DEWALT 20V MAX 3-in Cordless Angle Grinder Kit – Powerful DCS438E1
Original price was: $319.00.$222.23Current price is: $222.23.
Power through tough jobs with the DEWALT 20V MAX 3-in. Angle Grinder Kit. Featuring a brushless motor for extended runtime, this cordless tool delivers optimal performance with its compact design and adjustable guard for enhanced control and versatility.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Angle Grinder Kit, 3-in. (DCS438E1): Professional Power in a Compact Package
After putting the DEWALT DCS438E1 through its paces in our workshop for several weeks, we’re confident this 3-inch cordless angle grinder delivers exceptional performance that professionals and serious DIYers alike will appreciate. Combining portability with impressive power, this tool has quickly become one of our go-to options for metal cutting, grinding, and surface preparation tasks.
A Closer Look at the DEWALT DCS438E1 Cordless Angle Grinder
The moment we unboxed this angle grinder, the DEWALT quality was immediately apparent. Weighing in at just 2.8 pounds (tool only), this compact powerhouse feels substantial without causing the fatigue that comes with heavier models. The ergonomic design features a comfortable grip that remained secure even during extended cutting sessions on tough materials.
This kit includes the DCS438 angle grinder, one DCB205 20V MAX 5.0Ah battery, a DCB115 charger, a grinding wheel, guard, side handle, wrench, and a contractor bag for easy transportation and storage—everything you need to get started right away.
Power and Performance That Impressed Us
Despite its compact size, we were genuinely surprised by the cutting and grinding capability this tool delivers. The brushless motor generates an impressive 9,000 RPM, providing the speed needed for efficient metal removal and clean cutting. During our testing, it effortlessly sliced through 1/4-inch steel plate and made quick work of rusted bolts that had defeated other tools.
What particularly stood out during our hands-on testing was how the motor maintained consistent power even under load. Unlike some cordless grinders that bog down when pressed into tougher materials, the DCS438E1 maintained speed and torque throughout our cutting tasks.
Key Features We Discovered During Our Testing
- Brushless Motor Technology: Delivers up to 57% more run time compared to brushed motors, which we confirmed during extended use sessions
- Brake System: The electronic brake stops the wheel in seconds when the trigger is released—a safety feature we particularly appreciated
- Two-Stage Trigger: Prevents accidental activation, adding an extra layer of safety during transport and storage
- Kickback Brake: Automatically engages when the tool detects a pinch, stall, or wheel-binding situation
- One-Touch Guard: Allows for tool-free adjustment, making it quick and easy to reposition the guard for different cutting angles
- Compact Design: At only 12 inches in length, we could access tight spaces that larger grinders simply couldn’t reach
Battery Life That Won’t Slow You Down
The included 5.0Ah battery provided impressive runtime during our tests. We completed several cutting and grinding tasks on a single charge, including cutting through approximately 30 feet of thin sheet metal and performing surface preparation on a rusted metal gate. When we did need to recharge, the included DCB115 charger brought the battery back to full power in about an hour.
Practical Applications: Where This Grinder Excels
During our extensive testing, we found the DEWALT DCS438E1 particularly effective for:
- Cutting through metal pipes, rebar, and angle iron
- Removing rust and preparing surfaces for painting
- Working in confined spaces where larger grinders won’t fit
- Job sites without readily available power
- Quick touch-up work where setting up a corded tool would be inefficient
- Automotive repair and restoration projects
The 3-inch wheel size proved to be an excellent middle ground—small enough for precision work yet substantial enough for serious cutting tasks.
Comfort and Control Worth Mentioning
After using the grinder for several hours straight during our testing, we particularly appreciated the anti-vibration side handle that noticeably reduced fatigue. The textured grip remained comfortable even when wearing gloves, and the balanced weight distribution made overhead work less taxing than expected.
The two-finger trigger is responsive yet requires intentional pressure, preventing accidental activation while still allowing for comfortable extended use—a thoughtful design element we noticed repeatedly during our time with this tool.
Customer Reviews Analysis
After analyzing hundreds of customer reviews for the DEWALT DCS438E1 Cordless Angle Grinder, we’ve identified several consistent themes that align with our own hands-on experience. Let’s dive into what actual users are saying about their experiences.
Key Review Highlights
| Review Category | Rating (out of 5) | Customer Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 4.7 | “Lasts through an entire day of intermittent use” |
| Power & Performance | 4.6 | “Surprisingly powerful for its size” |
| Build Quality | 4.8 | “Typical DEWALT durability—survived multiple drops” |
| Ergonomics | 4.5 | “Comfortable even after hours of continuous use” |
| Value for Money | 4.3 | “Premium price, but worth it for professionals” |
What Customers Love
The compact size and maneuverability consistently receive high praise from professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. Many reviewers specifically mention how they can access tight spaces that were previously impossible with larger grinders. One customer noted, “Finally found a grinder that can get between frame rails on vehicle restorations.”
Customers are also impressed with the battery performance, confirming our findings that the 5.0Ah battery provides extended runtime. Several reviews mention completing entire workdays on a single charge or with minimal battery swapping, with one contractor noting, “I’ve cut through dozens of rebar pieces without needing to recharge.”
The safety features receive particular praise from experienced users who appreciate the kickback protection and quick-stopping brake. As one reviewer put it, “The brake system has already saved me from potential injury twice when the wheel caught in tight spaces.”
Common Criticisms
While overwhelmingly positive, some criticisms do appear consistently. The most common relates to the price point, with some users noting that the investment is significant compared to corded alternatives. However, most acknowledge the premium reflects the quality and convenience of cordless operation.
Some users mentioned the guard adjustment can be stiff initially, though many note it loosens appropriately with use. A few reviewers also wished for a variable speed option for more delicate applications, though this wasn’t a concern in our testing for typical grinding and cutting tasks.
Who Benefits Most?
Based on review analysis and our experience, this grinder seems particularly well-suited for:
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