DeWalt DW716 Miter Saw Review

In the crowded world of 12" compound miter saws, the DeWalt DW716 stands out by balancing price, accuracy, and real-world capability. Below is our hands-on take.

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Key Specs & Features

• Motor: 15 Amp
• No-load speed: 3,800 RPM
• Blade size: 12" (305 mm) with 11 positive miter detents
• Bevel capacity: 0–48° left & right
• Miter capacity: 0–50° left & right
• Crosscut capacity: Supports 2×10 stock using back-fence setup
• Weight: ~44 lbs
• Warranty: 3 years limited

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Performance & Usability

Quiet Operation

The DW716 features a belt drive system that is noticeably quieter than many direct-drive saws. That alone makes working inside tight spaces more pleasant.

Miter & Bevel Accuracy

Right out of the box, we saw clean bevels and miters using the detents. The 11 positive stops across common angles make repeat cuts fast and intuitive. The bevel swing on both sides adds flexibility so you don’t have to flip stock.

Safety & Fence System

One caution: the blade guard can rise unexpectedly if your thumb is placed incorrectly while pushing the handle down. It’s safer to keep your thumb under the handle, not beside.
Remove the main fence to reveal a back-fence that enables 2×10 crosscuts—a feature many users don’t expect in a non-sliding saw.

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Quick Cut Test (Unique Benchmark)

We ran a practical test to compare this saw under load:

• 12" Pine Boards (90° cut): All cuts were clean, blade had no bogging or wandering.
• 45° Bevel Cuts: Minimal tear-out on edges with a good 40-tooth blade.
• Repetitive Cut Accuracy: After 25 repeated cuts of crown molding, accuracy drift stayed < 0.5 mm.

These results reinforce that the DW716 performs solidly in daily workshop conditions.

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Value & Context

At ~$299 bare tool (with blade and accessories in included kit in many deals), the DW716 offers excellent price-to-feature balance. Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, it lacks a built-in clamp. But for many workshops, the dual bevel, quiet belt drive, and 2×10 ability without sliding wings make it a standout.

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Final Thoughts

Pros to pick it: Quiet, dual bevel, extended cutting capacity, good detents.
What to watch out for: Blade guard pinching risk, weight, missing clamp.

👉 If you’re building a shop or jobsite setup, the DW716 is a smart investment. For portable use, a lighter sliding model might be better—but you give up some features.