The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cut Off Tool (DCS438B) is a compact cordless cutoff tool designed for cutting metal, tile, plastic, and other materials. I originally bought it specifically for cutting cattle panels to size while building fencing and gates around my property.
The tool includes:
- Bonded Abrasive Wheel
- Diamond Multi-Material Wheel
- Diamond Tile Wheel
Specifications:
- Brushless motor
- 550 MWO power output
- Up to 20,000 RPM
- Reversible motor direction
- Built-in LED light
- Tool-free depth adjustment
- AirLock dust shroud connection
- Bare tool only (battery and charger sold separately)
What I Like About It
One of the biggest reasons I bought this tool was because I already own DEWALT 20V MAX tools, including their drill system. Being able to use the same battery is a major convenience and saves money if you’re already invested in the DEWALT platform.
The tool itself feels lightweight, compact, and easy to maneuver. When working with cattle panels and fencing materials, that smaller size makes awkward cuts much easier than dragging out larger cutting equipment.
The feature I probably appreciate most is the reversible motor direction. You can switch the blade rotation depending on whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, which helps direct sparks away from your body and face. That may sound minor until you actually use it in real-world conditions.
Performance has also been very solid. The brushless motor has plenty of power for cutting cattle panels, metal pieces, and general property maintenance tasks. It never felt underpowered for the type of work I needed it for.
I also like that DEWALT included multiple wheel types right out of the box. That gives the tool a lot more versatility beyond simple metal cutting.
The built-in LED light is another small feature that ends up being surprisingly useful in barns, garages, and shaded work areas.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Plenty of cutting power
- Reversible motor keeps sparks away from you
- Interchangeable batteries with other DEWALT 20V MAX tools
- Includes multiple cutting wheels
- Good for fencing, gates, tile, metal, and general property work
- Built-in LED light works well
- Easy depth adjustment
Cons
- Does not include a battery or charger
- Battery and charger add extra cost if you are new to the DEWALT system
- Smaller size means it is not intended for extremely heavy industrial cutting jobs
Final Verdict
Overall, I’ve been very happy with the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cut Off Tool. I originally purchased it for cutting cattle panels during fencing projects, but it has turned into one of the more versatile cordless tools I own.
It is lightweight, powerful, easy to handle, and very convenient if you already own DEWALT 20V batteries. The reversible motor direction alone makes the tool feel well thought out for real-world use.
My only real complaint is that it should probably include at least one battery at this price point, especially for first-time DEWALT buyers.
If you already own DEWALT cordless tools and need a compact cutoff tool for property maintenance, fencing, fabrication, or general shop work, I think this one is well worth considering.
If you’d like to check current pricing or read more details, you can view it at Amazon below.