DeWalt is an American brand specialising in professional power tools, hand tools, outdoor equipment, accessories, storage systems, and jobsite solutions. It is recognised globally for manufacturing products designed primarily for construction professionals, woodworkers, mechanics, electricians, plumbers, and industrial users. The brand is distinguished by its signature yellow-and-black colour scheme and its long-standing slogan, “Guaranteed Tough®”. DeWalt currently operates as a flagship professional tool brand under Stanley Black & Decker, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of tools and industrial equipment.1

For further information, please visit the DeWalt official website.2

Origins (1910–1924)

The history of DeWalt began with Raymond E. DeWalt, an American inventor and machinist from Pennsylvania. Whilst working in woodworking and manufacturing, he sought methods to improve productivity and reduce manual labour.

In 1921, Raymond commenced development of a revolutionary woodworking machine capable of performing multiple cutting operations more efficiently. Following years of experimentation, he patented what became known as the adjustable radial arm saw, an invention that significantly increased productivity in woodworking workshops.

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

Growth During the Early Years

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, DeWalt expanded rapidly. Its radial arm saw became an industry standard amongst professional carpenters, cabinet makers, furniture manufacturers, and construction contractors.

The company also gained recognition for its involvement in improving woodworking safety standards and contributed expertise to US government safety initiatives. During the Second World War, DeWalt supplied machinery to support wartime manufacturing efforts.

Acquisition by Black & Decker

In 1960, DeWalt was acquired by Black & Decker. Initially, the 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 the DeWalt product lineup.

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, and safety equipment.

The introduction of lithium-ion battery technology and interchangeable battery platforms further strengthened DeWalt’s reputation amongst professionals.1

DeWalt is currently owned by Stanley Black & Decker, which was formed following 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, and Facom. Each brand serves different market segments, with DeWalt positioned primarily for professional and industrial users.

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 to support its tool range.

20V MAX*

This is the most widely used battery platform for professional cordless tools within the DeWalt range.

FLEXVOLT®

Introduced in 2016, FLEXVOLT batteries automatically switch between 20V and 60V depending on the compatible tool. This allows a single battery system to power both standard cordless tools and higher-demand equipment.

POWERSTACK™

POWERSTACK batteries utilise pouch-cell technology designed to improve power delivery, runtime, and durability whilst 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 petrol-powered equipment.1

DeWalt emphasises three core principles: durability, productivity, and 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.

DeWalt products are widely used across various sectors, including:

• Construction
• Woodworking
• Metalworking
• Electrical installation
• Plumbing
• HVAC
• Automotive repair
• Manufacturing
• Industrial maintenance
• Home renovation

DeWalt products are sold in more than 100 countries through authorised dealers, hardware retailers, home improvement stores, industrial distributors, online marketplaces, and official regional websites. The brand maintains manufacturing and assembly operations in several countries, with some products made in the United States using global materials.

Throughout its history, DeWalt has introduced numerous technologies aimed at improving jobsite productivity. These include brushless motors, advanced lithium-ion battery systems, Bluetooth-enabled tool management, electronic safety controls, dust collection systems, high-capacity cordless equipment, and smart battery diagnostics. Innovation remains a central part of the company’s strategy.

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 recognised for its durable construction, strong cordless tool ecosystem, wide product selection, extensive dealer network, long-term battery compatibility, and 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 recognisable professional tool brands. Its origins in Raymond DeWalt’s radial arm saw established a foundation of engineering innovation, whilst 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