Hey everyone! I recently picked up a DCS386 saw (Flexvolt Advantage) as part of a killer deal with a charger and batteries for just 10 bucks. Just to clarify, it's basically like the DCS384 model. I have an 8Ah Powerpack from my previous DCD1007 and I'm wondering if I really need to invest in a Flexvolt battery or if I should just switch to the DCS384 instead. I've noticed the main difference seems to be the vibration control. Any advice?
2 Answers
From what I've seen, using a 20V battery on the Flexvolt Advantage isn’t going to give you the same power as a 60V. Your runtime will definitely vary. I’d suggest using your Powerpack and Powerstack, assuming your Powerstack is the 5Ah and not the tiny 1.7Ah. It should work decently!
I’ve noticed the DCD999 performs similarly on a Powerstack 5Ah versus a 9Ah Flexvolt, so you should be good if the Flexvolt and Powerstack are doing well in your tests. Just keep in mind that the numbers can vary a bit depending on what you’re cutting!
I actually have the DCS386, but I haven’t tested it with the 5.0 PowerStack yet. I did use the 5.0 PowerStack with the DCS573 (also Flexvolt Advantage) and it definitely felt more powerful compared to a regular 5.0 XR battery. And wow, you snagged that saw with all the extras for only $10? That’s insane! It would still be a steal at a hundred bucks, so I’d hold onto it if I were you!
Haha, I actually bought two 5Ah XR batteries and a 4Ah charger, then got to pick a tool. So that $10 was kind of a mix-up! But I’m really curious if the DCS384 would run better than the 386 with the PowerStack.
That’s a solid point! Just focus on what works best for you, and maybe try out both if you can. Who knows, you might find a setup that really impresses you!
Honestly, I think the Flexvolt Advantage is just a marketing gimmick. The 8Ah Powerpack packs a good punch, similar to what you’d get from a 9Ah Flexvolt.