When using power tools, we go in with the understanding that we’ll be working with a potentially dangerous piece of equipment, and (ideally) will take the proper safety precautions. We also know that even if someone has decades of experience using them, user error—and accidents—can happen. But you don’t expect the tool itself to turn on you.
Unfortunately, that’s what’s been happening to owners of certain DeWALT miter saws, and what prompted the company to recall almost 1.4 million of their products, according to a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) notice. Here’s what to know about the massive power tool recall, and what to do if you own one of the saws in question.
Why are DeWALT miter saws being recalled?
DeWALT is recalling roughly 1.4 million 12-inch sliding compound miter saws, because the tool’s rear safety guard can break or detach, and, as a result, launch projectiles at the user or any bystanders, and put them at risk of coming in directly contact with the blade, the CPSC reports.
As of August 4, DeWALT had received 571 reports of this defect and safety hazard, including nine that resulted in laceration injuries. The saws were sold at Lowe’s, Home Depot, and other hardware stores both nationwide and online, as well as on Amazon and at other online retailers, from April 2019 through May 2022, and at a cost of between $600 and $820.
Which DeWALT miter saws are part of the recall?
The recalled DeWALT miter saws are yellow with black accents and the company logo, and meet all of the following criteria:
- Date codes between 2019 04 and 2022 04
- Model numbers: DWS779, DWS780, DHS790
- Does NOT have a green dot on the nameplate
- Does NOT have a black dot on the arm of the saw
The model number is printed on the nameplate of the saw.
The date codes on the DWS779 and DWS780 models are marked on the black plastic motor end cap next to the name plate. The date code on the DHS790 model is marked on the outside of the plastic yellow housing next to the batteries.
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What to do if you own one of the recalled saws
If your miter saw is included in the recall, stop using it immediately.
Although DeWALT will be contacting any known purchasers directly, it’s unclear when that will happen, so you’re probably better off getting in touch with the company yourself. Customers will either be given a free repair kit, or have to bring their saw to a DeWALT service center to be fixed.
You can reach DeWALT at 800-990-6421 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, or via a dedicated recall page on their website.
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