Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw with ONE-KEY Kit

The Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw with ONE-KEY Kit is an intriguing addition to the toolbox, especially for those of us who have been loyal to gas-powered models for years. As someone who has spent countless hours maneuvering heavy, noisy, and sometimes temperamental gas saws, the promise of a lighter, cordless alternative was too good to pass up.

First off, the most noticeable advantage of this saw is its weight. At just 10.6 lbs for the bare tool, it is significantly lighter than most gas-powered counterparts. This reduction in weight translates to less fatigue during extended use, which is a considerable benefit when working on larger projects. The saw feels well-balanced in hand, making it easy to maneuver and control, even in tight spaces.

The Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw is powered by M18 REDLITHIUM batteries, and it comes with two 12.0Ah batteries as part of the kit. These high-capacity batteries are designed to provide extended run time, which is crucial for demanding tasks like cutting reinforced concrete and metal. However, the reality of battery performance is a bit mixed. While the saw does deliver impressive power, comparable to gas models for many tasks, the battery life can be a limiting factor, especially for continuous, heavy-duty use.

In my experience, the saw excels at tasks like cutting wall blocks, pavers, and smaller metal pieces. For these applications, the battery life is more than adequate, and the saw performs admirably. The brushless motor spins the blade at 6,600 RPM, and the RAPIDSTOP blade brake is a fantastic safety feature, stopping the blade in about three seconds once the trigger is released.

The onboard water connection is another standout feature. It allows for quick and easy attachment of a garden hose to wet the cutting surface, which helps control dust and cool the blade. This is particularly useful when cutting concrete, as it significantly reduces the amount of silica dust generated, making for a cleaner and safer work environment. The water shutoff valve on the tool is convenient and works well, allowing for precise control over the water flow.

However, when it comes to cutting deeper or more substantial materials, such as thick concrete slabs or filled cinder blocks, the saw's limitations become apparent. The 9" blade has a maximum cutting depth of 3.4 inches, which may not be sufficient for some applications. Additionally, the saw tends to overheat the batteries quickly under heavy loads. During a project involving cutting through a 3" deep reinforced concrete slab, I found that the batteries would overheat and shut down after just a few minutes of continuous use. This necessitated frequent battery swaps and extended downtime to allow the batteries to cool, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

The ONE-KEY compatibility is a nice touch, particularly for contractors who need to keep track of their tools. The app allows for tool tracking, management, and even locking the tool to prevent unauthorized use. While I don't use this feature extensively, I can see its value for larger operations with multiple tools in use.

In terms of build quality, the saw feels robust and well-constructed. Milwaukee has a reputation for durable tools, and this saw is no exception. The design is ergonomic, and the controls are intuitive and easy to use. The included hex wrench and scrench for blade changes are stored onboard, which is a thoughtful addition that ensures you always have the necessary tools at hand.

Despite its strengths, the Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw is not without its drawbacks. The most significant issue is the battery performance under heavy loads. For tasks that require continuous, high-demand cutting, the saw struggles to maintain power and tends to overheat the batteries quickly. This can be a deal-breaker for professionals who need a reliable tool for extensive concrete cutting or similar applications.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw with ONE-KEY Kit is a well-designed and powerful tool that excels in specific applications. Its lightweight and cordless design make it a pleasure to use for smaller tasks and intermittent cutting. The dust control features and ONE-KEY compatibility add to its appeal, making it a versatile addition to any toolbox.

However, for those who require a saw for continuous, heavy-duty use, the battery performance and overheating issues may prove to be significant limitations. If your work involves extensive concrete cutting or other demanding tasks, you might find a gas-powered saw or a more robust cordless alternative to be a better fit.

Overall, I would recommend the Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw for users who need a lightweight, portable saw for smaller projects and intermittent use. Its design, ease of use, and dust control features make it a valuable tool for these applications. However, for those who require a tool for more intensive, continuous use, it's essential to weigh the limitations of battery performance and consider whether this saw meets your specific needs.