DeWalt 20V Max XR Reciprocating Saw Features Improved Vibration Control
Back in 2021, DeWalt released the 20V Max DCS382 and paired it with their advanced pouch cell PowerStack battery, boosting the overall performance. However, this isn’t the first time DeWalt has paired a reciprocating saw with advanced batteries in order to reap performance benefits, namely the 20V Max FlexVolt Advantage DCS386 and 60V FlexVolt DCS389. Now we’ve set our sights on the latest DeWalt 20V Max XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw (DCS384) to see how the tabless PowerPack battery and improved vibration control impact performance.
Pros
- Comfortable ergonomics
- Reduced vibration level
- Kit includes an advanced PowerPack battery
- Compact profile
- Lever-action blade release
- Pivoting shoe
- Brushless motor
Cons
- No selectable orbital action
DeWalt 20V Max XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Performance
- No-Load Speed: 3,000 SPM
- Stroke Length: 1-1/8 in.
Cutting Power
Rounding out DeWalt’s new wave of next-generation core tools is the DCS364 20V Max XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw. DeWalt claims this is its fastest-cutting reciprocating saw with a 1 1/8-inch stroke length and operating at 3000 SPM. They also say to expect up to 102 cuts per charge with the kitted 8Ah PowerPack battery.
During our hands-on testing, this saw easily powered through standard 2x materials and nail-embedded wood. Unsurprisingly, steel tubing, PVC, and EMT conduit put up little resistance.
That information is all well and good, but what we really wanted to find out is how this saw compares to its 60V FlexVolt counterpart. For this part of our testing, I set up a pine 2×10 board and alternated between the two saws to see if I could spot any glaring differences.
In total honesty, the differences in cutting speed and quality were negligible, but the vibration was slightly lower on the DCS384. DeWalt still hasn’t quite surpassed the Makita 40V max XGT GRJ02 in terms of vibration control this time, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction.
Vibration control has been a particular pain point for DeWalt in the past. However, DeWalt tells us that the DCS384 uses a new internal counterbalance mechanism to limit vibration when cutting through various materials. While it’s hard to measure in any real, quantifiable way, we’re glad to see that DeWalt is making some positive changes to improve this characteristic.
As of right now, DeWalt still doesn’t have a reciprocating saw with orbital action in their lineup, but we’re hoping to see it on future models.
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Reciprocating Saw Design Notes
- Model: DeWalt DCS384
- Power Source: DeWalt 20V battery
- Weight: 7.7 lbs (bare tool), 9.9 lbs (with kitted PowerPack 8.0Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 17.6 in.
Ergonomics
As far as looks and feel are concerned, the DeWalt DCS384 maintains a classic, no-frills design. The tool body is covered with a generous amount of rubber overmold to help dampen vibration and provide extra comfort as you work.
The DCS384 weighs 7.7 pounds as a bare tool and 9.9 pounds with the kitted 8.0Ah PowerPack battery. The tool body measures 17.6 inches from tip to tail, which is fairly compact for a reciprocating saw.
Blade Changes
Looking at the business end, DeWalt employs a lever-action blade release system. This is a carry-over from previous models, but it makes swapping out blades fast and easy. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a spring-loaded assist to eject hot blades, but that’s not a deal breaker for us.
Additional Features
- Tool-Connect chip ready
- Pivoting shoe
- LED work light
- Trigger lock
- Compatible with all DeWalt 20V and FlexVolt batteries
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless Reciprocating Saw Price
The DeWalt DCS384 retails for $279 as a bare tool and $349 as a kit. The kit includes an 8.0Ah PowerPack battery and charger. DeWalt backs this saw with a 3-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the DeWalt DCS384 is a solid addition to the 20V Max XR lineup, offering reliable cutting power with noticeably improved vibration control and a user-friendly design. While the lack of orbital action leaves room for improvement, our testing proved that this saw still has plenty of power to easily get through tough materials. If you’re on the hunt for a no-nonsense saw for your next project, the DeWalt DCS384 is worthy of your consideration.
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