Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Jig Saw Kit

The Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Jig Saw, model 2645-22, is a tool that brings a lot of expectations, especially for those who are already invested in Milwaukee's M18 line of tools. As a loyal user of Milwaukee products, I was eager to see how this jig saw would perform in various cutting tasks. After putting it through its paces, I found it to be a tool with both strengths and significant weaknesses that are hard to overlook.

Build Quality and Comfort

One of the first things you'll notice about the Milwaukee jig saw is its substantial weight. At approximately 7.75 lbs, it's heavier than many other jig saws on the market. This heft can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, the weight adds to the tool's sturdiness and helps in minimizing vibration, making it easier to control during cuts. On the other hand, prolonged use can be tiring, especially if you’re working overhead or in awkward positions. The over-molded grip is comfortable and the variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the cutting speed, which is a nice touch.

Power and Performance

Powered by Milwaukee’s RED LITHIUM™ battery technology, the jig saw offers impressive power. I've tested it on various materials, including hardwood, plexiglass, and plywood, and it handled all with ease. The 18V motor delivers a stroke length of 1 inch and a speed range of 0 to 2,700 SPM, which is sufficient for most cutting tasks.

The tool features a 5-position orbital setting, which allows for versatile applications. Whether you’re making delicate curves or aggressive cuts, the orbital settings can be adjusted to match the task at hand. I found the tool-free shoe bevel, which has positive stops, to be quite convenient for quick adjustments. The non-marring shoe is another thoughtful feature, ensuring that your work surfaces remain unscathed.

Blade Change Mechanism

The tool boasts a QUIK-LOK™ Blade Clamp for easy blade changes, theoretically making it a breeze to switch out blades without the need for additional tools. However, in practice, the blade clamp system has proven to be a significant drawback. The mechanism often fails to hold the blade straight, causing it to skew to the right. This misalignment makes it nearly impossible to achieve a straight cut, which is a critical flaw for a jig saw. On several occasions, I found myself spending more time trying to seat the blade correctly than actually cutting.

Usability and Design Issues

One of the more frustrating aspects of this jig saw is the poor line of sight to the blade. The plastic guide attached to the foot obstructs the view, making it difficult to follow cutting lines accurately. Removing the plastic shield improves visibility somewhat, but it’s a workaround rather than a solution. Additionally, the absence of an LED light is a notable omission. An integrated light would have made it easier to see the cut line, especially in dimly lit conditions.

Another recurring issue is the blade skew problem, which seems to be a design flaw in the blade locking mechanism. Even after ensuring the blade is seated correctly, the blade often shifts during use, leading to inaccurate cuts. This is compounded by the lever below the motor, which swings out easily and doesn't lock securely, causing the shoe to change angles during cutting.

Battery Compatibility

One point of contention is the compatibility of the M18 batteries. If you have older M18 batteries, you might find that they don’t fit this tool, which can be a frustrating discovery. This lack of backward compatibility is something that Milwaukee could have communicated more clearly.

Positives Worth Mentioning

Despite these shortcomings, the jig saw does have its merits. The power is undoubtedly impressive, and when the blade is correctly seated, it cuts through tough materials with ease. The tool-free bevel adjustment and the robust build quality are definite advantages. The non-marring shoe is a thoughtful feature that protects your workpieces, and the overall design is ergonomic and user-friendly.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Jig Saw, model 2645-22, is a tool that falls short of its potential. Its power and build quality are commendable, but the blade alignment issues and poor visibility make it a frustrating tool to use for precise cuts. If Milwaukee can address these design flaws in future iterations, this jig saw could become a reliable addition to any toolkit.

As it stands, I cannot wholeheartedly recommend this jig saw. The fundamental issues with the blade alignment and visibility outweigh the positives. For those who require precise, straight cuts, this tool may not meet your expectations. Until Milwaukee resolves these critical design flaws, you might be better served by exploring other options on the market.