Milwaukee M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Review Powerful Brushless Cutting Tool

Description

Powerful Performance with the Milwaukee 2621-20 Reciprocating Saw

Testing the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall has been quite an experience. This cordless reciprocating saw boasts a 3,000 RPM motor, which immediately impressed me with its ability to slice through dense wood, metal pipes, and even thick branches without faltering. The tool’s brushless motor contributes to its efficiency and durability, making it feel like a reliable workhorse. What stood out the most was how the all-metal gearbox absorbs impacts and keeps the saw running smoothly, even after a few accidental drops during heavy-duty use.

Benefits of the Design and Build Quality

The red textured rubber handle offers a surprisingly secure grip, even when my hands were sweaty or covered in sawdust. This feature alone gave me much better control over the saw’s aggressive blade movements. The Quik Lok blade clamp is a game-changer — swapping blades for different materials like drywall or metal was almost effortless. Just lift the latch, pull out the old blade, pop in a new one, and close it. No fumbling with screws or extra tools needed. I also appreciated the counterbalance mechanism inside, which significantly reduces vibration, making prolonged use less fatiguing and more precise.

Drawbacks That You Should Know

Despite the impressive features, there are a few limitations worth mentioning. The saw weighs in at 7.67 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy if you’re using it overhead or for extended periods. My wrist definitely felt the strain after continuous cutting. Additionally, the saw is sold as a bare tool, so you have to buy the M18 lithium-ion battery separately, which adds to the initial investment if you don’t already own Milwaukee’s M18 system. The tool also lacks a variable speed trigger, which means you cannot fine-tune blade speed for delicate cuts. This could be a downside for those needing precision in certain tasks.

Versatility and Compatibility

This saw worked well on a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, and drywall. Its compatibility with the Milwaukee M18 battery series is a big plus if you already own other tools from this brand. The Redlink Intelligence system pairs with the battery to prevent overheating and optimize power output, which I noticed helped maintain steady performance even during tough cuts. The saw’s 6.3-inch blade length and 24 teeth configuration made it versatile enough for demolition projects and precise cutting tasks alike. One thing to keep in mind: the saw doesn’t come with blades, so stocking up on different types for metal or wood is necessary.

Good Points

• Robust all-metal gearbox enhances durability and impact resistance
• Quik Lok blade clamp makes blade changes quick and tool-free
• Powerful 3,000 RPM brushless motor delivers consistent cutting speed
• Ergonomic, textured grip reduces slippage and increases control
• Redlink Intelligence prevents overheating and extends tool life

Areas for Improvement

• Heavier weight can cause fatigue during prolonged use
• Sold without battery or charger, adding extra cost
• No variable speed trigger for delicate or controlled cuts
• Blade length and style may not suit extremely fine or specialized tasks

Product Competitors

In comparison to other cordless reciprocating saws like the DeWalt DCS367B and the Makita XRJ05Z, this Milwaukee saw holds its own with superior build quality and vibration control. The all-metal gearbox is noticeably sturdier than the mostly plastic housings on its rivals, which gives it an edge in demanding jobsite conditions. However, DeWalt’s model offers a variable speed trigger, allowing more precise control, which the Milwaukee lacks. Makita’s saw is lighter and more compact, making it better suited for overhead work or tight spaces, but it doesn’t have the same power output or advanced battery communication system. Overall, the Milwaukee saw excels in durability and power, but if you prioritize lightweight design or speed modulation, the competition may be worth considering.

Value Proposition

Considering its features and performance, the Milwaukee saw delivers a solid price to quality ratio for those who need a tough, dependable tool for heavy-duty cutting. Its durable construction and advanced motor technology justify the investment, especially if you already own compatible M18 batteries. While the initial cost can be higher due to battery and blade purchases, the tool’s longevity and cutting power make it a smart buy for professionals and serious DIYers alike. For casual users or those on a tight budget, less expensive models might suffice, but you’ll likely sacrifice some of the durability and power that this saw offers.

Using this saw around my home and workshop has been a mostly positive experience. Whether I’m clearing brush, cutting through metal pipes, or tackling demolition, it handles everything with ease. The ease of blade changes and the vibration reduction system particularly enhance usability. Despite some minor weight concerns and the lack of variable speed, this saw stands out as a robust, powerful, and user-friendly tool for a wide range of cutting tasks.

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