Dewalt Miter Saw DWS779 - TYPE 20 (2017)

The DeWalt DWS779 (Type 20) is a corded 12 in. double bevel sliding compound miter saw. Released in 2019, the DWS779 was intended for experienced DIYers and professionals. It features a 15 amp, 525 Watt motor capable of a no-load speed of 3,800 rpm. It can cut up to 2x14 lumber at 90° and 2x10 lumber at a maximum bevel of 48°. It can perform miter cuts at 50° to the left and 60° to the right with 10 positive stops.  Stabilization of the work piece is accomplished by two sliding fences with a height of 6-3/4 in and a clamp that is built into the body. Weighing in at 56 pounds, the saw remains portable and features a carrying handle. Mounting the saw to a workbench is another option. The saw has a dust collection system, a common complaint of which is that the bag is too small. Included with the saw is a blade wrench for removing the saw blade. The saw is capable of cutting a wide variety of materials including crown molding, hardwood, and soft metals.

The DeWalt DWS779 has had one recall. On August 04, 2022, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall for 1,253,741 units manufactured between April 2019 to April 2022. The reason for the recall was because the rear safety guard could “break or detach” creating “projectiles that can strike the user and bystanders” and would expose the user to the open saw blade, which the CPSC described as a “laceration hazard.” Models with date codes 2019 04 through 2022 04 are affected by the recall and can be identified by the date code which is located on black plastic motor end cap beside the name plate. Saws that have a green dot on the name plate or a black dot on the arm of the saw are not affected by the recall as they have already been inspected/repaired.

When released in 2019, the DWS779 was the flagship model of DeWalt’s miter saw lineup. Production continued up until the recall, when DeWalt issued a stop-sale in June of 2022. The DWS779 was eventually succeeded by the DeWalt DHS790.

Sources:

Recall Information

Stop-Sale Notice

Review of the DeWalt DWS779 Miter Saw

Manufacturer Product Page and Specifications

The DeWalt DWS779 can be identified primarily by the model number, which is located on the top of the motor housing. The date code and serial number can also be found here. The saw is colored yellow and silver, with the DeWalt logo printed on the arm of the saw and the side of the motor. Additionally, this saw can be differentiated from non-sliding saws as it has a sliding mechanism that connects from the rear of the base to the rear of the motor. Another feature is the ten indents located at the front of the saw.

The DeWalt DWS779 is identical in features to the DeWalt DWS780, which only differs in size and model number.

Sources:

DeWalt DWS779 Manual

A Review of the DeWalt DWS779

• 23.75in x 26in 18.8in
• Weight:
  • With accessories: 68 Lbs.
  • Saw alone: 56 Lbs.

• Voltage: 120V 60Hz (240V 50Hz in E.U.)
• Power source: corded
• 1600 Watts in
• 15 Amp motor
• 525 Watts out
• 3800 rpm
• Multi-V belt
• Automatic electric brake
• Cut helical gears
• Roller bearings

• 0° miter/bevel
  • 4.4 in. x 13.75 in.
• 45° miter
  • 4.4 in. x 9.6 in.
• 45° bevel - left
  • 3.1 in. x 13.75 in.
• 45° bevel - right
  • 2.2 in. x 13.75 in.

• 48° Left and Right

• 50° Left / 60° Right

• 12 in.

• 3.0dB

• 75%+

• Wood, Plywood, MDF, Soft Metals

• Included:
  • Blade
  • Blade Wrench
  • Dust bag
  • Clamp

Sources:

Review of the DWS779

Instruction Manual

DeWalt DWS779 Product Page

Instruction Manual

Manufacturer Page

Parts List

YouTube: DeWalt DWS779 Repair Videos

A Basic Repair Guide