Looking for a DEWALT cordless chainsaw? Well, we’re here to let you in on a secret. Their 40V chainsaws are fantastic! This article will cover the DCCS690H1(6Ah) and the DCCS690M1(4Ah)
Gas chainsaw are noisy and they spew fumes. Electric chainsaws are limited by their extension cords and it’s annoying having to manage that cord. Battery powered chainsaws are the future, no doubt about it. A battery chainsaw is untethered, allowing you complete freedom of movement — but more than that, they’re quiet, lightweight and require no maintenance. What else do you want?
New 2017 — DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V Chainsaw
Before we discuss the 40V DeWalt chainsaw I want to introduce to the new FLEXVOLT 60V DeWalt chainsaw officially released on April 1, 2017. To learn more I recommend you read our comprehensive article on the DeWalt FLEXVOLT system. If you depend on tools to make a living or you’re a serious hobbyist then you’ll really appreciate the technology and innovation behind the FLEXVOLT system, which is also backward compatible with all of DeWalt’s 20V tools.
DEWALT FLEXVOLT | 16″ Chainsaw
DCCS670X1 — 60V MAX
The basic package comes with a 3.0 Ah battery but you can also purchase separately batteries with far more lasting power, these include: 6.0Ah battery (DCB606-2) and a 9.0Ah battery (DCB609-2)
Features (DEWALT FLEXVOLT Chainsaw)
- Low Kick Back 16″ Oregon Bar and Chain for construction and outdoor cutting applications
- Tool-Free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob for proper bar clamping force
- Auto-Oiling for continuous lubrication. Quarter-turn oil cap for quick oil re-fills
- Chain brake for kick back protection
- Up to 70 cuts per charge* *on a 6″” x 6″” pressure treated pine wood
DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw | The Facts
Before we get into all the details watch this video from Jeff Patterson, who does a great job of showing off what this DEWALT cordless chainsaw can do. And, he has a great youTube channel will lots of great DIY videos, packed with tips and advice for homeowners.
Do you have memories of your dad working out in the garden when you were a small child? Maybe he was mowing the grass, cutting branches off the trees, or even chopping logs in half to throw on your fire. No matter what he was doing, it’s likely you thought of it as manly work, and those same thoughts have crept over into your adult life. Sometimes there is nothing more exciting than stepping into the garden and getting sweaty putting in a hard shift, except it would be crazy to think things haven’t changed.
Take the power tools you have available today, for example. Or more specifically, the cordless power tools you can order from Amazon and have delivered in one day. If you need to carry out any job in your garden, within reason, you have a technologically-advanced power tool to do it.
One of the biggest questions people always ask about them is related to the battery. There are different options out there, so what does Ah actually mean? Before we move onto a few DEWALT cordless chainsaw reviews, I think it would help to answer that exact question.
Video | DEWALT 40V Cordless Chainsaw
Learn more on Amazon.
So What Does ‘Ah’ Actually Mean?
I’m not sure if you can even remember studying physics, but the ‘A’ stands for amps and the ‘h’ stands for hour. Put them together and Ah would stand for ampere-hour.Wikipedia describes an Ampere-hour like this:
An ampere-hour or amp-hour (SI symbol A·h or A h; also denoted Ah) is a unit of electric charge, equal to the charge transferred by a steady current of one ampere flowing for one hour, or 3600 coulombs. (Learn more on Wikipedia)
I know, you don’t want to revisit your adolescent nightmares of electronics class. Don’t worry, we know it’s complicated. We’re just here to give you the basics.
Let’s take a look at how it works, so using the simplest explanation possible; imagine you’re standing in front of a 1 Ah battery. If your imaginary DEWALT cordless chainsaw battery used 1.0 amp of current, the battery would be dead in exactly 1 hour. Even though that would only happen under 100 percent ideal conditions, it’s essentially how it works.
Understanding Batteries | Watch this Video
We Don’t Live In An Ideal World
The DEWALT cordless chainsaws we’re going to look at today have either a 4 Ah or 6 Ah battery. As I’m sure you can probably guess, the 6 Ah battery isn’t going to suddenly start drawing 6 amps of current on the same chainsaw and it’s not going to last a couple of hours longer. We don’t live in an ideal world or in some underground laboratory. When it comes to batteries you should realize a bigger one is only likely to last longer if it’s put through its paces under the same conditions, and when talking about chainsaws it will be what they’re cutting.
3 Important Things About The Battery
As you should already know by now, DEWALT are one of the leading brands in the world when it comes to power and hand tools. Workmen on building sites, garden care professionals, and normal people like you and I will all use their tools. But branching out into 40V Max cordless power tools is a big undertaking, so in doing so they’ve added a few benefits you’ll enjoy. We’re going to quickly talk about each one now before we look at which DEWALT cordless chainsaw you’ll want to add to your power tool collection.
- Your Battery Will Work On A Range Of Products
- You Aren’t Limited To Only One Battery
- There Is Also A 7.5 Ah Battery Available
Your Battery Will Work On A Range Of Products
Aside from the mighty DEWALT cordless chainsaw, you’ll also find a string trimmer, a blower, a backpack blower, and a hedge trimmer in the collection. DEWALT have gone out and manufactured all of the battery-powered tools you will need at home, but they’ve come up with a way to save you lots of money. Their specially designed 40V Max battery pack will work seamlessly in each of their products, so you can buy additional products cheaper without a battery. It will also help with the next thing we’re going to talk about.
You Aren’t Limited To Only One Battery
DEWALT do try to market their products to professionals, but trying to temp someone to buy a cordless power tool is tough when they might use them all the time. To get around this, they’ve made it as easy as possible to switch between batteries while you’re using your cordless power tool. We’ll talk about how long the 6 Ah and 4 Ah battery will last you later on, but know you can always buy more than one battery so you never run out of power. A spare battery is ideal for professionals and anyone with a decent-sized garden.
There Is Also A 7.5 Ah Battery Available
I know you’ll think the 6 Ah battery is extremely powerful and it will open your eyes up to the potential of cordless power tools, but DEWALT also has a 7.5 Ah battery (DCB407). It can be used on every single one of DEWALT’s 40V Max Outdoor Power Equipment tools. If you want actual figures to back up how amazing it is, the 7.5 Ah is roughly 87 percent more efficient than its 4 Ah little brother. It has zero memory and along with the lack of self-discharge, it offers maximum productivity and as little downtime as possible.
Features:
- Compatible with all DEWALT 40V MAX* Outdoor Power Equipment
- Premium XR Lithium Ion battery provides up to 87% more capacity than the 4.0Ah battery (DCB404)
- 3-LED fuel gauge allows immediate feedback on state-of-charge
- No memory and virtually no self-discharge for maximum productivity and less downtime
Battery-Powered Chainsaw vs Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Here are some of the main benefits you’ll get from a battery-powered chainsaw compared to one that runs on gas:
- They will be quieter
- You won’t need to buy gas
- No gas fumes to breathe in
- It eliminates gas engine maintenance
- Better for the environment
- Easier to start in any conditions
- They feel safer to use
The Ultimate DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
As we mentioned earlier, the most common DEWALT cordless chainsaws come with different batteries. One of them is more powerful at 6 Ah, whereas the other is only 4 Ah. There is very little that separates each one, so we’re going to focus on the 6 Ah model. Afterwards, we’ll look at the differences in actual performance between the two using a real life example. You know how big the DEWALT brand name is in the world of power tools, so I think you’re going to be impressed by some of these special features.
6Ah | Model: DCCS690H1 | DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
This chainsaw was released in the Autumn of 2015. You can read the full press release here.
Features:
- Low kick back 16″ Oregon bar and chain
- High-efficiency brushless motor maximizing run time and motor life
- Auto-Oiling with LubriLink and LubriWell for continuous lubrication. Quarter-turn oil cap for quick oil refills.
- Chain brake for kick back protection
- Tool-Free chain tensioning and bar tightening knob for proper bar clamping force
- Variable speed trigger for full power control
- Part of the 40V MAX* system of Outdoor Power Equipment
I’m not sure how many chainsaws you’ve used before, but it must be said it’s unlikely you’ve used anything like this. It has so many features which will benefit your life, so we’ll go through a list of the top ones you’re going to love.
The Performance Of A Gas-Powered Chainsaw
There is no denying gas-powered chainsaws have reigned supreme for years, because it was next to impossible for cordless models to match their performance. It all changed when DEWALT released their 40V Max cordless chainsaw, because it’s guaranteed to be as competitive as a gas-powered chainsaw. They haven’t made that claim lightly, and through vigorous testing have proven it to be true. The low kick-back 16-inch Oregon bar and chain also adds to the performance of the chainsaw, as it will be able to cut through almost anything you come up against.
It’s Almost Light Enough To Float Away
Can you actually believe they’ve manufactured a mean cutting machine that weighs only 20 pounds? When you compare its performance to its weight it’s a weird feeling. I know a lot of people might have been scared of chainsaws in the past, and one of the reasons is because it’s frightening to hold something so sharp when it’s really heavy. When you use a DEWALT cordless chainsaw it will feel like you’re holding a knife and cutting through butter. Its weight is certainly a massive bonus for everyone.
Video | See the Dewalt Cordless Chainsaw Cutting
Auto-Oiling For Optimum Convenience
You have to keep a chainsaw oiled up at all times, right? Failure to do so results in the chain breaking a lot quicker, general maintenance being required more often, and your cuts being anything but smooth. The 40V Max brushless 16″ chainsaw takes all the pain out of having to keep everything oiled, because its LubriLink and LubriWell features will do everything themselves automatically. You’ll still have to fill it with oil, but you’ll need to worry about it much less often and it will be easy because of the quarter-turn oil cap.
- LubriLink = All the small holes in the chain tie straps that will retain your oil.
- LubriWell = Holes in the drive links of the chain carrying the oil around the bar.
It Has A Tool-Free Tensioning System
We’ve looked at the correlation between weight and ease of use, but there is something else you’ll find handy. You’ll be able to play around with the tension of the chain and the tightness of the bar, which will allow you to produce the right amount of force possible when cutting. The reason why this feature stands out on the DEWALT cordless chainsaw is because it will be done using a tool-free tensioning system. It will also help you complete jobs much quicker, especially if you’re cutting through different objects one after the other.
You’ll Have A Variable Speed Trigger
The last main feature to help you control the DEWALT 40V Max chainsaw a lot easier is the variable speed trigger you’ll be using. This is useful for everyone to use, but it’s even more beneficial to those with little experience using chainsaws. When something razor sharp is turning around at lightning speed you want to make sure you have full power over it at all times. The variable speed trigger will let you put your mind at ease, because you’ll be able to squeeze it as hard or soft as you like.
VIDEO | No Need to Worry about Noise and Gas Bans
A Chain Brake For Kick Back Protection
One of the most dangerous things about operating a chainsaw is when it kicks back. This can happen due to a number of things going wrong, but it essentially means a tooth on the tip of the bar catches onto something it’s unable to cut through. When your chainsaw is thrown up in the air it’s hard to control, and in some cases serious accidents can occur. To prevent this from happening to you, DEWALT have built a chain brake into their chainsaws to offer kick back protection. It’s a dangerous power tool, so any important safety feature is welcomed.
The Chainsaw Will Be Easy To Start
With gas chainsaws you need to lift weights at the gym before using them, because fighting with the pull cord isn’t a game. It’s even worse when you’re faced with the prospect of cold starts, and in some cases you can be left frustrated before you ever get to work. The DEWALT cordless chainsaw is a breath of fresh air, because with one little pull of a trigger it’s going to start straight away. If you’re going to end up fighting with the chainsaw, you want to at least wait until it’s cutting through something first.
It Comes With A Fantastic Warranty!
Buying any kind of power tool comes with risks, so you want to find one with a good warranty capable of protecting your investment. DEWALT are so sure their cordless chainsaw is going to last the distance, it comes with an exceptional warranty. You’ll be able to get it services for free during the first year after your purchase, and it also comes with a 3-year limited warranty. There is even a 90-day guarantee, so if you decide you don’t want it you have around 3 months to return it for a full refund.
This is what you’ll receive when purchasing:
- DCCS690M1 Brushless Chainsaw
- 40V Max 6 Ah Lithium Ion Battery
- Charger
- 16-Inch Oregon Bar + Chain
- Bar Sheath
4Ah | Model : DCCS690M1 | DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
I did say there wasn’t a lot to separate either model, but let’s look at the basic difference first. It has a smaller battery, therefore it weighs a whopping 1.6 pounds less. To be honest, the difference is so small it’s hardly worth mentioning at all.
The real difference is the performance factor, and earlier on we talked about using a real life example to help you understand what separates each battery. Before we begin, try to picture a 6×6-inch piece of pressure-treated pine wood laying out in front of you. How many cuts per charge will each DEWALT cordless chainsaw battery be able to handle?
As you can see, the bigger battery will be able to produce almost one-third as many cuts, which is quite a significant difference. We’ll now look at why those extra 30 cuts might lead you to opt for the 6 Ah battery instead of the 4 Ah one.
Why You Might Want The 6Ah DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw
We can answer this question easily using simple math. The 6 Ah model isn’t one-third more expensive than the 4 Ah model, so as far as the price goes it’s a far better deal. That doesn’t even take into account all those times you’ll be left frustrated because your cordless chainsaw ran out of steam before you could finish what you were doing. Even if you don’t need to cut much wood and you charge it up after you’ve used it, there are some times when you’ll forget. And because the 3-year limited warranty means you’ll own it for a very long time, the bigger battery is worth it in the long run.
DEWALT 40V Max Outdoor Power Equipment Line:
You know the batteries can work in any of DEWALT’s 40V Max Outdoor Power Equipment line, so we’ll link to each one now in case you want to take a closer look at them:
DEWALT Blower | DCBL790H1
Features:
- Up to 400 CFM of air volume at 120 MPH to clear heavy debris.
- 6.0Ah premium high capacity battery (50% more run time than the 4.0Ah DCB404).
- High-efficiency brushless motor maximizing run time and motor life.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design maximizes control and minimizes stress on your arm.
- Designed to withstand everyday heavy-duty usage.
- Part of the 40V MAX* system of Outdoor Power Equipment.
DEWALT Hedge Trimmer | DCHT860M1
Features:
- Powerful high output motor for cuts up to 3/4″ thick.
- 22″ laser cut, hooked-tooth blade design for long reach.
- Removable gear case cover for easy blade exchange.
- High impact housing for shock resistance and durability.
- Removable top cover for easy access to brushes.
- Part of the 40V MAX* system of Outdoor Power Equipment.
DEWALT Backpack Blower | DCBL590X2
Features:
- Up to 450 CFM of air volume at 142 MPH to clear heavy debris.
- High-efficiency brushless motor maximizing run time and motor life.
- High capacity 40V MAX* 7.5Ah battery with available second battery well for additional battery and extended run-time.
- Battery switch to select which battery well to draw energy from or to lock off the tool.
- Low noise during operation – 63 dB(A). Ideal for noise sensitive regions and properties.
- Variable trigger and speed lock for full power control.
- Designed to withstand everyday heavy-duty usage.
- Part of the 40V MAX* system of Outdoor Power Equipment.
DEWALT String Trimmer | DCST990H1
Features:
- 15″ cutting swath with 0.080″ line (also accepts 0.095″ line).
- 6.0Ah premium high capacity battery (50% more run time than the 4.0Ah DCB404).
- High-efficiency brushless motor maximizing run time and motor life.
- Patented gear drive design that powers through overgrowth.
- Variable trigger with hi/lo speed control for added power or extended run-time.
- Part of the 40V MAX* system of Outdoor Power Equipment.
Is A DEWALT Cordless Chainsaw in Your Future?
If you’re looking for your first chainsaw, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one as beginner-friendly as DEWALT’s 40V Max models. Even if you’re a professional the DEWALT cordless chainsaw could still be right for you, especially if you carry a spare battery or two with you. It’s actually surprising how many people have fallen in love with the power tool, as you’ll be able to see when you study all the customer reviews.
I don’t think everyone would feel as comfortable using a gas-powered chainsaw, and because DEWALT has guaranteed their 40V Max battery-powered one is just as good performance-wise they’re now becoming mainstream, so you should think about getting in on the action.
Learn more about these impressive DEWALT cordless power tools by visiting the DEWALT site.