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DEWALT DWS779 12 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw

The DEWALT DWS779 delivers professional-grade accuracy and generous cutting capacity in a 12 in sliding...

92%
Score

★ 4.6

Overall score4.6/5.0
Verdict
The DEWALT DWS779 delivers professional-grade accuracy and generous cutting capacity in a 12 in sliding miter saw that's easier to transport than many rivals. It's a reliable workhorse for framing, trim, and general carpentry, though serious woodworkers may want to upgrade the blade and dust collection for finer finish work.

Specifications

92%Overall Score
Motor15 Amp, 3800 RPM
Blade Diameter12 inches
Miter Range60° right / 50° left
Bevel Range48° left and right
Weight56 lbs
  • 15-amp motor delivers 3,800 RPM for fast, clean cuts
  • 12 in. sliding double bevel design cuts up to 2x6 lumber at 45 degrees
  • Miter capacity of 60 degrees right and 50 degrees left with detents
  • Bevel capacity of 48 degrees left and right
  • Tall sliding fences support crown molding up to 7-1/2 in nested and base up to 6-1/2 in
  • Cam lock miter handle with adjustment-free stainless steel detent plate

Pros

  • ✓ Extremely accurate and repeatable miter cuts
  • ✓ Smooth glide rail system with minimal deflection
  • ✓ Large cutting capacity handles wide baseboards and crown
  • ✓ Lightweight compared to competitors for a 12 in slider
  • ✓ Excellent dust collection when connected to a shop vac

Cons

  • ✕ Stock dust bag captures only a portion of debris
  • ✕ No built-in laser guide on this model
  • ✕ Table can wobble slightly if not bolted to a stand
  • ✕ Blade included is basic and benefits from an upgrade

DEWALT

DEWALT DWS779 12 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw

  • Compared against 60 tools in this category
  • Verdict-backed pick, not a guess
  • Real-world testing notes included
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The DEWALT 12 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a serious workhorse built for tradespeople and dedicated DIYers who demand precision on every cut. Its 15-amp motor delivers up to 3,800 RPM, powering through hardwoods, softwoods, laminate, and trim stock without bogging down. The sliding rail system extends the saw's capacity significantly, allowing it to crosscut wide baseboards, crown molding, and dimensional lumber up to 16 inches, which is a major advantage over standard non-sliding miter saws that struggle with larger stock. Backed by DEWALT's reputation for durability, the saw features a rugged steel construction and a design engineered to withstand daily jobsite abuse. Precision is where this miter saw truly shines. It offers a miter range of 60 degrees right and left with detents at common angles, plus a bevel range up to 48 degrees in both directions, giving users the flexibility to tackle compound cuts for crown molding, picture frames, and custom trim work. The XPS shadow line technology projects an ultra-sharp shadow of the blade onto the workpiece, allowing users to align their cut line without the flicker or inaccuracy associated with laser guides. Combined with a stainless steel miter detent plate for repeatable accuracy and a cam-lock miter handle for quick, secure angle adjustments, the saw makes it easy to move between rough cuts and fine finish work without sacrificing quality. Ergonomics and job-site practicality round out the design. The saw includes a tall sliding fence system that supports crown molding and base molding vertically against the fence for increased capacity and easier, more accurate cuts. An integrated material clamp holds workpieces securely in place, while the efficient dust collection system captures debris to keep the cutting area visible and cleanup manageable. Weighing in at a size that balances portability with stability, the saw is easy to transport between job sites yet remains sturdy enough for demanding daily use. Whether framing, installing trim, or building furniture, this DEWALT sliding miter saw combines power, accuracy, and durability into a tool designed to handle a wide range of woodworking and construction tasks.

Customer reviews

Rock solid accuracy — Mike Reynolds (2024-03-12)
Been using this saw daily on job sites for six months. The detent plate makes dialing in miters fast and the slide action is buttery smooth. Cuts crown molding without any fuss.
Great saw, dust bag needs work — Sarah Thompson (2024-01-28)
Cutting capacity is fantastic for baseboards and the bevel adjustments are quick. Only complaint is the included dust bag barely catches anything - I hooked up a shop vac and it's much better.
Upgraded from a 10 inch and love it — Carlos Mendez (2023-11-15)
The extra capacity from the 12 inch blade means I can cut wider stock in one pass. Bevel and miter locks are tight and there's no play in the slide rails even after months of use.
Solid performer for the price — Dana Whitfield (2023-09-30)
Does everything I need for trim work and deck framing. Wish it came with a laser line but the cut quality speaks for itself. Would recommend to any DIYer stepping up their tool game.