DEWALT traces its origin to December 29, 1924, when Paul Gardner and Isaac Rutt acquired inventor Raymond DeWalt's patents for an adjustable radial arm saw marketed as the Wonder Worker. The tool allowed a single machine to perform multiple cutting operations, an idea that shaped the company's early growth.
Black & Decker acquired DEWALT in 1960, and the brand has operated under Stanley Black & Decker since that company's 2009 merger. DEWALT marked its centennial in 2024 and continues to build tools aimed specifically at trade professionals.
Product Lines
DEWALT's lineup for trade contractors includes cordless and corded power tools such as drills, drivers, and saws, along with battery platforms that power the broader tool system. Hand tools, tool storage and organization systems, and outdoor power equipment round out the jobsite offering.
The brand also produces safety and personal protective equipment, anchors and fasteners, and cordless equipment systems such as the POWERSHIFT line, giving contractors a single tool ecosystem across power, hand, and site equipment needs.
Why Contractors Specify Dewalt
Trade professionals specify DEWALT tools for jobsite durability and a shared battery platform that lets a single battery pack run drills, saws, and other tools across a crew's toolbox, reducing the number of chargers and battery types carried on a job.
A century of focus on contractor feedback has shaped tool ergonomics and durability standards aimed at daily jobsite use rather than occasional homeowner projects.
How to Choose Dewalt Products
Choosing a DEWALT tool starts with the battery platform already in use on a crew, since standardizing on one voltage and battery line lets tools and batteries be shared across a toolbox rather than purchasing separate chargers for each product.
Beyond battery compatibility, contractors should weigh corded versus cordless options based on jobsite power access, and confirm whether a tool's torque, speed, or capacity ratings match the specific plumbing, HVAC, or general trade task it will perform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are DEWALT batteries interchangeable across different tools?
DEWALT tools built on the same battery platform and voltage share batteries across drills, saws, and other cordless tools, which lets a crew standardize on one battery system.
What is the difference between corded and cordless DEWALT tools?
Corded tools draw continuous power and avoid battery runtime limits, while cordless tools trade that for portability on jobs without easy power access, an important factor for plumbing and HVAC work in occupied buildings or remote areas.
Does DEWALT make tools specifically for plumbing and HVAC trades?
DEWALT's catalog includes drills, saws, and accessories commonly used in plumbing and HVAC rough-in work, alongside anchors and fasteners suited to mechanical installations.
What is the POWERSHIFT line used for?
POWERSHIFT refers to DEWALT's cordless equipment systems built around its battery platform for site equipment beyond handheld power tools.
Who owns DEWALT today?
DEWALT has operated as a brand of Stanley Black & Decker since the 2009 merger of Stanley Works and Black & Decker, which had owned DEWALT since 1960.