INSTRUCTION MANUAL

DCS380-XE, DCS381-XE
18 V CORDLESS RECIPROCATING SAWS
 1) WORK AREA SAFETY
Definitions: Safety Guidelines a) Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
The definitions below describe the level of severity for each signal b) Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the
word. Please read the manual and pay attention to these symbols. presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. c) Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool.
Distractions can cause you to lose control.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury. 2) ELECTRICAL SAFETY
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not a) Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools.
Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
NOTICE: indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if
not avoided, may result in property damage. b) Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes,
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric
shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS OR ANY DEWALT TOOL, c) Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power
CALL US AT: 1800 444 224 (Aust) or 0800 339 258 (NZ). tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
d) Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR POWER TOOLS unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges
When using power tools, always observe the safety regulations applicable in your or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric
country to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury. Read the following shock.
safety instructions before attempting to operate this product. Keep these instructions in
e) When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable
a safe place.
for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of
electric shock.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, read the instruction manual.
f) If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual
current device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of
GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS electric shock.
WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all instructions Failure to follow 3) PERSONAL SAFETY
the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious a) Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when
injury. operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention
tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool. while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
b) Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.

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 c) Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off position g) Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc., in accordance with
before plugging in. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or these instructions and in the manner intended for the particular type of
plugging in power tools that have the switch on invites accidents. power tool, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be
d) Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended
wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in could result in a hazardous situation.
personal injury. 5) BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE
e) Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This a) Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger
enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations. that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when
f) Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, used with another battery pack.
clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or b) Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any
long hair can be caught in moving parts. other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
g) If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection c) When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects like
facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws, or other small metal objects that
collection can reduce dust-related hazards. can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery
4) POWER TOOL USE AND CARE terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
a) Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your d) Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid
application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts
for which it was designed. eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may
b) Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any cause irritation or burns.
power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must 6) SERVICE
be repaired. a) Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only
c) Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool
the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, is maintained.
or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of
starting the power tool accidentally. Electrical Safety
d) Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow The electric motor has been designed for one voltage only. Always check that the
persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate. 230 V AC means your
power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users. tool will operate on alternating current. As little as 10% lower voltage can cause loss
of power and can result in overheating. All DEWALT tools are factory tested; if this
e) Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
tool does not operate, check the power supply. Your DEWALT tool is double insulated,
breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s
therefore no earth wire is required.
operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools. • Young children and the infirm. This appliance is not intended for use by
young children or infirm persons without supervision. Young children should be
f) Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with
supervised to ensure that they do not play with this appliance.
sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.

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 • Replacement of the supply cord. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be • Do not operate this tool for long periods of time. Vibration caused by the
replaced by the manufacturer or an authorised DEWALT Service Centre in order operating action of this tool may cause permanent injury to fingers, hands, and
to avoid a hazard. arms. Use gloves to provide extra cushion, take frequent rest periods, and limit
daily time of use.
Extension Cords
WARNING: We recommend the use of a residual current device with a residual
CAUTION: Use only extension cords that are approved by the country’s Electrical current rating of 30mA or less.
Authority. Before using extension cords, inspect them for loose or exposed wires,
WARNING: ALWAYS wear approved protective safety equipment complying with
damaged insulation and defective fittings. Replace the cord if necessary.
the following standards:
MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS • Eye protection: AS/NZS1337 Eye Protectors for Industrial Applications;
For Cable length (m): 7.5 15 25 30 45 60
• Hearing protection: AS/NZS1270 Acoustics – Hearing Protection;
Use Cable with minimum rating (Amperes)
Tool Amperes • Respiratory protection: AS/NZS1716 Respiratory Protective Devices.
0 - 3.4 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and
3.5 - 5.0 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 10 15 other construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects
5.1 - 7.0 10 10 10 10 15 15 or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
7.1 - 12.0 15 15 15 15 20 20 • lead from lead-based paints,
12.1 - 20.0 20 20 20 20 25 – • crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Additional Specific Safety Rules for Reciprocating Saws Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of
• Hold power tool by insulated gripping surfaces, when performing an operation work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and
where the cutting accessory may contact hidden wiring. Cutting accessory work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially
contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” designed to filter out microscopic particles.
and could give the operator an electric shock.
• Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding,
• Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to drilling, and other construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash
a stable platform. Holding the work by hand or against your body leaves it exposed areas with soap and water. Allowing dust to get into your mouth, eyes,
unstable and may lead to loss of control. or lay on the skin may promote absorption of harmful chemicals.
• Hold saw firmly with both hands for all cutting operations. During cutting WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/or disburse dust, which may cause
operations, the blade may suddenly bind in the work and may cause the saw to serious and permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA approved
kickback towards the operator. respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from
• Keep hands away from moving parts. Never place your hands near the cutting face and body.
area.
WARNING: Always wear proper personal hearing protection that conforms to
• Use extra caution when cutting overhead and pay particular attention to AS/NZS1270 during use. Under some conditions and duration of use, noise from this
overhead wires which may be hidden from view. Anticipate the path of falling product may contribute to hearing loss.
branches and debris ahead of time.

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 CAUTION: When not in use, place tool on its side on a stable surface where it • Charge the battery packs only in designated DEWALT chargers.
will not cause a tripping or falling hazard. Some tools with large battery packs will • DO NOT splash or immerse in water or other liquids.
stand upright on the battery pack but may be easily knocked over. • Do not store or use the tool and battery pack in locations where the
• The label on your tool may include the following symbols. The symbols and their temperature may reach or exceed 40˚C (105°F) (such as outside sheds
definitions are as follows: or metal buildings in summer). For best life store battery packs in a cool, dry
V ................. volts A ...............amperes location.
Hz ............... hertz W ..............watts NOTE: Do not store the battery packs in a tool with the trigger switch locked
on. Never tape the trigger switch in the ON position.
min ............. minutes ...........alternating current
........ direct current ...........alternating or direct current WARNING: Fire hazard. Never attempt to open the battery pack for any reason. If
the battery pack case is cracked or damaged, do not insert into the charger. Do not
.............. Class I Construction no ..............no load speed
crush, drop or damage the battery pack. Do not use a battery pack or charger that
................... (grounded) .............earthing terminal has received a sharp blow, been dropped, run over or damaged in any way (e.g.,
.............. Class II Construction ..............safety alert symbol pierced with a nail, hit with a hammer, stepped on). Damaged battery packs should be
................... (double insulated) BPM ..........beats per minute returned to the service center for recycling.
…/min ........ per minute RPM ..........revolutions per minute WARNING: Fire hazard. Do not store or carry the battery pack so that metal
IPM ............. impacts per minute objects can contact exposed battery terminals. For example, do not place the battery
pack in aprons, pockets, tool boxes, product kit boxes, drawers, etc., with loose
Important Safety Instructions for All Battery Packs nails, screws, keys, etc. Transporting batteries can possibly cause fires if the battery
When ordering replacement battery packs, be sure to include the catalog number and terminals inadvertently come in contact with conductive materials such as keys,
voltage. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of chargers and coins, hand tools and the like. The US Department of Transportation Hazardous
battery packs. Material Regulations (HMR) actually prohibit transporting batteries in commerce or on
The battery pack is not fully charged out of the carton. Before using the battery pack airplanes (e.g., packed in suitcases and carry-on luggage) UNLESS they are properly
and charger, read the safety instructions below and then follow charging procedures protected from short circuits. So when transporting individual battery packs, make
outlined. sure that the battery terminals are protected and well insulated from materials that
could contact them and cause a short circuit.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR LITHIUM ION (Li-Ion)
• Do not charge or use the battery pack in explosive atmospheres, such as in the • Do not incinerate the battery pack even if it is severely damaged or is
presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Inserting or removing the battery completely worn out. The battery pack can explode in a fire. Toxic fumes and
pack from the charger may ignite the dust or fumes. materials are created when lithium ion battery packs are burned.
• Never force the battery pack into the charger. Do not modify the battery pack • If battery contents come into contact with the skin, immediately wash area with
in any way to fit into a non-compatible charger as battery pack may rupture mild soap and water. If battery liquid gets into the eye, rinse water over the open
causing serious personal injury. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for eye for 15 minutes or until irritation ceases. If medical attention is needed, the
compatibility of batteries and chargers. battery electrolyte is composed of a mixture of liquid organic carbonates and
lithium salts.

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 • Contents of opened battery cells may cause respiratory irritation. Provide fresh • Do not use an extension cord unless it is absolutely necessary. Use
air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. of improper extension cord could result in risk of fire, electric shock or
WARNING: Burn hazard. Battery liquid may be flammable if exposed to spark or electrocution.
flame. • When operating a charger outdoors, always provide a dry location and use an
extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
Important Safety Instructions for All Battery Chargers reduces the risk of electric shock.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS: This manual contains important safety and operating • Do not place any object on top of the charger or place the charger on a soft
instructions for battery chargers. surface that might block the ventilation slots and result in excessive internal
• Before using the charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the heat. Place the charger in a position away from any heat source. The charger is
charger, battery pack and product using the battery pack. ventilated through slots in the top and the bottom of the housing.
WARNING: Shock hazard. Do not allow any liquid to get inside the charger. Electric • Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug.
shock may result. • Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped or
CAUTION: Burn hazard. To reduce the risk of injury, charge only DEWALT otherwise damaged in any way. Take it to an authorized service center.
rechargeable battery packs. Other types of batteries may overheat and burst resulting • Do not disassemble the charger; take it to an authorized service center when
in personal injury and property damage. service or repair is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric
NOTICE: Under certain conditions, with the charger plugged into the power supply, the shock, electrocution or fire.
charger can be shorted by foreign material. Foreign materials of a conductive nature, • Disconnect the charger from the outlet before attempting any cleaning. This
such as, but not limited to, grinding dust, metal chips, steel wool, aluminum foil or any will reduce the risk of electric shock. Removing the battery pack will not reduce
buildup of metallic particles should be kept away from the charger cavities. Always this risk.
unplug the charger from the power supply when there is no battery pack in the cavity. • NEVER attempt to connect 2 chargers together.
Unplug the charger before attempting to clean. • The charger is designed to operate on standard 230 V household electrical
• DO NOT attempt to charge the battery pack with any chargers other than the power. Do not attempt to use it on any other voltage. This does not apply to the
ones in this manual. The charger and battery pack are specifically designed to vehicular charger.
work together.
• These chargers are not intended for any uses other than charging DEWALT Chargers
rechargeable batteries. Any other uses may result in risk of fire, electric shock Your tool uses a DEWALT charger. Be sure to read all safety instructions before using
or electrocution. your charger. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of chargers
• Do not expose the charger to rain or snow. and battery packs.
• Pull by the plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the charger. This will Charging Procedure (Fig. 1)
reduce the risk of damage to the electric plug and cord.
1. Plug the charger into an appropriate outlet before inserting the battery pack.
• Make sure that the cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped
2. Insert the battery pack (F) into the charger, as shown in Figure 1, making sure
over or otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
the pack is fully seated in charger. The red (charging) light will blink continuously,
indicating that the charging process has started.

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 3. The completion of charge will be indicated by the red light remaining ON battery pack elicits the same trouble indication as the original, have the charger and the
continuously. The pack is fully charged and may be used at this time or left in the battery pack tested at an authorized service center.
charger. HOT/COLD DELAY
FIG. 1 This charger has a hot/cold delay feature: when the charger detects a battery that is
F
hot, it automatically starts a delay, suspending charging until the battery has cooled.
After the battery has cooled, the charger automatically switches to the pack charging
mode. This feature ensures maximum battery life. The red light flashes long, then
short while in the hot/cold delay mode.
LEAVING THE BATTERY PACK IN THE CHARGER
The charger and battery pack can be left connected with the charge indicator showing
Pack Charged.
WEAK BATTERY PACKS: Weak batteries will continue to function but should not be
expected to perform as much work.
FAULTY BATTERY PACKS: This charger will not charge a faulty battery pack. The
charger will indicate faulty battery pack by refusing to light or by displaying problem pack
or charger.
Indicator Light Operation NOTE: This could also mean a problem with a charger.
PACK CHARGING Important Charging Notes
1. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery pack is charged
PACK CHARGED when the air temperature is between 18° – 24°C (65°F and 75°F). DO NOT charge
the battery pack in an air temperature below +4°C (+40°F), or above +40°C
HOT/COLD DELAY (+105°F). This is important and will prevent serious damage to the battery pack.
2. The charger and battery pack may become warm to the touch while charging.
x PROBLEM PACK OR CHARGER This is a normal condition, and does not indicate a problem. To facilitate the
cooling of the battery pack after use, avoid placing the charger or battery pack in
PROBLEM POWERLINE a warm environment such as in a metal shed or an uninsulated trailer.
3. A cold battery pack will charge at about half the rate of a warm battery pack. The
Charge Indicators battery pack will charge at that slower rate throughout the entire charging cycle
This charger is designed to detect certain problems that can arise. Problems are indicated and will not return to maximum charge rate even if the battery pack warms.
by the red light flashing at a fast rate. If this occurs, re-insert the battery pack into the 4. If the battery pack does not charge properly:
charger. If the problem persists, try a different battery pack to determine if the charger a. Check operation of receptacle by plugging in a lamp or other appliance;
is working properly. If the new pack charges correctly, then the original pack is defective b. Check to see if receptacle is connected to a light switch which turns power off
and should be returned to a service center or other collection site for recycling. If the new when you turn out the lights;

6
 c. Move the charger and battery pack to a location where the surrounding air FIG. 2 E
temperature is approximately 18° – 24°C (65°F and 75°F);
B A DCS380-XE
d. If charging problems persist, take the tool, battery pack and charger to your
local service center.
5. The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to produce sufficient power
on jobs which were easily done previously. DO NOT CONTINUE to use under
these conditions. Follow the charging procedure. You may also charge a partially
used pack whenever you desire with no adverse effect on the battery pack.
6. Foreign materials of a conductive nature such as, but not limited to, grinding dust,
metal chips, steel wool, aluminum foil, or any buildup of metallic particles should
C
be kept away from charger cavities. Always unplug the charger from the power
supply when there is no battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the charger before G
attempting to clean. D
7. Do not freeze or immerse the charger in water or any other liquid.
WARNING: Shock hazard. Don’t allow any liquid to get inside the charger. Electric F
shock may result.
WARNING: Burn hazard. Do not submerge the battery pack in any liquid or allow
any liquid to enter the battery pack. Never attempt to open the battery pack for any E
reason. If the plastic housing of the battery pack breaks or cracks, return to a service B
A DCS381-XE
center for recycling.
Storage Recommendations
1. The best storage place is one that is cool and dry, away from direct sunlight and
excess heat or cold.
2. For long storage, it is recommended to store a fully charged battery pack in a
cool dry place out of the charger for optimal results.
NOTE: Battery packs should not be stored completely depleted of charge. The battery C
pack will need to be recharged before use.
G
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE USE D

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COMPONENTS (FIG. 1, 2) OPERATION
WARNING: Never modify the power tool or any part of it. Damage or personal WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn tool off and
injury could result. disconnect tool from power source before making any adjustments or removing/
A. Trigger switch E. Hand grip installing attachments or accessories.
B. Lock-off button F. Battery pack Installing and Removing the Battery Pack (Fig. 4)
C. Blade clamp release lever G. Battery release button NOTE: For best results, make sure your battery pack is fully charged.
D. Shoe FIG. 4
Variable Speed Trigger Switch (Fig. 3)
LOCK-OFF BUTTON AND TRIGGER SWITCH
Your saw is equipped with a lock-off button (B).
To lock the trigger switch, press the FIG. 3 UNLOCKED
lock-off button as shown in Figure 3. G
Always lock the trigger switch (A) when
B
carrying or storing the tool to eliminate
unintentional starting. The lock-off button
is colored red to indicate when the F
switch is in its unlocked position.
To unlock the trigger switch, press the LOCKED
To install the battery pack (F) into the tool handle, align the battery pack with the rails
lock-off button as shown in Figure 3. Pull inside the tool’s handle and slide it into the handle until the battery pack is firmly
the trigger switch to turn the motor ON. seated in the tool and ensure that it does not disengage.
Releasing the trigger switch turns the To remove the battery pack from the tool, press the release button (G) and firmly pull
motor OFF. A the battery pack out of the tool handle. Insert it into the charger as described in the
WARNING: This tool has no provision charger section of this manual.
to lock the switch in the ON position, and should never be locked ON by any other
means. Blade Installation and Removal (Fig. 5, 6, 7, 11)
The variable speed trigger switch will give you added versatility. The further the trigger WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn tool off and
is depressed the higher the speed of the saw. disconnect tool from power source before making any adjustments or removing/
CAUTION: Use of very slow speed is recommended only for beginning a cut. installing attachments or accessories.
Prolonged use at very slow speed may damage your saw. Different blade lengths are available. Use the appropriate blade for the application. The
blade should be longer than 89 mm (3-1/2") and should extend past the shoe and the
thickness of the workpiece during the cut. Do not use jigsaw blades with this tool.

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 WARNING: Cut hazard. Blade breakage may occur if the blade does not extend past FIG. 7
the shoe and the workpiece during the cut (Fig. 5). Increased risk of personal injury, as
well as damage to the shoe and workpiece may result. DCS380-XE
FIG. 5

DCS381-XE

TO INSTALL BLADE INTO SAW

1. Pull blade clamp release lever (C) up (Fig. 6) FIG. 6
2. Insert blade shank from the front.
3. Push blade clamp release lever down.
NOTE: The blade can be installed in the DCS380-XE
in four positions as shown in Figure 7. The blade
can be installed in the DCS381-XE in two positions TO REMOVE BLADE FROM SAW
as shown in Figure 7. Both units allow the blade to CAUTION: Burn hazard. Do not touch the the blade immediately after use. Contact
be installed upside-down to assist in flush-to cutting; with the blade may result in personal injury.
see Figure 11. 1. Open up blade clamp release lever.
C 2. Remove blade.

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Cutting with Blade in Horizontal Position must be held firmly against the material being cut (Fig. 10). This will prevent the saw
(DCS380-XE only) (Fig. 8) from jumping or vibrating and minimize blade breakage. Any cuts which put pressure
on the blade such as angle or scroll cuts increase potential for vibration, kickback, and
Your DCS380-XE is equipped with a horizontal blade clamp. Installing a blade in the blade breakage.
horizontal orientation allows cutting close to floors, walls or ceilings where limited
clearance is available. Ensure that the shoe is pressed against the framing to avoid FIG. 10
kickback.
FIG. 8

Adjustable Shoe (DCS380-XE only) (Fig. 9)

CAUTION: Cut hazard. To prevent loss of control, FIG. 9
WARNING: Use extra caution when cutting overhead and pay particular attention
never use tool without shoe. to overhead wires which may be hidden from view. Anticipate the path of falling
Your DCS380-XE comes with an adjustable shoe. branches and debris ahead of time.
The shoe will adjust to limit the depth of cut. Hold WARNING: Inspect work site for hidden FIG. 11
the saw with the underside facing up. Push the gas pipes, water pipes, or electrical wires
button on the hand grip and slide the shoe out to before making blind or plunge cuts. Failure
one of the three settings and release the button. to do so may result in explosion, property
The DCS381-XE comes with a fixed shoe that is damage, electric shock, and/or serious
not adjustable. personal injury.
Cutting (Fig. 10–13) FLUSH-TO CUTTING (FIG. 11)
The compact design of the saw motor
WARNING: Always use eye protection. All users and bystanders must wear eye
housing and spindle housing permits
protection that conforms to ANSI Z87.1.
extremely close cutting to floors, corners
WARNING: Exercise extra caution when cutting towards operator. Always hold saw and other difficult areas.
firmly with both hands while cutting.
Before cutting any type of material, be sure it is firmly anchored or clamped to prevent
slipping. Place blade lightly against work to be cut, switch on saw motor and allow it
to obtain maximum speed before applying pressure. Whenever possible, the saw shoe

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POCKET/PLUNGE CUTTING – WOOD ONLY (FIG. 12) METAL CUTTING (FIG. 13)
The initial step in pocket cutting is to measure the surface area to be cut and mark Your saw has different metal cutting capacities depending upon type of blade used
clearly with a pencil, chalk or scriber. Use the appropriate blade for the application. The and the metal to be cut. Use a finer blade for ferrous metals and a coarse blade for
blade should be longer than 89 mm (3-1/2") and should extend past the shoe and the non-ferrous materials. In thin gauge sheet metals it is best to clamp wood to both
thickness of the workpiece during the cut. Insert blade in blade clamp. sides of sheet. This will insure a clean cut without excess vibration or tearing of metal.
Next, tip the saw backward until the back edge of the shoe is resting on the work Always remember not to force cutting blade as this reduces blade life and causes
surface and the blade clears the work surface (position 1, Fig. 12). Now switch motor costly blade breakage.
on, and allow saw to come up to speed. Grip saw firmly with both hands and begin a NOTE: It is generally recommended that when cutting metals you should spread a thin
slow, deliberate upward swing with the handle of the saw, keeping the bottom of the film of oil or other lubricant along the line ahead of the saw cut for easier operation and
shoe firmly in contact with the workpiece (position 2, Fig. 12). Blade will begin to feed longer blade life.
into material. Always be sure blade is completely through material before continuing
FIG. 13
with pocket cut.
NOTE: In areas where blade visibility is limited, use the edge of the saw shoe as a
guide. Lines for any given cut should be extended beyond edge of cut to be made.

FIG. 12
1. STARTING POSITION FOR POCKET CUTTING
2. ROCK TOOL UP TO NORMAL CUTTING POSITION
AFTER BLADE HAS CUT THROUGH MATERIAL.

MAINTENANCE
WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, place the forward/
reverse button in the lock-off position or turn tool off and disconnect battery pack
before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories.
Lubrication
Your power tool requires no additional lubrication.

11
Cleaning
WARNING: Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once
a week. To minimize the risk of eye injury, always wear AS/NZS51337 approved eye
protection when performing this.
WARNING: Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the
non-metallic parts of the tool. These chemicals may weaken the plastic materials
used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let
any liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool into a liquid.
CHARGER CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Shock hazard. Disconnect the charger from the AC outlet before
cleaning. Dirt and grease may be removed from the exterior of the charger using a
cloth or soft non-metallic brush. Do not use water or any cleaning solutions.
Repairs
The charger and battery pack are not serviceable. There are no serviceable parts
inside the charger or battery pack.
To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment
(including brush inspection and replacement) should be performed by certified
service centers or other qualified service organizations, always using identical
replacement parts.

ACCESSORIES
WARNING: Since accessories, other than those offered by DEWALT, have not been
tested with this product, use of such accessories with this tool could be hazardous.
To reduce the risk of injury, only DEWALT, recommended accessories should be used
with this product.
Recommended accessories for use with your tool are available at extra cost from
your local service center. If you need any assistance in locating any accessory, please
contact Stanley Black & Decker, 82 Taryn Drive, Epping, VIC 3076 Australia or call
1800 444 224 or (NZ). 0800 339 258.

12
 DEWALT BATTERY AND CHARGER SYSTEMS
Battery Output Chargers/Charge Time
Nominal 240 Volts 12 Volts
Cat. Number Voltage Amp Hour 97014 98014 DW9106 DW9107 DW9108 DW9115 DW9116 DW9117 DW9118 DE9116 DE9118 DW911 DC011 DW0245 DE2046 DE9000 DC9310 DCB100 DCB105 DCB119 DW9109 DC9319
DC9360 36 2.2 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 X X X X X X
DE0240-XJ 24 2.0 X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 60 X X X X X X X
DW0242 24 2.0 X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 60 X X X X X X X
DW0240 24 1.7 X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 60 X X X X X X X
DC9096 18 2.4 X X X X 60 X 60 20 X 60 X 60 60 X X X 60 X X X 60 60
DC9180 18 2.0 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 X X X X 60
DCB180 18 3.2 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 90 X X
DCB181 18 1.5 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 30 45 X X
DW9096 18 2.4 X X X X 60 X 60 20 X 60 X 60 60 X X X 60 X X X 60 60
DE9095-XJ 18 2.0 X X X X 60 X 60 20 X 60 X 60 60 X X X 60 X X X 60 60
DC9091 14.4 2.4 60 60 60 60 60 15 60 15 60 60 60 60 60 X X X 60 X X X 60 60
DC9144 14.4 2.0 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 60 X X X X 60
DE9094 14.4 1.3 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X X X 30 30
DE9091-XJ 14.4 2.0 45 45 45 45 45 15 45 15 90 45 90 45 45 X X X 45 X X X 45 45
DW9091 14.4 1.7 45 45 45 45 45 15 45 15 90 45 90 45 45 X X X 45 X X X 45 45
DC9071 12 2.4 60 60 60 60 60 15 60 15 60 60 60 60 60 X X X 60 X X X 60 60
DE9071-XJ 12 2.0 60 60 60 45 45 15 45 15 90 45 90 45 45 X X X 45 X X X 45 45
DE9074-XJ 12 1.25 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X X X 30 30
DW9050 12 1.3 40 40 40 X X 15 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
DW9071 12 1.7 60 60 60 45 45 15 45 15 90 45 90 45 45 X X X 45 X X X 45 45
DW9072 12 1.2 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X X X 30 30
DCB120 10.8 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 40 40 40 X X
DW9063 9.6 1.25 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X X X 30 30
DW9062 9.6 1.3 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X X X 30 30
DW9061 9.6 1.7 60 60 60 45 45 15 45 15 90 45 90 45 45 X X X 45 X X X 45 45
DW9048 9.6 1.3 40 40 40 X X 15 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
DW9057 7.2 1.25 45 45 45 30 30 15 30 12 60 30 60 30 30 X X X 30 X 30 30
DW9046 7.2 1.3 40 40 40 X X 15 X X X X X X X X X X X X X
X Indicates that the battery pack is not compatible with that specific charger.
All charge times are approximate. Actual charge time may vary.
Read the instruction manual for more specific information.
The battery voltage is nominal, it can measure above or below depending on the state of charge.

Stanley Black & Decker

701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286 • 82 Taryn Drive, Epping, VIC 3076 Australia
(MAR11) Part No. N111154 DCS380-XE, DCS381-XE Copyright © 2011 DEWALT
The following are trademarks for one or more DEWALT power tools: the yellow and black color scheme; the “D” shaped air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip;
the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool.