After more than a year in my garage, here are my thoughts on the relationship with this saw. (Spoiler: I’m not actively looking for a replacement, but my eyes wonder from time to time on an upgraded version.)
Well, it’s been a year since I started this whirlwind romance with my workshop companion, the Dewalt DWS715 Miter Saw. Move over romantic candlelit dinners; in Timber Topia, it’s all about sparks flying in the workshop. In this review, we’ll reflect on the highs and lows of my one-year relationship with the chop saw that has become more than just a miter saw — it’s practically family — sitting next to her avuncular DEWALT 10 INCH TABLE SAW.
Table of Contents:
- Key Features
- Specifications
- Setup and Assembly
- Performance
- Safety Features
- Portability and Mobility
- Dust Collection
- Durability and Build Quality
- Price and Value
- Pros and Cons
- Accessories
- Conclusion
Key Features
- Powerful Motor: Robust 15-amp motor that delivers 4000 RPM. (Note, she’s loud and hearing protection is a must.)
- Single Bevel: The saw tilts to the left side only, and with the tall sliding fence extended, supports 5-1/2-inch cuts vertically
- Cutting Capacity: 2-inch x 8-inch dimensional lumber cross cut capacity at 90 degree and 2-inch x 6-inch dimensional lumber at 45 degree
Specifications
- Product dimensions: 25-1/2″L x 23″W x 24-1/2″H (without dust bag)
- Miter Cuts: 50° degrees left and right
- Bevel Cuts: 48° left and 3° right
- Baseboard vertically against fence: Max. Height 5.5″ (140 mm) and Max. Width 1″ (25 mm)
- Motor: 120 Volts
- Amperage: 15 Amps
- Blade Length: 12 Inches
- RPM: 4000 (no load)
- Cord: 6ft
- Weight: 36 lbs. (43 lbs. shipped)
- More details: Link to the Owner’s Manual
Setup and Assembly
Straight out of the box, this bad mama-jamma is ready to rock and roll, but I would highly recommend to READ THE MANUAL before attempting the assembly. Safety is critical here and this should not be overstated.
The saw comes pre-assembled so you do not need to attach the blade or run through any hoops to get going. Let’s say it was a good first date.
But I do regret one important blunder soon into our courtship — I took apart the fences and applied sealant and wax to protect the metal coatings. I did this before testing for square at 0° miter and bevel, so I have no idea how true the initial setup was from the factory.
After putting back the fences and making some initial cuts, I found I still cannot cut perfect 90° bevels. I fiddled with the square, adjusted the bolts for micro-adjustments, and put in the effort a good partner deserves. But I still haven’t been able to dial in the correct positioning.
From here, my ability to trust my fledgling partnership (and mostly myself) is now under total question. I worked hard, putting in time and effort to make the proper contributions to a mutually respectable relationship, but I still feel I can’t fully trust where we are.
Performance
No complaints here. I have cut through many types of wood — both hard and soft– and have not seen any issues with the saw bogging down.
Safety Features
Again, I will stress the importance of reading the operating manual (LINK) 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:
- Lower Guard: Surrounds the spinning blade to prevent accidental touching
- Clamp: Hold down clamp to ensure the wood doesn’t move during cuts
One important point: This tool is LOUD! Make sure you wear your hearing protection.
Portability and Mobility
Don’t worry when you’re on the move– you won’t feel like you’re lugging around a third wheel. This saw is robust and sturdy and will tolerate lugging around job sites or moving in and out of storage.
To transport the saw, lower the arm and rotate the head lock knob a quarter turn. It will snap into the lock position. There is a handy lock in the down position, and the handle can easily be used to lug around.
Dust Collection
Similar to most miter saws, dust collection leaves much to be desired. There is a noticeable mess after just a few cuts, and the included dust bag is like that one friend who promises to help you move but conveniently forgets to show up on moving day—good intentions, but practically useless in the grand scheme of things.
Instead, use a shop vac or a shroud to collect the dust. There are a number of after-market 3D printed collectors that are helpful as well.
Durability and Build Quality
No real complaints here. There is a solid base and quality components. The only request I would make to Dewalt would be a mechanism to attach better dust collection to the dust port. Currently, there is only a plastic attachment which is rounded so it’s nearly impossible to attach a silicon shroud. But this is a really minor request, and I’m working on trying not to be so critical.
Dewalt also offers a 3 year limited warranty, 1 year free service, and 90 days satisfaction guaranteed.
Price & Value
This saw fits into a more entry-level category, capable of tackling most cross-cut and bevel cuts. For the money, it’s a solid value.
I must admit my eyes wander from time to time. I catch myself looking at some of the upgraded features on other miter saws including – dual bevels, a sliding track for wider cuts, a more powerful motor, and laser guide to dial in the layout.
This particular saw goes on sale regularly, so watch for discounts. (Black Friday 2023 had this saw on sale for $229)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Price and Value
- Quality motor for solid performance
- Compact and well built
Cons
- Loud
- Stock dust collection bag
Recommended Accessories
There are a few additions that make this relationship work even better.
- Shop Vac with upgraded dust collection
- Automatic power & vacuum adapter
- Crown Molding Fence: DW7084
- Miter Saw Stands: DWX723, DWX724, DWX725B, DWX726
- Building a Miter Station
Conclusion
As I reflect on a year of woodworking joy with the Dewalt DWS715 Miter Saw, it’s clear that our relationship is more than just cutting and angles—it’s a quirky partnership filled with laughter, sawdust, and a few sacrifices and trade-offs.
The DWS715 has been my reliable workshop companion, standing tall through every project. From the initial setup, which started rocky getting the 90 degree miter setup, to its dependable performance in the thick of woodworking battles, this miter saw has proven itself a worthy contender in the world of Timber Topia.
Sure, the included dust bag may have a sense of humor about its effectiveness, but there is a suitable workaround of using the shop vac. The DWS715’s powerful motor, impressive cutting capacity, and user-friendly controls have turned my woodworking endeavors into a joyous affair.
So, here’s to another year of laughter, sawdust-filled hugs, and the ongoing love story between a woodworker and their trusty tool. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner taking your first woodworking steps, the Dewalt DWS715 Miter Saw is a partner that’ll keep you smiling, even when the wood grains are giving you a headache.
In the grand finale of our one-year anniversary, I raise a sawdust-covered glass to the DWS715—may our woodworking romance continue to be a source of joy, inspiration, and a touch of humor in the years to come. Happy cutting, my fellow wood enthusiasts!