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Table of contents

DeWalt DWE305 vs. Milwaukee 6538-21

Looking for a new reciprocating saw? Compare the benefits of the DeWalt DWE305 and Milwaukee 6538-21 in order to make an informed purchase!

Well take a look at these two reciprocating saws: the DeWalt DWE305 and the Milwaukee 6538-21.

DeWalt DWE305
Milwaukee 6538-21

Features & Benefits

For more information, read more in our review of the best reciprocating saws.

Related: The 7 Best Reciprocating Saws

Power

Both products are corded and require 120 V. The DWE305 draws 12 amps. The 6538-21 draws 15 amps. In the U.S., standard residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the reciprocating saws.

Pros & Cons

Lets take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.

For the DeWalt:

Pros

  • Tool-less blade changing
  • Blade can be oriented in any of four directions
  • Fairly lightweight for the power

Cons

  • No orbital motion for fast wood cutting
  • Harder to control low speeds

For the 6538-21:

Pros

  • Best-in-class power rating lets you tackle the toughest jobs
  • Much less vibration than lighter reciprocating saws

Cons

  • Heavier than typical lower-powered saws

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side look at these productsspecs. You can view comparisons of the DeWalt DWE305 with other products

and comparisons of the Milwaukee 6538-21 with other products.

DeWalt DWE305Milwaukee 6538-21
DeWalt DWE305
Milwaukee 6538-21
BrandDeWaltMilwaukee
Power Typecordedcorded
Power - Voltage120 V120 V
Power - Amps12 A15 A
Dimensions17 1/2” L18 3/4” L × 5.4” H
Weight7 lbs9.8 lbs
Stroke Length1 1/8”1 1/4”
Strokes/Minute29002800
Warranty3 year5 Years
Pros
  • Tool-less blade changing
  • Blade can be oriented in any of four directions
  • Fairly lightweight for the power
  • Best-in-class power rating lets you tackle the toughest jobs
  • Much less vibration than lighter reciprocating saws
Cons
  • No orbital motion for fast wood cutting
  • Harder to control low speeds
  • Heavier than typical lower-powered saws
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