DeWalt DWE357 Review

DeWalt DWE357
Editor Rating: 4.7/5

Great Product

DeWalt DWE357 Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Dec 10, 2022 @ 4:41 am

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

DeWalt DWE357 Review

The DeWalt DWE357 is a versatile, corded reciprocating saw that’s perfect for the DIY-perfectionist who needs a durable saw for metal and woodworking. Manufactured by the DeWalt Industrial Tool Company, this brand, established in 1924, boasts a history of its ‘guaranteed tough’ manufacturing style — and this power tool doesn’t fall short.

This power cutter has a powerful 12-amp motor capable of reaching speeds of 3,000 spm (strokes per minute) and a variable speed trigger. This means there are very few materials that will challenge its cutting capability.

We all know that you need different speeds and different blades for certain cuts (let’s call it the ‘different strokes for different folks’ line of the DIY world) on certain materials. The broad range of speed and adaptability of this power saw makes choosing the right speed for your specific cut child’s play!

The compact and lightweight design paired with its overloaded soft-grip handle make this tool an ergonomic dream. The body of this tool somewhat reminds me of an SDS drill — that’s how small and lightweight it is.

So, what is in the box?

You receive the DWE357 compact reciprocating saw and a ‘cloth case’ contractor bag. It’s made of strong nylon that helps give it its shape and protects your power tool. However, bear in mind, you’ll have to purchase the blades separately.

Pros:

N
Compact and lightweight — great ergonomics!
N
Variable speed trigger.
N
Powerful 12-amp motor.
N
Keyless lever-action blade clamp.
N
Multi-direction blade configurations.

Cons:

N
Saw blades are an additional purchase.
N
A hardshell carry case would be an improvement.

DeWalt DWE357 Compact Reciprocating Saw Features and Benefits


I’ve mentioned some of the features and benefits of this versatile tool in the intro, but, let’s delve into the details:

Four-Position Blade Holder


In my view, this is one of the features that sets the DWE357 DeWalt compact reciprocating saw apart from its competitors. You can fit the blades vertically and horizontally. This means that you can place the blade left and right-facing, as well as up and down — allowing you to make fuss-free cuts in tricky places.

For instance, positioning the blade horizontally with the tool upside down can give you a decent flush cut — a task that could be a sticky toffee to chew on for even the more experienced craftsman out there. Made easy, by the four-position blade holder.

Tool-less Blade Change


Although tool-less blade changes have become a staple in modern-era power tools, this feature still deserves a special mention. The lever-action (a keyless blade clamp) is well designed and extremely easy to use — making blade switching seamless.

This changeover capability has the blades not fitted too tightly, which makes for less blade-bending in use — thus extending the life of your cutter.

Compact and Lightweight Design


The DWE357 compact weighs 6.8 pounds, allowing this tool to be classified as lightweight. Marrying the weight with its 14.5-inch length means storing and carrying the saw to and from job sites is a hassle-free task.

But, carrying a tool around isn’t much use if you don’t use it.

And, thanks to its compact nature, the DeWalt is ideal for working in confined, hard-to-reach spots. Fitting it between studs, in tight corners, and under sinks is a breeze.

Ergonomics


Working with a power tool is a tiresome activity, and we’ve almost come to expect tools to offer us comfort — enabling us to work for longer thanks to less fatigue. I can honestly say that it seems like this DeWalt was designed with exactly that in mind.

The overloaded soft grip on the handle decreases vibration. And, the front boot area aligns well with your body, thus reducing the risk of you straining your hand while working.

What’s more, the hand placement design and rubber molding on the front part make controlling the tool effortless and help steady the tool during inevitable periods of increased vibration.

Powerful Motor


This motor is capable of a range of between 0 – 3,000 spm (strokes per minute), permitting painless power customization for each job. With a motor that offers 120 volts, 60 hertz, and 12 amps settings, you’re guaranteed brawn that will never leave you yearning for more — even during heavy-duty applications!

Pivoting Shoe


The pivoting shoe provides leverage for different applications. This will be evident in your cuts, which you will discover to be more accurate, as the shoe is pressed firmly against the material.

This also lends to the safety of the DeWalt DWE357 and allows for the reduction of unnecessary stresses on your body — meaning you can work effectively for a longer amount of time.

Pairing the shoe with the blade clamp we talked about earlier will advance your cutting skills — with tricky positions and overhead cuts being added to your repertoire of DIYer abilities. This will increase the number of cuts that you’ll be able to seamlessly carry out, and no doubt gain you the title of mister-fix-it in your circle of friends.

Stroke Length


The DWE357 has an industry-standard stroke length of 1.125 inches — the depth of the cut your saw is capable of.

However, the speed at which these strokes are made makes all the difference.

If you take this stroke length and team it up with the powerful motor (with speeds of up to 3000 spm, I dare remind you), it permits rapid sawing through wood, metals, drywall, and plastics.

Variable Speed


The DeWalt DWE357 reciprocating saw is controlled by a user-friendly variable speed trigger.

With a range of up to 3,000 spm, you can pick your pace according to your material — be it hitting the highest or lowest speeds, or varying your sawing action at different points to get through a stubborn cut.

All you have to do to achieve this is to squeeze the trigger. The harder you press, the faster you’ll cut — it’s that simple! However, for obvious safety reasons, you can’t lock on the trigger switch.

LED Light


In this day and age, an LED light is a must and the DWE357 happily complies with this industry craving.

However, it’s not only a trade trend where this saw is concerned. We’ve established that the DWE357 is compact enough to operate in awkward spaces, and habitually these types of working conditions lack sufficient lighting.

Hence, the LED light is mounted on the head of the reciprocating tool, enabling you to work in the most dimly lit spaces — without having to rig up an external lighting source.

DeWalt DWE357 Reciprocating Saw Specifications

DeWalt DWE357
Length14.5 inches
Weight6.8 pounds
Power SourceCorded
LED LightYes
Warranty3 Years
Strokes Per Minute 0-3,000
Switch TypeVariable speed trigger
Stroke Length 1.125 inches
Product Dimensions ‎14.5 x 4.69 x 9.69 inches

What Do Users Say About the DeWalt DWE357?


From looking at what users on the internet have to say about the DeWalt DWE357, it’s clear that this is a highly appreciated and rated reciprocating saw.

DIYers and professionals alike cannot get enough of the power packed into this compact, lightweight tool and the way that it’s so easy to maneuver. Users praise the four-way blade positioning, feel the variable speed keeps them in complete control and find the tool-less changeovers a godsend.

One owner even mentioned the experience of operating the tool is like having an extension of your arm that can cut things up, pronto!

Overall the reviews of this tool were astoundingly positive and it seems as though this durable and versatile tool is a staple amongst professionals and DIYers

Alternatives to the DeWalt DWE357 Reciprocating Saw


While the DWE357 could be a lot of things to a lot of people, you just can’t please all the people all the time. Hence, if you’ve decided it’s not quite right for your project’s needs, I’ve come up with three highly-rated alternatives for you.
Makita XRJ07ZB
If you’ve decided that the cordless approach is more your sawing style, the Makita XRJ07ZB may warrant your attention.

With a max stroke per minute of 3,000, its range is identical to the DeWalt. Plus, it also offers a tool-less blade switch and an LED light. The big difference comes in when comparing the power. The Makita is cordless and thus uses batteries with a voltage of 18 volts versus the DeWalt’s corded 120 volts.

  • Weighing 5.7 pounds (inc battery) and a length of 12.5 inches, the Makita is lighter and more compact than the DeWalt.
  • The DWE357 is more price-friendly than the XRJ07ZB.
  • With an 0.825-inch stroke length, the Makita falls short against the DeWalt.
kilsaw SPT44A-00

Are you keen to curb the not-so-good vibrations on your choice of reciprocating saw? If you’re nodding in agreement, the Skilsaw SPT44A-00 could fit the bill. It features proprietary Buzzkill tech that’s designed to dampen this action.

The SPT44A-00 arrives with a touch larger 13-amp motor, a one-inch stroke length, and a maximum of 2800 spm. It also features a variable speed switch and a tool-free cutter clamp. However, at 19.7 inches and weighing 9 pounds, it has a bigger footprint than the DeWalt.

  • Both have a similar price point.
  • With a weight of 9 pounds, the Skilsaw is heavier than the 6.8-pound DeWalt.
  • Offering 13 amps, the SPT44A-00 delivers slightly more power versus the 12 amps of the DWE357.

Portable Cable PCC620LB

Perhaps you love the compact design of the DWE357 but want to take it a step further. May I suggest the DeWalt DCS369B. This is ideal for the one-handed DIYer or Tradie — those needing more portability, and the ability to operate solely on battery power.

Like its corded counterpart, the DCS369B has a pivoting shoe, LED light, variable speed trigger, and tool-free blade. However, it is cordless, which will limit the amount of time you can use the saw.

  • The DeWalt DCS369B has a slightly lower 2800 spm compared to the 3000 spm of the DeWalt DWE357.
  • Sporting a stroke length of 0.625 inches, the DCS 369B is considerably shorter than the 1.125 inches of the DWE 375.
  • Both the DWE357 and the DCS369B are of a comparable price.

Conclusion


This reciprocating saw has been a must-have tool for most carpenters, electricians, contractors, and DIYers since its invention in 1951, and it’s clear to see why. The DWE357 is an impeccable, versatile and durable tool that’s guaranteed to keep its user satisfied with not only its efficiency but with its effectiveness too.

Being one of the most lightweight and compact reciprocating saws out there, this tool goes above and beyond, reaching into even the trickiest crevices without sacrificing comfort or power — which is a great feat in my opinion.

The variable speeds paired with the powerful motor offer adaptability to the exact task and material you will be working with, which will never leave you wanting more.

In my view, if you’re seeking fast cuts, complete control, and the ultimate in maneuverability — all wrapped up in a reciprocating saw, you won’t go far wrong with the DeWalt DWE357.

DeWalt DWE357 Reciprocating Saw FAQs

Q: Is the DeWalt DWE357 Compact Reciprocating Saw Brushless?

No, it isn’t.

Q: Is the Pivoting Shoe of the DeWalt DWE357 Adjustable or Fixed?

The pivoting shoe of the DWE357 is fixed, with a rivet on each side.

Q: Where Would I Find the User Manual for the DWE357?

The user manual is available on the official DeWalt website. DWE357 manual.

Q: What Is The Maximum Length of Blade the DeWalt DWE357 Takes?

This great tool takes blades of all sizes and manufacturers — all sold separately of course. The manufacturer recommends that the blades should have a minimum length of 3.5 inches, and should extend past the workpiece during the cut.

Q: Is the DWE357 DeWalt Compact Reciprocating Saw 10 Amp or 12 Amp?

This is a 12-amp tool. However, DeWalt does manufacture a 10-amp reciprocating saw — its model number is DWE304.

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