The DeWalt FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw Takes Aim at Lawn Care Pros and Arborists
Now, more than ever, Pros are considering making the switch to battery-powered OPE for a number of reasons. This equipment lets you skip the hassle of gas engine maintenance in exchange for on demand cordless convenience. I took the DeWalt FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw for a spin to see how it stacks up against the competition. But, is it the right option for your crew? Let’s find out!
Pros
- Fast chain speed ramp-up
- Easy to maneuver
- Well balanced
- Tooled tensioner
- Metal bucking spikes
- Tether ready for working at height
- Excellent chain speed
Cons
- Price tag is a little higher than the competition
DeWalt FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw Performance
- No-Load Speed: 23.6 m/s
- Gas Equivalent: 40.9 cc
- Chain Pitch: 3/8 in.
- Chain Gauge: 0.05
- Max Torque: 6.6 Nm
At its heart, the DeWalt 60V FlexVolt top-handle chainsaw features a brushless motor that drives the 0.050 gauge chain at speeds up to 23.6 m/s. That’s right in line with what we want from the 14-inch top-handle class. DeWalt utilizes a 3/8 pitch Oregon chain, so replacements are readily available at many hardware stores.
This chainsaw has a very responsive trigger and reaches its top speed very quickly. It’s a capable saw, melting through thick logs with relative ease. Despite having 6.6Nm of torque, I was still able to stall the chain when pushing through our Oak test log. I found that if you cut a little slower and allow the chain to maintain RPMs, you won’t see a drop in overall performance.
For our arborist Pros, this saw is a legitimate replacement for your top-handle gas saws. You eliminate the pull cord and put on-demand power in your hands. It’s also a great option for storm cleanup and seasonal tree maintenance of just about any species.
DeWalt FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw Design Notes
- Model: DeWalt DCCS674
- Power Source: DeWalt 60V FlexVolt battery
- Weight: 7.9 lbs. (bare), 11.1 lbs. (with 9.0Ah FlexVolt battery)
- Bar Length: 14 in.
- Tool Length: 26 in.
Ergonomics
The DeWalt DCCS674 has a really nice overall balance and feel. The top-handle design is very easy to maneuver and the side handle offers additional grip options. Without the battery, it weighs just 7.9 pounds. Using the kitted 9.0Ah FlexVolt battery, that number jumps to 11.1 pounds which is still reasonable for a cordless 14-inch chainsaw.
Chain Tensioning
DeWalt takes a pretty traditional approach when it comes to chain tensioning. Start by loosening the captured bar nut using the kitted scrench and turn the tensioner screw to tighten up the chain. Once the chain is tight, simply tighten down the bar nut, and you’re off to the races.
Bucking Spikes
I’m happy to report that this chainsaw has metal bucking spike rather than the plastic ridges we’ve seen on similar sized saws. These metal spikes help bite into the wood while making cuts.
Additional Features
- Automatic chain oiler
- Electronic chain brake
- Metal D-ring tether point
DeWalt FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw Price
The top-handle chainsaw retails for $499 as a bare tool and $749 as a kit. The kit includes a pair of 9Ah FlexVolt batteries and a single-port charger. Both options come with a scrench and a rat-tail file to hone the chain. DeWalt backs this saw with a 3-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
The DeWalt 60V FlexVolt Top-Handle Chainsaw is a highly convenient, fast-cutting tool that can replace your gas saw without a problem. Whether you’re in a bucket clearing power lines, a professional arborist, or you simply want to replace your old gas model, I suggest you give the DeWalt DCCS674 some serious consideration.
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