Tool descriptions often get overdone with words like “revolutionary” or “game changer.” In a rare case, I will come across a tool type that actually improves my work. Finally buying a track saw was one of those cases. The DeWalt DCS520B cordless track saw was not a purchase I made lightly, because of the cost, but I have not regretted it. With any track saw kit, buying the saw is only one part of the investment. You need tracks, track connector, clamps, a track carrying case (optional but good protection for the tracks), and the saw. All told, for my setup I was in for around $800. I was able to bundle the purchase to save on cost, so if you are in the market, for whatever brand, keep an eye out for this kind of offer.
The saw has a 6 ½-inch blade, offers a soft start, and can plunge-cut through material up to 2 1/8 inches thick at 90 degrees and 1 5/8 inches thick at 45 degrees. The depth of cut and bevel are both accurately controlled by easy-to-use dials and stops on the top side of the saw. The blade is guided during the cut by the grooved track where. The light aluminum track has foam strips (replaceable) on its base that help keep the track in place for quicker cuts. And a slot on the base allows for clamps to be fitted to ensure no track movement when accuracy is vital. Each track can be linked with a connector bar to allow for longer runs—the individual lengths available from DeWalt are 46, 59, and 102 inches. The rubber strip on the two long edges reduces splintering, shows where the cut line will land, and is also replaceable when it wears with use. The result is very straight cuts with very little tear-out.
Marc Forget
The depth and bevel controls are readable and accurate, with bevel locks at both front and back.
I have used track saws, both corded and cordless, from other manufacturers (Festool, Makita, Bosch) and have found no real difference in performance. Each had some fit and finish pluses and minuses, but, in my experience, those came down to minor personal preference and not major features that would change purchase choice. (Just to give you some peace of mind in whatever you may choose.) For myself, I already had batteries from DeWalt and went with the brand that had the best sale at the time.
In terms of cordless power I have had no issues. I have cut down oversized 2-inch-thick veneer doors with solid-wood or Structural Composite Lumber (SCL) cores without bogging down and without noticeable splintering. Where I have enjoyed the saw the most is breaking down sheet goods: 4×8 or 5×9 finish-grade plywood and painted or stained cabinet panels. Being able to set up sawhorses and a sheet of rigid foam (with 2x4s or plywood support) and break down material accurately on my own has been a time saver. The weight of the saw at 18 pounds with the battery (60-volt 9-amp) is not a burden and is easy to run along the track. Run time for the saw has not been an issue in my workflow if I start the day with two charged batteries. Charging time has kept up with the number of cuts I have needed. Dust management has been great when I attach my vacuum to the 1 ¼-inch dust port. While I still run a room air cleaner for the finer dust, most of it is picked up with the vacuum attachment. I have used the saw to make cutouts for inlays in hardwood floors and have found the depth of cut and the cut start and stop points easy to manage and control. Overall, it has performed as ordered: It’s been reliable, powerful enough, and has allowed me to manage on my own what I would have needed a larger table saw and an extra person to do.
The butcher’s bill for the setup that I have if you buy them separately: the saw (bare tool), $490 with one battery; the charger, $580; two 46-inch tracks at $87 each; one 59-inch track at $90; the track bag, $45; clamps, $30 (not DeWalt but others work fine); and the track connector bar, $40. I also picked up a single hex key for $5 that fits the connector bar screws (the bar doesn’t come with one). Again, there are bundles (and sales). The DCS520B is an investment, but I’ve made it back in what I have been able to produce. Available at Dewalt.com.
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