Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hackzall Kit Review Cordless Power Tool Cutting Performance Tested

Description

Highlights of the Milwaukee Electric Tools 2719-21 M18 Fuel Hackzall Kit

Testing this powerful cordless reciprocating saw has been quite the experience. The M18 Fuel Hackzall impressed me immediately with its Brushless Powerstate motor, delivering a noticeable boost in cutting speed and raw power. It claims to cut up to 50% faster than other one-handed saws, and honestly, it felt like it. Whether slicing through metal pipes or tackling tight spaces, this tool feels like it was designed to get the job done quickly without compromising precision. The 7/8″ stroke length provides a robust cutting action, and the compact design made maneuvering in confined spots surprisingly easy.

Positive Features That Stand Out

• The dual gear counterbalance system drastically reduces vibration—I’ve experienced up to 4x less vibration than with my old reciprocating saw, which means less fatigue over extended use.
• Relink Plus intelligence technology connects the tool, battery, and charger to optimize performance and protect against overload or overheating, giving me peace of mind during heavy-duty tasks.
• The M18 Red Lithium XC5.0 battery offers impressive longevity, letting me work longer without frequent recharges.
• A rubber seal and weep holes safeguard the internals from water and debris, which I found particularly useful when working outdoors in less-than-ideal conditions.

Areas for Improvement

Despite the many advantages, I noticed a few things that could be better. The saw weighs around 6 pounds, which, while manageable, can start to feel hefty during prolonged overhead cuts or awkward angles. Also, although the saw is excellent for metal, its performance on softer materials like wood doesn’t feel as optimized; sometimes, the blade tends to chatter a little. The plastic and rubber handle, while ergonomic, might not offer the best grip if your hands are sweaty or oily, which is a minor annoyance but worth noting.

Versatility and Usability

One feature I truly appreciated is the one-handed design. It allows for greater mobility and control, especially in tight spaces where a traditional reciprocating saw would be cumbersome. Swapping blades is straightforward, and the saw accepts a variety of metal blades, making it a versatile tool for different cutting needs. The 24 teeth metal blade included worked well for my projects, cutting cleanly through various metals. However, beginners might find the power a bit intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, the tool feels like a natural extension of your hand.

Quality for Price: Is It Worth It?

This saw sits in a higher price bracket compared to some other cordless reciprocating saws, but its price to quality ratio justifies the investment for professionals or serious DIYers. The brushless motor and advanced electronics aren’t just fancy buzzwords; they translate to real-world efficiency and durability. Factoring in the battery’s long life and the tool’s rugged build, it feels like a purchase that will pay off over time. If you’re looking for a tool that won’t quit on you halfway through a job, this one is a solid bet.

Product Comparisons: How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

Comparing this saw to popular models like the DeWalt DCS367B or the Makita JR3050T, the Milwaukee Hackzall often comes out ahead in cutting speed and vibration control. The brushless motor is a clear advantage over brushed motors in competing saws, offering longer tool life and better power efficiency. However, some competitors have lighter designs that may be easier to handle for extended periods, and their blade change mechanisms can be quicker. The Milwaukee’s Relink Plus intelligence system is unique, providing smarter protection and communication between components, a feature not commonly found in similar kits.

Design and Ergonomics

The red and black color scheme is classic Milwaukee, and the tool feels solid in hand. Although the weight is on the higher side, the balance is well thought out, which helps with control during precise cuts. The handle material, a mix of plastic and rubber, strikes a decent balance between durability and comfort, but in sweaty conditions, the grip can slip a bit. The compact 18-inch length makes it less intimidating to carry around on jobs, and I found it easy to stash in my tool bag or truck without taking up too much space.

Performance in Tough Conditions

I threw this saw into some challenging environments, including cutting rusty pipes and working in dusty construction sites. The water and debris-resistant design kept the tool running smoothly without hiccups. The overload protection kicked in appropriately during tougher cuts, preventing damage and extending tool life. I also noticed that the saw starts cutting smoothly right away, without the awkward jerks or stalls that some reciprocating saws experience.

Drawbacks That Are Hard to Ignore

• The tool’s weight can be a hurdle for some users during extended use.
• Blade chatter on softer materials means it’s not the best for all-purpose cutting.
• The handle grip might disappoint those expecting a more slip-resistant surface during sweaty tasks.
• For casual users, the learning curve with the power and features might feel steep.

Using this tool has been an eye-opener in terms of how much technology and design can enhance a simple reciprocating saw. It’s a powerhouse with smart features suited for demanding tasks, though it’s not without some quirks that might not suit everyone.

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