DEWALT 4-1/2" Corded Angle Grinder (DWE402)

The 402 model from DEWALT is a WWC-favorite for corded angle grinders.  Call us old-fashioned, but there’s a soft spot in our hearts for the instant and constant power that a corded hand tool can provide.  The 402 is no slouch with the 11 amps of power flowing.  This beats most of the competition, which is obvious when cutting through tough materials.  The unit spins at the industry-average of 11,000 rpm.  

Regarding ergonomics, the grip is comfortable and the paddle switch is easily actuated.  Some users prefer trigger switches, but we’re confident this paddle option will satisfy all operators.  The side handle is beefy and adds considerable support during particularly difficult cutting tasks.  Most of the competition relies on wrenches and sweat to change tool attachments; but not the DEWALT 402.  The unit features a quick-change wheel release that allows the user to change wheels, discs, and brushes without the need for additional tools.  We especially like this feature.  The touch guard is both rock solid and easily adjustable.  It requires minimal action to spin the guard 360 degrees for any and all cuts. 

The unit is a bit heavy.  Weighing in at over 6 pounds, the husky 402 packs about double the weight of the competitors.  The downside is that the unit can be fatiguing to use.  The upside is that the extra heft adds stability and is less prone to jerk around during use.

The 402 includes several safety features that are welcome in our garages.  First, the dust ejection system ensures that debris is directed away from the user.  We’ve had our fair share of hot metal shards in our forearms and so we appreciate DEWALT’s efforts to mitigate this scenario.  Make sure that the tool is ejecting debris away from piles of sawdust or other flammable products.  A rogue, glowing speck of metal can interrupt your work session if it catches a pile of wood chips or dirty rags in the wrong way.  The paddle switch also includes a trigger lock to prevent accidental powerups.

Safety glasses are recommended for all woodworking tasks, but are absolutely necessary for angle grinders.  11,000 rpms can launch glowing metal towards your face in a hurry.  Cheap insurance can be had with 3M’s 20-pack of safety glasses.  They cost less than $2 per pair, which is less than $1 per eyeball, which is worth it in our eyes.

DEWALT also includes an auto-off feature that engages when the motor brushes are worn out.  Continuing to operate the tool with dead brushes can damage any tool, so the 402 includes these safety measures to ensure it serves your shop for years.

The cord is 6′ long, which should keep you from getting hung up while you navigate around the workpiece.