Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL Circular Saw review with pros and cons analysis

Description

A Powerful Tool for All Your Cutting Needs

I recently got my hands on the Milwaukee 2732-20 M18 FUEL 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw, and I must say, it’s a beast of a tool. As someone who often tackles woodworking projects, I found this circular saw to be both powerful and incredibly user-friendly. While it has its strengths, there are definitely a few quirks worth noting. Let me break down my experience with it.

Design and Build Quality

The red and black color scheme is classic Milwaukee – bold and professional. This saw feels incredibly solid in hand, thanks to its magnesium handle material and aluminum construction. At 10 pounds, it’s not the lightest tool out there, but it strikes a good balance between weight and durability. I appreciated the integrated rafter hook, which made it easy to hang the saw while switching tasks.

The LED light is a thoughtful addition, especially when working in dimly lit areas. It enhances visibility, making precise cuts a much easier task. The dust port on the guard paired with the included vac adaptor helped keep my workspace relatively clean. However, I did notice that the adaptor doesn’t fit perfectly with all vacuums, which was a bit frustrating.

Performance and Cutting Power

This thing is a powerhouse. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, purpose-built for the M18 FUEL system, delivers performance equivalent to a 15A corded saw. Cutting through hardwood felt as smooth as slicing butter – no hesitation, no slowing down, even on tougher materials. The 5800 RPM speed is impressive and ensures clean, efficient cuts.

I tested it on a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, and even some thinner metal sheets (with the appropriate blade). The results were consistently outstanding. The electric brake is another standout feature, stopping the blade almost instantly after releasing the trigger. For anyone who values safety and efficiency, this is a game-changer.

Key Benefits

• Cordless convenience without sacrificing power.
• Electric brake enhances safety and minimizes downtime between cuts.
• High-speed blade rotation ensures precise, clean cuts.
• Integrated LED light for better visibility in low-light conditions.

Limitations

While I love this circular saw, it isn’t perfect. Here are a few aspects that might give you pause:

• No battery included – You’ll need to purchase the REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery separately, which adds to the overall cost.
• The dust collection system works well but isn’t compatible with all vacuum models.
• Not the most budget-friendly option for hobbyists or occasional users.

Industry Competitors

The DeWalt DCS570B and Makita XSH06Z are two strong competitors in the cordless circular saw market. Compared to the Milwaukee model, the DeWalt option offers a slightly lighter design, which some may prefer for extended use. However, the Milwaukee saw outshines it in terms of raw cutting power and precision.

The Makita, on the other hand, boasts excellent battery life and a more compact design. But I found the Milwaukee’s electric brake and brushless motor gave it the upper hand in safety and performance. If you’re prioritizing power and advanced features, the Milwaukee is the better choice.

Price Performance

In terms of price to quality ratio, this circular saw delivers excellent value for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. While it may feel a bit pricey for casual users, its durability, high performance, and advanced features make it worth the investment. The absence of a battery in the package might be a deal-breaker for some, but if you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 line, this won’t be an issue.

Who Should Buy This?

I’d recommend this saw to anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance tool for frequent use. Contractors, woodworkers, and serious DIYers will appreciate its power and precision. If you’re someone who only cuts a few boards a year, you might find it overkill – but if you value quality tools, this one’s hard to beat.

This Milwaukee circular saw has become a staple in my workshop, and while it has a few quirks, its capabilities and thoughtful design make it a solid investment for demanding projects.

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