Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw

The Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw, model 2730-20, promises a blend of power, versatility, and convenience in a compact, cordless design. As someone who values efficiency and durability in my tools, I was eager to put this saw to the test. Here’s a detailed look at my experience with this tool.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about the Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw is its robust build. The magnesium shoe and blade guard add a sense of durability while keeping the tool lightweight at 6.8 lbs. The compact design is perfect for overhead cuts and tight spaces. The rafter hook is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to hang the saw securely between tasks.

The saw also features an integrated LED light, which is handy for low-light conditions. However, I found the placement of the LED somewhat challenging. Since I typically use the front of the shoe to guide my cuts, the light didn’t always illuminate the cutting line as effectively as I would have liked.

Performance

The brushless motor in this saw delivers impressive power. I tested it on various materials, including stacked OSB and pressure-treated lumber. The saw handled these tasks with ease, cutting through four sheets of OSB and 2x10 lumber smoothly. The blade change mechanism is straightforward, with enough clearance to swap blades without fussing with the guard.

In terms of speed, the saw operates at 5,000 RPM, which is more than sufficient for most cutting tasks. I paired it with a 5.0 Ah RedLithium battery, and the combination provided ample runtime. During my tests, I achieved over 125 cuts through lumber before needing to recharge. This makes the saw a reliable choice for extended projects.

Precision and Adjustability

While the saw excels in many areas, it does have a few precision-related issues. Adjusting the saw to a perfect 0° bevel angle proved problematic. The limiter on the upper right corner restricts the movement, making it impossible to achieve a true zero without some manual adjustments. This is a significant drawback for those who require precise cuts.

The bevel adjustment itself is straightforward, with clear markings that are easy to read. However, the latch securing the footplate for blade depth adjustment felt cumbersome. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does slow down the adjustment process, which can be irritating during fast-paced work.

Comfort and Usability

Ergonomically, the saw is quite comfortable to use. The handle is well-contoured with a rubber over-mold that ensures a secure grip. The weight distribution is balanced, making it feasible for one-handed use, especially in overhead applications. The safety lever and trigger mechanism are intuitive and provide a satisfying click, indicating when the saw is ready to operate.

One minor issue I encountered was with the onboard storage for the blade-changing hex wrench. It tends to become loose over time, and I fear it may eventually fall out and get lost. A more secure storage solution would have been appreciated.

Noise and Dust Control

The Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw is quieter than many other circular saws I’ve used. This is a pleasant surprise, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods without the need for ear protection. However, dust control is somewhat lacking. There is no vacuum attachment, and the sawdust tends to eject towards the user, which can be annoying and potentially hazardous if not wearing protective eyewear.

Reliability and Durability

In terms of reliability, the saw performs admirably. The brushless motor offers better efficiency and longevity, and the overall build quality inspires confidence. However, I’ve noticed some users have reported electrical issues where the saw fails to start unless the battery is first used in another tool. This hasn’t been my experience, but it’s something to be aware of.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw, model 2730-20, is a highly capable tool that combines power, portability, and versatility. Its brushless motor ensures efficient performance, and the magnesium construction keeps it lightweight without sacrificing durability. For general cutting tasks, this saw is a reliable choice, especially if you’re already invested in the M18 battery platform.

However, it’s not without its flaws. Precision adjustments for bevel angles can be frustrating, and the lack of dust control is a notable omission. The minor design issues, like the loose hex wrench holder and cumbersome footplate latch, are also worth mentioning.

Would I recommend it? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re looking for a powerful, cordless circular saw that can handle a variety of tasks and you’re already using Milwaukee’s M18 system, this saw is a solid addition to your toolkit. However, if precision and dust control are critical for your work, you might want to explore other options or be prepared to make some manual adjustments.

Overall, the Milwaukee 6-1/2 Inch Circular Saw strikes a good balance between performance and convenience, making it a worthwhile consideration for both professional and DIY users.