Milwaukee M18 FUEL GEN-2 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only)

19 reviews for Milwaukee M18 FUEL GEN-2 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only)

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   Vaughn Wisoky (verified owner) – October 22, 2022

   After giving my Son-in-Law my old corded recipe saw, I decided to get myself a new cordless one. Most of the work I use it for are things like cutting branches off trees (while on a ladder), cutting roots, sawing up old wood in the yard, etc; tasks where a cordless recipe saw is desirable. Problem was that the few I had used seemed underpowered and the battery life was poor. A contractor friend told me I should try the Milwaukee brand; I was not in their ecosystem so it never crossed my mind, but this set with the M18 FUEL battery and charger included was too good to pass up. It has excellent build quality and a nice feel, but what surprised and pleased me the most was its power; this is a beast. Speed is controlled by pressure on the trigger, and while this took me a little bit to get the hang of the right pressure, I found it to be easy to control. The saw is also surprisingly light compared to others I have used. It cuts fast, much faster than I expected. Blade changes are a snap with their quick lock system, MUCH easier than my old recip saw. The battery system is great; Milwaukee has really done a great job on the FUEL system. I can’t speak to the run time per charge (when doing my tree I used it a couple hours with only a small battery drain seen, but I was using it on and off) but the charging speed was really impressive; when I first got it my battery went from below a quarter (approx) to full charge in about 20 minutes. I will have to check this again, but that was truly amazing based on past experiences with cordless batteries.Some notes: one is that it is a little more front heavy than I expected, but after trying some other saws I still found it to be lighter overall; it is meant to be used with two hands. Another is that it does not come with a blade; that you have to supply yourself. Finally, the case is big but does not have blade storage in it; this is the one thing that I do wish it had. Overall, a great tool and battery system and if you are looking for a cordless Recip saw and battery, this is the one you should get.

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   Reina Corwin (verified owner) – October 1, 2022

   Milwaukee a name that is synonymous with quality tools made in the “GOOD OLD USA”. I’ve used reciprocating saws thru the years but have never ran across such a quality saw before. I’ll use a phrase I know you have heard before. Cuts through material like ” A hot knife through butter” with a SPM (strokes per minute at 0-3000). But I can honestly say that is the honest truth. I believe that this is the fastest cutting 18-volt 5Ah available in all saws on the market. It is also a lighter weight saw at only 6.8 pounds compared to its competitor at 7.4 pounds. The motor is brushless that allows more cutting and longer use of the Redlithium 18-volt 5Ah batteries and a longer motor life. Milwaukee refers to the battery as M18 Fuel driven to outperform. This kit model # 2821-22 includes recip saw, 2-18 volt 5 Ah batteries, battery charger and a plastic molded carrying case.

3. Rated 5 out of 5

   Stephanie Donnelly (verified owner) – July 29, 2022

   I use both platforms, Dewalt and Milwaukee, but for reciprocating saws (sawzall) Milwaukee is king. I tried the Flexvolt before buying this sawzall and it wasn’t what I though! This Milwaukee gen 2 fuel can be placed in between the hackzall and the super sawzall. It’s strong, fast and the vibration is minimal for a recip saw. Highly recommended!

4. Rated 5 out of 5

   Buster Emard (verified owner) – June 30, 2022

   I have been wanting a cordless reciprocating saw, but could not justify it while old corded saw still worked. Old saw is going to be donated to the Habitat for Humanity construction trailer. The saw comes in a nice case, but there are no designated blade storage locations. However, you can find a spot. The blade install and removal is easy with no tools required. The shoe at blade end has 8 different positions to compensate for different length blades or to use teeth in different areas. The blade needs to be removed and the shoe needs to be pushed in to store the saw. The charger will do both 12V & 18V Milwaukee batteries. The kit comes with a 5 AH 18V battery. I tested the saw with one of my 2 AH batteries while the supplied battery was charging. I used a pruning blade in the saw and cut up a bunch of branches that I had left lying after pruning. It did a great job cutting, but sucked the charge on the small battery down quickly. The saw is comfortable to hold and use. The weight is reasonable. The biggest benefit is NOT having to run extension cords, especially when working at a job site without power or out in the yard. Case has storage location for extra battery.

5. Rated 5 out of 5

   Holly Bins (verified owner) – June 25, 2022

   Definitely, one HARD working saw. With occasional storms in my area, I help neighbors do a lot of repairs on chain link fences, where trees have fallen down and bent the top rail. Before, I had to use a huge pipe cutter or drag a long extension cord to the damaged area. No more. This Milwaukee Sawzall has more than enough power to do any repairs necessary. I can cut the top rail so that we can put a sleeve on it to do a repair. I can cut a post off level with the ground so that a replacement can be cemented in the ground next to it. And in the Spring, I’ll be able to do serious bush and tree repairs all over the back yard. No need for my ‘loppers’ any more to cut thick limbs, I’ll be using this saw. And it comes in a sturdy carry box with a charger and two 5.0Ah batteries, for hard, extended use. Not often when you can get a tool that can be used inside and outside the shop, this one does the job.

6. Rated 4 out of 5

   Chyna Block (verified owner) – April 20, 2022

   I had a much older recip and I have been meaning to get an upgrade, while not perfect this one worked well for me. Having this recip in addition to some great blades for nails, really made removing nails embedded in my work pieces easy and painless. In a matter of seconds, if that I was able to cut through the nails. I also used this to remove the pieces of 2x for my for my doors. This felt great in my hands not too heavy, I honestly do not recall the vibration, or how it compared to my older recip. The blade change is easy, this has a very comfortable grip. I would like to see the tools packaged in the packout cases, or if they will continue to come in the molded cases, I would like for them to have a removable insert, so if you do get the packout, it can fit securely in there and you can remove the insert for this case and place it in there. This lost a star because it does not have the orbital feature. All in all this is a great saw, and worked well on the 2x and nails that I cut

7. Rated 5 out of 5

   Heidi Klocko (verified owner) – February 10, 2022

   I really like this saw and use it to break down construction debris for the trash. The kit (model 2821-22) includes the M18 Fuel Sawzall (2821-20), two M18 XC5.0 Ah batteries, a regular charger, and a case. Included in the case is what’s needed to get started… except blades. No big deal! The Sawzall is a beast! It’s comfortable to use, cuts fast, and has an LED on the front to light the work area. The Quik-Lok blade clamp isn’t as quick or easy as other brands I use, although it holds strong and is very durable (anti-corrosion). I really like the adjustable pivot shoe, which is adjustable from 1” to a maximum of roughly 2.5”… It provides better support for longer blades and allows for moving the portion of the blade used for cutting (longer blade life). There’s a rafter hook I’ll rarely use, but it can be removed. The tool has a brushless motor, so longer tool life and run time, has a 1¼” stroke length, and provides up to 3,000 Strokes per minute under no load. While those specs are similar to my other full sized sawzalls, the Milwaukee blows them all away under load. The saw uses the usual 1/2” shank universal Sawzall blades, but unfortunately doesn’t have the multiple blade positions of the Super Sawzall; however, this model does allow for inserting the blade teeth-up or teeth-down for plunge cuts. It has an electric break for quick stops, but does not have One-Key Bluetooth tracking (not important to me).The two M18 XC 5.0AH batteries provide good run time and power; however, when I strapped in XC6.0 Ah and HD12.0Ah High Output batteries, the tool blew me away… the cuts were even faster (aka, more power). Nothing beats finishing a job quicker and getting home in time for dinner. The kit comes with a regular charger, which is fine given I have a SUPERcharger, Rapid chargers, and an arsenal of M18 batteries, but a Rapid charger would have been a nicer touch. Regarding the case, it’s rugged… and pretty. It can accommodate a regular or Rapid charger (it won’t hold a Supercharger) and 2 batteries (including High Output XC6.0Ah and HD12.0Ah batteries). Unfortunately, this case falls short when it comes to adequate blade/accessory storage. A few loose, 6” blades fit in the right front compartment or even under the saw; however, longer blades like Milwaukee’s 12” Axe demo blades, don’t fit well. There’s a pocket on the lid for the manuals, but don’t try using it to store blades. I slipped a few blades in there and had to tip the case over to get them out. If you’re like me and use large tool boxes to transport tools (i.e., the Packout), the case is nice, but not really necessary.Overall, I’m very pleased with this saw and Milwaukee has delivered another winner in my opinion.

8. Rated 5 out of 5

   Kane Emard (verified owner) – January 4, 2022

   I have wanted one of these for so long. I have a corded sawzall but having a battery powered saw that can be used on more things and more often that it’s corded brother. Sawzall’s are great, their name tells you that they should be your go to saw for everything from demolition to construction and even car building. Milwaukee quality is all through this saw. The saw is very powerful even compared to a corded model. The blades are easy to change and there are a whole range of size and material specific blades to choose from. Battery life is excellent and the saw comes with a high capacity battery and charger, the charger also has a port for M12 battery’s

9. Rated 5 out of 5

   Hollis Wuckert (verified owner) – January 2, 2022

   This is my first saws-all, and it will likely last me my lifetime. It’s extremely easy to replace the blade and the power is phenomenal given that it is battery driven. My first project was to breakdown a metal display case that had seen better years. The photos I have included were taken at about 5 minute intervals. I was impressed with how easy it was to finish the job.

10. Rated 5 out of 5

    Geovanny Wolff (verified owner) – December 21, 2021

    The Milwaukee Sawzall is a tool that has gained a cult-like status over the last several decades due its high quality construction, durability and versatility. I already own a 25+ year old corded Sawzall and it still works just as well today as the day I bought it. But since it is a plug-in corded AC model it has sometimes been a little awkward and inconvenient to use. Extension cords where AC power is available and no-way to use it where power isn’t readily available. So I bought another competing brand of reciprocal saw and found it to be mostly unacceptable. Difficult to manipulate the trigger/lockout mechanism and lots of hand numbing vibration. When I saw this Milwaukee M18 FUEL Lithium-ion, Brushless, Cordless Sawzall I had to try it out. This kit is complete with saw, hard case, two 5.0 amp batteries and the combo M18/M12 charger. It is the high-end FUEL model that is a professional quality tool and features the most advanced brushless DC motor that delivers more power, more run time and more features than other models. I like the variable speed trigger that has a on/off lockout button. It is much easier than trying press the safety lockout button and trigger at the same time. Just press the unlock button (it stays like that until you lock it again) and pull the trigger. This saw is somewhat heavy and believe me that’s a good thing. Reciprocal saws, with the long back and forth stroke, vibrate quite a lot. Weight absorbs that vibration and this saw is a vey good compromise between weight, power and the absorption of vibration. There are all the latest features including tool-less blade changes and an adjustable shoe. The adjustable shoe allows you to move the shoe in/out to allow longer/shorter blades to be used without having to change the blade. Quite often when you use a reciprocal saw you may find that a longer blade may strike an object and bend the blade if you don’t hold the saw out from the shoe. There are two buttons on the fore-end of the saw that when depressed will allow the shoe to move in/out for a quick solution. Now, you might think what are these Sawzall reciprocal saws good for? Well they are definitely the most versatile cutting tool you could ever own. I use mine for cutting boards, metal, plastic and I even prune limbs or cutoff roots when needed. There are dozens of different types of blades available for these saws in many lengths. Metal cutting, wood cutting, demolition blades, carbide teeth, pruning blades and so on. You can cut off a pipe or use this saw to demolish buildings. The tool-less blade change makes it real easy to change blades when needed. This Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall kit is excellent in every way. I highly recommend recommend it.

11. Rated 5 out of 5

    Janiya Senger (verified owner) – October 27, 2021

    Battery-powered tools are the usually the way to go, and Milwaukee makes the best ones. This latest generation of the venerable SAWZALL (Model 2821-21) is powerful and easy to use, but it’s heavy: 8.25 lbs (with 5.0 Ah battery) vs 6.25 corded model (without cord). The molded case holds a charger (M18 and M12 batteries) and tool, with a slot for manuals, but no blade storage (compared to my corded Milwaukee unit’s case). It’s a small thing, but I miss it. The shoe is adjustable without tools (nice) but disengaging the spring lock by pressing on both sides of the case is awkward – and requires a lot of force. Inserting and removing blades is easy, but the instructions are wrong about inserting the blade; the release lever must be pushed up to both release AND insert the blade. The LED light is well placed and provides reasonable illumination of the surface, with the shadow of the blade itself providing an obvious cutline. The handle includes a trigger lock mechanism for obvious safety. I really like the tool for its portability, and the lack of a cord that snags and gets in the way. It will be my go-to tool for small demolition jobs, but its weight limits its long duration use a bit.

12. Rated 5 out of 5

    Amina Mante (verified owner) – October 11, 2021

    This M-18 Milwaukee Sawzall is a very nice tool. The 2821-22 kit includes the heavy duty plastic carry case, sawzall tool, two XC 5.0Ah batteries, and a multi voltage charger. This charger will handle both the M-18 battery pack and the M-12 battery pack. There are no saw blades included; so if you do not have ½” shank universal sawzall blades already, you will have to purchase the type of blades you will be using. I keep a small collection on hand including wood and metal cutting varieties and a general purpose blade. The cut stroke is 1¼” and Milwaukee instructions state not to use blades less than 4” long. The tool weighs about 7 pounds, but is fairly comfortable using two hands to hold the tool while cutting. It does a very good job cutting using the correct blade. Practical use features include a “Quick-Lok” blade clamp for quick and easy insertion and removal of the blade; an LED light that turns on when the trigger is depressed; variable speed controlled by pressure on the trigger; and an adjustable shoe. The shoe release buttons are on the front side of the tool and the maximum extension is 2½”. The tool has the trigger lock on the handle. Milwaukee recommends removing the battery when changing the blades as a safety measure. The motor is brushless and the quality of the tool is evident. The functionality, quality and durability makes this kit an excellent addition to cordless tools whether a DIY occasional user, like me, or a professional.

13. Rated 5 out of 5

    Glen Gerhold (verified owner) – August 31, 2021

    Typical Milwaukee product, bulletproof!

14. Rated 5 out of 5

    Earnest Bosco (verified owner) – August 27, 2021

    The first thing you will notice about the Milwaukee 18-volt Sawzall is it’s almost 8.5 lbs. (batt. incl.) brute weight. At 18 inches long (w/batt.) and with the over-molded covering, it is easy to handle and control. Notice picture 5, The QUICK-LOK blade release/lock is fast, easy, and solid. Two other thoughtful features are the adjustable length shoe and a bright LED work light. The HANG hook flips up 90 degrees and if you learn to use it could add safety and convenience to the tool. With a battery charging, pic 2, you can gauge the charging sequence, 2 of the 4 LED’S are lit when the battery is charged the LED’S go out and the green light will show. With the battery in the tool just push the button and it will let you know how much power is left. You can lock off the variable speed trigger. Pull the trigger and you have a fast short-stroke powerhouse. I was glad to see Milwaukee gives you a 5 Ah battery, of course, you could install a 12 Ah batt and see who wears out first. The included case is the best storage possible; it not only allows you to protect and carry the saw (batt. installed) and charger but an extra battery and accessories. The only thing left is, the saw is only as good as the blade you put in it and Milwaukee has a blade for about every job.

15. Rated 5 out of 5

    Megane Kautzer (verified owner) – July 28, 2021

    Cut 2x as fast as dewalt

16. Rated 4 out of 5

    Sheila Tremblay (verified owner) – June 20, 2021

    I had a much older recip and I have been meaning to get an upgrade, while not perfect this one worked well for me. Having this recip in addition to some great blades for nails, really made removing nails embedded in my work pieces easy and painless. In a matter of seconds, if that I was able to cut through the nails. I also used this to remove the pieces of 2x for my for my doors. This felt great in my hands not too heavy, I honestly do not recall the vibration, or how it compared to my older recip. The blade change is easy, this has a very comfortable grip. I would like to see the tools packaged in the packout cases, or if they will continue to come in the molded cases, I would like for them to have a removable insert, so if you do get the packout, it can fit securely in there and you can remove the insert for this case and place it in there. This lost a star because it does not have the orbital feature. All in all this is a great saw, and worked well on the 2x and nails that I cut

17. Rated 5 out of 5

    Savanah Oberbrunner (verified owner) – January 22, 2021

    I’m a homeowner/DIY’er, not a pro tradesperson, so this review comes from that standpoint.The Milwaukee 2821-21 reciprocating saw kit comes with the saw, an XC5.0 battery, charger, and hard case.Coming in at under 7 pounds this saw has excellent fit and finish and I’m finding the vibrations to be minimal (YMMV). It’s comfortable to hold and use, whether with or without work gloves. (Obviously hand protection, hearing protection, and vision protection are highly recommended. I wear leather gloves, ear plugs, and a face shield). There’s a rubberized covering that covers where your forward hand goes and it helps against vibration.The new generation batteries offer longer run times, but I’d still recommend picking up a spare battery if you’re planning a major project such as a deck or finishing a basement. I really don’t like having a battery run out in the middle of a job, putting everything on hold while it recharges. Interestingly the molded hard case has room for a spare battery (see photo below). Only one battery comes with this kit. The battery in my kit had only a minimal charge on it when received.This is a ‘brushless motor’ saw that comes with a 5-year warranty (3-year warranty on the battery).There’s a safety lock on the trigger and a shoe lock button (see photos below). The blade change requires no tools.There’s a 1 ¼” stroke on the blade at up to 3,000 spm (speed is trigger controlled).The saw is relatively light weight and I’m finding it to be fast cutting. Of course, the cutting depends a lot on the blades used, and Milwaukee offers a pretty full line of reciprocating blades. Matching the type of blade with the type of material being worked on makes things go smoother. The saw works with other brands of blades as well. (No blades are included in this kit). There’s an LED light that helps light up the work area, and a hanger hook that folds out of the way when not needed.HTHJim

18. Rated 5 out of 5

    Pierre Schowalter (verified owner) – January 20, 2021

    Would be a 6 if came with a blade

19. Rated 5 out of 5

    Porter Mitchell (verified owner) – October 28, 2020

    The Milwaukee cordless sawzall the best reciprocating saw I have ever used. It is fairly lightweight compared to other brands. It has smooth operation. I had a Milwaukee sawzall for probably forty years and it still worked. That alone should tell you how good they are. The reason I don’t use it anymore is that it would vibrate so much I couldn’t stand it. When I saw how smooth this was I was impressed. It also come with a 5.0 ah battery a charger and a hard plastic case. Also a good set of instructions. It also has a led light , which is great to light up your work. An adjustable foot. I highly recommend this saw.