Chop saws are essential tools for framers, pipe fitters, metalworkers, and anyone who needs to make cuts in a hurry. Unlike miter saws, most chop saws don’t offer anything other than a basic straight cut. But depending on the blade you use, you can slice through metal, plastic, wood, or masonry. Let’s take a look at two pro favorites from DEWALT to see which one will be the best for you.
DEWALT D28715 14-Inch Quick-Change Chop Saw
One of the best features of the DEWALT D28715 is its quick-change blade system. You don’t need a wrench or any other tools. That’s really nice when you need to swap blades frequently, or when blade wrenches tend to disappear from your workshop.
Another top feature on the D28715 is the quick-lock vise grip system. Again, you don’t need tools to clamp the material into place. It only takes a couple of seconds to secure the next item for cutting.
The next part of the D28715 saw makes it stand out from much of the competition. The quick-fence system pivots into place to allow 45-degree angle cuts. This time, you’ll need the included fence wrench to make the adjustments. But you can also weld your own jigs or stops onto the steel saw base.
So what can you cut with DEWALT’s D28715 chop saw? You can slice through PVC and metal pipe, angle iron, wooden trusses and studs, and even some paving bricks. It cuts round material up to 5 inches in diameter, or rectangular pieces up to 4-1/2 x 6-1/2-inches in size.
The saw comes with a 14-inch abrasive cut-off wheel made for cutting metal, but you can change it for a cold-cut blade if you wish. When you use the abrasive wheel, the adjustable spark guard keeps sparks directed away from you.
Finally, the 15Amp 5.5 HP motor has a top no-load speed of 4,000rm. It can tackle most materials with impressive speed. And when your workday is complete, the D28715 saw is easy to transport. It weighs only 39 pounds and comes with its own carrying handle on top.
More features of the DEWALT D28715 chop saw:
- Covered by DEWALT’s 90-day money-back guarantee, 1-year free service contract, and 3-year limited warranty
- Has a lockdown pin to secure saw head for carrying or transportation
DEWALT D28710 14-Inch Abrasive Chop Saw
While the DEWALT D28710 chop saw doesn’t have a tool-free blade change system like the D28715, it has a larger cut capacity. It cuts rectangular materials up to 4 by 7-5/8-inches in size. When you cut round pipes, the capacity is the same, 5-inches in diameter.
The motor on this saw is a little less powerful than that of the other one. It tops out at 4HP and 3800rpm. But it does come with built-in overload protection so it won’t burn out when you working on tough jobs.
The D28710 comes with a 14-inch abrasive cutoff wheel. If you desire to change it, the onboard blade wrench storage keeps your tool close at hand. When you cut metal, you’ll see the sparks fly with this blade. But the adjustable spark guard will keep your work area safe.
While the quick-lock vise grip lets you clamp various-sized materials in seconds, the D28710 saw also has a pivoting fence. This means you can make 45-degree angle cuts, too. Plus, the steel base is designed to allow you to weld on jigs or stops to customize this sawhow you like it.
More features of the DEWALT D28710 chop saw:
- Covered by DEWALT’s 90-day money-back guarantee, 1-year free service contract, and 3-year limited warranty
- Weighs a little less than the D28715 at only 36.5 pounds
- Has a lockdown pin to secure saw head for transportation
Recommendation
When you need to choose between these two chop saws, consider the kind of work you’ll be doing. If you frequently change blades, the D28715 is clearly your best bet since it has a tool-free blade change system. It’s more powerful than the D27810, too.
Meanwhile, that extra inch of cut capacity on the D27810 might sway you in its favor. While you need a blade wrench to change cutting wheels, that wrench can be safely stored on the saw itself so it’s not lost.
Click here to purchase DEWALT D28715 on Amazon.com!
Click here to purchase DEWALT D28710 on Amazon.com!