This is my favorite out of the 4 "sawzalls" (apologies, Milwaukee) I own/have owned. Just so you know its competition here, I have the corded version of this saw, a cordless 18V Ryobi (not bad, all things considered, but definitely not rugged enough for daily use), Makita's LXT Li-Ion version (a real disappointment that one) and this baby. So far this one is my favorite, and, overall, I am extremely pleased with its performance.
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br /What I like about it:
br /1. Well-balanced
br /2. Rugged
br /3. Good power despite being cordless
br /5. Not too heavy
br /6. The "chuck" (collet?)
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br /What needs to be improved:
br /1. The batteries!
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br /The best feature by far is the 4-position quick-release chuck/collet. It allows you to select the usual "up" and "down" blade orientations, of course, but also "left" and "right" ones. The latter two positions really come into their own when flush cutting up against another surface because they place the blade so close to the edge of the shoe/body of the saw. As far as I know, only the Type 2 version of the DC385 has this, so check carefully if buying a reconditioned or auction item.
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br /There are a couple of features I would like to have: orbital cutting and variable stroke length. Orbital cutting allows a recip saw to zip through wood by scooping out the chips as they are cut. Being able to adjust, or at least choose between several settings of stroke length would make cutting into existing walls without binding the blade or poking through the other side much less likely.
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br /The true Achilles' heel of the DeWalt cordless tool line-up is their continued use of Ni-Cd batteries. Pretty much every other manufacturer of pro-grade cordless tools (well, except Hilti) have switched to Ni-MH and/or Li-ion and shown us just how long a cordless tool can run, and how powerful it can be, compared to its corded counterpart. If this tool will be used daily and/or heavily - e.g., roofing, demolition, rough framing and remodeling - then I feel the XRP batteries just won't keep up. You'll need at least 3 batteries to make it through one day of heavy use. If this is the sort of work you do then you'll probably want to take a good long look at DeWalt's 36V or Milwaukee's V28 tools, but if you use a sawzall for a few quick cuts here and there on the job site - e.g., electrician, plumber - then it'll probably work great for you too.

I ordered the product on Sunday and received it on Friday. Also well packaged.
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br / This is an update. I use this often for work, it works great. The only complaint is the blade release is kind of stiff till it worn a little. Plenty of power with four blade positions, it is hard to complain.

This is the perfect saw if you don't need the battery pack or a case. I already had an 18 volt cordless drill. I saved a lot of money by buying the saw only and it works great. I didn't need all the tools that come in a set so this was the perfect solution.

Advertised as "refurbished" and it may be, but this item appears and runs as new. Had no scratches, dust, dents, wear or anything that would suggest it is refurbished. Doesn't come with a fancy case or battery, but if you don't need those items, it's a good deal

For the price, I'm pretty satisfied with this saw. The first time I used it, however, I was rather shocked that the battery fell off. It doesn't quit fit the standard DeWalt batteries. I'm now using a bungy cord to keep the battery in place--which makes it easier than holding the battery on to the saw with one hand while using it.

So far it does very well, only disappointment was it didn't come with extra battery, but it was a gift so I can't complain to much. So far like it alot! Definitely need extra battery.

this is an updated version to the older 18 volt sawzall....and its worth the step up to even if you have an older model. I bought this saw as my older dewalt finally died...or should i say was wounded in battle with a very stubborn beam. Anyhow parts were more than buying this bare tool so for me the purchace was a no brainer.
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br /now for the scoop:
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br /Pros: a bit more compact than the older units
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br /really nice adjustable shoe
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br /two position chuck
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br /reliable and well priced for a bare tool pro unit
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br /cons: this unit will eat thru batteries like you ain't seen...so have plenty of extras...3 is a bare minimun for demo days ...if your a weekend warrior then 2 is fine.
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br / (I must admit that I hesitate to even list this as a con....this is a bare tool and those buying it should aready be familiar with the dewalt line and have a couple batteries....the xrp's are no better or worse for charge or use time than the new nano's...they are however heavier and do not keep a storage charge as well as the lithiums do....that said the amp hour rating is what determines a batteries run time. period....so if you have batteries enjoy... if not then look for combo kit deals. only the every day guys should be concerned with nano-lithiums as the its more of an issue when they are left in the truck without use then in the garage or workshop on a charger. hence this is a 5 star review for a great tool no matter what battery you use.)
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I bought the DeWalt DC385B 18v Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool, No Battery) and got a great deal! I looked into getting a brand new one for about $200, this one brand new, with no batteries was $65, and since I already had a couple 18v Dewalt batteries I was sold. It works great and the battery lasts long enough for any and all of the jobs I've used it on. It also came with the all purpose wood/metal blade.

This tool cuts metal,wood,drywall like butter. This saw is not the cheap version of the one I had. This bad boy is beef-up and heavier.Once in my hands I knew this tool would preform, and I was right. I highly recommend this saw to all.
br /This was my first internet purchase at Hardware Sales. They had just what I wanted. I didn't need a whole kit or tool plus battery. All I needed was the tool at a fair price fast. Thanks Hardware Sales

I did not know if this thing was going to be much of a tool but had some demolition work to do that was far away from an electrical outlet. I did not need to worry because this tool did great. It is heavier and more powerful than I expected from a cordless.

Quick ship, easy transaction and awesome product...already had numerous batteries and chargers so the tool only orders are great and cost efficient, thanks, Greg

Great tool. Can't wait for battery technology to come around, so that these tools can get a little lighter. Although, this tool is lighter than my old AC powered Porter Cable Sawzall.

After a less than stellar experience with the Dewalt 18v Rt. angle drill, I exchanged that tool for this one. What a difference! This saw can go the distance. Good job Dewalt.

This is a great tool! I upgraded from the Ryobi sawzall. The Dewalt has more power, more run time, cuts faster, and is easier to change blades. The quick change feature works excellent and holds the blade very solidly. The only downside is that this is a HEAVY tool. That means it has very solid construction, but you can get tired or fatigued if using it constantly. You really need 2 hands to hold this. I cut through drywall like butter and 2x6 studs very quickly.

There was trouble with this order from the beginning and 5 weeks later the Maxtool representative stated we have your money now go away. So stay away from them.DeWALT DC385 18V Heavy-Duty Cordless Reciprocating Saw - Tool Only

Just baught the saw by itself. Cheap $99. I'm glad I got it. You'll be too.

Nowhere in the description did it mention the saw came with no power supply which will now cost me an additional $150.00! The saw, without obviously is useless to me!