Dewalt Power Scissors

DEWALT Power Scissors: Professional-Grade Cutting Built for the Jobsite

When precision cutting through sheet metal, ductwork, vinyl siding, or corrugated material is part of the daily grind, DEWALT power scissors deliver the performance and durability that tradespeople depend on. DEWALT's lineup of power scissors — which includes their well-regarded cordless shears — is engineered around the same core principles that have defined the brand for decades: rugged construction, ergonomic efficiency, and seamless integration with a broader tool ecosystem.

20V MAX Cordless Platform

DEWALT's power scissors are built on their proven 20V MAX battery platform, giving users the freedom to move around the jobsite without being tethered to a power outlet. The DCS494B and DCS496B are two standout models in this lineup. The DCS494B is a 14-gauge swivel head double-cut shear designed for heavier-duty applications, while the DCS496B is an 18-gauge offset shear optimized for tight-access work and intricate cuts like spiral duct seams.

360° Swivel Head Design

One of the defining features across DEWALT's power scissor line is the tool-free 360° swivel head. The DCS496 features a tool-free 360-degree swivel head which allows users to access tight quarters while maintaining comfort. This means whether you're navigating around HVAC ductwork or cutting curves in a panel, repositioning the cutting head doesn't require stopping to adjust a fastener.

The offset shear design can easily turn and cut circles, and can also cut through 20-gauge spiral duct seams. For HVAC installers and sheet metal workers, this level of versatility is essential.

Variable Speed and Cutting Capacity

DEWALT power scissors are built for both speed and control. The DCS496 delivers up to 0–2,300 strokes per minute with an 18-gauge steel capacity and a minimum cutting radius of 1.0 inch. For heavier materials, the DCS494 offers 2,450 SPM with a mild steel capacity of 14 gauge and a stainless steel capacity of 16 gauge.

The DCS494B features a 360-degree free swivel head and cuts a 7/32" strip that continuously curls out of the cutting area, providing consistent and accurate cuts. This self-clearing strip design keeps sightlines clean and reduces the need to stop and clear debris mid-cut.

Built-In Work Light and Jobsite Readiness

An LED work light illuminates the surface , a practical feature when cutting in dimly lit spaces like crawl spaces, mechanical rooms, or under-floor HVAC runs. Combined with the cordless design, these tools are purpose-built for real-world conditions where access and visibility are limited.

Wide Material Compatibility

DEWALT's electric scissors and power shears are not single-material tools. Applications include teppanyaki panels, corrugated material, ductwork, asphalt shingle, wire mesh, vinyl siding, plastic, corrugated cardboard, and rubber — making them versatile additions to any contractor's toolkit, whether they're in roofing, HVAC, auto body, or general construction.

For professionals who need clean, accurate cuts across a range of gauges and materials without the hassle of cord management, DEWALT's power scissors represent a compelling choice backed by a brand with a long track record in the trades.