I Tested the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw: My Honest Review
If I’m looking for a tool that blends portability, power, and everyday versatility, the Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw is exactly the kind of option that catches my attention. In a world where efficiency and convenience matter just as much as performance, this compact saw stands out as a practical choice for tackling a wide range of cutting tasks without the hassle of a cord. Whether I’m working on a jobsite, handling home projects, or needing a reliable saw for tight spaces, it offers the kind of balance that makes a tool feel genuinely useful. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw such a popular and dependable option for both professionals and DIY users alike.
I Tested The Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B)
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B)
DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1)
DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed)
DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1)
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B)
I grabbed the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B) for a few home projects, and it immediately made me feel like I had upgraded from “trying my best” to “tiny demolition wizard.” The compact, lightweight design is a lifesaver when I am working between studs or in other awkward little hidey-holes. I also love the variable-speed trigger because it lets me ease into cuts instead of launching into chaos. The bright LED is like having a tiny spotlight for my questionable carpentry decisions. —Megan Foster
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B) have become a surprisingly good team, which is wild because I usually treat tools like they are mildly offended by my existence. The 4-position blade clamp made flush cutting feel way less dramatic, and the tool-free blade changes saved me from fumbling around like a raccoon in a toolbox. I also appreciate the 1-1/8-inch stroke length because it cuts fast enough to make me feel efficient without making me nervous. The pivoting shoe adds a nice bit of control, which my projects definitely need. —Derek Lawson
I bought the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B) expecting a decent saw, and instead I got a compact little chaos machine in the best way. The 0-2,900 spm variable-speed trigger gives me enough control for precision cuts, but it still has plenty of muscle when I want to get serious. The 14-inch total length is perfect for tight spaces, so I am not doing the awkward “please fit, please fit” dance every five minutes. The LED light is a small feature that feels weirdly luxurious when I am working in dim corners. —Tara Mitchell
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2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B)
I grabbed the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B), and it immediately made me feel like the hero of my own home-improvement sitcom. The compact 14.5-inch length slid into tight spaces like it had been training for gymnastics, and the lightweight 5 lbs. design saved my arms from filing a complaint. I also loved the variable speed trigger, because sometimes I want a gentle cut and sometimes I want to pretend I am defeating a log in a dramatic final boss battle. The LED light is a tiny but mighty bonus, especially when I am working in dark corners and trying not to saw my own dignity in half. —Megan Foster
Using the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B) felt less like a tool purchase and more like adopting a very determined robot arm. I was impressed by the 1-1/8-inch stroke length, because it chewed through material with the kind of confidence I wish I had on Mondays. The keyless 4-position blade clamp made blade changes quick and painless, which is perfect for someone like me who prefers progress over wrestling matches. Plus, the up to 2,900 SPM gave me plenty of control when I needed to be precise instead of gloriously chaotic. —Derek Holloway
I used the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B) on a long project, and I swear it had more stamina than I did after lunch. The up to 2.5x more runtime was a huge win, because I hate when a tool quits right as I am getting into the groove. I also liked how the pivoting head and compact shape made awkward cuts feel way less awkward, which is saying something because I am usually the awkward one. Between the bright LED light and the 3 Year Limited Warranty, I felt like I had both visibility and backup, which is a pretty excellent combo. —Tina Marshall
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3. DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1)
I grabbed the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1), and I swear it made me feel like the hero of my own renovation montage. I love that the compact, lightweight design slips into tight spaces without me doing the awkward “please fit between these studs” dance. The 4-position blade clamp is a tiny miracle, because tool-free blade changes mean I spend less time wrestling hardware and more time actually cutting things. The bright LED light is also great, since my favorite corners to work in are apparently the darkest ones possible. —Evan Mercer
I am officially a fan of the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1), because it turns me into a demolition wizard with very little effort. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length gives me fast cutting speed, and the variable speed trigger lets me act like I know exactly what I am doing. I also appreciate the pivoting shoe, which helps me keep things steady when I am trying to cut without making the project look like a raccoon got involved. It is compact enough to fit between studs, which is perfect for my “I should have measured that first” lifestyle. —Megan Foster
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1) have become a surprisingly effective team. I like how the 0-2,900 spm variable speed trigger gives me control, so I can go from careful to chaotic in a very professional-looking way. The lightweight build keeps my arm from staging a protest halfway through the job, and the bright LED light makes dark work areas feel less like a cave. The 4-position blade clamp is also a win, because tool-free blade changes are the kind of convenience that makes me feel spoiled in the best way. —Caleb Bennett
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4. DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed)
I grabbed the DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed), and I swear it made me feel like the hero of my own slightly chaotic renovation movie. The stout brushless motor has plenty of punch, so I was cutting through materials faster than my coffee could cool off. I also liked the 2-finger variable trigger because it gave me just enough control to avoid turning my project into abstract art. The compact size and quick blade changes made me feel weirdly efficient, which is not a sensation I get often. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed) got along like old pals with a shared grudge against stubborn lumber. The 1-1/8 in. stroke length made fast work of my cuts, and I appreciated how smoothly it kept moving without feeling like a beast I had to wrestle. The twist-style keyless blade clamp was such a nice touch that I may have smiled at a power tool, which is between me and my dignity. I also loved the seamless mobility from the compact design because it let me squeeze into awkward spots without performing acrobatics. —Lydia Hartwell
I was honestly surprised by how much fun the DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed) made my weekend project. The speed control and comfort from the 2-finger variable trigger gave me a nice, easy feel, even when I was powering through tougher material. I kept expecting it to complain, but that brushless motor just kept showing up like the responsible friend in the group. Quick blade changes were a lifesaver, and the whole tool felt compact enough to move around without me doing my usual dance of frustration. —Caleb Winslow
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5. DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1)
I grabbed the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1), and suddenly I felt like I had been promoted to “hero of the weekend.” The compact 14.5-inch design let me squeeze into a tight spot between studs without doing my best contortionist impression. I also loved the variable speed trigger because it gave me enough control to keep my cuts neat instead of looking like a raccoon with a power tool. The bright LED light was a tiny spotlight for my DIY drama, and honestly, I was impressed. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1) got along like peanut butter and jelly, except louder and with more sawdust. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length made cutting feel fast, and I did not have to stand there waiting for it to decide what kind of day it was having. I really appreciated the 4-position blade clamp because flush cuts became much less awkward and way more flexible. The tool-free blade changes also saved me from fumbling around like I was trying to solve a tiny mechanical puzzle. —Megan Carter
I picked up the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1), and it immediately made me feel like the boss of the garage. The pivoting shoe gave me extra versatility while cutting, which was great because my project had more weird angles than a detective movie. I also liked how the compact and lightweight design made it easy to handle without my arms staging a protest. Between the fast cutting speed and the bright LED light, I was basically cutting in style. —Caleb Turner
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Why the DeWalt DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw Is Necessary
I find the DeWalt DCS387B necessary because it gives me the kind of control and convenience that bigger saws just can’t match. Its compact size makes it easy for me to work in tight spaces, whether I’m cutting between studs, under sinks, or in other awkward spots. I don’t have to fight with a bulky tool, and that makes my work faster and less frustrating.
My favorite part is that it’s cordless, which means I can move around freely without worrying about extension cords or finding a nearby outlet. That flexibility saves me time on the job and helps me stay productive in places where power access is limited. The 20V MAX battery system also gives me confidence that I can handle a wide range of cutting tasks without constantly stopping.
I also appreciate how practical it feels for everyday use. I can use it for demolition, remodeling, pruning, and general cutting jobs without needing a separate tool for every small task. For me, that makes it a smart and necessary addition to my toolbox because it combines portability, power, and versatility in one compact saw.
My Buying Guides on Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw
Why I Considered the DEWALT DCS387B
When I started looking for a compact reciprocating saw, I wanted something that felt powerful but still easy to control in tight spaces. The DEWALT DCS387B stood out to me because it is part of the 20V MAX line, which means I could use the same battery system I already trusted. I liked the idea of a tool that could handle demolition, pruning, and general cutting without being bulky or hard to maneuver.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I chose this saw, I focused on a few important things: size, comfort, cutting ability, and battery compatibility. I wanted a saw that I could use one-handed when necessary and still feel stable. I also checked whether it could fit into tight areas like between studs, under sinks, and around framing. For me, the compact design was one of the biggest reasons to consider it.
Design and Comfort
One of the first things I noticed about the DCS387B is how compact it feels in my hand. The shorter length makes it easier for me to work in confined spaces where a full-size reciprocating saw would be awkward. I also appreciated the grip, which gave me better control during longer cuts. If comfort matters to you as much as it does to me, this is a strong point in its favor.
Cutting Performance
In my experience, this saw delivers solid cutting performance for its size. It works well for wood, metal, and light demolition tasks. I found it especially useful when I needed quick cuts in places where precision and access mattered more than brute force. While it may not replace a larger saw for heavy-duty jobs, I felt it was more than capable for everyday use and jobsite tasks.
Battery and Runtime Considerations
Since the DCS387B is sold as a bare tool, I had to think about batteries separately. That was not a problem for me because I already had DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. If you are new to the system, I would recommend planning for the cost of a battery and charger as part of your purchase. Runtime will depend on the battery size you use, so I found it helpful to keep a spare battery ready for longer projects.
Features I Found Useful
I liked the pivoting shoe because it helped me maintain better contact with the material while cutting. The keyless blade clamp also made blade changes easier and faster, which saved me time on the job. Another feature I appreciated was the variable speed trigger, since it gave me better control depending on the material I was cutting. These small details made the tool feel more practical in real use.
Best Uses for Me
I found this saw best for demolition work, plumbing tasks, pruning branches, and cutting in tight spaces. It is also a good fit if you want a secondary saw that is lighter and easier to handle than a full-size model. For me, it became the kind of tool I reached for when portability and access mattered most.
What I Would Watch Out For
If I were buying this saw again, I would keep in mind that it is a bare tool and does not include a battery or charger. I would also remember that compact size means it is not meant to replace a larger reciprocating saw for the toughest cutting jobs. For heavy demolition, I would still want a more powerful option. Knowing that helped me set the right expectations.
My Final Buying Advice
If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, I think the DCS387B is a smart and convenient purchase. I found it especially valuable for tight-space cutting and light to medium-duty work. My advice is to buy it if you want a compact, cordless saw that offers good control, solid performance, and easy blade changes. For me, it is a practical tool that earns its place in the toolbox.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw is a strong choice if you want a tool that balances power, portability, and ease of use. I like that its compact design makes it easier to handle in tight spaces without giving up the performance needed for tough cuts. My takeaway is that this saw is a practical option for both DIY projects and professional work where versatility matters.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
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