When you need a power tool for cutting wood, pipes, nails, and sheetrock, try a battery-powered reciprocating saw. It’s much more portable than a circular saw. And it’s much easier to manage when you’re up on a ladder. The only problem is deciding which reciprocating saw is best for your tool collection. Let’s review two models from DEWALT to see which one suits you.
DEWALT DCS380B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool Only
The DEWALT DCS380B that we chose is a bare tool model that may save you money over the retail version, especially if you have 20V MAX DEWALT batteries already. This model is often the choice of HVAC techs, electricians, plumbers, and even fire rescue crews. That’s because it’s easy to use, it’s versatile, and it allows for fast, keyless blade changes.
One of the ways that the DCS380B is versatile is that you can flush-cut with it. It has a four-position blade clamp that lets you change the angle to fit into tight areas. And the 1-1/8-inch cutting stroke makes fast work of whatever you tackle.
It also lets you cut a variety of materials because you can control the blade speed with the variable-speed trigger. The maximum is 3000 strokes per minute. And DEWALT sells a variety of blades appropriate for wood, metal, plastic, and more.
To avoid wasting money on blades, the DCS380B comes with a pivoting adjustable shoe. The shoe helps you get more out of each blade and also control the depth of the cuts you make.
Finally, there are a few more user-friendly touches, like the LED work light and the rubbery grip on the handle. And although this is a bare tool, the DCS380 saw runs on any DEWALT 20V MAX battery pack. That means if you already have a DEWALT cordless drill or another power tool, you can share the batteries without needing to buy new ones.
More features of the DEWALT DCS380B Reciprocating Saw:
- Covered by a 3-year warranty
- Does not include 20V MAX lithium-ion battery or blade
DEWALT DCS387B 20-Volt MAX Compact Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool
What are the differences between the DEWALT DCS380B and the DCS387B? The most obvious one is the size. The DCS387B is much more compact compared to the DCS380B. It’s only 14.5 inches long, small enough to fit between studs. And the weight is nicely balanced closer to the ergonomic handle. But other than that, its capabilities are similar.
For example, although the top blade speed is 2900spm, slightly slower, it has a variable-speed trigger and a 1-1/8-inch cutting stroke. And you can adjust the blade to four different positions to flush cut and reach into tight spots.
You won’t need any tools to change the blade on the DCS387B. And its pivoting shoe helps you get the most out of each blade before it’s worn and replaced.
The built-in LED light illuminates where the blade is working, which is very convenient, especially when you’re cutting in tight spots. And of course, you can cut a wide variety of materials with this reciprocating saw, from wood to PVC pipe to metals.
The DCS387B does not come with a blade or a battery pack. But it runs on the same 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries that DEWALT uses on their cordless drills and impact drivers. And the larger the amperage of the battery, the more cutting time you’ll have. Try 3Ah or 4Ah for more work time with fewer stops to recharge.
More features of the DEWALT DCS387B Reciprocating Saw:
- Covered by a 3-year warranty
- Does not include 20V MAX lithium-ion battery or blade
Recommendation
Both of these DEWALT reciprocating saws are suitable for both professionals and homeowners. The main factor in choosing between the DCS380 and the DCS387 is their size. The DCS387 is a better choice if you prefer a compact tool. And the slight reduction in stroke speed is not a deficit if you need to work in right spots and overhead.
On the other hand, if size doesn’t matter, the DCS380B has a slightly faster blade speed. But that’s the only other difference between the two saws. And please remember both are sold as bare tools only.