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DEWALT Atomic 20v MAX Cordless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw – DCS369B

DEWALT Atomic 20v Cordless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw

4.5/5

Manufacturer: DEWALT
Model number: DCS3698
Power source: 20V Max
Weight: 3.1 Lbs

Recently we put the DEWALT Atomic 20V One-Handed Reciprocating Saw up against 5 other one-handed reciprocating saws in our Best Cordless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw Head-to-Head.

Cordless one-handed reciprocating saws are a fairly new category compared to the long-standing king of demolition in full-size reciprocating saws. Born out of the desire for smaller, more compact tools, the one-handed reciprocating saw has become extremely popular with plumbing and mechanical contractors.

Lets dive a little deeper into the DEWALT Atomic 20V One Handed Reciprocating Saw!

DEWALT DCS369B Reciprocating Saw Features

• No Load SPM: 0-2,800
• Stroke Length: 0.625″
• Weight: 3.1 lbs (bare tool)
• Battery Voltage: 18 V (20V MAX under no load)
• Battery Pack Used: 5.0 Ah
• Tool-Free Blade Change
• LED Work Light
• Variable Speed Trigger
• Pivoting Shoe-Plate
• Length: 12.5″, Width: 2.6″, Height: 5.4″

Who’s going to be using this type of saw?

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Renovation Contractors
• DIY Enthusiasts.

This one-handed reciprocating saw cannot and will not replace the full size reciprocating saw, its just not possible. The one-handed saw however has its place on the job site. If you are making a couple of quick cuts on gas pipe, copper, PVC or small modifications to framing lumber then the one handed saw may better suit you. This saw is definitely suited towards plumbers and electricians! The compact size allows you to get into even tighter areas such as small crawl spaces, under sink cabinets and tight cramped HVAC situations.

DEWALT DCS369B Ergonomics

DEWALT prides themselves on being an industry leader in ergonomics. The handles on all DEWALT tools have a great feel to them with their rubber over-mold, grip surface and hand contour. Using the tool in cold or wet conditions are not a problem and wearing gloves isn’t an issue. Their blade change is tool-free and simple to use one-handed. The weight of the saw is really light which is very important considering fatigue and the likelihood of using the saw one-handed in tight spaces or overhead. This saw also comes with a belt clip which is definitely handy when working on a ladder.

LED Light
The DEWALT DCS369B has a bright LED light that illuminates your work surface really well. With the ability to pivot the shoe plate you are afforded a little better light coverage then other manufactures.

DEWALT DCS369B On the Job Site

As a remodeling contractor I am often tasked with some type of small demo or cutting applications. We reviewed the DEWALT DCS369B one handed reciprocating saw for a few weeks on the job site. First application was to open up a basement entry way going up a set of stairs. There was a need to cut out some 2×3 framing but not enough to justify the full size saw. The saw was noticeably slower due to cutting the  2x material but it was enough power to get the mission accomplished.

We also used the saw to cut out some PVC piping under a sink during a kitchen remodel. This is why these one handed saws were born! We were cutting in a 30″ sink cabinet where space was already tight. The lightweight design paired, balance of the saw and its small compact size allowed us to work in such a small space with no issues. The LED light was also real handy in illuminating our work surface.

This saw has been clutch on our kitchen remodel for one handed overhead cuts on strapping, blocking and piping where we do not have to pull out the large heavy 2 handed saw.

Overall Thoughts

If you told me 10 years ago that technology would allow for a reciprocating saw, the beast of demolition, to provide enough power and to be cordless I would have called you a liar. Fast forward a few years and you told me that a one handed light weight reciprocating saw can pack the same power and punch as its bigger brother I would laughed in your face. The ability to have the power to get the job done in such a small footprint is truly awesome.

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