Track Saw Model: Dewalt 60v
Wittworks Track Saw Rating: 73 out of 100
DeWalt Track Saw Review: Robust Design but Lacks Precision and Convenience
The DeWalt track saw is built for durability and features a few strong elements, but several significant limitations make it less than ideal for those who prioritize precision and ease of use. While it may appeal to DeWalt enthusiasts, there are a few compromises in its design and functionality that could frustrate those seeking the best value and accuracy.
Fit & Finish: Solid Construction and Reliable Build Quality
Score: 10/10
The DeWalt track saw feels robust and well-built, with quality materials and craftsmanship.
Blade: Limited Convenience for Blade Changes
Ease of Blade Change: 0/3
Blade changes on the DeWalt saw can be clunky and awkward, lacking the ease and convenience many users look for. This could be an inconvenience, especially for users who switch blades frequently.
Stock Blade: 2/2
The stock blade performs well across a range of materials, providing smooth and clean cuts right out of the box. It’s reliable and versatile for general use.
Blade Size & Arbor:
The DeWalt saw comes with a 6 ½” blade and a 20mm arbor, the standard among track saws.
Safety: Misses Key Features and Quality Control
Riving Knife/Anti-Kickback: 1/5
While the DeWalt saw includes a riving knife, the quality of this feature falls short. Mine arrived with a bent riving knife. This flaw completely eliminates its usefulness, which may be concerning for users who rely on this feature. It does include an Anti-Kickback as well though, which we gave additional points for.
Off-Cut Splinter Guard: 0/1
This model does not include an off-cut splinter guard, which can lead to increased splintering and less polished cuts.
Scoring Function: 0/1
There is no scoring function on this saw, which may disappoint users needing clean cuts on both edges of materials like plywood. Of course, you can always just set your depth to 3mm and do a scoring pass.
Depth Gauge: Limited Accuracy and Adjustability
Accuracy: 0/2
The depth gauge on the DeWalt lacks precision, making it difficult to achieve accurate depth settings. Users requiring exact measurements might find this frustrating.
Fine-Tune Adjustment: 0/2
There’s no fine-tune adjustment, limiting this saw’s ability to make subtle depth changes. For precise work, this is a notable drawback.
User Experience: 2/3
Although generally usable, the depth gauge leaves a bit to be desired. It’s not as accurate as some competitors, which could be an issue for those who need consistent results on precise projects.
Dust Extraction: Effective but Not Perfect
Hose Compatibility: 3/3
The DeWalt track saw is compatible with a range of popular hose systems like Festool and Cen Tec, making it easy to connect for dust extraction.
Effectiveness: 2/3
The dust extraction performs adequately but is not as effective as some other models. While it captures a good amount of debris, it will not completely eliminate sawdust from the cutting area.
Bevel Cutting: Limited Adjustability and Features
Readability/Detents for Common Angles: 0/4
The DeWalt saw lacks detents for common angles, including 0°, 22.5°, 45° and 47°, which can make setting bevel cuts a bit challenging. Without these guides, adjustments may feel imprecise. It is unable to cut -1°.
Return to 90: 5/5
Returning to a 90° angle is smooth and accurate, ensuring square cuts without hassle.
Anti-Tip: 0/2
The saw lacks an anti-tip feature, which could lead to stability issues on angled cuts.
Track Friction Adjustments: 2/3
The track friction adjustments work reasonably well, but there’s some room for improvement. It is possible to eliminate the slop, but not as easy as other models.
Motor: Reliable and Quiet with Smooth Operation
Variable Speed: 2/2
The motor offers variable speed settings, allowing for adjustments depending on the material being cut. This flexibility is a nice addition for handling a range of projects.
Sound & Feel: 5/5
The saw operates with minimal noise and vibration, creating a comfortable experience for extended use.
2” Hard Maple Test: 5/5
In tests, this saw handled 2” hard maple with ease, demonstrating that it’s powerful enough for tougher materials without sacrificing performance. It unsurprisingly performed even better when swapped with a ripping blade. The motor is clearly high quality.
Guide Rail / Track: Sturdy but Limited Compatibility
Build Quality: 5/5
The DeWalt track is built solidly and provides a reliable base for accurate cuts. It’s sturdy and well-suited for both professional and DIY use.
Design Profile: 1/4
The track is designed to work in either direction, which sounds useful in theory but, in practice, leads to compromises in overall performance. I find this design choice unnecessary and limiting.
Size Options: 2/3
This track comes in several sizes, Including a 46”, 59”, and 102”, making it adaptable for different project types.
Rubber Splinter Guard Stickiness: 3/3
The rubber splinter guard adheres well, helping to minimize splintering and ensuring a cleaner finish.
Anti-Slip Grips: 1/3
The anti-slip grips could be improved, as they may not always keep the saw steady during cutting. For users who prioritize stability, I recommend clamping the track
Clamp Compatibility: 2/2
This track works with standard clamps, which is good considering the poor anti-slip performance.
Third-Party Accessory Compatibility: 1/4
The unique track design makes it challenging to use many third-party accessories, though the T-track is a standard size. This limited compatibility may be disappointing for users who want or need to add specialized accessories.
Warranty: Decent Coverage, but Not Outstanding
Score: 3/5
The DeWalt track saw comes with a three-year warranty, offering reasonable coverage but falling short of some competitors with longer warranties.
Price / Value: Adequate but Better Options Exist
Score: 7/10
While the DeWalt track saw offers solid build quality and a powerful motor, the compromises in ease of use and accuracy may not justify the price. For users not committed to the DeWalt brand, there are definitely better options available at this price, namely Festool and Milwaukee.
Who is This Saw For?
This saw is best suited for DeWalt fans who already own other tools in the ecosystem or who don’t mind the compromises in accuracy and convenience. It’s a reliable saw for general-purpose use, as long as absolute precision isn’t a top priority. The 60V battery should provide ample charge time for those working on job sites.
Who Should NOT Buy This Saw?
Anyone who values precise depth adjustments, advanced safety features, or compatibility with a wide range of accessories may want to consider other models. Users looking for the best value at this price point have better options from other brands.
Final Verdict
The DeWalt track saw brings power and durability but is held back by a few critical limitations, including awkward blade changes, limited safety features, and a less precise depth gauge. It may appeal to DeWalt loyalists or those in need of a reliable, general-purpose saw, but for users looking for fine-tuned accuracy or extensive compatibility, there are better choices available.
