DeWalt DWS780 12" Miter Saw: Why I Kept It Over the $1,600 Festool Kapex
DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with XPS Crosscut Positioning
Independent Testing Disclosure: We purchased this equipment with our own funds for real shop, farm, and field duties in central Texas. No sponsored placement or freebies.
Field Verdict: Tier S / Shop Anchor. Tested rigorously on hardwood joinery, framing, or homestead pasture maintenance.
What We Like
- The XPS shadow line system never loses calibration, blade change or not, the shadow is dead-on kerf width.
- Massive crosscut capacity (2x16 at 90° and 2x12 at 45°) handles wide stair treads and framing lumber without flipping stock.
- Tall sliding fences support 6-3/4" vertical baseboard against the fence.
- Cast-iron bed and stainless detent plate take jobsite beatings without rattling out of square.
Flaws But Not Dealbreakers
- At 56 pounds, it is a backbreaker if you don't keep it mounted on a rolling stand.
- Stock dust collection is pretty mediocre unless you hook up a dedicated high-CFM dust extractor with an aftermarket chute boot.
- Takes up massive bench depth behind the saw because of the traditional rail design.
Shop Benchmarks & Specs
Verified Field Measurements
Central Texas Shop Test
| Rating | 4.9 |
| Opp Score | 0.0 |