Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw Kit

As a DIY enthusiast and professional handyman, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various power tools, and the Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw Kit (model 2625-21) has certainly left a lasting impression. This compact, one-handed reciprocating saw is designed to tackle a range of materials, including wood, metal, and PVC, making it an exceptionally versatile tool. From its ergonomic design to its powerful performance, the HACKZALL brings a lot to the table. Let me walk you through my journey with this tool and why it's become a staple in my toolkit.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things you notice about the HACKZALL is its compact size and one-handed design. Weighing in at just 4.1 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight, which makes it ideal for extended use without causing arm fatigue. The one-handed operation is a game-changer, especially when working in tight spaces or overhead. The tool feels well-balanced in hand, and the grip is comfortable enough to use even with gloves on, a significant plus for those who work in various environments.

The built-in LED light is a thoughtful addition that illuminates the work surface, allowing for precise cuts even in dimly lit areas. This feature has proven invaluable in basements and attics where lighting is often subpar.

Performance

The HACKZALL’s motor delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute with a 3/4-inch stroke length, making it powerful enough to cut through a variety of materials with ease. Whether you’re dealing with wood, metal, or PVC, this tool handles it all. I’ve used it extensively for kitchen demos, pruning tree branches, and even cutting through old building materials left by previous property owners. The QUIK-LOK blade clamp is a fantastic feature, allowing for quick and tool-free blade changes, which saves time and hassle on the job.

One of the standout aspects of the HACKZALL is its dual gear anti-vibration system. This feature significantly reduces vibration, allowing for more comfortable and controlled cutting. It’s especially noticeable during prolonged use, where reduced vibration translates to less fatigue and more precise cuts.

Battery Life and Durability

The HACKZALL uses an 18V Lithium-Ion battery, and I've found that it offers a commendable runtime. Paired with a 5.0AH battery, I’ve managed to trim and cut up a six-yard dumpster worth of tree branches on just two-thirds of the battery charge. The battery life is robust enough for most tasks, and the one-hour charge time ensures minimal downtime.

Durability-wise, the HACKZALL lives up to Milwaukee’s reputation for producing sturdy tools. Despite regular use and occasional drops, the saw has shown minimal wear and tear. However, it's worth noting that the brushless version might offer better longevity, especially for professionals who use the tool daily.

Versatility

One of the most remarkable aspects of the HACKZALL is its versatility. With the right blades, this tool can tackle an impressive range of jobs. From cutting wood, metal, and PVC to pruning vegetation and removing grout, the possibilities are virtually endless. The compact size allows it to get into tight spaces where larger saws simply can’t go.

For plumbing tasks, it’s been particularly useful. Cutting pre-existing copper pipes in cramped conditions is a breeze with the HACKZALL. It’s also excellent for electricians who need to make overhead cuts, thanks to its lightweight and balanced design.

Limitations

While the HACKZALL excels in many areas, it’s not without its drawbacks. For heavier-duty tasks, such as cutting through larger diameters of material, it does tend to slow down and drain the battery more quickly. In these cases, upgrading to the FUEL version or a full-sized Sawzall might be a better option.

Another limitation is the non-adjustable shoe, which doesn’t articulate or swivel. This can make certain cuts a bit more challenging and might limit the tool's flexibility in some scenarios. Additionally, the lack of a motor brake means the blade continues to move for a second or two after releasing the trigger, which could be a minor safety concern.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw Kit is an impressive tool that combines power, versatility, and ease of use in a compact package. Its lightweight, one-handed design makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from DIY projects to professional tasks. The QUIK-LOK blade clamp, built-in LED light, and dual gear anti-vibration system add significant value, making it a pleasure to use.

While it does have some limitations, particularly for heavy-duty tasks, the HACKZALL is a fantastic addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a professional plumber, electrician, or just a DIY enthusiast, this tool offers excellent performance and reliability.

Would I recommend the HACKZALL? Absolutely. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable asset for a wide range of cutting tasks. The minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its many strengths, making it a worthy investment for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient reciprocating saw.