Milwaukee 2420-20 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Review Reveals Power and Precision

Description

Compact and Lightweight Design for Superior Control

The Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 12V Li-Ion HACKZALL Cordless Reciprocating Saw immediately impressed me with its compact and lightweight build. Weighing just 2.3 pounds and measuring 10 x 6 x 2.5 inches, this saw fits comfortably in my hand, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces where bulkier saws just can’t reach. I found it especially handy when working on cramped drywall sections or awkward corners in my workshop. The lightweight plastic handle, while not the most premium-feeling, offers a secure grip that helps reduce fatigue during extended use. For anyone who struggles with heavy tools, this saw’s portability really stands out.

Powerful Motor and Fast Cutting Performance

One of the most satisfying features of this cordless reciprocating saw is the powerful motor delivering up to 3000 strokes per minute (SPM) with a 1/2 inch stroke length. This means it cuts through materials like wood, drywall, and PVC with surprising speed and efficiency. I tested it on some old wooden pallets and PVC pipes, and it handled both without hesitation. The high speed steel blade with 24 teeth slices cleanly, although I noticed that using the right blade for the material is key to getting the smoothest cut. The motor’s performance makes it clear this tool isn’t just for light jobs; it packs enough punch for most DIY and professional tasks.

Built-in LED Light and Battery Fuel Gauge

A feature that caught me off guard in a good way was the built-in LED light. It’s a small addition, but in dimly lit areas or basements, it’s incredibly helpful for illuminating the cutting line. This saved me from fumbling around with a flashlight or trying to angle the saw awkwardly to see where I was cutting. The battery fuel gauge is another thoughtful touch, letting me keep track of power without guessing. This feature proved useful during longer projects, helping me avoid unexpected shutdowns mid-cut. For a 12-volt battery-powered tool, these extras enhance usability significantly.

Versatility and Usability in Various Materials

While primarily recommended for wood, I put this reciprocating saw through its paces on drywall and PVC. It performed admirably, slicing through drywall without excessive dust or crumbling, and cutting PVC pipes with clean edges. The compact design is a major asset here; I could easily reach into tight framing spaces or awkward angles without struggling for clearance. However, the 2-inch blade length limits cutting depth somewhat, which might be a downside if you need to cut thicker materials. Still, for everyday home improvement and light construction tasks, this tool covers a broad range of needs.

Downsides and Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, a few limitations caught my attention. The saw comes as a bare tool, meaning no battery or charger is included, which can be inconvenient if you don’t already own compatible Milwaukee M12 batteries. The plastic handle, while lightweight, doesn’t feel as durable or cushioned as some higher-end models, which could impact comfort during heavy-duty use. Also, the blade change mechanism isn’t tool-free, requiring a small wrench or screwdriver, which slows down blade swaps when working on varied materials. Finally, the overall cutting power is excellent for 12V tools but still can’t match bigger 18V or corded reciprocating saws for the toughest jobs.

Favorable Attributes

• The compact size makes it perfect for tight spaces and overhead work.
• 3000 SPM motor delivers fast and efficient cuts on wood, drywall, and PVC.
• Integrated LED light and battery fuel gauge improve user experience.
• Lightweight design reduces worker fatigue during prolonged use.

Drawbacks

• The bare tool packaging means batteries and charger must be purchased separately.
• Blade changes require tools, adding inconvenience.
• Handle material could be more comfortable for extended use.
• Limited blade length restricts cutting depth on thicker materials.

Product Competitors

Comparing this M12 cordless reciprocating saw to some popular competitors shows where it shines and where it falls short. The DeWalt DCS367B 20V MAX and Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT are both more powerful with longer stroke lengths and tool-free blade changes, making them better for heavy-duty or frequent blade swaps. However, they also tend to be heavier and bulkier, which diminishes maneuverability in tight spots. The Milwaukee saw’s lightweight 12V system is a huge advantage for smaller jobs or users who already own M12 batteries. Its integrated LED and fuel gauge are features that many competitors lack in this price and size category. If you need a tool for quick, precision cuts in confined areas, this model stands out, but if raw power and battery convenience matter more, the higher-voltage rivals might be preferable.

Value Proposition

Considering the features and performance, the Milwaukee 2420-20 offers solid value for money within the compact reciprocating saw segment. It’s not the cheapest bare tool on the market, but the balance of power, portability, and smart extras like the LED light make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners and light contractors. The necessity to buy batteries and chargers separately can increase the overall cost, but if you already have Milwaukee’s M12 system, this saw slots in seamlessly without extra investment. For the price, it delivers quality construction, decent cutting speed, and excellent control, which is rare in such a small cordless reciprocating saw.

Testing this tool alongside some family projects and coworker recommendations confirmed it’s an effective, reliable saw for a range of applications, despite a few quirks. My kids even got a kick out of the LED light feature, which made the tool feel a bit like a gadget rather than just a power tool. If your projects often involve tight spaces, quick cuts, and a variety of materials, this saw might be the handy, versatile addition your toolkit needs.

Additional information