DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jig-Saw

by DEWALT

Product Description

Amazon.com Review

Gentle curves, sharp turns, circles, ovals or straight cuts, it’s all a cinch with this DeWalt. It’s got so much power, it can easily take on jobs you’d normally hand to your circular saw, but it’s got the finesse you need for cutting curves.

Our pet peeve with jigsaws has always been the complicated, tooled method of changing a blade, but bravo to DeWalt for engineering this tool-free, practically effortless blade changeout system, quality-made completely of metal. The flip of a lever is all it takes, and you’re back on the job. It’s nice, too, to not have to handle that sizzling hot blade – the saw ejects it for you.

Control is phenomenal, and the saw really does the work for you. The motor powers the blade at 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute, so whether you’re cutting 1/8th-inch ply or a 2-by-4, this saw does not disappoint. You can tailor the speed and aggression to suit your cutting needs with a four-position selector that changes the attitude of the blade for different cutting applications. The non-marring shoe bevels to 45 degrees with positive stops, but we found it a tad difficult to determine the exact angle we’d set. A minor quibble, but one worth mentioning.

We particularly like how this saw feels in hand. It’s beautifully balanced, and the curved rubber grip feels good to grasp. The shape of the front of the tools lends itself nicely to your free hand for guidance. And while you’re cutting, the built-in dust blower really does a great job of keeping your cutting line clear. Carpenters and contractors will love this saw, and the do-it-yourselfer will find a hundred uses for it.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

Amazon.com Product Description

The DEWALT Variable Speed Top-Handle Jigsaw Kit provides you with the power, precision, and innovative features you need for detailed work and curved cuts. To make fast, accurate work of tough jobs, this jigsaw kit features variable speed control in the dial and trigger, positive bevel detents on the shoe at commonly used angles, and integrated dust management. Plus a counterbalance mechanism and rubber grip minimize vibration to help keep you in control of the saw and your workpiece. This kit includes a set of T-shank blades and a durable kit box for easy transport.

Variable Speed Top-Handle Jigsaw Kit At a Glance: Variable-speed control for application-specific performance Dependable 6.5 amp motor delivers 500 spm to 3,100 spm Convenient bevel detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees Counterbalance mechanism and rubber grip for reduced vibration Non-marring plastic shoe cover protects work surfaces Three-year limited warranty, one-year free service, and 90-day money-back guarantee

The flush-cutting blade system allows you to complete flush cuts without up cutting. View larger.

The non-marring plastic shoe cover protects delicate work surfaces. View larger.

Fast and Versatile with Variable Speed Control
The jigsaw's variable speed control allows you to make quick, accurate adjustments and utilize speeds ranging from 500 strokes per minute to 3,100 strokes per minute. This application-specific performance translates to improved control and cleaner results.

Adding to the saw's application-specific performance is a four-position orbital action for quicker, more aggressive cuts. The saw delivers a 1-inch stroke length, and its dependable 6.5 amp motor provides the power you need for tough applications. And when you're working with more delicate materials, a plastic, non-marring shoe cover protects soft or glossy materials from unwanted scratches.

In addition, the innovative DEWALT flush-cutting blade system allows you to complete flush cuts without up cutting. And positive bevel detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees make it a cinch to accurately set the shoe and blade at commonly used angles.

Designed for Control and Durability
This easy-to-maneuver jigsaw weighs just 6.4 pounds, but that doesn't mean it compromises on dependability or comfort. An all-metal gear case provides the durability necessary in a professional shop environment, while a counterbalance mechanism reduces vibration and an extra-large rubber grip dampens it. This results in improved user comfort and reduced user fatigue, allowing you to work longer and produce work with precision.

The saw's integrated dust blower helps keep your work surface clear of unwanted debris, resulting in a safer work environment. It is designed to keep your line of sight clear for improved work piece visibility while you cut.

Save Time with Tool-Free Blade Changes
Whether you're working with a variety of specialty materials that require different blades or you're simply ready for a more aggressive cut, the DEWALT tool-free, lever-action blade clamps allow you to complete blade changes quickly and securely. The blade lever is constructed of metal for added durability.

In order to provide optimal holding power, the saw accepts only T-shank blades.

This variable speed top-handle jigsaw kit also comes with a DEWALT warranty package that includes a three-year limited warranty, a one-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee.

What's in the Box
DEWALT Variable Speed Top-Handle Jigsaw, blades, and kit box.

Cut everything from hardwoods to marble with this versatile DEWALT jigsaw kit.

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B0007XXHHI
• Item model number: DW331K
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (33 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #23,044 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
  • #23 in Home Improvement > Power & Hand Tools > Power Tools > Saws > Jig Saws

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

63 of 66 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great jigsaw!, October 15, 2005

By 

Kermit Howell "Woodworker, fisherman." (Purdy, MO United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jig-Saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I really like this jigsaw! I've been using a Bosch jigsaw, and while it is a very good jigsaw I never really warmed up to it. When Dewalt brought out the DW331K I looked it over and decided to try it. I'm glad I did. First I like the quick, easy, no tool blade change. I far prefer the lever type system that Dewalt uses to the spinning knob system that Bosch uses. Every time I changed blades on the Bosch and the knob snapped when it locked the blade in it always felt like something had just broken. Also another feature that I'm really happy with is the dust blower on the Dewalt. It works! The dust blower on my Bosch has never worked well at all. I also like Dewalt tools because they appear to be of good quality, and sensibly built. I may keep the Bosch as a backup, but when it comes to a jigsaw the Dewalt DW331K is my weapon of choice.

28 of 30 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Saw, but takes some playing with, April 17, 2007

By 

J. Eklund "I spend too much time on research...." (Cape Cod, MA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jig-Saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I have had this saw for about 8 months now, and I have to say that it has been great. I haven't used it as much as some other people may in that time, but it's been very handy when I've needed it. When I first received this item, it seemed to have scratches on it. The blade also fell out when I went to use it. I sent it back to Amazon, who was completely awesome about the return, and received a new one.

When I got the new one, I opened the box and was shocked to see some of the same scratches on the saw that the one I sent back had. When I went to use it, I noticed the same bevel problems that others have stated- even at 0 the bevel would slide under pressure. Since the jig saw is the kind of tool you lean on a little when you use it, this was unacceptable. I called Amazon and got a third saw- figuring 3 strikes and you're out.

The third saw came, and there weren't as many "scratches". It appears upon closer inspection, that what I saw may have just been marks from the case. I started using the saw a little more and noticed something interesting. The shoe moved not only in a beveled left/right motion, but also front to back. The arm to release the shoe would give some pressure no matter what, and appear to hold the shoe in place until I put pressure on it. On inspecting the motion more closely- I realized that the shoe is designed to have the arm unlocked, then you pull back the shoe, set the bevel, push it forward to click it into place, and then lock the arm. It is VERY easy to miss this "push forward" step and then the shoe would not lock. Once it's done right though, the shoe is unmoveable. My mistake- I am glad I figured it out though. I'm not sure if this would solve other's issues with the bevel not staying in place on this saw, but I think it may.

The next issue is the blade falling out. This happened to me a few times, and I finally figured this one out too. The blade goes in very firmly. You also have to have the lever all the way open to get it in all the way. Once it's in, you release the lever and pull the blade down to check it (please do this with the saw unplugged). You will feel how firm it is in there. As one other reviewer mentioned- you have to play with it a little to get the feel for it.

And finally- put good quality blades on this thing. The blades it comes with are sub-par. I bought a nice set of Bosch blades for something like $10 and they are far superior. Match the blade to the intended use. You'll be suprised at the difference it makes. Using inferior blades I couldn't cut square or smooth. With the bosch blades on this thing- I am amazed at how smooth things are. I do wish I could cut a little straighter with it- but I am pretty inexperienced with the jigsaw, and one end of the blade does roam freely, so some motion is to be expected. I have cut counter tops, pine, and maple with this thing though and everything comes out perfectly as long as you're careful.

All in all, I would give this 4.5 stars due to the fact that it came scratched because the case isn't designed "pefectly" (although I'd rather they give a great tool and an OK case than an OK tool and a perfect case), the fact that it comes with inferior blades, and the fact that you have to master a couple of tricks to overcome the complaints others have mentioned. However, I am thrilled with the purchase now and love the tool- I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again.

One last note- when I was searching I was looking between this saw and the Bosch 1790EVSK. I decided to break from the pack and go with the Dewalt. I just liked the way it felt in my hand better. Personal choice. I am sure the Bosch is also a great saw and since I've never used it I can't compare directly. However, I can't imagine it is perfect, or that much better than the Dewalt. If I was buying again- I know it would come down to the Bosch or the Dewalt and I would go to a store and hold each tool and pick the one I thought felt better. Maybe I'd be shocked if I used a Bosch- but I think that many of the Bosch users may be shocked if they gave the Dewalt a shot too.

30 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Beware, April 10, 2007

By 

T. Sheffield "WoodGood" (NH USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: DEWALT DW331K 6.5 Amp Top Handle Jig-Saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I have used a Dewalt jig saw many times before with excellent results. This led me to buy one of my own. I chose the DW331K because of its power and especially for the ability to do bevel cuts without either an allen wrench or a screwdriver to make the adjustment. I also liked the toolless blade change and that is where the problem lies. The arm that is the pivot point for the blade release is extremely thin where the pivot point is. As a result, in very short order this little arm broke. This renders the saw unusable until it is repaired. After this happened I used a co-workers same saw that he got because he liked mine so much. When he tried to change the blade the same thing happened to him. This was within several hours of mine breaking. Coincidence? No. It would appear to be a design flaw. The pivot point should have been beefed up or a stronger material used. It appears to be some sort of white metal casting. At least the bevel adjustment works great so far. I'm not sure if I would buy another knowing what I know now and I have many Dewalt products. We'll see how they treat their customers now.

This is now six months later and I must downgrade my previous rating to one star. After spending shipping money to have the saw fixed under warranty it has broken again in exactly the same way. It has also developed the loose bevel adjustment lever that others have spoken about. This problem however can be fixed with an allen wrench on the bottom of the saw but if you make it too tight it makes it difficult to move the lever; it must be just right. This saw is more of a headache than it is worth so now I will be purchasing a Bosch as the one that I have used in the past is great with none of the headaches of the Dewalt....I hope.
Well here we are more than a year later. The blade clamp/release has broken for a third and final time. This saw is a total piece of junk. I have had enough of Dewalt altogether. I purchased the Bosch with quick blade release and simple bevel adjustment and so far it is far superior to the Dewalt. From now on I will ignore Dewalt and stick with Makita and Bosch as they seem to actually hire engineers to design their tools.