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DeWalt 60V cordless grinder: review and safety guidelines
Short answer: the DeWalt 60V Max grinder gives you corded-level power anywhere (DeWalt lists 1700 W max output, 2.2 hp, 9000 rpm) and has a kickback brake, so the disc stops in about two or three seconds when you release the trigger. Use it with the guard, eye protection and both hands, always.
Why 60 volts
When you need more power the voltage goes higher: basic tools run on 20 V, this grinder and the circular saw on 60 V, and the miter saw on 120 V. It is FlexVolt, so the battery can also be used in 20 V tools. Cordless means you are not tied to a cord on a big job.
Brake and safety lock
The feature I wanted most: many grinders keep spinning after you release the trigger. This one has a kickback brake, so if the disc gets stuck it doesn't keep spinning. In my test it stopped in about two or three seconds, quicker than most tools.
It also has a safety you have to press before the trigger. That matters: I have left tools in the toolbox where something pressed the trigger and they started.
In the box and changing discs
The kit has the grinder, battery, charger, a bag, the manual, a guard, a demo disc and an Allen key. The battery ships about half charged to preserve its life, so charge it first.
The guard can be swapped for a larger disc. There is a spindle lock, and arrows on the tool show how to lock and unlock, helpful if you have never used one. You can remove the disc almost without tools, or with the Allen key. Before changing anything, remove the battery.
Safety guidelines
Always use the guard, glasses and both hands on the handle. If a disc cracks at that speed and flies into your face or eyes you will regret it. I have seen videos of many people injured because they used one hand or removed the protection. Protection, protection, protection.
Who it is for
I don't use it every day, but when you need to cut something on the fly, on a big job where there is no time to run cords everywhere, it makes your life much easier. It is a tool for techs who need real power anywhere.
Before the first use
1. Charge the battery: it arrives at about half charge, and mine showed one light. 2. Install the guard in the right position. 3. Mount the disc and lock it, using the spindle lock and the Allen key. 4. Hold the side handle, which you can move to either side. 5. Press the safety, then the trigger, and keep both hands on the tool while cutting.
Changing discs safely
Before changing the disc or the guard, remove the battery. If you think someone could press the safety and the trigger by accident, the battery out is the only safe way. The free disc in the kit is fine for a demo, but I prefer a different type of disc for real work.
Features at a glance
Brake, spindle lock, safety switch, interchangeable guard for larger discs, side handle, arrows that show how to lock the disc, FlexVolt battery shared with 20 V tools, charger and bag included.
Compared with my old grinder
I had an older corded Ridgid grinder of about nine inches, and its disc-locking mechanism lasted like one day. This DeWalt locking system is much easier and works very well.
Frequently asked questions
Can the DeWalt 60V battery be used in 20V tools?
Yes, FlexVolt batteries also work in DeWalt 20V tools.
How fast does the brake stop the disc?
In the video it stopped in about two to three seconds after releasing the trigger.
What protection should I use with a grinder?
The guard, eye protection and both hands on the tool, and remove the battery before changing discs.