Dewalts self-proclaimed “classic” saw design has been around for years, with minor model updates elevating performance and Flex-Volt cordless options completing the range. I wanted a saw that would offer repeatability and accuracy in the construction of projects from reclaimed pallet wood, and accurate mitres in small furniture, instrument components, turntable plinths and other similar projects. The DWS774 has a retracting blade guard for safety with a two-part trigger system. The rear lever sits between your thumb and first finger, and when squeezed raises the guard. With your hand in the correct position on the handle, the pad of your thumb rests on the trigger safety switch which when depressed allows the first and second fingers to depress the trigger. I have heard many complaints of users catching the webbing between their thumb and finger in the trigger lever, but I never encountered this issue and I don’t see how it is possible if you are holding the handle correctly. Lefties will probably found the saw difficult to operate however as the trigger safety switch is on the left-hand side of the handle and is nigh-on impossible to operate using the saw left-handed. XPS Shadow line cut indicator provides fast accurate alignment of the blade while illuminating the work piece for increased productivity no adjustment required

To make sure you’re using this saw in as safe a way as possible, it’s important to read all the safety instructions in the manual. Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and never allow your hands to come within 10 cm of the spinning blade.

REPAIRS AND SPARE PARTS

Despite the plus point, one would observe that other mitre saws would offer more versatile designs on the blades. However, it is easy to overlook when all the features of the DWS774 come together and make a great appliance. Cutting Potential XPS Shadow line cut indicator provides fast accurate alignment of the blade while illuminating the workpiece for increased productivity no adjustment required It does have a sliding rail section for those extra-sized bits of timber, but the whole saw telescopes towards you, saving precious space behind the saw. The only time you’d need clearance behind the saw itself is when you attach a dust extraction hose. The telescoping slide is smooth and confident and allows you to make several passes when cutting timber to try and avoid tear-out. The only fault I can think of when using this saw is that the handle isn’t that comfortable. I prefer mitre saws with horizontal handles like the Evolution has, but it’s a matter of personal preference, that’s all. As good as the handle feels, it has one of my least favourite design features. The safety button, that you need to press to allow the blade to spin, is only on the left-hand side. I can’t believe that the company who invented the saw won’t fit an ambidextrous safety switch. If you’re left-handed, or you just want to perform a cut with your left hand, it takes a lot of finger gymnastics to press the little button.

With a maximum capacity cut at 90° of 250 x 60 mm, I was surprised at the impressive capacity of this saw. On first inspection, I didn’t even see the hidden slide mechanism that improves the capacity without increasing this tool’s overall footprint.XPS Shadow line cut indicator provides fast accurate alignment of the blade while illuminating the work piece for increased productivity no adjustment required. There are other models out there that are cheaper, but there is no guarantee that the quality provided will be top-notch, unlike the Dewalt, which is to deliver its promise of great quality at an affordable price. Easy Storage When comparing to the DWS7773, the motor has an upgrade of 1400 watts rather than the former 1300 watt input. The increased power allows smooth cutting of hardwoods and the occasional metals. The new watt power is sufficient for most projects, although if you’re looking to find saws with increased power, then the new DWS777 would be suitable. The Blade The DeWalt DWS774 216mm Mitre Saw has a classic saw design improved and updated for the modern user. New 1400 Watt motor for powerful cutting in all materials (1400 Watt Low Voltage version UK Only)

The Dewalt DWS774 is a new and improved sliding mitre saw designed for use on wooden materials.It has a powerful 1400W motor making it ideal for the most demanding tasks.The XPS shadow line cut indicator provides fast accurate alignment of the blade while illuminating the workpiece for maximum precision. Theimproved dust extraction efficiency helps to maintain a clean, safe working environment and side carry handles ensure the ease of transportation. Features: Before I got down to the business of chopping up some perfectly good CLS timber, I wanted to find out whether the saw was sent from the factory in a good state of adjustment.The cutting potential of the DWS774 allow cuts of up to 250mm by 62mm at a 90-degree angle setup. The minimal cut made has dimensions of 198mm by 48mm at a 45-degree angle. Along with quality comes a great price. The price is astounding for the features provided, and it only gets better. Competing with most mitre saws out there, the Dewalt DWS774 has a great value for money and is super cost-effective. The DWS774 also includes a material clamp which is the same standard accessory dewalt have been supplying for years with one notable downgrade. The foot of the clamp has no cushioning rubber; only a metal plate, which easily causes marks and indents in woods; plywood and softwoods in particular. The clamp can be fitted either to the left or right-hand-side of the fence, but when fitted on the first the saw cannot be lowered as the body of the motor hits the clamp. As a bonus, it’s the easiest to carry around thanks to the two big handles that also help to extend the table. I wouldn’t think twice about unbolting it from the workbench, throwing it in the car, and taking it with me to a job.

The rear fence is made from a pair of solid pieces of machined aluminium. They feel rigid and dependable, and thanks to the clever design of the telescopic slide they don’t need to be removable. Compared with the Bosch GCM8SJL it feels more compact and a bit less fussy. Certain features result in the vogue of this appliance and are the reason that people seek the DWS774 over all the other mitre saws. Specifications Product This is where DeWalt’s patented safety lever comes into its own. When you engage the safety lever with the palm of your hand, it physically moves the blade guard up and out of the way. This happens before the blade meets the work. It’s simple, it’s clever, and ensures a smooth cut every time. The pillar to which the clamp mounts drops into its mounting hole and, when rotated, cannot be lifted free. The action of the clamp then lifts the pillar up and eventually enough pressure is applied to keep it tight. This setup limits the clamp’s ability to secure thinner material, and makes the whole assembly more of a hindrance than a help. Aside from the odd situation where the clamp does come in useful, it is best left to languish at the bottom of a toolbox.The marvellous blade intends to cut wood in a method that very few saws do. With a 216mm diameter and 30-inch bore, it is effortless to acquire additional blades for making cuts of different densities and strengthened materials. The base and fence have been machined to meet the accuracy requirements of the most demanding applications These measurements vary, and the cuts made can be sufficient for the majority of the projects. Convenience The mitre action is as you’d expect from a brand like DeWalt, everything’s chunky and solid and the action is as smooth as butter. It’s smooth to operate, if a little stiff, but I’m sure it will become easier with use or even a bit of grease.