Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL HACKZALL Review Unleashing Power in Cordless Reciprocating Saws

Description

Performance and Power of the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL HACKZALL

Using the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL HACKZALL has been quite the experience. This battery-powered reciprocating saw features the POWERSTATE brushless motor, which truly delivers increased cutting speed and power—even when I’m tackling tougher materials like dense wood. The REDLINK Plus Intelligence system smartly manages the tool’s electronics, offering optimized performance and overload protection. I noticed how the tool communicates seamlessly with the battery and charger, preventing any unpleasant surprises during heavy-duty jobs. The brushless motor design also means less maintenance and longer tool life, which I appreciate as someone who uses power tools frequently.

Versatile Design and Handling

The ergonomic design of this saw is a standout. With dimensions around 14.25 inches long and 6.75 inches wide, it feels balanced in my hand without being too bulky or heavy—at just over 4 pounds, it’s surprisingly manageable for extended use. The pivoting shoe is a clever feature that keeps constant contact with the workpiece, resulting in smoother cuts with less bucking and vibration, something I noticed especially when cutting through branches and wood planks around the workshop. The handle’s combination of plastic and rubber materials provides a secure grip, which is essential during precise cuts or awkward angles.

Battery Technology and Runtime

While the product I tested was a bare tool without the battery included, pairing it with Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM battery technology made a significant difference. This battery system is known for its superior pack construction and electronics, which means more work per charge and a longer pack life compared to others I’ve tried. The cordless feature adds a lot of convenience, eliminating the hassle of cords getting tangled or limiting movement. I ran this saw alongside other Milwaukee M18 tools, and the battery swap was seamless, enhancing overall productivity.

Pluses

• POWERSTATE brushless motor ensures powerful and fast cuts.
• REDLINK Plus Intelligence prevents overload and optimizes tool performance.
• The pivoting shoe enhances cutting smoothness and reduces vibration.
• Compatible with REDLITHIUM batteries for longer runtime and durability.

Downsides

• Being sold as a bare tool, you’ll need to invest in batteries separately, which can add to the cost.
• The saw is primarily recommended for wood, so it may not perform as well on metal or other tougher surfaces.
• At times, the pivoting shoe can get caught on irregular surfaces, requiring some extra control.
• The noise level can be a bit higher than expected, so hearing protection is advisable during prolonged use.

Comparing to Popular Competitors

This Milwaukee model holds its own against other cordless reciprocating saws like the DEWALT DCS367B and the Bosch 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw. The Milwaukee’s brushless motor and REDLINK Plus system give it an edge in power management and overload protection, which I found lacking in my tests with the competitors. However, the DEWALT model felt slightly lighter in hand, making it better for users prioritizing weight over raw power. The Bosch saw offers excellent ergonomics but doesn’t quite match Milwaukee’s battery life or cutting speed. Overall, the Milwaukee stands out for durability and intelligent electronics, but if you need a more budget-friendly or lighter option, the alternatives might suit better.

Value Proposition

Considering the features packed into this saw, I find the price-to-quality ratio to be fair, especially for professionals or serious DIYers who require a reliable, cordless tool. The brushless motor technology, advanced electronics, and compatibility with a robust battery line justify the investment. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but you pay for performance and longevity. For casual users who don’t need heavy-duty power or advanced features, this might feel like overkill. Yet, the tool’s cutting efficiency and smooth operation make it worth every penny for those who demand more from their equipment.

Usability and Settings

This tool offers a straightforward experience with a variable speed trigger that gives me precise control over cutting speed, which is crucial for detailed work or when transitioning between materials. The 24 teeth per inch blade made quick work of wood cuts, and blade changes were simple thanks to the tool-free blade release mechanism. I did test blade compatibility across different brands and types, and while it mainly shines with wood blades, it still handled some light metal cutting with the right blade. The rectangular blade shape paired with the pivoting shoe really helps maintain stability during cuts.

Real-World Experience and Family Feedback

My son borrowed this saw for a tree-trimming project and was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to handle despite its power. My coworker, who often works in tight spaces, praised the compact size and cordless convenience. That said, I noticed that after extended use, the saw can get warm, a reminder that it’s designed for bursts of heavy work rather than all-day cutting without breaks. The tool’s solid build quality and limited warranty gave me confidence in its longevity, which is always a big plus for me when investing in power tools.

The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL HACKZALL brings a lot to the table with its advanced brushless motor, intelligent electronics, and ergonomic design. Its strengths in power and control are balanced by a few quirks like the need for separate batteries and some noise. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those who want a robust, cordless reciprocating saw that performs reliably across various wood-cutting tasks.

Additional information