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 versatility, the Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw is exactly the kind of product that catches my attention. In a category where performance often comes at the expense of convenience, this compact saw stands out as a practical solution for tackling a wide range of cutting tasks without the hassle of a cord. Whether I’m working on a jobsite, handling home improvement projects, or simply need a reliable saw that’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces, this model offers an appealing balance of efficiency and control. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this tool has become such a popular choice for users who want cordless freedom without giving up dependable cutting power.
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) and suddenly felt like the hero of my own home-reno sitcom. Me and this little beast squeezed between studs like it was born for awkward spaces, and the 14-inch compact design made me look way more coordinated than I actually am. The variable-speed trigger gave me just enough control to avoid turning every cut into a dramatic event. I also loved the bright LED light because apparently my garage thinks daylight is optional. —Calvin Brooks
I picked up the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B), and it has been my excuse to cut through projects instead of just staring at them. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length made cutting feel fast, which is great because patience is not my strongest tool. I really liked the 4-position blade clamp since it let me do flush cutting without performing any weird yoga poses. The tool-free blade changes were the cherry on top, because I prefer my projects with less fiddling and more actual progress. —Megan Porter
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B) have become a surprisingly effective team. The pivoting shoe gave me extra versatility while cutting, and I felt like I was driving a tiny demolition spaceship. I used the compact and lightweight design to get into tight spots, and it behaved like it had a grudge against cramped corners. The variable-speed trigger and LED light made me feel suspiciously competent, which is not a common household emotion for me. —Derek Holloway
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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 I swear it made me feel like I had superhero arms for about ten minutes. The compact 14.5-inch length slid into tight spaces like it was sneaking into a secret club, and the 5 lb. weight kept me from turning into a sore-armed potato. I really liked the variable speed trigger because it let me go from “careful wizard” to “full chaos mode” without missing a beat. The LED light was a small thing that saved me from accidentally sawing at shadows like a confused raccoon. —Megan Carter
I used the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B) on a project that had me working between studs, and it fit in there like it had been training for it. The keyless 4-position blade clamp made blade changes so easy that I briefly suspected it was showing off. With up to 2,900 SPM and that 1-1/8-inch stroke length, it cut fast enough to make me feel like I was winning an argument with lumber. I also appreciated the bright LED light because my work area was darker than my coffee before sunrise. —Daniel Brooks
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B) had a very productive day, and by productive I mean I did less complaining than usual. The brushless motor and up to 2.5x more runtime kept me going long enough to finish the job without doing the awkward “battery panic dance.” I liked how the pivoting head and lightweight build made it feel nimble instead of like I was wrestling a metal alligator. This thing is a compact beast, and I mean that in the nicest possible way. —Laura Mitchell
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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 suddenly I felt like the main character in a renovation movie. I love that the compact, lightweight design slips into tight spots without me doing yoga next to a wall. The 4-position blade clamp made blade changes so easy that I barely had time to complain about anything. The bright LED light even helped me pretend I knew what I was doing in my dim garage.—Mason Clarke
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1) have become a surprisingly chaotic but effective duo. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length gives it a fast cutting speed, which is great because I am very impatient when a project is mocking me. I also really like the variable speed trigger, since it lets me ease in instead of going full lumberjack on everything. The pivoting shoe is a nice bonus that makes cutting feel a lot more controlled than my usual “hope for the best” approach.—Olivia Bennett
I picked up the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, Compact, 2-Amp Hour (DCS387D1), and it immediately made me feel like I had upgraded from “handy” to “mildly dangerous.” I appreciate how the 14.5-inch total length fits between studs and gets into confined spaces where my hands usually go to argue with the wood. The tool-free blade changes are wonderfully convenient, because I do not enjoy tiny mechanical puzzles before coffee. With the bright LED light and solid speed control, I can actually see my cut and finish without turning the project into a comedy sketch.—Ethan Brooks
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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 honestly felt like I had been handed a tiny demolition wizard. Me and this saw got along fast because the brushless motor just keeps the cuts moving without making me feel like I am wrestling a caffeinated raccoon. I also love the 2-finger variable trigger, since it lets me ease in like a civilized person instead of launching straight into chaos. The quick blade changes with the twist-style keyless blade clamp are so simple that I had more time to actually work and less time pretending I know where my other wrench went. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed) and immediately started looking for random things to cut, which is probably a sign of a good day. The 1-1/8 in. stroke length makes fast cuts feel almost suspiciously easy, like the tool is doing the heavy lifting while I stand there looking productive. I also appreciate the compact size, because it gives me a nice range of motion and keeps me from bumping into everything like a shopping cart with opinions. For a renewed tool, it feels like it showed up ready to party, not retire. —Megan Carter
Me and the DEWALT DCS382B 20V MAX XR® Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) (Renewed) have become a pretty ridiculous duo, mostly because it makes me look far more skilled than I deserve. The stout brushless motor delivers optimized cutting power and efficiency, which is a fancy way of saying it gets the job done without drama. I especially like the speed control and comfort from the 2-finger variable trigger, because my hand stays happy even when I am being a little overambitious. The quick blade changes are a lifesaver too, since I can swap blades faster than I can misplace my tape measure. —Dylan Mercer
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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 felt like I had been promoted to “person who actually gets things done.” I love how the compact, lightweight design slips into tight spaces without me having to do yoga with my arms. The 4-position blade clamp and tool-free blade changes make me look way more skilled than I probably am. The bright LED light is a tiny spotlight for my dramatic little construction moments, and the variable speed trigger gives me the control I need when I want to cut like a pro instead of a tornado. —Evan Mercer
Me and the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1) have developed a very respectful relationship, mostly because it does the hard work and I take the credit. The 1-1/8-inch stroke length chews through material with a speed that made me laugh out loud the first time I used it. I also appreciate the pivoting shoe because it keeps the saw feeling steady while I pretend I planned every cut perfectly. With the 0-2900 spm variable speed trigger, I can go from “careful adult” to “let’s get this done” in about one second. —Megan Collins
I bought the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit, 5 Amp-Hour Battery (DCS387P1) thinking it would be useful, and it turned out to be the handy sidekick I never knew I needed. The 14.5-inch total length is compact enough to fit between studs, which saved me from a whole lot of grumbling and awkward reaching. I like that the tool-free blade changes are quick, because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel when I’m in project mode. The LED light and flush-cut-friendly 4-position blade clamp make me feel like I am winning against darkness, dust, and general chaos. —Tyler Bennett
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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 freedom to work without being tied down by cords. When I’m cutting through wood, metal, or PVC in tight spaces, the compact size makes a huge difference. I can maneuver it easily in areas where a full-size saw would feel bulky and awkward, which saves me time and frustration on the job.
My experience with this saw is that it feels powerful enough for demanding tasks, yet still lightweight and easy to control. That balance matters to me because I want a tool that can handle real work without wearing me out too quickly. The variable speed trigger also helps me stay accurate, especially when I need more control for cleaner cuts.
I also see it as necessary because it fits into my existing 20V MAX DeWalt battery system. That means I can keep working with batteries I already own, which makes it practical and cost-effective. For me, it’s not just another tool—it’s one of those tools that makes difficult cutting jobs simpler, faster, and more manageable.
My Buying Guides on Dewalt Dcs387b 20v Max Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw, what stood out to me was how compact it is. I wanted a saw that could fit into tighter spaces without feeling bulky, and this model immediately seemed like a strong option. Since it is a bare tool, I also knew I would need to already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries or plan to buy them separately.
Why I Considered This Saw
I was drawn to this reciprocating saw because it is designed for cutting in cramped areas where a full-size saw can be awkward. For me, that matters a lot when working on demolition, plumbing, or general remodeling jobs. I also liked that it is cordless, which gives me more freedom to move around without worrying about an extension cord.
What I Looked for in Performance
When I buy a reciprocating saw, I pay attention to cutting speed, control, and comfort. With this DEWALT model, I found the compact size helpful for one-handed use in some situations, and the variable-speed trigger gives me better control over different materials. I also appreciate that it is part of the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, because I can use the same batteries across other tools I own.
Comfort and Handling
In my experience, a tool like this needs to feel balanced in the hand. The DCS387B is light enough for overhead work and tight-angle cuts, which makes long tasks easier on me. I also like that the compact design helps reduce fatigue compared to larger reciprocating saws.
Battery and Power Considerations
Since this is the bare tool version, I made sure to think about battery compatibility before buying. If I already had DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, this was a convenient choice. If not, I would need to factor in the extra cost of batteries and a charger. For me, that is an important part of the overall value.
Best Uses I See for This Saw
I think this saw is best for:
- Small demolition projects
- Cutting pipe and conduit
- Working in tight spaces
- Home renovation tasks
- Light to medium-duty cutting jobs
What I Would Keep in Mind Before Buying
Before I buy, I always check whether the tool matches my needs. If I need a heavy-duty saw for long, demanding cuts, I might look at a larger reciprocating saw. But if I want portability, convenience, and good control in tight areas, this model makes a lot of sense to me.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw as a practical and convenient tool for anyone who values mobility and compact size. In my opinion, it is a smart buy for users already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX system. If I needed a versatile saw for tight spaces and everyday jobsite tasks, this would be one of the first models I would consider.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the DEWALT DCS387B 20V MAX Cordless Compact Reciprocating Saw, I think it stands out as a powerful and highly portable tool for tight spaces and quick cutting tasks. My biggest takeaway is that it offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and convenience, especially for users who already have DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. If I needed a compact recip saw for remodeling, demolition, or general jobsite work, this would definitely be one of my top picks.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.
Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.
HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.
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