DEWALT DW718 Miter Saw Review – 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter

DEWALT DW718 Heavy Duty 12-Inch Double Bevel Slide Compound Miter Saw

If you’ve never used DEWALT tools before, then you’re probably at least heard that they have a reputation for being extremely well engineered and have a rugged durability that contractors and weekend do-it-yourselfers love, myself included.  I’ve always been very happy with the other DEWALT tools that I own and that’s what drew me to their selection of miter saws.

The DEWALT DW718 is a 12-inch dual bevel sliding compound miter saw, which, if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology, means that it is incredibly versatile.  Powered by a 15A heavy duty motor, this miter saw rotates the included 12” carbide tipped blade at 3800 RPM for extremely smooth, clean cuts every single time.  The dual bevel capability allows you to easily do opposing cuts without flipping your material around, which is a great time saver on large projects.

You’ll be able to perform miter cuts from 0-50˚ to the left and right, and bevel cuts from 0-48˚ to the right and left as well.  This model also features 10 convenient miter stops for the most common angles and a miter detent override for when you need a little more flexibility.  It’s also designed to accept the optional laser system for increased accuracy.

What to Look For When Buying a Miter Saw

Choosing the right miter saw can be a tough decision because there are simply so many different ones on the market.  Manufacturers make this problem even worse by trying to entice you with all kinds of marketing hype as well.  What I’ve found during my research is that the easiest way to narrow your field of choices quickly is to look at the four most important criteria for choosing the right miter saw for your needs:

  • Type (basic miter, compound miter, sliding compound miter)
  • Capacity
  • Portability
  • Additional Features

What Type Of Miter Saw Do You Need?

In the world of miter saws, the dual bevel sliding compound models are considered the best of the best.  They give you the ultimate in flexibility when it comes to tackling any kind of project that you’re ever likely to do on this type of machine.  Best of all, by going with a model like the DEWALT DW718, you will almost certainly never need to upgrade because it has all of the capabilities you need in a miter saw.  You could go with a basic or standard compound miter saw (which DEWALT also carries), but you run the risk of discovering down the road that they are inadequate for your needs.

What Capacity Is Best For Your Needs?

12-inch miter saws like the DEWALT DW718 are on the high end capacity wise and allow you to work with a greater range of materials than smaller 8-inch or 10-inch models.  For that reason, many buyers go with 12-inch models right from the start, that way they don’t have to worry about upgrading later.

Should You Go Cordless?

If you’re willing to shell out extra cash for batteries, then going cordless does have its benefits such as added portability.  However, those batteries aren’t cheap and realistically you’re probably going to need at least one extra battery to ensure that you don’t run out of power halfway through the work day, right in the middle of your project.  If you go with a corded miter saw however, like the DEWALT DW718 then you never have that problem and let’s be honest, you’re almost always going to have access to an outlet whether it’s inside, outside or from a generator, so power is never likely to be an issue.  Personally I’d rather buy a cheap extension cord than have to spring for extra batteries.

What Other Features Do You Need?

If you go with a high end miter saw like the DEWALT DW718 then you don’t have to worry about extra features because it already includes all the bells and whistles that you’re ever going to need to get the job done.

DEWALT DW718 Miter Saw – How Much?

What’s Included

  • DEWALT DW718 miter saw
  • 12” carbide tipped blade
  • Vertical material clamp
  • Blade wrench
  • Dust bag

Does It Come With A Warranty?

Yes, all of DEWALT’s miter saws come with a generous three year warranty, ninety day money back guarantee and one year service protection plan.

What Others Are Saying DEWALT DW718

“Everything about this saw is very high quality. Firstly the details. Everything looks nice, and operates very smoothly. The fit and finish of all the components screams quality. The slide action is effortless. Adjustments and the locking components therein are very easy and intuitive to use. Very nicely designed.”

“I have been using this saw for the last five weekends on a home repair project and it is just what I needed. It goes through 2×12′s like a hot knife through butter.”

“This is an awesome saw, it has amazing capabilities and is a blast to use.”

Any Problems or Complaints?

Although the DEWALT DW718 has a huge number of positive reviews, there are always some negatives out there.  A small number of owners found that the dust collection bag could have been better designed.

Where Can You Buy the DEWALT DW718?

The best place to get this miter saw is Amazon, they have the lowest price hands down.  And to sweeten the deal, they also typically throw in free Super Saver shipping, which is great for heavy items like this.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the DEWALT DW718?

If you’re interested in reading reviews from owners of this miter saw, head on over to Amazon.

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