DEWALT® Launches a New 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw

DEWALT announces the launch of its new 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780)

Last week I visited the folks at DEWALT at their 2011 Media Event in which they unveiled quite a few new tools including a new 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw. The new saw, DWS780, is built around a platform that already has a huge following and includes lots of tweaks worthy of an update.

For me the most impressive feature was the overall weight of the new DWS780. Weighing in at just 56 lbs DEWALT claims this is the lightest 12″ on the market and I tend to agree with that assessment. The folks at DEWALT made several comparisons to this years popular saw that Bosch recently introduced. In particular DEWALT is claiming that this saw is stiffer (under side load conditions) producing more accurate cuts. The other comparison is the weight which DEWALT holds a 9 lbs advantage over.

Until we get our hands on one of these saws to really test read the press release below for more information and a glimpse into this new offering.

Press Release from DEWALT

DEWALT announces the launch of its new 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780), which has been designed to be precise and accurate enough for fine woodworking, yet durable enough for framing and deck building. The DWS780 is ideal for a variety of end users including cabinetmakers, trim carpenters, framers, installers and many other professional contractors who require a product that delivers the accuracy, capacity, durability, portability and ease-of-use that this saw offers.

“Our end users frequently tell us that they turn to DEWALT miter saws because they can rely on them to get the job done over a long service life and with consistently accurate results,” explained Rafe Bennett, product manager, DEWALT. “We’re proud to hold this leadership position within the miter saw category, and we’re confident that our new saw will not let contractors down.”

For visibility and accuracy when cutting, the new 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw features the XPSTM LED light and cut alignment system that casts a laser-like shadow on the work surface, showing users where the blade will come in contact with the material. Since it does not require recalibration over time or when changing blades, this alignment system can be more accurate and durable than traditional laser guides.

The saw’s dual bevel system includes the ability to bevel right and left from 0 to 49 degrees with positive stops at 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45 and 49 degrees in both directions, as well as a high visibility bevel scale. The saw also miters 60 degrees to the right and 50 degrees to the left and features an adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 10 positive stops, allowing for fast and easy adjustments. A cam lock miter button allows users to lock angles between detents for versatility on the jobsite.

The saw features a powerful 15 AMP motor that delivers 3,800 RPM. For convenience, the power cord is routed through the rail in the back, eliminating interference with the slide. Additionally, the saw offers an industry-leading combination of cut capacities, which includes 6-3/4 inch vertical capacity, 7-1/2 inch nested crown capacity, 13-7/8 inch horizontal capacity and exclusive back fence design that cuts up to a 2×16 at a 90 degree angle and 2×12 at a 45 degree angle. To simplify and maximize vertical cutting capacity, the unit includes a rail lock latch for holding the head away from the fence.

The new saw’s dust collection system collects over 75 percent of dust generated in the included bag. Additionally, to address two common user frustrations—portability and weight—the DWS780 has optimized its weight to just 56 pounds. It also incorporates ergonomic handgrips and folds to a compact package that makes transporting the unit easy. The saw’s precision-machined aluminum construction ensures there is no sacrifice in accuracy or durability.

The Sliding Compound Miter Saw will be available at home centers and independent distributors beginning in September 2011 and it is expected to retail for approximately $599. The product will come with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee.

There are a number of new accessories that are compatible with the product, including a variety of miter saw stands such as the Heavy Duty Miter Saw Stand (DWX723), the Compact Miter Saw Stand (DWX724), the Heavy Duty Work Stand (DWX725) and the Heavy Duty Work Stand with Miter Saw Mounting Brackets (DWX725B). For more information about the warranty or available accessories visit: http://dewalt.com/Home.aspx.

About the author

Todd Fratzel

Todd Fratzel is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz, and the President of Front Steps Media, LLC, a web based media company focused on the Home Improvement and Construction Industry.He is also the Principal Engineer for United Construction Corp., located in Newport, NH. In his capacity at United he oversees the Residential and Commercial Building Division along with all Design-Build projects.He is also the editor of Home Construction & Improvement.

@tfratzelTodd Fratzel

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