Milwaukee M18 Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw Review Powerful Lightweight Design

Description

Positives You’ll Appreciate in This Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Using the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw gave me a firsthand look at what a compact, one-handed saw can really do. Its lightweight design and one-handed operation were immediately noticeable, especially when I tackled some overhead cuts that usually wear me out quickly. The anti-vibration handle truly reduced fatigue, making longer cutting sessions surprisingly comfortable. Additionally, the QUICK-LOK blade clamp is a game-changer—it allowed me to swap blades effortlessly without fumbling with tools, speeding up the workflow. The built-in LED light illuminated darker corners perfectly, which came in handy during some tight, poorly lit spaces. This saw’s compatibility with the M18 lithium-ion battery system also means I could use the same batteries I had for other tools, simplifying my gear setup.

• Compact size makes it ideal for tight spaces and overhead cuts.
• Anti-vibration handle reduces user fatigue during heavy-duty tasks.
• Quick blade changes with the tool-free QUICK-LOK clamp.
• Built-in LED lighting enhances visibility in dim areas.

Drawbacks Worth Considering Before You Buy

Even though the cordless saw impressed me in many ways, there were some limitations I couldn’t ignore. The blade length at 4 inches limits how deep you can cut in one pass, which might frustrate those dealing with thicker materials regularly. While it handles wood, metal, and PVC well, cutting through very dense materials occasionally slowed the saw down, despite the 3,000 strokes per minute motor speed. Another minor gripe involved the lack of an included battery or charger—buying those separately adds to the overall cost. Sometimes, the plastic handle material felt slightly less sturdy compared to other heavy-duty saws on the market, which might concern users expecting industrial-level durability.

• Limited blade length restricts cutting depth.
• Performance dips slightly on very dense materials.
• Battery and charger sold separately, increasing total expense.
• Plastic handle feels less robust compared to some competitors.

Design and Ergonomics: A Tool Built for Control

The compact and lightweight design immediately stood out during use. Holding this saw in one hand felt surprisingly balanced, even when cutting through tougher pieces of wood. The textured grip was a welcome addition, offering better hold without slipping. Thanks to the anti-vibration system, my hand didn’t ache even after extended use, which is rare with reciprocating saws I’ve tried. The dimensions of approximately 13.4 inches in length and a weight just under 4 pounds make it easy to maneuver in tight spots or awkward angles. This tool’s design is geared toward professionals and DIYers alike who need a nimble saw that doesn’t compromise on power.

Performance and Power: A Balance of Speed and Precision

Powered by an 18-volt brushless motor, this reciprocating saw delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute, which felt sufficient for a variety of materials including wood, metal, and PVC. The 3/4-inch stroke length gave it a nice balance—not too aggressive but effective enough to speed through cuts. What impressed me is how well the saw handled different blade types, switching seamlessly between Sawzall and Hackzall blades thanks to the quick-lock system. The anti-vibration technology definitely helped maintain accuracy, which was evident when I needed to make straight cuts under less-than-ideal conditions. The built-in LED light ensured I wasn’t fumbling in shadows, especially when working indoors or in low light.

Battery Compatibility and Usage Flexibility

One of the perks I appreciated was the tool’s compatibility with the M18 battery platform, meaning I could swap batteries with my other Milwaukee tools. This flexibility is huge for anyone already invested in the M18 ecosystem. While the saw does not come with a battery or charger, using either the compact or high-capacity lithium-ion batteries allowed me to customize runtime and weight depending on the job. It’s a solid choice for those who want to avoid purchasing yet another proprietary battery system. However, remember that running the saw on lower-capacity batteries might reduce cutting time, so it’s worth investing in a high-capacity pack if long sessions are expected.

Alternative Offerings: How This Tool Stacks Up Against Rivals

Comparing this cordless reciprocating saw to similar tools like the DeWalt DCS367B and Bosch GSA18V-083B, the Milwaukee’s one-handed design and anti-vibration handle stand out as major advantages. The DeWalt, while powerful and cordless, doesn’t quite match the ergonomic comfort for overhead or tight space work. Bosch offers a similar stroke rate, but the Milwaukee’s quick-lock blade clamp is noticeably faster and easier to use. Still, both competitors often include batteries and chargers in their kits, so the total cost of ownership might be better with those options. The Milwaukee model excels in portability and control but falls a bit short on cutting depth compared to some bulkier saws designed for heavy demolition.

Value Assessment: Is It Worth the Investment?

The price for this bare-tool model might seem steep if you’re starting from scratch, especially once you factor in separate battery and charger costs. However, if you already own other M18 Milwaukee tools, this saw fits perfectly into an existing setup, delivering excellent versatility and control without redundant battery purchases. Its durable brushless motor, combined with features like the LED work light and anti-vibration handle, make it a smart buy for users who prioritize comfort and efficiency over raw power. For those needing a compact saw that can handle a wide range of materials and jobs, it offers solid price to quality ratio and bang for the buck. Just plan ahead to invest in the right battery system.

Versatile Features That Enhance Everyday Use

This tool handles everything from cutting through tree branches to slicing PVC pipes and sheet metal, proving its versatility beyond just construction sites. The tool-free blade change system lets me switch quickly between tasks without breaking my rhythm, and the LED light often saved me from guesswork in dim workshop corners. The brushless motor not only delivers solid power but also extends the tool’s lifespan by reducing internal wear. Its compact size and lightweight feel make it a favorite for quick fixes and detailed work, especially in confined spaces where larger saws are unwieldy. Despite some minor flaws, this reciprocating saw feels like a trusted partner for a wide variety of cutting challenges.

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