Milwaukee Band Saw (Tool Only)

Cutting metal can often be a daunting task, especially when working in tight spaces or overhead. That’s where the Milwaukee 2629-20 Cordless Band Saw comes in. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with various tools, but this one stands out for its versatility and ease of use.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Milwaukee Band Saw is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 10.25 lbs, it’s surprisingly easy to handle, even when working in awkward positions. The compact size and well-balanced structure make it perfect for overhead jobs or when you’re in confined spaces.

The build quality is robust. Milwaukee has a reputation for creating sturdy tools, and this band saw is no exception. The exterior is rugged enough to withstand the usual job site bumps and drops, yet it remains comfortable to hold for extended periods.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee Band Saw doesn’t disappoint. It has a 3-1/4 inch cut capacity, allowing you to handle a variety of materials including strut, conduit, angle iron, copper, and threaded rod. The dual-actuation trigger is a thoughtful addition, providing improved control and safety, ensuring that accidental starts are minimized.

The cutting speed is another highlight. The saw operates at 480 SFPM (Surface Feet Per Minute), which translates to quick and efficient cuts. I found it especially useful for making clean, precise cuts in electrical conduit and steel pipe. The cuts are smooth, and there’s minimal vibration, which makes the whole process more comfortable and less tiring.

Convenience Features

One of the standout features is the tool-free adjustable material shoe. This allows you to make flush cuts against walls and ceilings with ease. The shoe adjustment mechanism is intuitive and can be done quickly, which is a significant time-saver on the job.

Another convenient feature is the LED work light. This might seem like a minor addition, but it makes a world of difference when you’re working in poorly lit areas. The light is bright enough to illuminate the cutting area, ensuring that you make accurate cuts every time.

Blade changes are also a breeze thanks to the blade ejection system. No more fumbling with tools or wasting time trying to get the blade out. Just a simple ejection mechanism, and you’re ready to replace the blade and get back to work.

Battery Life

Being a cordless tool, battery life is always a concern. The Milwaukee Band Saw runs on the M18 battery system, and I was pleasantly surprised by its longevity. Even with heavy use, a single XC5.0 battery lasted several days. This extended battery life means fewer interruptions and more productivity, which is always a plus.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee Band Saw is an excellent tool, it’s not without its flaws. One minor issue is the trigger lock. It tends to slip back into the locked position occasionally, which can be a bit annoying. It’s not a major problem, but it’s something that could be improved in future models.

Another point to consider is the design flaw related to the blade coming off during use. While this hasn't been a frequent issue for me, I’ve heard from colleagues that it can be a problem. Milwaukee has addressed this with a shim, but a more permanent redesign would be welcomed.

Additionally, the lack of variable speed control is a slight drawback. While the single speed is sufficient for most tasks, having the option to adjust the speed would broaden the tool’s range of usefulness.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this band saw is a godsend for electricians, plumbers, and general contractors. It’s particularly useful for cutting metal pipes, unistrut, and threaded rods. The lightweight design makes it easy to use one-handed, which is often necessary when working in tight spaces or overhead.

For me, the tool has been invaluable in electrical installations. Cutting EMT conduit and other metal materials is a breeze. The clean cuts mean less deburring and a quicker overall job completion time. It’s also excellent for cutting unistrut and other framing materials, making it a versatile addition to any tradesperson’s toolkit.

Overall Impression

Overall, the Milwaukee 2629-20 Cordless Band Saw is a high-quality, reliable tool that delivers excellent performance. Its lightweight design, powerful cutting ability, and convenient features make it a standout choice for professionals. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they are overshadowed by its numerous benefits.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend the Milwaukee Band Saw to any professional who regularly works with metal. Its performance, ease of use, and durability make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, or general contractor, this tool will undoubtedly make your job easier and more efficient. Given its robust build and thoughtful features, it’s a tool that will serve you well for years to come.