Milwaukee Skill Saws

Brenda Cooper
11 min readJun 12, 2024

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Welcome to our in-depth look at the Milwaukee Skill Saw, a powerful and versatile tool that’s perfect for any DIY enthusiast or professional craftsman. In this article, we’ll be diving into the features and benefits of this impressive skill saw, helping you make an informed decision on whether it’s the right choice for your next project. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

The Top 5 Best Milwaukee Skill Saws

  1. Milwaukee Miter Saw: M18 Fuel Rear Handle 7–1/4 in. Circular Saw — Experience corded power with Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL rear handle circular saw, featuring a POWERSTATE brushless motor, extended battery life, and easy maintenance for professionals in the building industry.
  2. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 5–3/8 in. Brushless Circular Saw with REDLINK and PowerState Technology — The Milwaukee 2530–20 M12 FUEL 5–3/8 in. Circular Saw offers professional-grade power, durability, and efficiency with its REDLINK PLUS intelligence, POWERSTATE brushless motor, and up to 170 cuts per charge.
  3. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 12-inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw — Unlock the prowess and productivity of the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12-inch dual bevel miter saw, offering impressive features such as being up to 15% lighter, delivering 330 cuts per charge, and meticulously designed for seasoned professionals.
  4. Milwaukee 7–1/4" M18 Fuel Skill Saw — The Milwaukee Tool 2732–20 M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Circular Saw offers powerful, corded-equivalent performance with maximum durability and safety features, providing users easy operation, long battery life, and top-notch dust control on the job site.
  5. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Cordless Circular Saw Kit with Long Battery Life and Electric Brake — Experience unmatched power, precision, and durability with the Milwaukee 2732–21HD M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Circular Saw Kit, offering easy-to-use features and reliable performance in various jobsite conditions.

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Reviews

Milwaukee Miter Saw: M18 Fuel Rear Handle 7–1/4 in. Circular Saw

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The Milwaukee M18 FUEL rear handle circular saw boasts impressive power and performance, generating energy akin to 15-amp corded saws. With speeds of up to 5800 rpm, it ensures swift cutting and delivers an astonishing 570 cuts per charge with the M18 REDLITHIUM high output HD12.0 battery. The POWERSTATE brushless motor packs a punch and provides corded cutting performance.

This versatile circular saw comes with a multi-sized rafter hook for convenient storage, and requires minimal maintenance with its oil-free gears. Weighing in at a mere 10 lbs, it is a perfect companion for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The saw also features a blade and wrench, though note that the battery and charger are sold separately. The saw has a voltage of 18V and a blade diameter of 7–1/4 in, making it a reliable and efficient tool on any job site.

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 5–3/8 in. Brushless Circular Saw with REDLINK and PowerState Technology

This M12 FUEL brushless circular saw from Milwaukee Tools is designed for professionals, offering the power and durability needed to tackle a variety of materials on the job site. With a cut capacity of up to 1–5/8 inches, this saw efficiently handles 2x dimensional lumber with ease. REDLINK PLUS intelligence ensures optimized performance and overload protection through seamless communication between the tool, battery, and charger.

Features include a built-in LED light for improved visibility in low light conditions, as well as an aluminum guard and shoe for enhanced durability. POWERSTATE brushless motor technology delivers maximum power while extending motor life.

Overall, this circular saw is a lightweight, powerful, and reliable choice for those who demand precision and efficiency in their cutting tasks.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 12-inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

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As a carpenter, I’ve had the chance to use the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12-inch dual bevel sliding compound miter saw. I’ve got to say, it’s an impressive piece of machinery. One thing that stood out to me right away was how powerful it is — I actually felt like I was using a 15-amp corded miter saw. Its lightweight design was another pleasant surprise, making it much easier to transport between job sites.

But there were a few downsides, too. The saw would sometimes have trouble starting, and there were a couple of times when it stopped working altogether. The problem seemed to be related to the battery, but it was tough to figure out exactly what was going wrong. It was frustrating to deal with, especially when I was working on a tight deadline.

Despite the issues, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL miter saw did an excellent job for the most part. The sliding mechanism was smooth and easy to use, and the blade changing was straightforward. The shadow line LED light and easy-carry side handles were also nice touches.

Overall, I think the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12-inch dual bevel sliding compound miter saw is a great tool for professionals. It’s powerful, lightweight, and comes with a bunch of useful features. However, it’s not without its flaws, so you might want to keep that in mind before making a purchase.

Milwaukee 7–1/4" M18 Fuel Skill Saw

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As a woodworking enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Milwaukee Tool 2732–20 M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Circular Saw. This powerful tool is designed to provide the same performance as a 15A corded saw, while offering the convenience of being cordless. Let me share my experience.

Firstly, I appreciated the integrated rafter hook that made storage between cuts a breeze. The LED light was also a game-changer, providing increased accuracy and visibility during my woodworking projects. I also found the integrated dust port on the guard and the included vac adapter quite useful in managing dust effectively.

However, I must admit that the electric brake could have been quicker in stopping the blade after trigger release. Additionally, I would have preferred a more ergonomic grip, as the current one felt a bit awkward to use.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Milwaukee Tool 2732–20 M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Circular Saw exceeded my expectations in terms of power and efficiency. Its durability stood out, with magnesium guards and shoe providing extreme durability for job site conditions. With the POWERSTATE Brushless Motor offering 5,800 RPM and higher speeds under load, I experienced corded cutting performance without the hassle of cords.

Overall, this tool is a reliable and powerful addition to any woodworking toolkit. Its ease of use and impressive performance make it a standout contender in the market.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7–1/4" Cordless Circular Saw Kit with Long Battery Life and Electric Brake

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The Milwaukee 2732–21HD circular saw kit is a powerhouse in the realm of cordless circular saws. It’s designed and manufactured in China and packs a punch with its 15 amp power generation, making it faster than a standard 15-amp corded saw. Its impressive performance is thanks to the Powerstate Brushless Motor, which boasts 5,800 RPM and higher speeds under load for corded cutting performance.

This roundup review is all about the Milwaukee Skill Saw, a tool that is engineered for both professional and DIY enthusiasts. It delivers on its promise of increased power and longer battery life, making it a welcome addition to any tool arsenal. With its 12 Ah battery, it’s sure to deliver the runtime you need for any job.

The kit comes with a 7–1/4 inch circular saw, which is a versatile size for cutting hardwoods, softwoods, particle board, and plywood. It’s also equipped with a rafter hook for easy storage and an electric brake that stops the blade quickly after a cut, ensuring safety and productivity.

One of the standout features of this saw is its magnesium guards and shoe, which offer extreme durability for jobsite conditions. Users also appreciate the built-in rafter hook, keyed blade change, and spindle lock for added convenience.

However, no tool is without its drawbacks. One user pointed out that the included blade is of low quality, which could have been improved with a higher-end blade included in the kit. Another user noted the safety interlock that must be depressed before pulling the trigger, which some find a bit of an annoyance. Nonetheless, these are minor drawbacks when compared to the overall performance and durability of the Milwaukee 2732–21HD circular saw kit.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a powerful, long-lasting cordless circular saw with excellent cutting performance, look no further than the Milwaukee 2732–21HD. It’s well-balanced, comfortable to use, and comes with a host of convenient features that make it a must-have for any toolbox. Despite its minor drawbacks, it’s a reliable and efficient tool that will serve you well on any job site.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to Milwaukee skill saw, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. This guide will help you understand the key features and considerations for selecting the right skill saw for your needs.

Types of Milwaukee Skill Saws

Milwaukee offers a variety of skill saws, each designed for different tasks and applications. Here are the basic types of skill saws for you to consider:

  1. The traditional wood-cutting skill saw, 2. The metal-cutting skill saw, and 3. The combination wood and metal-cutting skill saw. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose one that best suits your requirements.

Motor Power

The power of the motor is a crucial factor in determining the performance of a skill saw. Most Milwaukee skill saws come with powerful motors ranging from 5.0 to 15.0 amps. For general woodworking tasks, a saw with a 5.0–7.5 amp motor would suffice, whereas metal-cutting tasks may require a higher amperage. Always check the specifications of the model you are interested in to ensure it meets your power needs.

Blade Length and Size

The length and size of the blade play a significant role in the efficiency and versatility of the skill saw. Typically, Milwaukee skill saws have a blade length ranging from 7 to 12 inches. The blade size, on the other hand, can be either a standard 10-inch blade or a thin 4-inch blade. Ensure the blade length and size you choose are suitable for the materials you will be cutting.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount consideration when purchasing a skill saw. Look for models with safety features such as a blade guard, a riving knife, and an anti-kickback mechanism. These features help prevent accidents and injuries by keeping your skin and clothing away from the blade and ensuring the saw does not kick back when making cuts. Additionally, a dust collection system can be beneficial for maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

FAQ

What is the Milwaukee Skill Saw?

The Milwaukee Skill Saw is an advanced circular saw, serving both DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers alike. Known for its adaptability, it can handle a wide array of cutting tasks, ranging from simple trimming to tackling heavy materials such as plywood and metal. This tool garnered respect for its durability, efficiency, and user-friendly attributes.

In terms of power, the Milwaukee Skill Saw brings a robust 15-amp motor that ensures smooth, precise cuts. Furthermore, this saw boasts a multitude of cutting options, including a bevel cut and a plunge cut. As a noteworthy extra feature, it flaunts a patented vacuum-lock system that aids in keeping the working area secure and dust-free.

Which Milwaukee Skill Saw models are available?

Various Milwaukee Skill Saw models are accessible in the market, such as the 6485–20 7–1/4" 15-amp Skill Saw, the 6485–21 7–1/4" 15-amp X2 Skill Saw, and the 6485–22 7–1/4" 15-amp XPRT Skill Saw. Each model bears its unique characteristics and specifications, yet they all share the same exceptional performance and endurance.

For instance, the 6485–21 X2 Skill Saw comes with an enhanced motor power of 20%, resulting in quicker cutting and heightened efficiency. Alternatively, the XPRT model (6485–22) is equipped with a lightweight MagTrak™ guide system that heightens precision and handling ease. Opt for the model most suited to your requirements and monetary budget for the best performance.

What are the key features of the Milwaukee Skill Saw?

Pivotal attributes of the Milwaukee Skill Saw encompass its powerful 15-amp motor, patented vacuum-lock system, a plethora of cutting options (bevel cut, plunge cut, etc.), and a robust, anti-corrosive aluminum enclosure ensuring the tool’s longevity. Other salient features include a trigger lock inhibiting accidental starts, a convenient spindle lock facilitating blade exchanges without tools, and a hook that grasps the saw blade during blade changes.

The Milwaukee Skill Saw is specifically designed considering the user, offering a comfortable grip and adjustable front handle for better control and handling ease. Additionally, the tool is compatible with numerous blades, lending flexibility and adaptability to cutting experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, the Milwaukee Skill Saw demonstrates a versatile and reliable cutting solution.

What is the warranty on the Milwaukee Skill Saw?

The Milwaukee Skill Saw warranty typically runs for five years, covering parts, labor, and repair. This warranty guarantees protection against material and workmanship deficiencies during the stipulated period. Please consult the product manual or contact Milwaukee Customer Service for more detailed information on the warranty.

Beyond the warranty, Milwaukee offers a range of service and support options, including a toll-free help desk, accessible online resources, and a network of authorized dealers and repair centers. This ensures a smooth and efficient support process for users, addressing concerns related to product operation and repair requirements.

Can the Milwaukee Skill Saw handle heavy-duty tasks?

Certainly, the Milwaukee Skill Saw is designed for a range of cutting tasks, even heavy-duty materials like plywood and metal. Its mighty 15-amp motor guarantees smooth and accurate cuts through thicker materials, making it a dependable option for DIY projects and professional purposes.

However, to ensure optimal performance and safety, it’s crucial to select the right blade for the material being cut and adhering strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Furthermore, installing a vacuum or dust extraction system alongside the saw can help to maintain a clean, secure, and effective workspace.

What is the price of a Milwaukee Skill Saw?

The Milwaukee Skill Saw’s pricing varies depending on the specific model and additional features or attachments. The starting price for the Milwaukee Skill Saw is around $199 for the 6485–20 7–1/4" 15-amp Skill Saw. Other models, like the 6485–21 X2 and the 6485–22 XPRT, carry comparative costs, with the XPRT model typically being the most expensive at around $300.

While the costs might seem higher than some competing models, it’s valuable to consider the Milwaukee Skill Saw’s high-quality build, endurance, and adaptability. Many users find the initial investment to be commendable, rewarding them with improved performance and lasting benefits. Moreover, companies like Milwaukee often provide financing options or promotional discounts to cater to user affordability.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we may earn from qualified purchases!

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