability when working with larger workpieces or longer materials, improving accuracy and safety.
- Miter Saw Laser System: Add a laser guide system to your DWS780 for enhanced cutting precision and accuracy, allowing for improved alignment and reducing the need for manual marking.
- Workpiece Clamps: Workpiece clamps provide added stability and security when cutting longer or larger materials, ensuring precise and safe cuts.
- Digital Angle Finder: A digital angle finder can assist in measuring and setting precise angles for bevel cuts on the DWS780, ensuring accuracy and consistency in your work.
Pros and Cons of Dewalt DWS780
Pros:
- XPS cross-cut positioning system for enhanced cutting accuracy and visibility
- Powerful motor for efficient cutting
- Impressive cutting capacity for versatile applications
- Tall sliding fence for precise miter cuts
- Durable stainless steel miter detent plate with positive stops
- Dust collection system for a cleaner work area
Cons:
- Higher price compared to other models
- Limited availability in some regions
Head-To-Head Comparison: Dewalt DW716 vs. DWS780
Comparison Table
| Value | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DWS780 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DWS780 |
| Best For | General woodworking and construction | Professional woodworking and carpentry |
| Motor Power | 15 amps | 15 amps |
| Cutting Capacity | 6-1/2″ vertical, 2×8″ horizontal | 6-3/4″ vertical, 2×16″ horizontal |
| Blade Speed | 3,800 RPM | 3,800 RPM |
| Blade Diameter | 12 inches | 12 inches |
| Blade Size | 5/8 inches | 1 inch |
| Bevel Capacity | 0-48 degrees (left and right) | 0-49 degrees (left and right) |
| Tall Sliding Fence | Yes | Yes |
| XPS Laser Guide | No | Yes |
| Dust Collection | Yes | Yes |
| Depth Stop | Yes | Yes |
| LED | No | Yes |
| Bore Size | 1 inch | 1 inch |
| Net Weight | 44 pounds | 56 pounds |
| Dimensions | 22.75″ x 19.5″ x 17.75″ | 33″ x 23.8″ x 18.8″ |
| Cord Length | 6 feet | 6 feet |
| Safety Features | Blade guard, electric brake, spindle lock | Blade guard, electric brake, spindle lock |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Please note that the information provided is based on general specifications and may vary depending on specific models and versions of the DeWalt DW716 and DWS780. It’s always recommended to refer to the product documentation or contact the manufacturer for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Difference Table: Dewalt DW716 vs. DWS780
Here’s a table highlighting the differences between the DeWalt DW716 and the DeWalt DWS780:
| Value | DeWalt DW716 | DeWalt DWS780 |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Capacity | 6-1/2″ vertical, 2×8″ horizontal | 6-3/4″ vertical, 2×16″ horizontal |
| Blade Size | 5/8 inches | 1 inch |
| Bevel Capacity | 0-48 degrees (left and right) | 0-49 degrees (left and right) |
| XPS Laser Guide | No | Yes |
| LED | No | Yes |
| Net Weight | 44 pounds | 56 pounds |
| Dimensions | 22.75″ x 19.5″ x 17.75″ | 33″ x 23.8″ x 18.8″ |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
These are the key differences between the DeWalt DW716 and the DeWalt DWS780.
Safety Measures For Dewalt DW716 vs. DWS780
Both the DeWalt DWS716 and the DWS780 are equipped with safety features to ensure user protection during operation. These safety measures include:
- Blade Guard: Both models have a blade guard that covers the blade when not in use, preventing accidental contact and reducing the risk of injuries.
- Electric Brake: The electric brake feature in both models quickly stops the blade’s rotation after releasing the trigger, enhancing safety and reducing the chance of accidents.
- Workpiece Clamp: Although not included in the features mentioned earlier, both the DW716 and the DWS780 offer a workpiece clamp to secure the material being cut, providing stability and reducing the risk of kickbacks.
These safety measures contribute to a safer working environment, allowing users to operate the miter saws with confidence.
Safety Measures For Dewalt DW716 vs. DWS780
When working with miter saws, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some safety measures to follow when using the Dewalt DWS780 or DWS709:
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses, ear protection, and appropriate clothing to protect yourself from debris and noise.
- Secure the Workpiece: Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped or held in place to prevent it from moving during the cutting process.
- Keep Hands Clear: Keep your hands clear of the blade path and the cutting area at all times to avoid accidental contact with the blade.
- Use the Blade Guard: Make sure the blade guard is properly adjusted and functioning. Never remove or disable the blade guard during operation.
- Wait for the Blade to Stop: Allow the blade to come to a complete stop before making any adjustments or removing the workpiece.
- Use a Dust Collection System: Connect a dust collection system or wear a dust mask to minimize the inhalation of dust and maintain a clean working environment.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines provided in the user manual before operating the miter saw.
Following these safety measures will help ensure a safe and productive woodworking experience with the Dewalt DWS780 or DWS709 miter saws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is The Dewalt DW716 A Dual Bevel Saw?
No, the DeWalt DW716 is a compound miter saw with a single bevel capability.
Can I Use A Laser Guide With The DeWalt DW716?
No, the DeWalt DW716 does not have a built-in laser guide or compatibility for attaching one.
Does The DeWalt DWS780 Come With An Xps Laser Guide?
Yes, the DeWalt DWS780 comes equipped with the XPS (Crosscut Positioning System) laser guide.
Can I Connect A Dust Collection System To Both The DW716 and DWS780?
Yes, both the DW716 and DWS780 have provisions for connecting a dust collection system to help manage dust and debris during cutting.
What Is The Warranty Period For The DW716 and DWS780?
Both the DW716 and DWS780 come with a 3-year limited warranty from DeWalt.
Are The Blades Interchangeable Between The DW716 and DWS780?
Yes, the DW716 and DWS780 both use 12-inch blades, so the blades are interchangeable between the two models.
What Is The Maximum Cutting Capacity Of The DW716 and DWS780?
The DW716 has a vertical cutting capacity of 6-1/2 inches and a horizontal cutting capacity of 2×8 inches. The DWS780 has a vertical cutting capacity of 6-3/4 inches and a horizontal cutting capacity of 2×16 inches.
Is The DWS780 Significantly Heavier Than The DW716?
Yes, the DWS780 weighs 56 pounds, which is slightly heavier than the DW716, which weighs 44 pounds.
Conclusion
The DeWalt DW716 and DWS780 are both reliable and robust compound miter saws, but they cater to different needs. The DW716 is a dual bevel compound miter saw that offers accuracy and efficiency, suitable for most woodworking tasks. The DWS780, on the other hand, integrates the advanced XPS cross-cut positioning system which provides adjustment-free cut line indication, making it more versatile for precision jobs. Furthermore, the DWS780 has more advanced features, including better dust collection and increased cutting capacity. For professionals and those requiring advanced features for intricate projects, the DWS780 is the better choice, while the DW716 may suffice for more straightforward tasks.
