| Quick Reference | |||
 | |||
| DeWalt’s DW311K is powered by a strong 13 amp motor big enough to handle the toughest materials without bogging down. It has many of the standard features of more expensive reciprocating saws such as a tool-less blade clamp that can hold the blade teeth up or teeth down. Adjustment of the shoe length requires no tools too. | |||
 | |||
Features | |
 | The 1-1/8″ stroke length provides plenty of depth for thick materials or deep cuts behind obstructing structural components. This reciprocating saw quickly cuts through wood, steel, conduit, pipe, nails, gypsum and cement fiber board. Switching on orbital blade action speeds up cuts on coarse material such as dimensional lumber or tree branches. |
| The 1-1/8″ stroke length provides plenty of depth for thick materials or deep cuts behind obstructing structural components. This reciprocating saw quickly cuts through wood, steel, conduit, pipe, nails, gypsum and cement fiber board. Switching on orbital blade action speeds up cuts on coarse material such as dimensional lumber or tree branches. |
| With a comfortable weight just under nine pounds, it is easy to handle even on ladders or for overhead work. The comfortable, anti-slip handle provides total control and reduces vibration. |
| DeWalt backs up the quality of this reciprocating saw model with a 3-year limited warranty. |
Specifications
| Spec Type | Spec | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Saw type | Corded | |
| Tool Weight | under 9 lbs. | |
| Tool Length | 18.0 inches | |
| Power/Volts | 13 amps/120VAC | |
| Strokes per minute | 0-2700 | |
| Stroke Length | 1-1/8 inches | |
| Blade Depth Adjustment | No | Adjustable shoe |
| Variable Speed Trigger | Yes | |
| Speed Limit Control | Yes | |
| Tool-less blade clamp | Yes | Twist type |
| Adjustable Shoe | Yes | |
| 2-Way Blade Positioning | Yes | |
| 4-Way Blade Positioning | No | |
| Anti-Slip Comfort Grip | Yes | |
| Carrying Case | Yes | Plastic |
| Advanced Features | ||
| Anti-Vibration System | No | |
| Open Toe Shoe | No | |
| Cut Zone Lighting | No | |
| Orbital Motion | Yes | |
| Electronic Load Compensation | No | |
| Blade Clutch | No | |
| Metal Housing | No | |
Review
For the price, you get a lot of power – 13 amps – for tackling most materials while providing a long duty cycle. It tackles even cast iron and masonry, but be sure you use the correct blade. The speed control limiter, if used to match material type, extends blade and saw life. Orbital action keeps the kerf clear when cutting wood, which speeds things up, but turn it off on other materials in order to make smoother, straighter cuts.
If you plan to use the DeWalt DW311K for extended periods of time, the lack of anti-vibration technology might be a serious drawback. Even with the soft grip, it could create tingling in your hands, which leads to operator fatigue.
The blade clamp is tool-less, but it is an unprotected knurled knob. It is not the easiest clamp to operate with gloves on. If you do not wear gloves, however, you risk burning your fingers on the bare knob if the saw is hot. This design oversight can be overcome by keeping a pair of thinner work gloves in the saw case.
Some users are going to have a problem with the case. It is not long enough to allow the saw to be put away without removing the blade first. Additionally, its size makes it difficult to store the cord without carefully winding it into a tight coil. Experience with DeWalt cases points to the hinges as being weak, so make sure the lid closes without pressure.
Pros
- Motor sized for heavy-duty jobs
- Faster wood cuts with orbital motion
- Durable stainless steel, adjustable shoe
- Good power-to-weight ratio
Cons
- No vibration control technology
- Missing some higher-end features
- Case is too small
Our Verdict
It is a no-excuses saw with few frills aimed squarely at the DIY handyperson who wants basic utility and plenty of power. It is strong enough to be a primary or backup saw for construction workers without blowing the budget.
