I Tested DeWalt’s Newest and Near-Perfect Metal-Cutting Circular Saw: See My Review

I put DeWalt’s new metal-cutting circular saw to the test on steel, aluminum, and more. Here’s why it took home the top honor in BobVila.com’s 2025 Tool of the Year competition.
Carrying the DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila

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Rating: 4.9/5

After years of forcing wood saws to do a job they weren’t designed to do, I tested a tool that finally solves the biggest frustrations of DIY metal cutting. The DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw is specially designed to cut through steel, aluminum, and siding. This model earned the coveted Game Changer designation in BobVila.com’s 2025 Tool of the Year competition, and after testing it, I can confidently attest that it deserves the win.

To test it, I clamped down corrugated roofing, steel studs, and ¼-inch aluminum, and this saw cut through each material with smooth, spark-free precision. Instead of flying shards and burned shirts, I got clean, straight edges and a safer cutting experience. This isn’t just a minor upgrade—it’s a circular saw that redefines how DIYers and pros cut metal.

Best Metal-Cutting Saw

DeWalt DCS383B metal-cutting saw

DeWalt DCS383B Circular Saw

How Powerful Is the DeWalt Metal Cutting Saw?

This circular saw is built on DeWalt’s 20V MAX XR platform and delivers up to 1,400 max watts out (MWO) of cutting power—equivalent to a corded 15-amp saw but without needing an outlet to work. At just over 13 pounds, it’s rock-solid when cutting, yet it’s compact and easy to maneuver. I used the auxiliary handle for added control on clamped cuts, but stronger users could easily run it one-handed while holding the workpiece with the other hand.

My favorite feature? No sparks. My past experiences with metal-cutting resulted in flying sparks, smoking blades, and even burned holes in my clothes. With the DCS383B, the hot metal shards were trapped in the case, the sparks were gone, and I didn’t ruin my shirt. That alone makes it worth recommending, especially if you’re cutting near anything flammable. 

Other features that impressed me:

  • Built-in chip collector that trapped nearly all the shavings.
  • Clear line of sight to the cutline for accuracy.
  • Quick, simple blade changes with onboard wrench.
  • Durable, pro-grade construction.

Yes, it’s loud. All metal saws are. Wear hearing protection and you’ll be set.

  • Cutting metal with the DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw
  • DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw
  • Easy blade change with wrench stored onboard
  • DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw 3
  • Cutting metal siding with DeWalt DCS383B Metal-Cutting Circular Saw
  • Metal Shards from collection bin

Who Is the DeWalt Metal Cutting Saw Best For?

The DeWalt DCS383B metal-cutting saw is well-suited for both DIY workshops and professional projects. For homeowners, it removes the fear factor from cutting metal, so once-intimidating projects like installing steel siding, trimming corrugated panels, or cutting pipe become manageable tasks. For pros, it’s a faster, cleaner alternative to hauling around a chop saw or dealing with a messy grinder.

DeWalt has earned a reputation for dependable, pro-grade tools, and this model lives up to the brand’s legacy. In testing, it delivered consistent, controlled performance. If you’ve ever avoided a metal project because it seemed too messy or dangerous, this saw is for you.

Currently selling for $479 (tool only), the DeWalt DCS383B isn’t the cheapest option, but if you need to regularly cut metal, it’s worth the investment. 

Where to Buy the DeWalt Metal-Cutting Circular Saw

 
Tool of the Year 2025 Announcement

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Glenda Taylor Avatar

Glenda Taylor

Staff Writer

Glenda Taylor is a BobVila.com staff writer with a background in the residential remodeling, home building, and home improvement industries. She started writing for BobVila.com in 2016 and covers a range of topics, including construction methods, code compliance, tool use, and the latest news in the housing and real estate industries. 


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