I’ve been looking to replace my 25yr old Dewalt Compound Miter saw for a couple of years. Still works but the blade guard broke and the exposed spinning saw blade scares the crap out of me. Plus, I have been wanting to get a saw with a laser light guide for accurate cutting.
I learned through some forums that the laser saw guides were not accurate and not worth paying extra for a saw with one.
So, when I found the Dewalt D713 10" compound miter saw for a decent price ($209) I went for it. On the Dewalt website I found the LED work light for the saw. All the pictures showing the saw with the light also showed a dark line which looked like a guide line for the saw blade.
So, I went out and bought the DWS7085 LED work light at the local Lowes. The light consist of the lighting attachment and a switch attachment. It appears that all newer Dewalt miter saws are prewired and have the mounting necessary for the work light.
I installed the light in about 10 minutes. It is AC powered and has it’s own switch, unlike the laser guides which only come on when the saw blade is powered.
Now the neat thing! The LED light is strong enough and is positioned so that the blade creates a shadow on the work piece. The shadow acts as a cutting guide and it is very accurate!!! You can even make out which side the saw tooth is pointed!
I thought this is really cool so I wanted to share with you guys!