DEWALT 10" Table Saw (DWE7491)
DEWALT brings the 7491 as a solid contender in the jobsite table saw category. As with other saws in this class, the 7491 brings power and portability in an affordable combo. A few additional features set this saw apart from the rest of the pack.
Check out our comparison of the DWE491 against other leading competitors.
Quick Specs
| Blade Diameter | 10" |
| Power & Speed | 15 amps, 4800 rpm |
| Rip Capacity | 32-1/2" |
| Depth of Cut | 3-1/8" @ 90°, 2-1/4" @ 45° |
| Weight | 110 lbs |
| Arbor Size | 5/8" |
| Dust Port Diameter | 2-1/2" |
| Fence Type | Rack & pinion |
| Safety Measures | Anti-kickback pawl, riving knife, blade guard |
| Warranty | 90-day money back, 1-year free service, 3-year limited warranty |
The 10” blade paired with a powerful yet compact 15-amp motor breeze through stock. With a reach of over three inches vertically and over two inches diagonally, the blade can cut a 45-degree miter in a standard 2×4 in one pass.
Table saws need high quality blades to perform just like track cars require high quality tires. The 7491 ships with a basic 24T (24-tooth) contractor-grade blade. We think the 15-amp motor would be better served with an upgrade. Consider springing for a DEWALT DWA181440 or a Freud D0840X ATB. Note that the arbor is shorter than most, so a standard dado stack won’t naturally fit.
The DEWALT can handle most ripping operations with its 32″ of rip capacity. A full sheet of plywood can be ripped in half lengthwise with adequate support on both sides of the blade. Outfeed tables are always welcome though, so we recommend ensuring that you have adequate support behind the saw.
DEWALT’s standard rack & pinion style fence continues to impress us. It allows for smooth movements and adjustments, both large and micro. The fence is not heavy nor cheap and includes a clever flip-over feature that allows for narrow cuts to be accomplished without removing the blade guard. The same feature adds additional support to wide workpieces when the fence is fully extended. The included miter gauge does however feel a bit cheap with its ample use of plastic. Consider springing for an all-metal alternative such as the Incra MITERV27 (our favorite) or the Powertec 71142.
The dust collection system takes an uncommon approach for jobsite saws. Many other saws feature dust ports behind and underneath the blade on the back wall of the saw cabinet. The 7491 includes a similarly-located port, but also includes a second dust port much closer to the bade. The saw integrates the second dust port into the blade guard so that the port sits directly behind and above the saw blade. This unique configuration captures more dust at the source. Keep in mind that you’ll have to consider how to route your dust collection hoses so that they don’t interfere with your workpieces.
Another welcome feature is the blade guard release lever. While most saws require inconvenient screws and locks to release the blade guard and riving knife, the 7491 utilizes a clever release lever on the left side of the saw for quick adjustments to the safety accessories.
Speaking of safety accessories, the 7491 includes all of the usual. A riving knife sits behind the blade and prevents kickbacks by keeping freshly-cut lumber from pinching the blade. The blade guard with an integrated dust port as previously mentioned and an anti-kickback pawl.
The rolling stand is easily deployed or stowed. Once the stand is unfolded, we don’t notice any rocking or movement.
- Large table and rip capacity
- Rolling stand is solid
- Multiple dust collection ports
- Miter gauge needs an upgrade
CONSENSUS:
The DEWALT 7491 is a fantastic saw for the garage or jobsite. It has power, mobility, and plenty of features to last many years. We recommend this saw for anyone wanting to incorporate a solid workhorse into their workshop.