Milwaukee 6-1/2" Circular Saw

The Milwaukee 6-1/2" Circular Saw, model 0730-20, is a robust and versatile tool that offers a blend of power and portability, making it a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. Designed for cordless convenience with Milwaukee's 28V LITHIUM-ION technology, this circular saw aims to deliver effective woodcutting performance without the hassle of cords. With a cutting speed of 4200 RPM, tactile grips, and a high-strength aircraft aluminum shoe, it promises precise and controlled cuts for a variety of woodworking tasks.

Performance and Power

The first thing I noticed about this saw is its power. The 28-volt battery provides ample juice to tackle demanding cuts, and the 4200 RPM cutting speed ensures that the blade slices through wood with ease. I tested it on several types of lumber, including pressure-treated wood and oak veneer panels. The saw handled all materials admirably, cutting through 3/4" oak veneer panels with little resistance and making quick work of pressure-treated 2x10 lumber.

One of the standout features is the electric brake, which stops the blade almost instantly when you release the trigger. This not only increases productivity by reducing downtime between cuts but also adds a layer of safety, minimizing the risk of accidental cuts or damage to the material.

Design and Build Quality

Milwaukee has put considerable thought into the design of this circular saw. The high-strength aircraft aluminum shoe provides a stable and accurate base for cutting. The tactile grips on both handles make the saw comfortable to hold and control, even during extended use. The overall weight of the tool is well-balanced, making it suitable for one-handed use in certain situations.

However, the saw is not without its design flaws. The latch securing the foot plate for adjusting blade depth is a bit cumbersome, and the foot plate itself is narrow, causing the tool to flop on its side when placed down. This can be a minor annoyance, especially if you're frequently adjusting the blade depth for different cuts.

Accuracy and Adjustments

One of the most critical aspects of any circular saw is its ability to make accurate cuts. Here, the Milwaukee 6-1/2" Circular Saw delivers mixed results. While the saw generally makes precise cuts, there are issues with the bevel adjustment. It can be challenging to set the saw to a true 0° bevel angle due to a limiter in the upper right corner. This issue requires some manual tweaking, which can be frustrating if you need perfect precision for your projects.

Additionally, the blade guard and safety switch have had some reported issues. The safety switch occasionally becomes unresponsive, and the guard may not retract properly during cuts. These problems can disrupt workflow and require attention to ensure the saw operates smoothly.

Battery Life and Charging

The saw uses the M28 battery system, which offers decent runtime for most tasks. In my tests, a fully charged 5.0 amp-hour battery lasted for over 100 cuts through 2x10 pressure-treated lumber, which is impressive. The one-hour charge time is reasonable, ensuring that you can get back to work quickly if you have multiple batteries on hand.

Additional Features

The built-in LED work light is a handy feature, illuminating the cut line and making it easier to work in low-light conditions. However, its placement could be better, as it doesn't always provide optimal lighting for the front of the shoe, where I typically guide my cuts.

The integrated rafter hook is another useful addition, providing a convenient way to hang the saw when not in use. However, it would have been nice to have a belt hook as well, for even more versatility on the job site.

Durability and Long-Term Use

Durability is a key consideration for any tool, and the Milwaukee 6-1/2" Circular Saw holds up well in this regard. The high-strength aluminum shoe and robust build quality suggest that this saw can withstand the rigors of professional use. However, some users have reported electrical issues that prevent the saw from turning on unless the battery is first used in another Milwaukee tool. This could be a significant drawback if it occurs frequently.

Overall Impressions

In summary, the Milwaukee 6-1/2" Circular Saw offers a lot of positives—powerful performance, robust build quality, and useful features like the electric brake and LED work light. However, it also has some notable drawbacks, including issues with bevel adjustments and occasional problems with the safety switch and blade guard.

Would I recommend this tool?

Yes, but with reservations. If you're already invested in the Milwaukee battery platform and need a powerful, cordless circular saw, this model is a solid choice. Its performance and battery life make it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. However, if precision and flawless operation are critical for your work, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to make some manual adjustments to get the best out of this saw. The design flaws and occasional operational issues prevent it from being a perfect tool, but it still offers a compelling blend of power and versatility for many woodworking applications.