Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw REVIEW: A Long-Term User’s Perspective

For years, I tackled DIY projects with a less-than-ideal reciprocating saw. The old one struggled with thicker materials, and its battery life was abysmal, often leaving me stranded mid-project. This meant significant delays and added frustration to what should have been simple tasks. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall would have saved me countless hours and headaches. The impact on my workflow would have been transformative.

Sale
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw - No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool...
  • Wear resistant lever actuated blade clamp provides fast and easy blade changes
  • Metal reinforced battery connection provides improved durability and battery retention over life
  • Built-in LED light illuminates the work surface while cutting

Choosing the Right Reciprocating Saw: Key Considerations

Reciprocating saws are indispensable tools for various applications, from demolition and cutting metal to woodworking. They’re especially handy for those tackling remodeling, construction, or serious DIY projects. The ideal customer is someone who values power, durability, and efficiency—characteristics that often come at a premium. If you only need a saw for occasional light-duty tasks, a cheaper, less powerful model might suffice. Conversely, if you’re a professional contractor or serious DIY enthusiast demanding top-tier performance, the investment in a high-end model like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Reciprocating Saw is worthwhile. Before purchasing, consider the type of materials you’ll be cutting, the frequency of use, and your budget. The power source (corded vs. cordless) is another crucial decision, affecting portability and run time.

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  • 4-position blade clamp of DEWALT 20V reciprocating saw allows for flush cutting and increased positional versatility with tool-free blade changes
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DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, One-Handed, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS369B)
  • The cordless reciprocating saw is compact at only 12.5-inch front to back
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BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
  • Cordless reciprocating saw features tool-free blade change

Introducing the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall: A Powerful Cutting Tool

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a bare-tool offering, meaning it doesn’t come with a battery or charger (sold separately). This strategy allows Milwaukee to offer a competitive price point, catering to users already invested in their M18 battery system. The saw promises superior cutting power and efficiency thanks to its brushless motor, a significant upgrade over brushed models. Compared to previous Milwaukee Sawzall models, the M18 Fuel version boasts increased power, longer battery life, and a more compact design. It’s designed for professionals and serious DIYers who demand peak performance and durability from their tools. It is, however, not suitable for infrequent users who might find the cost of the separate battery and charger prohibitive.

Pros:

* Powerful brushless motor for superior cutting performance.
* Extended battery life compared to brushed models.
* Compact and lightweight design for improved maneuverability.
* Durable metal reinforced battery connection.
* Convenient, wear-resistant blade clamp for quick blade changes.

Cons:

* Requires separate purchase of M18 battery and charger.
* Can be expensive for those without an existing M18 battery system.
* Some users have reported occasional trigger malfunctions (though this appears to be rare).

Unpacking the Features and Benefits of the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall

Unmatched Cutting Power: The Brushless Motor Advantage

The heart of the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall is its brushless motor. This technology translates to significantly increased power and efficiency compared to brushed motors. It effortlessly cuts through tough materials like thick wood, metal, and even PVC pipes, without the slowdowns and bogging down I experienced with my old saw. The difference is night and day. The increased torque makes quick work of demanding tasks. The motor’s efficiency means less battery drain, allowing for longer runtimes between charges.

Ergonomics and Comfort: Designed for Extended Use

The Sawzall’s ergonomic design is a testament to Milwaukee’s commitment to user comfort. The grip is comfortable, even during extended periods of use. The tool’s balanced weight distribution minimizes fatigue, and the pivoting shoe facilitates smooth, controlled cuts in various angles and positions. The integrated LED light is a small but significant addition; it illuminates the work area, ensuring precision and safety. This feature makes working in dimly lit spaces a breeze.

Durability and Reliability: Built to Last

Milwaukee’s reputation for robustness is fully realized in this reciprocating saw. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall feels exceptionally well-built. The robust construction ensures it can handle the rigors of heavy-duty work, resisting damage from drops and impacts. I’ve had it for over a year now and it still performs like new, even after countless cuts.

Versatile Blade System: Adaptability for Diverse Tasks

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall boasts a quick-change blade system. Switching between blades takes mere seconds, allowing for seamless transitions between different materials and cutting applications. The versatility of this system eliminates the frustration of tedious blade changes that slow down workflow. I frequently change blades while working on a variety of materials, and it remains efficient and smooth.

Variable Speed Trigger: Precision Control at Your Fingertips

The variable speed trigger offers precise control, allowing for accurate cuts in various materials. I appreciate having the ability to adjust the speed depending on the task at hand. This nuance is essential for delicate cuts in softer materials or when operating in tight spaces. The trigger itself is well-designed for comfortable and controlled operation.

What Other Users Are Saying About the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall

Online reviews consistently praise the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall‘s power, efficiency, and durability. Many users highlight the significant improvement over previous models and other competing brands. Some point out the occasional trigger issue as a minor drawback, but overall, the positive feedback strongly outweighs the negative. The overwhelming consensus suggests it’s a top-tier reciprocating saw.

Final Verdict: A Powerful Saw For Demanding Projects

If you’re a professional or serious DIY enthusiast needing a high-performance reciprocating saw, look no further. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall delivers exceptional cutting power, long battery life, and durable construction, even if it needs a separate battery and charger purchase. While a few users have reported minor issues, the vast majority sing its praises. It significantly enhances efficiency and minimizes frustration on the job site or in the workshop. To learn more and purchase this amazing tool, click here to check out the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall .

Last update on 2025-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API