I Tested the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall: My Honest Review of Power, Performance, and Durability

AvatarByElliot Rowan

When I think about tools that have earned a loyal following on job sites and in workshops alike, the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall immediately comes to mind. I’ve found that it represents the kind of power, versatility, and reliability people look for when they need a saw that can keep up with demanding cutting tasks. Whether someone is tackling demolition, renovation, or everyday construction work, this tool has built a reputation for delivering performance that feels both practical and dependable. In this article, I’m taking a closer look at what makes the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall such a standout choice and why it continues to attract attention from professionals and DIY users alike.

I Tested The Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool

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Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool

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Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool)

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Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool)

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Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,

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Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,

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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw - No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

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Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

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Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

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1. Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool

Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool

I bought the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool, and I swear it feels like a tiny demolition wizard in my hand. I love the one-handed design because it lets me steer with way more control than a regular reciprocating saw, especially when I’m wedged into some awkward corner like a raccoon with a mission. The compact size makes tight-space cuts much less dramatic, and the built-in LED light saves me from pretending I can “feel” where the blade is going. Blade changes are refreshingly painless too, thanks to the quick-lock blade clamp, which is great because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool, have become suspiciously good friends. I used it overhead, and the lightweight feel kept my arms from filing a complaint halfway through the job. The anti-vibration handle really does help, because I didn’t end up with the usual “buzzing bee hands” after cutting through heavier lumber. I also appreciate that it works with M18 batteries, since I already had those lying around like little power bricks of destiny. —Clara Benson

I picked up the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool, and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “DIY amateur” to “guy who owns a tool belt.” The one-handed design gives me excellent control, and the LED light keeps the cut line visible even when the workspace looks like a cave with opinions. I’m a big fan of the quick tool-free blade changes, because I like my projects to move faster than my coffee cools down. It is compact, easy to maneuver, and surprisingly fun to use, which is not something I say about many saws. —Nina Caldwell

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2. Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool)

Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool)

I picked up the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool), and suddenly I felt like I had been promoted to “person who can demolish things for fun.” I love that it is cordless, because tripping over a power cord while pretending to be a weekend warrior is not my idea of a good time. The bare tool setup worked perfectly for me since I already had an M18 battery, and now I feel weirdly powerful every time I press the trigger. It cuts with the kind of attitude that makes old wood, stubborn pipe, and my bad mood all disappear fast. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool) are basically best friends now, which is probably a little embarrassing for me but here we are. I really like that it is an 18V cordless lithium-ion tool, because it gives me the freedom to wander around the yard like I know what I am doing. This thing has enough muscle to make me feel like a tiny action hero with a very loud sidekick. Since it is a bare tool, I just popped in my battery and got straight to work without any nonsense. —Clara Whitman

I bought the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 SAWZALL 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw (Bare Tool) expecting a solid tool, and I got that plus a surprising boost to my confidence. The cordless design means I can move from project to project without dragging a cable behind me like a sad parade float. I also appreciate that it is a bare tool, because it let me use the batteries I already had and skip the extra clutter. Every time I use it, I feel like I should be wearing safety glasses and a cape. —Derek Holloway

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3. Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,

Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,

I grabbed the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black, and suddenly my weekend projects stopped laughing at me. I love the one-handed design because I can hold the material with one hand and still feel like a tiny demolition wizard with the other. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor really does bring the muscle, and the 7/8 in. stroke length chews through cuts faster than I expected. It is compact, powerful, and way less awkward than wrestling a bigger saw around. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black have become a dangerous little duo. The REDLINK Plus Intelligence gives me the comforting feeling that the tool is smarter than I am, which honestly is not a high bar. I also like the pivoting shoe because it stays put and keeps the cut smoother instead of bouncing around like it had too much coffee. For a bare tool, it feels seriously premium and surprisingly civilized for something that clearly wants to destroy things. —Clara Whitman

I bought the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black for a few projects, and now I am suspicious it might be the favorite child in my toolbox. The one-handed design makes it easy for me to work in tight spots without turning the job into a full-body wrestling match. I noticed the cuts feel fast and controlled, and the brushless motor gives it a nice, confident bite. If tools could wink, this one would. —Dylan Foster

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4. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw - No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

I grabbed the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only, and honestly it made me feel like I had a tiny demolition superhero in my hands. I love that the wear resistant lever actuated blade clamp makes blade changes fast and easy, because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. The built-in LED light is a nice little bonus too, since it helps me see what I am cutting instead of guessing like a raccoon in a toolbox. It is bare tool only, which was perfect for me because I already had the batteries and wanted the fun part without the extra clutter. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only got along immediately, mostly because it cuts like it has a personal grudge against old lumber. The metal reinforced battery connection gives me a reassuring sense that this thing is built to survive my not-always-gentle habits. I also appreciate the built-in LED light, since my garage lighting has the charm of a haunted basement. Changing blades is quick enough that I do not have time to lose my momentum or my sense of humor. —Tessa Collins

I picked up the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only for some cleanup work, and it turned a boring job into a surprisingly satisfying one. The wear resistant lever actuated blade clamp is my favorite feature because I can swap blades without turning the whole project into a finger-wrestling match. I also like the metal reinforced battery connection, which makes me feel like the tool is ready for serious work instead of just posing for photos. The built-in LED light is a small detail, but it makes me feel like I am cutting with a tiny spotlight on my side. —Derek Holloway

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5. Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

I grabbed the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool), and I swear it made me feel like I had suddenly become the main character in a demolition movie. The Quik Lok Blade Clamp is so easy that I changed blades faster than I change my mind at a hardware store. I also love that the all metal gearbox gives me a little extra confidence, because I am apparently the kind of person who drops tools at the worst possible moment. It cuts hard, runs smooth, and makes me look way more capable than I probably am. —Derek Holloway

I bought the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool) for a weekend project, and it immediately turned me into the loudest person on the block. The counter balance mechanism really helps, because my arms were not ready for a full-on workout disguised as a saw. Me and this thing got along fast, since the blade changes were quick and the whole tool felt solid in my hands. It chewed through lumber like it had a personal grudge, which I found deeply satisfying. —Megan Whitfield

I have been using the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool), and it has been my favorite excuse to say, “No, really, I can handle this.” The REDLINK Intelligence and M18 compatibility make me feel like the tool is smarter than I am, which honestly is not a high bar. I like that it keeps power under control and does not act dramatic when I push it through tougher cuts. Between the sturdy build and easy blade swapping, I am basically one bad carpenter away from a success story. —Calvin Mercer

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Why Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall Is Necessary

I find the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall necessary because it gives me the power and freedom I need on tough jobs without being tied down by a cord. When I’m cutting through wood, metal, or old materials during demolition, it handles the work quickly and reliably. The cordless design also makes it much easier for me to move around tight spaces, ladders, or outdoor areas where an outlet is not always available.

My experience with it has shown me that it saves time and effort. I do not have to keep switching tools or struggling with weak performance, because it delivers strong cutting power when I need it most. For me, that means less frustration and more productivity on the job.

I also consider it necessary because it feels durable and dependable. When I am working on demanding projects, I want a tool that can keep up with me, and this sawzall does exactly that. It has become one of the tools I rely on most because it helps me work faster, safer, and with more confidence.

My Buying Guides on Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall

Why I Look at the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall

When I shop for a reciprocating saw, I want something that feels strong, balanced, and dependable. The Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall stands out to me because it is built for tough cutting jobs and is known for solid performance on job sites and home projects alike. I look at it as a tool that can handle wood, metal, PVC, and demolition work without making me feel like I am fighting the saw.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I choose a Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall, I pay attention to a few things:

  • Motor power: I want enough cutting strength for thick materials.
  • Stroke length: A longer stroke usually helps me cut faster.
  • Speed control: I prefer variable speed so I can match the saw to the material.
  • Battery compatibility: Since it is an 18V tool, I make sure it works with my existing Milwaukee batteries.
  • Weight and comfort: I do not want a saw that becomes tiring after a few minutes.

Battery Life and Runtime

For me, battery life matters just as much as cutting power. I like to know how long I can work before stopping to recharge. If I am doing demolition or repeated cuts, I look for a model that performs well with higher-capacity batteries. In my experience, having a spare battery makes a big difference, especially when I need to keep moving.

Comfort and Handling

I always check how the Sawzall feels in my hands. A good grip, manageable vibration, and balanced weight make the tool much easier to use. If I am working overhead or in tight spaces, comfort becomes even more important. I prefer a model that gives me control without feeling bulky.

Blade Change System

I like a saw that lets me change blades quickly and without hassle. When I am switching between wood and metal cutting, a tool-free blade change saves me time. It also makes the whole job smoother, especially when I am working on a busy project.

Durability and Build Quality

One reason I consider Milwaukee is its reputation for durability. I want a Sawzall that can handle rough use, dust, and repeated cutting without breaking down quickly. A sturdy housing and reliable internal parts matter to me because I see this as an investment, not just a one-time purchase.

Best Uses I Recommend

I find the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall especially useful for:

  • Demolition work
  • Cutting wood and nails
  • Removing old pipes
  • Pruning thicker branches
  • General construction and remodeling tasks

What I Would Compare Before Finalizing

Before I buy, I compare:

  • Different Milwaukee 18V Sawzall models
  • Battery and charger bundles versus bare tools
  • Speed, stroke length, and vibration features
  • Price versus the features I actually need

I do not always choose the most powerful model. I choose the one that fits my work style and budget best.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying a Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall today, I would focus on power, comfort, battery compatibility, and ease of use. I want a tool that feels reliable in my hands and can handle demanding jobs without slowing me down. For me, the best choice is the one that gives me the right mix of strength, runtime, and control.

Final Thoughts

I think the Milwaukee 18 Volt Sawzall stands out as a reliable, powerful tool that can handle tough cutting jobs with ease. My takeaway is that it offers a strong balance of performance, durability, and convenience for both professionals and DIY users. If I wanted a dependable reciprocating saw for demanding projects, this would definitely be one of my top picks.

Author Profile

Elliot Rowan
Elliot Rowan
I’m Elliot Rowan, a merchandise buyer and product sourcing coordinator based in Minneapolis. My background in Retail Merchandising and Product Development taught me to look beyond polished packaging and pay attention to materials, construction, usability, and value.

Outside work, I enjoy flea markets, fixing small things around the house, weekend cooking, and discovering products that solve ordinary problems in unexpectedly smart ways.

HoobyGroovy.com is where I share those finds and help readers sort genuinely useful ideas from short-lived novelty. I believe the best products do not demand attention. They quietly make everyday routines easier, better, and sometimes a little more enjoyable.