Origins (1910–1924)

The story of DEWALT begins with Raymond E. DeWalt, an American inventor and machinist from Pennsylvania. While working in woodworking and manufacturing, he sought ways to improve productivity and reduce labor.

In 1921, Raymond began developing a revolutionary woodworking machine capable of performing multiple cutting operations more efficiently. After years of experimentation, he patented what became known as the adjustable radial arm saw, an invention that dramatically increased productivity in woodworking shops.

Following the commercial success of this invention, DEWALT Products Company was officially founded on December 29, 1924, in Leola, Pennsylvania. The company’s first major product became known as the Wonder-Worker, an adjustable radial arm saw that quickly gained popularity throughout North America and internationally. [1]

Growth During the Early Years

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, DEWALT expanded rapidly.

Its radial arm saw became an industry standard among:

• Professional carpenters

• Cabinet makers

• Furniture manufacturers

• Construction contractors

The company also gained recognition for its involvement in improving woodworking safety standards and contributed expertise to U.S. government safety initiatives. During World War II, DEWALT supplied machinery to support wartime manufacturing. [1]

Acquisition by Black & Decker

In 1960, DEWALT was acquired by Black & Decker.

Initially, the DEWALT brand remained focused primarily on industrial woodworking machinery rather than handheld power tools.

During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Black & Decker repositioned DEWALT as its premium professional-grade power tool brand to compete directly with other professional manufacturers. This strategic relaunch significantly expanded DEWALT’s product lineup. [1]

Modern Expansion

Beginning in 1992, DEWALT launched an extensive range of professional cordless and corded power tools.

Over the following decades, the brand expanded into:

• Drills

• Impact drivers

• Circular saws

• Angle grinders

• Rotary hammers

• Nailers

• Outdoor power equipment

• Laser measuring devices

• Jobsite storage systems

• Hand tools

• Tool accessories

• Safety equipment

The introduction of lithium-ion battery technology and interchangeable battery platforms further strengthened DEWALT’s reputation among professionals. [1]

Today, DEWALT is owned by Stanley Black & Decker, formed after the 2010 merger of Stanley Works and Black & Decker.

The parent company also owns several other well-known tool brands, including:

• Craftsman

• Stanley

• Irwin

• Lenox

• Porter-Cable

• Bostitch

• Proto

• Facom

Each brand serves different market segments, with DEWALT positioned primarily for professional and industrial users. [1]

DEWALT manufactures thousands of products across multiple categories.

Power Tools

• Cordless drills

• Hammer drills

• Impact drivers

• Circular saws

• Miter saws

• Table saws

• Reciprocating saws

• Jig saws

• Angle grinders

• Rotary hammers

• Sanders

• Routers

• Nail guns

• Planers

Hand Tools

• Tape measures

• Hammers

• Screwdrivers

• Wrenches

• Pliers

• Utility knives

• Levels

• Chisels

• Clamps

Outdoor Equipment

• Lawn mowers

• String trimmers

• Chainsaws

• Hedge trimmers

• Leaf blowers

• Pressure washers

Storage Systems

• ToughSystem®

• TSTAK®

• Tool boxes

• Rolling storage

• Organizers

• Tool bags

Accessories

• Drill bits

• Saw blades

• Grinding wheels

• Abrasives

• Fasteners

• Batteries

• Chargers

DEWALT has developed several cordless battery ecosystems:

20V MAX*

Its most widely used battery platform for professional cordless tools.

FLEXVOLT®

Introduced in 2016, FLEXVOLT batteries automatically switch between 20V and 60V depending on the compatible tool, allowing one battery system to power both standard cordless tools and higher-demand equipment. [1]

POWERSTACK™

POWERSTACK batteries use pouch-cell technology designed to improve power delivery, runtime, and durability while reducing size and weight. [2]

POWERSHIFT™

Introduced in 2024, POWERSHIFT is a battery-powered equipment system for heavy-duty concrete construction applications, intended as an alternative to gas-powered equipment. [1]

DEWALT emphasizes three core principles:

• Durability

• Productivity

• Innovation

Products are designed to withstand demanding jobsite conditions, including dust, vibration, moisture, and repeated impacts. The company’s “Guaranteed Tough®” message reflects its focus on rigorous testing before products reach the market. [1]

DEWALT products are widely used in:

• Construction

• Woodworking

• Metalworking

• Electrical installation

• Plumbing

• HVAC

• Automotive repair

• Manufacturing

• Industrial maintenance

• Home renovation

DEWALT products are sold in more than 100 countries through:

• Authorized dealers

• Hardware retailers

• Home improvement stores

• Industrial distributors

• Online marketplaces

• Official regional websites

The brand maintains manufacturing and assembly operations in several countries, with some products made in the United States using global materials. [1]

Throughout its history, DEWALT has introduced numerous technologies aimed at improving jobsite productivity, including:

• Brushless motors

• Advanced lithium-ion battery systems

• Bluetooth-enabled tool management

• Electronic safety controls

• Dust collection systems

• High-capacity cordless equipment

• Smart battery diagnostics

Innovation remains a central part of the company’s strategy. [1]

DEWALT is widely regarded as one of the leading professional power tool brands alongside major competitors such as Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch Professional, and Hilti. It is particularly recognized for:

• Durable construction

• Strong cordless tool ecosystem

• Wide product selection

• Extensive dealer network

• Long-term battery compatibility

• Professional-grade performance

• 1910 – Raymond DeWalt begins his woodworking career.

• 1921 – Development of the first adjustable radial arm saw.

• 1924 – DEWALT Products Company is founded.

• 1930s – International expansion and involvement in woodworking safety standards.

• 1940s – Supports wartime manufacturing.

• 1960 – Acquired by Black & Decker.

• 1992 – Relaunched as a professional power tool brand.

• 2010 – Parent company becomes Stanley Black & Decker.

• 2016 – FLEXVOLT battery platform introduced.

• 2024 – Celebrates its 100th anniversary and launches the POWERSHIFT cordless equipment system. [1]

For over a century, DEWALT has evolved from a single woodworking machine into one of the world’s most recognizable professional tool brands. Its origins in Raymond DeWalt’s radial arm saw established a foundation of engineering innovation, while continued investment in cordless technology, durability, and jobsite-focused design has helped the brand maintain a strong position in the global construction and industrial tool market. [1]

1. Construction power tools and hand tools for jobsites | DEWALT

2. Power Tools | Storage | Landscaping | DEWALT