A Cut Above the Rest: Dewalt 10 Inch Table Saw (DWE7491) Review

Quality product with some clutch features make this an excellent choice for the workshop.

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Among the many tools that stand at the heart of any woodworking shop, the table saw holds a special place. It’s the workhorse that transforms raw lumber into finely crafted pieces, and it’s the centerpiece around which many woodworking projects revolve.

For those in search of a table saw that combines power, versatility, and user-friendly features, the Dewalt DWE7491RS stands out as a compelling option. With a reputation for delivering professional-grade tools, Dewalt has a track record that craftsmen and woodworkers trust.

But does the DWE7491RS live up to those expectations? I’ve been using this saw for about a year and in this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into every aspect of this table saw, from its standout features and performance to its build quality and user feedback. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this review aims to help you make an informed decision about whether the Dewalt DWE7491RS is the right addition to your workshop. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, power up the saw, and explore what makes this table saw a cut above the rest.

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Table of Contents:

1. Key Features
2. Specifications
3. Setup and Assembly
4. Performance
5. Safety Features
6. Portability and Mobility
7. Dust Collection
8. Durability and Build Quality
9. Price and Value
10. Pros and Cons
11. Conclusion

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Key Features

• Powerful Motor: Robust 15-amp motor that delivers ample power for cutting through hardwoods and other tough materials with ease.
• Large Rip Capacity: Generous rip capacity of 32-1/2 inches, allowing you to cut large sheets of plywood and other materials without the need for additional support. (Although I would still recommend an outfeed table!)
• Portability: The rolling stand is a nice touch if you have a small space or need to transport it to job sites without much hassle.
• Telescoping Fence: The rack and pinion telescoping fence system ensures accurate and smooth fence adjustments.
• Site-Pro Modular Guarding System: Dewalt’s Site-Pro Modular Guarding System enables tool-free adjustments of the guarding components, making it quick and easy to set up and change configurations.
• Dust Collection System: There is a 2-inch dust collection port that helps keep your workspace relatively clean by efficiently capturing sawdust and debris.
• Sturdy Build: Dewalt is known for its durable construction, and the DWE7491RS is no exception. It’s built to withstand the rigors of regular use in a workshop or on the job site.
• Onboard Storage: Convenient onboard storage keeps essential accessories like the fence, miter gauge, and blade guard within reach, reducing downtime during setup.
• Rolling Stand with Retractable Handle: The rolling stand not only provides mobility but also features a retractable handle for easy transportation and storage.
• High-Visibility Scale: The saw features a high-visibility scale that enhances measurement accuracy and helps you make precise cuts.
• Soft Start: The soft start feature reduces the risk of tripping circuit breakers and ensures a smooth and controlled startup.
• Blade Guard and Anti-Kickback Pawls: Safety is a top priority, and the DWE7491RS comes with a blade guard and anti-kickback pawls to protect users during operation.
• 3-1/8-inch Depth of Cut at 90 Degrees: This table saw provides an impressive 3-1/8-inch depth of cut at 90 degrees, allowing you to tackle a wide range of cutting tasks.
• These features collectively make the Dewalt DWE7491RS a versatile and user-friendly table saw that is well-suited for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. Its combination of power, precision, portability, and safety features sets it apart as a top choice in the world of table saws.

Specifications

• Provide technical details, such as motor power, blade size, and weight.
• Product dimensions: 31″L x 24.5″W x 31″H
• Table Size: 21–7/8″ (556 mm) X 26–3/8″ (669 mm)
• Amperage: 15 Amps
• Miter Angle: 30° Left & Right
• Bevel Angle: 0° to 45° Left
• Blade Size: 10″ (254 mm)
• Max Cut Depth: 0° Bevel, 3–1/8″ (79 mm) or 45° Bevel, 2–1/4″ (57 mm)
• RPM: 4800 (no load)
• Weight: 110 lbs. including stand or 55.2 lbs. without stand
• More details: Link to the Owner’s Manual

Setup and Assembly

Setting up the table saw is relatively straight forward, but I would highly recommend to READ THE MANUAL before attempting the assembly. Safety is critical here and this should not be overstated. (Plus, you’ll probably learn something new to never try — like using a grinding wheel instead of a blade — good to know!) Basic assembly steps include:

1. Installing the blade
2. Attaching the rip fence
3. Blade guard or riving knife assembly
4. Anti-kickback assembly

Adjustments

If the stars are aligned, your saw will come perfectly dialed in and square. But more likely, you will need to make micro-adjustments for various components. You may need to check the following adjustments:

1. Rail Lock Adjustment (Tightening Fence Clamping System)
2. Blade Alignment Adjustment (Blade Parallel to Miter Slot)
3. Bevel Stop and Pointer Adjustment (Miter Gauge Adjustment
4. Fence Alignment Adjustment (Blade Parallel to Fence)
5. Aligning Riving Knife to Blade
6. Splitter and Riving Knife Selection

More: For a great overview of how to dial in a similar jobsite saw, check out Tamar over at 3×3 Custom with this great video

Performance

I have been using this saw for about a year and have been very pleased with the performance. I’ve cut many different varieties of wood– including sheet goods (3/4″ plywood), hardwoods and softwoods — and I haven’t had the saw bog down or stall.

Safety Features

Again, I will stress the importance of reading the operating manual and following the correct operating guidelines. Operating the saw as intended is probably the best rule to follow. Nevertheless, the saw does have a few nice built in safety features.

First, the on/off start button has a large off button that is easy to reach after cuts and also within reach of your knee in case both hands are occupied in an emergency situation. On top of the on button is an optional lock, which is great to prevent kids from accidentally pushing the on button.

Portability and Mobility

The included stand is a nice touch and helpful for transport, but after I build my outfeed table, I didn’t need the mobile stand. So I built a work surface on top and now I have a mobile workbench. Pretty handy to roll outside for sanding projects.

Dust Collection

There are two ports for dust collection– one on the rear side and another for the blade guard. The suggestion is to use a Y fitting in order to connect both ports to a vacuum. Since I use the riving knife (and not the blade guard) I only use the dust collection port in the back. It definitely helps to use the vacuum with this port, but it’s not perfect. You will still get some dust and debris on the top of the table saw even with the vacuum on.

Durability and Build Quality

Both durability and build quality is high on this saw. While I don’t haul this saw from jobsite to jobsite, it has solid components that are reliable and tough.

The one exception is the included miter bar for cross cuts. It’s pretty much useless out of the box because the miter bar wiggles when you slide it into the saw. This sloppiness comes from the miter slots on the table being wider than the miter bar itself. There are other after-market miter bars which are much better.

Price and Value

This saw is the best value for your money in the 10 inch category. Bosch and SkillSaw are other contenders, but since the DeWalt is such a popular brand, you’ll also be able to find many after-market parts that fit this saw. Alternatively, if you want to go higher-end, check out the Saw Top product line. I couldn’t justify the purchase from the jump, but a man can dream– maybe one day!

Note: There are periodic price drops on this saw throughout the year. Keep your eye out for deals.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful Motor
• Large Rip Capacity
• Telescoping Fence
• Great Value

Cons:

• Miter bar is low quality and essentially useless

Conclusion

In closing, the Dewalt DWE7491RS delivers solid performance, mobility and features for both jobsite construction durability and workshop craftsmanship. The powerful 15-amp motor effortlessly slices through hardwoods, while the generous rip capacity and telescoping fence system ensure that your cuts are as accurate as they are effortless.

If portability is a requirement, then the included rolling stand will be a great addition. Meanwhile, the dust collection system keeps your workspace clean, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re crafting intricate pieces or tackling large-scale projects, this table saw elevates your woodworking game to new heights.

Investing in the Dewalt DWE7491RS is an investment in your craft. It’s the tool that empowers you to bring your woodworking visions to life with confidence, accuracy, and efficiency. So, if you’re serious about woodworking and demand the best from your tools, the Dewalt DWE7491RS is more than ready to rise to the occasion. Elevate your woodworking today with the Dewalt DWE7491RS, and let your creativity soar.

Noteable safety additions: