Milwaukee Cordless High Performance Jig Saw Kit

Milwaukee has long been a respected name in the tool industry, known for producing robust and reliable equipment. The Cordless High Performance Jig Saw Kit, model number 2445-21, is part of their M12 line of tools. I recently had the opportunity to put this compact jigsaw through its paces, and I have some thoughts to share.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Milwaukee M12 Jig Saw is compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 3.8 lbs. This makes it highly portable and easy to handle, especially in tight or awkward spaces. The hybrid grip design is one of its standout features, providing excellent control and precision during cuts. The jigsaw is ergonomically designed, fitting comfortably in the hand and allowing for extended use without significant fatigue.

However, the build quality does have some questionable aspects. While the tool feels solid overall, the base plate or shoe has a tendency to come loose during operation. This is particularly concerning because it affects the accuracy of the cuts and can be a safety hazard. I found myself frequently checking and re-tightening the base plate to ensure it was secure, which is far from ideal in a professional setting.

Performance

The M12 Jig Saw is powered by a 12V lithium-ion battery, which offers decent runtime for a variety of cutting tasks. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control, ranging from 0 to 2800 strokes per minute (SPM). This versatility is great for tackling different materials, from wood to metal and plastics. The 3/4" stroke length ensures efficient cutting, and the Quik-Lok T-Shank blade clamp makes for easy blade changes without the need for additional tools.

In terms of cutting performance, the jigsaw does an admirable job on lighter materials. It handles plywood, MDF, and even some metals with relative ease. The LED light is a useful addition, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions and ensuring you can see the cutting line clearly.

User Experience

Using the Milwaukee M12 Jig Saw is generally a pleasant experience, thanks to its lightweight design and comfortable grip. The minimized vibration feature is particularly noteworthy, as it makes for smoother operation and reduces user fatigue. However, the lack of a dust blower is a significant drawback. Sawdust quickly accumulates on the cutting line, obstructing visibility and requiring frequent manual clearing. This can be quite frustrating, especially when precision is critical.

Another issue I encountered was the blade not staying square during cuts. Despite my best efforts to keep the tool steady, the blade would often tilt, affecting the quality of the cut. This seems to be related to the bevel lock mechanism, which doesn't always hold the base plate securely at a 90-degree angle. This is a glaring flaw that Milwaukee needs to address in future iterations of this tool.

Adjustments and Maintenance

One of the most frustrating aspects of this jigsaw is the frequent need for adjustments. The base plate is secured by tiny screws that tend to loosen over time. I found myself having to disassemble the tool to tighten these screws, which is not something you want to be doing in the middle of a project. Milwaukee should consider including a more robust locking mechanism to prevent this issue.

Value for Money

The Milwaukee M12 Jig Saw is reasonably priced, especially considering its brand reputation and the 5-year limited warranty. However, the issues with the base plate and the lack of a dust blower make it hard to justify the investment. For those already invested in the M12 battery system, it might be a convenient addition, but it falls short of the high standards set by other Milwaukee tools.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Cordless High Performance Jig Saw Kit has its merits, particularly in terms of portability, comfort, and power. It's a capable tool for light to medium-duty tasks, and its compact size makes it ideal for use in confined spaces. However, the recurring issues with the base plate and the absence of a dust blower significantly detract from its overall performance and user experience.

Would I recommend this tool? It's a mixed bag. For occasional DIY projects or light professional use, it could be a worthwhile addition to your toolkit, especially if you're already using Milwaukee's M12 battery system. However, for more demanding tasks or frequent use, the design flaws and maintenance issues make it hard to recommend without reservations. Milwaukee has a solid foundation with this jigsaw, but it needs some crucial improvements to fully meet the needs of its users.