The Best Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw: A Comprehensive Review

The Best Milwaukee Reciprocating Saw: A Comprehensive Review

Milwaukee Tool is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the power tool industry. Renowned for their durability and high performance, Milwaukee reciprocating saws are favored by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive review will explore the best Milwaukee reciprocating saws available, examining their features, performance, and suitability for various tasks.

Introduction to Milwaukee Reciprocating Saws

Reciprocating saws, often referred to as sawzalls (a term Milwaukee popularized), are versatile tools used for a wide range of cutting applications, from demolition to pruning. Milwaukee has been a leader in this market segment, offering a variety of models tailored to different needs. Key factors to consider when choosing a reciprocating saw include power, stroke length, speed, and additional features like vibration control and orbital action.

Top Milwaukee Reciprocating Saws

1. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall (Model 2720-21)
2. Milwaukee Super Sawzall (Model 6538-21)
3. Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall (Model 2520-21XC)
4. Milwaukee M18 Hackzall (Model 2719-20)

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall (Model 2720-21)

The M18 Fuel Sawzall is a flagship model in Milwaukee’s lineup, combining power, efficiency, and advanced features. This saw is part of Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel line, which emphasizes performance and durability.

Features and Specifications:

• Power: Powered by the M18 RedLithium battery, providing extended run time and power.
• Brushless Motor: The Powerstate brushless motor delivers more power, longer motor life, and increased efficiency.
• Stroke Length: 1-1/8 inches, ideal for fast cutting in various materials.
• Speed: Variable speed trigger with 0-3,000 strokes per minute.
• REDLINK PLUS Intelligence: Advanced electronics protect the tool and battery from overloads, improving performance and durability.
• Durability: All-metal gearing and robust construction ensure long-term reliability.
• Vibration Control: The saw features an integrated counterbalance mechanism to reduce vibration, enhancing user comfort during prolonged use.

Performance: The M18 Fuel Sawzall excels in demanding applications, such as demolition, plumbing, and electrical work. Its brushless motor provides exceptional power, allowing it to cut through tough materials like metal, wood, and masonry with ease. The variable speed trigger offers precise control, making it versatile for both aggressive cutting and delicate work.

Suitability: This model is perfect for professionals who require a reliable and powerful tool for heavy-duty tasks. Its cordless design offers flexibility and convenience, making it suitable for use in various job sites without the constraints of a power cord.

Milwaukee Super Sawzall (Model 6538-21)

The Super Sawzall is designed for the most demanding applications, providing unmatched power and performance. It’s a corded model, ensuring continuous power for extensive tasks.

Features and Specifications:

• Motor: 15-amp motor, delivering exceptional power and performance.
• Stroke Length: 1-1/4 inches, the longest in its class for faster cutting.
• Speed: Variable speed control from 0-2,800 strokes per minute.
• Constant Power Technology: Maintains constant speed and power under load.
• Gear Protecting Clutch: Extends the life of the gears and motor by absorbing high impact forces.
• Orbital Action: Enhances cutting speed and efficiency in wood and other soft materials.
• Durability: Rugged construction with high-quality components for extended durability.

Performance: The 6538-21 Super Sawzall is a beast when it comes to power and cutting speed. Its 15-amp motor ensures it can handle the toughest jobs, from heavy demolition to cutting thick metal pipes. The orbital action feature significantly improves cutting speed in wood, making it highly efficient for construction and remodeling tasks.

Suitability: Ideal for professionals who need a high-powered tool for intensive tasks, the Super Sawzall’s corded design ensures it can operate continuously without the need for battery replacements or recharging. It’s particularly suitable for demolition contractors, plumbers, and HVAC professionals.

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall (Model 2520-21XC)

The M12 Fuel Hackzall is a compact and lightweight reciprocating saw, part of Milwaukee’s M12 line, which focuses on portability and convenience.

Features and Specifications:

• Power: Powered by the M12 RedLithium battery, offering a good balance of power and portability.
• Brushless Motor: Provides more efficiency, longer run time, and increased motor life.
• Stroke Length: 5/8 inch, suitable for controlled and precise cutting.
• Speed: Variable speed trigger with 0-3,000 strokes per minute.
• REDLINK PLUS Intelligence: Enhances performance and protects against overloads.
• Compact Design: Lightweight and easy to handle, ideal for overhead and one-handed cutting.
• Vibration Control: Features reduced vibration for more comfortable use over extended periods.

Performance: Despite its smaller size, the M12 Fuel Hackzall delivers impressive performance for its class. It’s particularly effective for tasks requiring precision and control, such as cutting in tight spaces, pruning, and making intricate cuts in wood and metal.

Suitability: This model is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, electricians, and maintenance professionals who need a versatile and easy-to-handle tool for light to medium-duty tasks. Its compact size and lightweight design make it highly maneuverable and convenient for use in confined spaces.

Milwaukee M18 Hackzall (Model 2719-20)

The M18 Hackzall offers a balance of power and portability, sitting between the full-sized M18 Fuel Sawzall and the compact M12 Hackzall.

Features and Specifications:

• Power: Powered by the M18 RedLithium battery, offering extended run time and consistent power.
• Brushless Motor: Ensures efficient performance and longer motor life.
• Stroke Length: 7/8 inch, providing a good balance between speed and control.
• Speed: Variable speed trigger with 0-3,000 strokes per minute.
• REDLINK PLUS Intelligence: Protects the tool and battery from overloads.
• One-Handed Design: Lightweight and ergonomic, designed for ease of use in various positions.
• Vibration Control: Integrated mechanism to reduce vibration for better user comfort.

Performance: The M18 Hackzall combines portability with sufficient power to handle a variety of cutting tasks. It’s well-suited for quick cuts and jobs that require frequent tool maneuvering, such as electrical work, plumbing, and general maintenance.

Suitability: This model is ideal for professionals and DIYers who need a versatile and portable saw that can handle a wide range of tasks. Its cordless design and compact form factor make it easy to use in various environments, from construction sites to home projects.

Conclusion

Milwaukee offers a range of reciprocating saws, each designed to meet specific needs. The M18 Fuel Sawzall stands out for its balance of power, performance, and advanced features, making it a top choice for professionals. The Super Sawzall is the go-to for those requiring maximum power and continuous operation. For users seeking portability and convenience, the M12 Fuel Hackzall and M18 Hackzall provide excellent options, with the former being ideal for tight spaces and precision work, and the latter offering a versatile solution for a variety of tasks.

Choosing the best Milwaukee reciprocating saw ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the job at hand. Whether you need a high-powered tool for heavy-duty demolition or a compact saw for intricate cuts, Milwaukee has a model that will meet your needs with reliability and efficiency.