Key Specs
- Model: DCS382
- Length: 15.5″
- Weight: 5.1 lbs (tool-only)
- Stroke Length: 1-1/8″
- Speed: 0-3200 SPM
Dewalt has quietly launched a new 20V Max cordless reciprocating saw, model DCS382. The new reciprocating saw arrived at stores in late 2021.
From the product images and specifications, it looks like the DCS382 is smaller and lighter than Dewalt’s other 20V Max cordless reciprocating saws, except maybe their compact XR model and Atomic series saw.
The Dewalt DCS382 reciprocating saw is an XR model, meaning it’s part of their core line of higher-performance tools, and features a brushless motor.
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Features include a 2-finger variable speed trigger switch, twist-style keyless blade clamp, pivoting shoe, and LED light.
Dewalt says that their saw has pro-grade compatibility and works with all FlexVolt and 20V max batteries.
At this time, the Dewalt DCS382 reciprocating saw is available as a bare tool (DCS382B), and as part of several 20V Max cordless power tool combo kits that launched for the 2021 holiday shopping season.
Price: $169-$179 for the bare tool, DCS382B
Discussion
I am of two thoughts here. First, the DCS382 does not look to be a flagship model, as it’s included in several value-focused tool kits that came out for the recent holiday shopping season. Additionally, Dewalt tends to be a lot more vocal about their major cordless power tool releases.
However, this is an XR tool. Another new 20V Max combo kit includes a mix of XR and non-XR (value-focused) tools, and also a PowerStack battery.
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On paper, the speed and stroke length specs are great, matching the stroke length of Dewalt’s top-of-the-line 20V Max FlexVolt Advantage and 20V Max Power Detect reciprocating saws. This saw has a slightly higher [no-load?] speed.
The DCS382 appears much smaller than Dewalt’s leading saws, and is appreciably lighter too. The DCS382 weighs 5.1 lbs, compared to 7.63 lbs for the FlexVolt Advantage model.
One somewhat common complaint about Dewalt’s older DCS367 compact reciprocating saw was that it vibrated a bit too much. That model came out 5 years ago, and so I’m optimistic that Dewalt kept this in mind when developing the DCS382.
I am a fan of Dewalt’s larger high-performance reciprocating saws, but there are plenty of cutting tasks where a smaller and lighter saw could deliver enough power and with less fatigue.
I’m not sure why Dewalt has been so quiet about this model, but it looks to be suited for users that need more power than their one-handed Atomic saw can deliver, but less power, bulk, and weight than their highest performing FlexVolt Advantage, Power Detect, or FlexVolt 60V Max saws.
At least so far, there doesn’t seem to be a catch.
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Chris
Still no adjustable blade shoe? 😕
Stuart
Doesn’t look like it. It pivots but doesn’t look to extend or be removable.
Clay
First thing I looked for too.
Dave the brave
Anyone have any idea why they don’t add the adjustable depth shoe or the oscillating function on any of their reciprocating saws?
MM
Those are both great questions. It seems that the vast majority of orbital recip saws are corded models. I know the only one I’ve owned was my old corded Super Sawzall. Ridgid, Metabo HPT, and Milwaukee offer “full size” cordless recip saws with an orbital mode but those are the only cordless models I’m aware of with that feature. I don’t think any of Dewalt’s cordless models have an orbital mode.
Jared
I like compact reciprocating saws, so I’m happy to have another option. This looks like a half-way between sort of model – smaller than the full-sized two-hand units, but not explicitly intended to be used one-handed either.
Top of the line or not, I would definitely look at this were I buying another reciprocating saw.
Steve
It’s like the 6 1/2″ Circular Saw (which they didn’t brand XR for some reason) a core tools update about 10 years into the platform. Naturally an opportunity to make them brushless as well.
Big Richard
I have this saw, it is decent. It is a yellow version of the SBD Craftsman CMCS350B that has been out for sometime.
Performance wise it is on par, or better, with their previous XR compact saw, the DCS367. Length and weight are pretty comparable as well. It lacks the 367’s 4-way blade clamp but does offer higher speed and less vibration. With the way the weight is distributed, it is not as easy to operate one handed as the 367 was either. Lastly, the shoe doesn’t seem to pivot as much as the 367’s does.
All in all, it is good saw for light use. But if you want a compact saw – with better performance than a one handed recip – the 367 is much more versatile, even if it does have less than stellar vibration control.
MM
I was very curious how this compared to the 367. I have that model and I really like 4-way blade clamp.
I’ve honestly been very impressed with the 367. I bought it expecting it to be a “lighter duty” saw compared to the full-size flagship models, and I suppose it is in terms of specs anyway, but I’ve used mine for some pretty tough jobs in steel, wood, and masonry and it’s kept on chugging. The 4-way blade holder is easy to use and trouble free. I have no desire at all to replace it; I’ve got a Metabo compact model (Hackzall style) for the small jobs which has the benefit of being able to use jigsaw blades too. If I get another recip saw it will be a full-size Flexvolt or Flexvolt Advantage, and that’s only if I find myself needing to do a lot more heavy work.
Big Richard
I would not recommend trading your 367 for this model. It compliments the 367 in a way, but isn’t a replacement or upgrade per se. In my opinion. It’s a good pruning saw actually, due to it’s lighter weight and higher speed.
MM
I’m certainly not going to be trading in my 367, I’m just curious what they changed and how this new model differs. It sounds like they might have improved the vibration control but lost the 4-way blade holder? If so that’s a poor tradeoff for me. The 367 isn’t the best when it comes to vibration but I find it controllable, it’s plenty powerful for my current needs, and I really really like the 4-way blade holder.
I’m also sad to hear that it’s not as well balanced for 1-handed use. I like to keep my 367 on hand whenever I use my wood chipper to clean up pruning or storm damaged limbs. I try and use my chainsaw to cut everything up beforehand so all I have to do is feed the chipper but invariably there’s something I’ll miss so I like to have the 367 right there as I’m feeding the chipper. If I encounter a branch that’s bent or forked in a way that it can’t feed properly in the chipper then I just cut it right there. The 367 does the job but it’s awkward enough that I’ve considered buying an M12 Hatchet just for this task. If the new model were a step backwards from the 367’s already meh tier 1-handed balance then that would be a real deal killer for me.
Big Richard
The Hatchet rocks, especially if your already on M12, but also check out Stihl’s GTA 26. Smaller, lighter, cuts a bit smoother on small branches. They even make a holster for it so you can have it at your side while loading your chipper.
Kit with case, oil, battery, and charger is $40 less than the Hatchet as a bare tool. Biggest downside is that it is not auto oiling, not that you are going to use a tool like that for extended periods of time.
MM
@Big Richard
I’m already on M12, but if the Stihl can be had with the battery for a lower price than the bare M12 tool then that may well be more appealing. It’s certainly big enough for the job, and being able to have it in a holster would be super convenient.
Clay
Also a big fan of my 367, though I hope they address the vibration issue in future iterations.
Nils
I’m at the point where I only want the lightest/smallest or the most powerful tools.
I use the 60v recip all the time because it’s a beast. The 20v older version is never even picked up anymore. Next plumbing project I might buy a 12v or atomic version for a hackzall like utility in confined spaces operating one handed. But otherwise it’s 60v all day.
Mike
One size fits all doesn’t really work well with power tools it seems….always too big or not enough power. I’m a red guy but I kind of follow the same thoughts. I made fun of the m12 hackzall but it’s got enough power and small enough it gets grabbed far more often than I ever would have thought.
Roger
The 4-way blade change and wide shoe on the older compact is a worthy tradeoff for the beating.. I mean vibration… IF used on applications that are not lengthy repetitive. It can even fit inside a TSTAK drawer.
This one looks good. However, I already have the compact V1. If I were to choose an additional recip, I’d go full size.
jonahk
Never fails. I just bought the DCS367 a month ago, and Dewalt comes out with a new model. Same as with the 1/2 impact driver that I bought two months ago *flips table*
Adam
Return them. Dewalt has a 90day satisfaction guarantee, if you didn’t already buy from a retailer with a good/easy return policy.
I can guarantee I’d be un-satisfied if a new model was available right after purchase.
Peter
In the email it says quote
“ Dewalt has a new 20V Max XR brushless circular saw.”
Is that a typo or I am I blind?
Stuart
Sorry about that! *fixed*
Rather than change the front-page and email excerpt from “recip” to “reciprocating” during final editing, my brain and hands miscommunicated and I changed it to “circular saw.”
Peter
I know how that can go.😛👍🏽
Clay
So, stealth release like the DCF840?
Big Richard
That is technically a budget/entry level/holiday promo tool, so it’s not surprising they didn’t really announce that. But this is their XR premium line. It’s more like the quiet release of the 3 new compact stud and joist drills out right now. Two FlexVolt Advantage models and one XR Power Detect. They look nice.
Louie Orama
Big Richard, you are my idol. I specifically look for your comments when it comes to this site. I buy and sell tools and am also a big fan. For instance I’ve the FlexVolt 1st Gen, the 367 atomic and 380 (selling). To be honest, out of the 18 FlexVolt tools I own, the 388 Recip is the only one I would t buy again because there’s no 4 position and I feel the 367 is a little monster-just don’t need any more. Another FlexVolt tool I have is the Alligator Saw, which isn’t sold in the States. But I’m sure you knew this already.
I would really love to know where you find all of the info on the DeWalt tools. All I know is the DeWalt News and Press, but you keep us apprised better than they do. Where can I go?
Also, I too am a big fan of the Hatchet.
Another also… I have all of the Xtreme tools that I’m aware of with the last one being the installation kit. Again, where can I be more up to date?
Thanks, sir.
MM
I’ve seen those alligator saws in the UK, I wish they’d offer them here in the states but I suppose that we don’t use much if any poroton block or the other sorts of masonry that the Alligator is optimal for cutting.
Big Richard
I’m no idol, I can assure you of that. But I appreciate the kind words. And while I have no use for that alligator saw, I want one. What I really want that is not available in the states is that single battery 10″ FlexVolt DCS727 miter saw. Still hoping it will make its way here someday, possibly as a 20v FlexVolt Advantage model.
I wish there was one source where I got all my info, but that is not the case. It’s kinda all over. Social media is a great place to get tips and hints, but you can’t believe everything you see on there. Some people got mad photoshop skills. I make it a point to not report on something unless I’ve verified it elsewhere.
Trade shows are great place to learn about new tools. With covid and such, a lot of them offer online options. I just actually did an Australian one that had some cool stuff including the new ratchets, new mid and high torque impact wrenches, FlexVolt Advantage mag drill, new premium compact drill/driver, etc. World of Concrete is coming up, I gotta think they will have some new stuff there. Some other ones to look for are NECA, FABTECH, or STAFDA, and GIE+ for OPE.
Distributors also get a sneak peak at any new tools, as they have to order them and make shelf space on their plan-o-grams. So I always pick their brain whenever I’m in a store. Also, just searching a HD or Lowes website for a brand and filtering by “recently added” will sometimes turn up a tool that isn’t supposed to be there quite yet.
The next Xtreme tool to come out is the OMT, DCS353. The ratchets will be out soon, too.
Louie Orama
Thanks, my friend. You are a great character, to say the least. And oddly enough, the O.M.T. is my favorite and-including my FlexVolt collection, I’d say I have somewhere near 70 DeWalt tools. Nothing with a cord. Another question. Do you have or have you used the FlexVolt Vac? I just think of how much draw an actual vac uses and can only see that being equivalent if they pulled off a 120V FlexVolt vac. So I stick to my Wet/Dry corded Vacs, my favorite being the Ridgid Smart Cart.
But if you told me the DCV585 DOES have that type of power, I’d take that as a go. Thanks again.
Big Richard
Louie, I do not have the FlexVolt vac. I could never justify its price for the small capacity. I’ve been waiting for them to come out with something more in the 6 gallon range, and on wheels. I imagine something like that would benefit from being a 2x FlexVolt 120v tool. I’d buy that in a heartbeat, but I have not seen or heard anything potentially coming.
The current FlexVolt vac has 125 CFM of suction, which is comparable to their 15A corded dust extractors. But again, I have not used it so I can’t really comment on its performance. I think the biggest complaint people have of the FlexVolt, is its short runtime. If you are using it more as a shop vacuum, it’s probably fine. But if you have it running constantly as a true dust extractor hooked up to rotohammer or something for extended use, it eats up batteries.
Saulac
A review/summary of Dewalt 20v, please. 20v (just 20v), XR, Advantage, Detected, Atomic,..and that is just the 20v line. Is Dewalt marketing strategy is to make people only know that they are using a Dewalt and nothing else? And whatever currently on sale is the “Best in class”?
Stuart
Different sizes/performance levels, similar to different classes of impact wrenches, circular saws, drill/drivers, and other such tools.
Mike47
Looks like it’s designed for catalytic converter thieves.
Don Julio
That would be the XR Platinum.
OldDominionDIYer
Why so many versions of the recip saw? Seems like Dewalt isn’t really sure what to produce sometimes.
Stuart
Brushed motor – combo kit version
Brushed motor premium version
Atomic One-handed
Compact XR
This one – compact and traditional design XR
FlexVolt Advantage
Power Detect
FlexVolt 60V Max
Each is in its own class, except for FlexVolt Advantage and Power Detect, which are very similar.
JoeM
If not for the fact that my original Brushed models of the line still serve me really well, for as little as I get to use them, I would consider upgrading my 380 for… Well, an XR Twin of that saw.
Since 2017 I’ve actually had less chance to use my big tools due to health issues. So, my power tools of this scale are still practically new. I have considered what I’d do if I could go XR and/or FlexVOLT, and as much as I like having options there it doesn’t seem to scale anymore. It has branched several times, and I’m starting to feel a little lost in the weeds, as it were.
I’m not sure I like that twist-lock recip blade chuck… but I don’t know, I’m not holding it to see. And I agree with a previous poster, lost the adjustable shoe? That’s… Odd to say the least… They started the 20 Volt Max line with one that worked fantastic… why they didn’t include it with every subsequent increment of their reciprocating saws is a mystery. It’s a very basic, extremely simple, feature. Pivoting alone is… Nice? But, the extension or removal of the shoe is really helpful in a whole lot of situations. Even as basic as my usage gets, I’ve found it useful.
Greg
This saw is 139.99 right now at Amazon. 19 left in stock.
Stuart
I saw that, but it’s a 3rd party seller with smallish number of reviews.
Mike
It’s a fast cutting saw It’s faster cutting than the Milwaukee and dewalt flexvolt, the only thing I don’t like is it has a two finger trigger I prefer the single finger trigger on the craftsman better
Ryan
Craftsman cmcs350 change color?
Big Richard
More less, yes. Couple differences though. Notably, different trigger on the DeWalt and the Craftsman had two different speed modes, DeWalt does not.
Ryan
The mechanical part seems to be the same
Jeff
Still no adjustable shoe or orbital mode.
Fyrfytr998
Looks like they took the Craftsman Brushless recip and slapped XR all over it.
Joe
Speaking of quiet launch….Am I the only one that did not see that Dewalt now offers the Compact Stud and Joist drill in FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE?!?!?! DCD444 & DCD445(quick change)
Big Richard
I think I’ve mentioned them few times around here, they look nice and compact:
https://photos-us.bazaarvoice.com/photo/2/cGhvdG86ZGV3YWx0/4ec302f7-0634-511b-b6af-88e07db245dd
They also have a Power Detect model, available only with the quick change chuck, DCD443.
ONR
It appears that I may have to start my “mini recip w anti-vibe tech” collection, and get rid of these oversized monsters I have…they’re taking up WAY TOO MUCH room in my tool chests. Any suggestions, no matter the brand, would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Big Richard
Good place to start: https://www.protoolreviews.com/buying-guides/best-compact-cordless-reciprocating-saw-head-to-head-review/50825/
Vibration control is subjective, but at least it gives you an idea.
Edward Hermanns
Got rid of 4 way blade clamp no idea why dewalt puts less features on the newer recip saws. Dewalt old brushed recip has the most features of any recip they make although obviously it lacks a lot of power compared to now. Adjustable shoe and 4 way blade clamp. Dewalts only recip that has both! Ridiculous
Edward Hermanns
O and still no rafter hook. Ridiculous again. Only brand that makes recips with no rafter hook but yet their circular saws do. Makes no sense. A recip is an aerial tool while a circ saw is mainly ground use. I could deal with no hook on a circ saw but not a recip and thats why i had to attach my own rafter hook to my flexvolt recip. Unfortunately my own hook on my dcs367 fell off due to the much heavier vibration
Mike
The thing with the rafter hook is I hate where they put them, they should have it recessed in the handle where you can pull it out and hang it by the handle by the way I just put a patent on it
Franck B.
Looks like Craftsman forgot to put their new “RP” branding on their version so the CMCS350 will be replaced with the CMCS351… which looks identical except they charge $10 more for the “RP” sticker.
Mike M.
Any thoughts on how loose the blades are using the 4 position clamp on the 367? My son has one, and the blades seemed alarmingly loose in the “standard” position, and a bit tighter in the “sideways” position. I’m thinking that the 382, with its traditional twist style mount, would hold the blades better. And if the 382 improves on the vibration, I might want to get that one and give up the convenience of the 4 positions.