DEWALT DCS391, DCS393 20V Max* 6-1/2" Cordless Circular Saw

Components

The following components are part of the DEWALT DCS391, DCS393 Cordless Circular Saw:

• A. TRIGGER SWITCH LOCK-OFF BUTTON: Prevents accidental starting.
• B. TRIGGER SWITCH: Activates the motor.
• C. BATTERY PACK: Provides power to the tool.
• D. DEPTH ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to set the cutting depth.
• E. SHOE: The base plate that rests on the workpiece.
• F. LOWER BLADE GUARD RETRACTING LEVER: Used to manually retract the lower blade guard.
• G. LOWER BLADE GUARD: Covers the blade when not in use.
• H. BLADE CLAMPING SCREW: Secures the blade to the spindle.
• I. KERF INDICATOR: A guide for following cutting lines.
• J. BEVEL ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to set the bevel angle for angled cuts.
• K. BLADE LOCK BUTTON: Locks the spindle to allow blade changes.
• L. AUXILIARY HANDLE: Provides additional grip and control.
• M. BATTERY RELEASE BUTTON: Releases the battery pack from the tool.
• N. BLADE WRENCH: Tool for changing the blade.

Safety Guidelines

Definitions:

• DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
• WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
• CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
• NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to follow warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

1) WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres (flammable liquids, gases, dust). Sparks may ignite dust or fumes.
• Keep children and bystanders away. Distractions can cause loss of control.

2) ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• Use appropriate plugs and outlets; do not modify plugs.
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
• Do not abuse the cord; keep it away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
• Use outdoor-suitable extension cords for outdoor use.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in damp locations.

3) PERSONAL SAFETY

• Stay alert, use common sense, and do not operate while tired or under the influence.
• Use personal protective equipment (eye protection, dust mask, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection).
• Prevent unintentional starting: ensure the switch is OFF before connecting to power/battery, picking up, or carrying the tool.
• Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning the tool on.
• Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
• Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.
• Ensure dust extraction facilities are connected and used properly.

4) POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

• Do not force the tool; use the correct tool for the application.
• Do not use the tool if the switch does not turn it on and off.
• Disconnect from power/battery before making adjustments or changing accessories.
• Store idle tools out of children's reach and away from untrained users.
• Maintain tools: check for misalignment, binding, or broken parts. Have damaged tools repaired before use.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
• Use tools and accessories according to instructions and working conditions.

5) BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

• Recharge only with the specified charger.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
• Keep battery packs away from metal objects (paper clips, coins, keys) to prevent shorting terminals.
• Avoid contact with battery liquid if ejected; flush with water and seek medical help if necessary.

6) SERVICE

• Have power tools serviced by qualified personnel using identical replacement parts.

Safety Instructions for All Saws

• DANGER: Keep hands away from cutting area and blade. Keep second hand on auxiliary handle or motor housing.
• Do not reach underneath the workpiece.
• Adjust cutting depth to workpiece thickness; less than a full tooth should be visible below the workpiece.
• Never hold the piece being cut in your hands or across your leg; secure the workpiece to a stable platform.
• Hold by insulated gripping surfaces when cutting near hidden wiring.
• When ripping, always use a rip fence or straight edge guide.
• Use blades with correct size and shape arbor holes.
• Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers or bolt.

Kickback Prevention

Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound, or misaligned saw blade, causing the saw to lift out of the workpiece toward the operator. It can be avoided by:

• Maintaining a firm grip with both hands and positioning arms to resist kickback forces. Position body to the side of the blade, not in line with it.
• When the blade is binding, release the trigger and hold the saw motionless until the blade stops. Never attempt to remove the saw while the blade is in motion.
• When restarting a cut, center the blade in the kerf and ensure teeth are not engaged.
• Support large panels to minimize blade pinching and kickback.
• Do not use dull or damaged blades.
• Ensure blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers are tight and secure.
• Use extra caution when making plunge cuts into blind areas.

Lower Guard Safety Instructions

• Check lower guard for proper closing before each use. Do not operate if it does not move freely or close instantly. Never clamp or tie the lower guard open.
• Check the operation of the lower guard spring. If not operating properly, it must be serviced.
• Lower guard should be retracted manually only for special cuts (plunge cuts, compound cuts). Release it as soon as the blade enters the material.
• Always observe that the lower guard is covering the blade before placing the saw down.

Additional Specific Safety Instructions for Circular Saws

• WARNING: Do not use abrasive wheels or blades.
• WARNING: Do not use water feed attachments.
• Secure and support the workpiece to a stable platform using clamps or other practical means.
• Keep your body positioned to either side of the blade, but not in line with it.
• Avoid cutting nails. Inspect and remove all nails from lumber before cutting.
• WARNING: ALWAYS USE SAFETY GLASSES (conforming to ANSI Z87.1 / CAN/CSA Z94.3). Everyday eyeglasses are NOT safety glasses. Use face or dust mask if cutting is dusty.
• WARNING: Wear proper hearing protection (conforming to ANSI S12.6 / S3.19).
• WARNING: Some dust created by power tools contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm (e.g., lead, crystalline silica, arsenic, chromium). Reduce exposure by working in well-ventilated areas and using approved safety equipment.
• WARNING: Use of this tool can generate dust. Always use NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from face and body. Operate in a well-ventilated area and provide for proper dust removal. Use dust collection system where possible.
• CAUTION: When not in use, place circular saw on a stable surface, shoe side down, where it will not cause a tripping or falling hazard.

Safety Instructions for All Battery Packs

• Read all instructions before use.
• Do not charge or use battery packs in explosive atmospheres.
• Never force battery packs into chargers; do not modify them.
• Charge battery packs only in designated DEWALT chargers.
• Do not splash or immerse in water or other liquids.
• Do not store or use where temperatures may reach or exceed 105°F (40°C). Store in a cool, dry location.
• Do not store battery packs in a tool with the trigger switch locked ON.
• WARNING: Fire hazard. Never attempt to open battery packs. Do not crush, drop, or damage battery packs. Return damaged packs to a service center.
• WARNING: Fire hazard. Do not store or carry battery packs so metal objects can contact exposed terminals. Protect terminals from short circuits during transport.

Specific Safety Instructions for Lithium Ion (Li-Ion)

• Do not incinerate battery packs, even if damaged. They can explode in a fire, releasing toxic fumes.
• If battery contents contact skin, wash with mild soap and water. If liquid gets into eyes, rinse with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Contents of opened battery cells may cause respiratory irritation; provide fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
• WARNING: Burn hazard. Battery liquid may be flammable.

RBRC™ Seal

The RBRC™ Seal indicates that DEWALT has paid for the recycling costs of these batteries at the end of their useful life. Return spent batteries to an authorized DEWALT service center or retailer for recycling.

Safety Instructions for All Battery Chargers

• SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
• Read all instructions and markings on the charger, battery pack, and product.
• WARNING: Shock hazard. Do not allow liquid inside the charger.
• CAUTION: Burn hazard. Charge only DEWALT rechargeable battery packs.
• NOTICE: Keep charger cavities free from foreign material (dust, metal chips, steel wool). Unplug the charger when no battery pack is inserted. Unplug before cleaning.
• Do not attempt to charge battery packs with other chargers.
• Chargers are for charging DEWALT batteries only.
• Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.
• Pull by the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting.
• Ensure the cord is located to prevent damage or stress.
• Use extension cords only when necessary and ensure they are properly sized (AWG).
• Do not place objects on top of the charger or block ventilation slots. Place away from heat sources.
• Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug.
• Do not operate if the charger has been dropped or damaged. Take to an authorized service center.
• Do not disassemble the charger; incorrect reassembly can cause shock or fire.
• Disconnect from outlet before cleaning.
• NEVER attempt to connect 2 chargers together.
• Chargers are designed for standard 120V household power (unless specified otherwise for vehicular chargers).

Extension Cord Selection Table

Use the following table to determine the correct wire gauge for extension cords:

If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The lower the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

Operation

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn tool off and disconnect tool from power source before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental start-up can cause injury.

Installing and Removing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack (C), align it with the rails inside the tool's handle and slide it in until firmly seated. To remove, press the release button (M) and pull the pack out.

Fuel Gauge Battery Packs

Some battery packs have a fuel gauge with three green LED lights. Press and hold the fuel gauge button (R) to check the remaining charge level. If the gauge does not illuminate, the battery needs recharging.

Trigger Switch

WARNING: This tool has no provision to lock the trigger switch ON and should never be locked ON by any other means.

Release the lock-off button (A) by pressing it. Pull the trigger switch (B) to turn the motor on. Releasing the trigger turns the motor off.

Changing Blades

To Install the Blade:

1. Place the inner clamp washer (O) on the saw spindle, flat side facing out.
2. Retract the lower blade guard (G) and place the blade on the spindle, ensuring it rotates in the proper direction (teeth point in the direction of rotation arrow). Check the lower blade guard's condition and operation.
3. Place the outer clamp washer (P) on the spindle, beveled side facing out.
4. Thread the blade clamping screw (H) into the spindle by hand (it has left-hand threads, turn counterclockwise to tighten).
5. Depress the blade lock button (K) and use the blade wrench (N) to turn the spindle until the blade lock engages and the blade stops rotating.
6. Tighten the blade clamping screw firmly with the blade wrench.

To Replace the Blade:

1. To loosen the blade clamping screw (H), depress the blade lock button (K) and turn the spindle with the blade wrench (N) until the blade lock engages. With the lock engaged, turn the blade clamping screw clockwise (it has left-hand threads) to loosen.
2. Remove the blade clamping screw (H) and outer clamp washer (P). Remove the old blade.
3. Clean sawdust from the guard and clamp washer area. Check the lower blade guard's operation. Do not lubricate this area.
4. Select the proper blade for the application, ensuring correct size, arbor hole, and maximum recommended speed (RPM) meets or exceeds the saw's RPM.
5. Follow steps 2 through 6 under "To Install the Blade".

WARNING: Never engage the blade lock while the saw is running or to stop the tool. Never turn the saw on while the blade lock is engaged. Serious damage will result.

Lower Blade Guard

WARNING: The lower blade guard is a safety feature. Never use the saw if the guard is missing, damaged, misassembled, or not working properly. Your safety depends on following all warnings and precautions.

Check the lower blade guard for proper closing before each use. If missing or not working properly, have the saw serviced. Repairs should be performed by an authorized service center using identical replacement parts.

Blades

WARNING: To minimize eye injury risk, always use eye protection. Foreign objects in the workpiece can crack or break blade tips. Mount blade securely and use a clean, sharp blade.

WARNING: Do not cut ferrous metals (steel), masonry, glass, masonry-type planking, cement board, or tile with this saw. Do not use abrasive wheels or blades.

A dull blade causes slow cutting, motor overload, excessive splintering, and increases the possibility of kickback.

Blade Compatibility:

Kickback

Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound, or misaligned saw blade. It is more likely to occur due to:

1. IMPROPER WORKPIECE SUPPORT: Sagging or improper lifting of cut-off pieces, cutting material supported only at ends, cutting cantilevered pieces from bottom up, cutting long narrow strips.
2. IMPROPER DEPTH OF CUT SETTING: Blade should protrude only enough to expose one-half of a tooth.
3. BLADE TWISTING (MISALIGNMENT IN CUT): Pushing hard through knots/nails, trying to turn the saw in the cut, overreaching, poor body control, changing hand grip/body position, backing up the saw.
4. MATERIALS REQUIRING EXTRA ATTENTION: Wet lumber, green lumber, pressure treated lumber.
5. USE OF DULL OR DIRTY BLADES: Dull blades cause increased loading and friction.
6. LIFTING THE SAW WHEN MAKING A BEVEL CUT: Increases chance of binding and misalignment.
7. RESTARTING A CUT WITH BLADE TEETH JAMMED: Saw must be at full speed before starting or restarting a cut.

Refer to safety sections for procedures to minimize kickback.

Cutting Depth Adjustment

Loosen the depth adjustment knob (D) and move the shoe to obtain the desired depth. Retighten the knob before operating. For efficient cutting, set depth so one-half tooth projects below the material. This minimizes friction, removes sawdust, and reduces kickback risk.

Bevel Angle Adjustment

The full range is from 0° to 50°. Loosen the bevel adjustment knob (J), tilt the shoe to the desired angle, and align the pointer with the angle mark. Retighten the knob firmly.

Shoe Adjustment for 90° Cuts

If additional adjustment is needed: Adjust the saw to 0° bevel. Retract the lower blade guard and place the saw on its blade side. Loosen the bevel adjustment knob (J). Place a square against the blade and shoe to adjust the 90° setting. Turn the calibration screw (Q) so the shoe stops at the proper angle. Confirm accuracy by checking a test cut.

Kerf Indicator

The kerf indicator (I) on the front of the shoe guides the saw along cutting lines. The indicator aligns with the left (outer) side of the blade, so the cut (kerf) falls to the right of the indicator. Guide along the penciled line so the kerf falls into waste material.

Workpiece Support

WARNING: Support work properly and hold the saw firmly to prevent loss of control.

Maintain a firm grip with both hands and position your body and arms to resist kickback. Always turn off the tool and remove the battery before making adjustments.

DO support the board or panel NEAR the cut. DON'T support the board or panel AWAY from the cut. Place the "good" side of the workpiece down, as the saw cuts upward, causing any splintering on the top face.

Cutting

Place the wider portion of the saw shoe on the solidly supported part of the workpiece. Always clamp work; do not hold short pieces by hand. Support cantilevered and overhanging material. Use caution when sawing from below.

Ensure the saw is up to full speed before the blade contacts material. Push the saw forward at a speed that allows the blade to cut without laboring. Forcing the saw can cause rough cuts, inaccuracy, kickback, and motor overheating.

If the cut goes off line, release the trigger, allow the blade to stop, withdraw the saw, and start a new cut. Forcing a correction can stall the saw and lead to kickback.

IF SAW STALLS, RELEASE THE TRIGGER SWITCH AND BACK THE SAW UNTIL IT IS LOOSE. ENSURE BLADE IS STRAIGHT AND CLEAR BEFORE RESTARTING.

As you finish a cut, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop before lifting the saw. The lower blade guard will automatically close under the blade. Never reach under the work. Use the retracting lever for manual guard retraction (e.g., for pocket cuts).

WARNING: When cutting thin strips, ensure small cutoff pieces do not hang up on the inside of the lower blade guard.

Ripping

Ripping is cutting wider boards into narrower strips lengthwise. Hand guiding is difficult; use of a DEWALT rip fence is recommended.

Pocket Cutting

WARNING: Never tie the lower blade guard in a raised position. Never move the saw backward when pocket cutting, as this may cause the saw to raise up and cause injury.

1. Adjust the saw shoe for desired cutting depth.
2. Tilt the saw forward, resting the front of the shoe on the material.
3. Using the retracting lever, retract the lower blade guard. Lower the rear of the shoe until blade teeth almost touch the cutting line.
4. Release the lower blade guard. Grip the auxiliary handle firmly. Position body and arm to resist kickback.
5. Ensure the blade is not in contact with the cutting surface before starting the saw.
6. Start the motor and gradually lower the saw until its shoe rests flat on the material. Advance along the cutting line.
7. Release the trigger switch and allow the blade to stop completely before withdrawing.
8. Repeat steps for each new cut.

Maintenance

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn tool off and disconnect tool from power source before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental start-up can cause injury.

Cleaning

WARNING: Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once a week. Wear ANSI Z87.1 approved eye protection.

Never use solvents or harsh chemicals on non-metallic parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let liquid get inside the tool or immerse any part into 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 using a cloth or soft non-metallic brush. Do not use water or cleaning solutions.

Lubrication

Self-lubricating bearings are used; relubrication is not required. It is recommended to have the tool professionally cleaned, inspected, and lubricated annually.

Accessories

WARNING: Use only DEWALT recommended accessories. Use of untested accessories can be hazardous.

Recommended accessories are available from your local DEWALT service center. Contact DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286, call 1-800-4-DEWALT, or visit www.dewalt.com for assistance.

Repairs

The charger and battery pack are not serviceable. Repairs, maintenance, and adjustments should be performed by a DEWALT factory service center, authorized service center, or qualified service personnel using identical replacement parts.

Product Registration and Warranty

Register Online

Register your product at www.dewalt.com/register for efficient warranty service, confirmation of ownership, and safety notifications.

Three Year Limited Warranty

DEWALT will repair defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase, free of charge. This warranty does not cover normal wear or tool abuse. For details, visit www.dewalt.com or call 1-800-4-DEWALT. Warranty is void if repairs are attempted by others.

Additional Coverage:

• 1 YEAR FREE SERVICE: DEWALT maintains the tool and replaces worn parts due to normal use for free during the first year.
• 2 YEARS FREE SERVICE ON DEWALT BATTERY PACKS: Specific models listed (e.g., DC9071, DC9091, DC9096, DCB120, DCB201, DCB207).
• 3 YEARS FREE SERVICE ON DEWALT BATTERY PACKS: Specific models listed (e.g., DCB200, DCB204, DCB205).

DEWALT battery pack warranty is void if tampered with. DEWALT is not responsible for injury caused by tampering and may prosecute warranty fraud.

90 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

Return the tool within 90 days of purchase with a receipt for a full refund if not completely satisfied.

LATIN AMERICA

Warranty terms may differ for products sold in Latin America. Refer to country-specific information.

FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT

Call 1-800-4-DEWALT for free replacement of illegible or missing warning labels.

DEWALT Battery and Charger Systems

Chargers/Charge Time (Minutes)

The following table shows battery pack compatibility with various DEWALT chargers and approximate charge times.

A "X" indicates that the battery pack is not compatible with that specific charger.

All charge times are approximate. Actual charge time may vary.

* Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18.