DeWalt DCS391N 18V XR 165mm Circular Saw (Body Only)

DeWalt DCS391N 18V XR 165mm Circular Saw (Body Only)

By DeWalt · Model: DCS391N-XJ · Tools

Cordless 18V XR circular saw with 165mm blade, 55mm depth of cut, and magnesium base. Body only — battery sold separately.

  • 165mm blade with 55mm max depth of cut
  • 3,700 RPM for fast cutting
  • Cast magnesium base for accuracy
  • Keyless bevel adjustment up to 47 degrees
  • Electronic motor brake for safety
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Overview

The DeWalt DCS391N is a well-established cordless circular saw in the 18V XR range. The cast magnesium base keeps it lightweight while providing consistent accuracy for repetitive cuts. The 165mm blade handles most sheet materials and timber up to 55mm at 90 degrees.

In-Depth Look

The DCS391N has been a staple in the DeWalt 18V range for years. While it uses a brushed motor rather than the brushless technology found in the newer DCS572, it remains a popular choice due to its lower price point and proven track record across UK sites.

Cutting Capacity

The 165mm blade delivers 55mm depth at 90 degrees and 42.5mm at 45 degrees, handling 2x4 framing timber, 18mm sheet materials, decking boards, and most panel cutting tasks without difficulty. The 47-degree bevel capacity covers compound mitre cuts on skirting, architrave, and flooring work. For cutting full sheets of 8x4 ply or OSB, a straight edge guide or ripping fence improves accuracy and prevents the saw from wandering.

Electronic Brake and Safety

The electronic motor brake stops the blade within seconds of releasing the trigger — a significant safety advantage over saws that coast to a stop. When making repeated cuts in framing or sheet materials, this reduces waiting time and keeps fingers safer around the work area.

Brushed vs Brushless Consideration

The brushed motor draws more current than brushless equivalents, which means slightly less runtime per charge and marginally more heat generation under sustained load. For most applications — general site cutting rather than continuous heavy production work — this is not a practical limitation. Paired with a 5.0Ah battery, the DCS391N handles a full morning of cutting without a charge interruption.

Battery Platform

As part of the DeWalt 18V XR platform, the DCS391N takes any standard 18V XR slide battery. Trades already running DeWalt drills, impact drivers, and lights can add this saw without buying a new battery ecosystem.

Verdict

A proven, affordable cordless circular saw for tradespeople already in the DeWalt 18V system. Where brushless efficiency is not essential, the DCS391N delivers reliable performance at a significantly lower cost than the premium alternatives.

Specifications
Blade Diameter165mm
Max Depth of Cut (90°)55mm
Max Depth of Cut (45°)42.5mm
No Load Speed3,700 RPM
Bevel Capacity0-47°
Weight (bare)3.0kg
Battery18V XR (not included)

Who It's For

  • Joiners and carpenters on site
  • Kitchen fitters cutting worktops and panels
  • General tradespeople needing a portable circular saw

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight at 3.0kg bare
  • Magnesium base is rigid and accurate
  • Electronic brake stops blade quickly
  • Good dust extraction port

Cons

  • Brushed motor — less efficient than newer brushless models
  • No rail compatibility without adapter
  • Battery and charger not included
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