DEWALT 5.5 Amp Heavy-Duty Orbital Jigsaw (DW317K)

DEWALT 5.5 Amp Heavy-Duty Orbital Jigsaw (DW317K): Workshop Positioning & Cutting Capabilities

For woodcrafters requiring uncompromised cut accuracy, the DEWALT 5.5 Amp Heavy-Duty Orbital Jigsaw (DW317K) provides DEWALT’s proven control dynamics in a comfortable Top Handle (D-Handle) footprint. The balance of its 5.5 Amp (120V AC Corded) power source allows the DEWALT DW317K to execute delicate interior cutouts and long ripping passes with equal poise.

Workhorse 5.5 Amp corded jigsaw featuring 4-position orbital action, variable speed trigger (0-3,100 SPM), and all-metal gear case.

Rated by the manufacturer for depths up to 3-1/2 in. (90 mm) in natural wood, 3/8 in. (10 mm) in metal channel, and 3/4 in. (20 mm) in non-ferrous bars, the DEWALT DW317K is well-equipped for HVAC openings, electrical gang boxes, and custom furniture contours.

Verified Factory Specifications & Physical Dimensions

Below are the verified manufacturer specifications and physical parameters for the DEWALT 5.5 Amp Heavy-Duty Orbital Jigsaw (DW317K):

• Power Platform: 5.5 Amp (120V AC Corded)
• Grip Configuration: Top Handle (D-Handle)
• No-Load Stroke Rate: 0 – 3,100 SPM
• Stroke Length: 1 in. (25.4 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Wood: 3-1/2 in. (90 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Steel: 3/8 in. (10 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Aluminum: 3/4 in. (20 mm)
• Bare Tool Weight: 6.2 lbs.
• Bevel Range: Positive detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°
• Blade Shank Standard: Universal keyless T-shank clamp

Motor Architecture & Vibration Damping Dynamics

Operating on the proven 5.5 Amp (120V AC Corded) system, the DEWALT DW317K utilizes high-output field coils and easily serviceable carbon brushes to produce steady reciprocating torque up to 0 – 3,100 SPM. Internal centrifugal fan blades actively pull cool ambient air through the housing, keeping internal operating temperatures low during prolonged sheet goods processing.

The contoured D-handle housing on the DEWALT DW317K gives the operator authoritative two-handed leverage when pushing through heavy structural timber. Micro-textured grip zones reduce hand slip in dusty conditions while dampening reciprocating pulses from the gearcase.

Shoe Base Engineering, Bevel Accuracy & Cut-Line Clarity

DEWALT fitted the DEWALT DW317K with a heavy-duty all-metal shoe featuring an integrated tool-free bevel lock lever. Positive detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45° ensure rapid and repeatable bevel setups for baseboard moldings. Bright dual LEDs illuminate the blade contact point, eliminating shadows cast by the tool housing.

Keyless Blade Clamp & Orbital Action Settings

The DEWALT DW317K features an intuitive keyless blade clamp engineered for rapid changeovers. Inserting a T-shank blade engages positive mechanical locking with a reassuring tactile click, while the lever-action release ensures safe removal without burning your fingers.

The DEWALT DW317K incorporates a multi-stage orbital action selector that tailors the blade’s forward stroke swing to the material at hand:

• Setting 0: Vertical reciprocation without orbital swing. Essential for sheet metals, copper tubing, PVC, and chip-free cuts in double-sided melamine veneers.
• Setting 1: Subtle orbital oscillation. Recommended for dense hardwoods like white oak, hard maple, and birch plywood to balance edge smoothness with cut progress.
• Setting 2: Medium pendulum swing. The workhorse setting for general softwood framing (2x4, 2x6) and construction lumber.
• Setting 3: Maximum aggressive orbital thrust. Delivers blistering feed speed for rough dimensioning, timber framing, and demolition work where speed outweighs edge cosmetics.

Frequently Asked Questions About the DEWALT DW317K

Does the DEWALT DW317K come packaged with a battery and charger?

In its standard bare-tool configuration, the DEWALT DW317K ships as tool-only to save money for users already invested in the 5.5 Amp (120V AC Corded) battery ecosystem. Retail combo kits that bundle lithium-ion packs and fast chargers are also widely stocked.

What battery size offers the best balance on the DEWALT DW317K?

For general workshop and cabinetry tasks, a 4.0 Ah or 5.0 Ah 5.5 Amp (120V AC Corded) battery provides the optimal equilibrium between extended continuous runtime and tool maneuverability. Ultra-compact 2.0 Ah slim packs are great for overhead scribing, while larger 6.0 Ah to 8.0 Ah packs suit high-volume jobsite framing.

Can I use universal Bosch-style T-shank blades in the DEWALT DW317K?

Yes. The keyless clamp is fully compatible with all standard T-shank blades from Bosch, Diablo, Milwaukee, DEWALT, and Festool, allowing you to choose any tooth geometry or material rating.