Move along, move along… nothing to see here. That was the apparent mantra of the DeWALT DW718 sliding dual miter saw. It was almost as if DeWALT wanted us to go look at the competition. We tried very hard to find some redeeming qualities about the rugged DW718, but aside from its exceptional build quality there wasn't much to impress us with. Miter adjustments are the same as with their entry level models - almost painful in comparison to more refined systems like the Ridgid MS1290LZA. A locking lever holds the miter angle once you arrive at the correct position. Tension for this control (which in our experience tends to drift over time) is adjustable from below the saw. The bevel angles are almost obscured and are comprised of very small numbers hidden almost underneath the rear detent plate. From the normal operating position they are very hard to see, so most will find themselves contorting themselves to set the correct angles. The saw has a smoked blade guard that obscures the cut and the DW7187 laser system is an optional add-on.

The DW718 is able to cut a 2x16 piece of wood by removing the normal fence and resting the wood on a platform to elevate it so that it connects with the back fence. The miter saw also extends 60 degrees left and 50 degrees right, giving it a wide range of motion. The +/- 48 degree bevel also means that you'll be able to complete most any cut without having to flip over your wood.

Conclusion

Don't get us wrong, this 15 amp 3600 rpm saw is a solid performer and will get the work done. It's just that the competition is starting to heat up in this segment of the market and DeWalt hasn't yet adapted its product to keep up with growing expectations of consumers. One final positive note: this is one of the lightest sliding compound miter saws on the planet - weighing in at just 53 lbs.

About Dewalt Tools:
Today the DEWALT Power Tools line consists of over 200 electric power tools and over 800 accessories including: drills and hammer drills; screwdrivers; circular, chop, miter, table, reciprocating, and jig saws; planers; impact wrenches; die, angle, and bench grinders; shears; nibblers; sanders; laminate trimmers; routers, and plate joiners.