Milwaukee 14" Chainsaw

Cutting wood has always been a bit of a chore for me, especially when dealing with the hassles of gas-powered chainsaws. So, when I came across Milwaukee's 14" Chainsaw (model 2727-20C), I was skeptical but hopeful. A battery-powered alternative sounded like a dream, eliminating the need for gas, pull cords, and all the noise. After putting it through its paces, I must say, this chainsaw offers a mixed bag of experiences, but overall, it’s a tool worth considering.

Setup and Initial Impressions

Right out of the box, the Milwaukee 14" Chainsaw is impressive. Setup is straightforward: just add chain oil, insert a charged M18™ battery, and you're ready to go. There’s no need to mix fuel or prime the engine, which is a huge relief. The tool feels robust and well-balanced in the hand, even though it weighs about 13.9 lbs. While it’s slightly heavier than some gas counterparts, the weight distribution makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Performance

The saw features a brushless motor, which promises to maintain speed under heavy loads. This claim holds up well in practice. I used this chainsaw to fell several dead ash trees with diameters ranging from 8 to 12 inches, and it handled the task admirably. The chainsaw operates at full throttle in under a second, which is incredibly convenient when you need to make quick cuts.

One feature that stands out is its automatic oiler, which keeps the chain well-lubricated. This is a significant advantage over some gas models that require manual oiling. However, this convenience comes with a downside: the saw tends to leak bar oil when not in use. Unfortunately, this is a common issue among many users, and it can be quite frustrating if you need to store the saw indoors.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the critical factors for any cordless tool, and this chainsaw performs decently in this department. Milwaukee claims up to 150 cuts per charge, but this will vary depending on the type of wood and the size of the cuts. On average, a fully charged 12.0 Ah battery lasted about an hour of continuous use, which aligns with my real-world experience. However, if you're planning a full day's work, you'll need multiple batteries to keep going without downtime. A fast charger is included, which can recharge a battery in just over an hour, making it feasible to rotate between two or three batteries for uninterrupted work.

Cutting Speed and Efficiency

In terms of cutting speed, the chainsaw is faster than many gas models, especially given its cordless nature. The 6600 RPM motor helps slice through wood efficiently. I found it particularly useful for limbing and bucking tasks. The chain gauge of .043” and chain pitch of 3/8” low profile contribute to smoother and more precise cuts. However, the thin bar can occasionally get pinched in larger logs, requiring some extra caution.

Noise and Vibration

One of the most striking features of this chainsaw is its quiet operation. Unlike gas-powered saws that roar to life, this one hums along at a much more neighbor-friendly volume. This makes it ideal for early morning tasks or residential areas where noise can be a concern. The reduced vibration is another plus, making it easier on the hands and arms during extended use.

Durability and Build Quality

Milwaukee is known for its durable tools, and this chainsaw is no exception. The overall build quality feels solid, and the components appear to be made to last. However, I did encounter an issue with the onboard chain tool, which is difficult to remove and use, especially with gloves on. This could be a minor annoyance but doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when dealing with chainsaws, and Milwaukee has done well in this regard. The chainsaw includes a safety bar that disables the motor when pushed forward, adding an extra layer of protection. Additionally, the trigger safety mechanism ensures that the chainsaw doesn’t accidentally start, which is a nice touch.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- No need for fuel mixing
- Quiet operation
- Automatic chain lubrication
- Fast cutting speed
- Compatible with all M18™ batteries

Cons:
- Leaks bar oil when not in use
- Slightly heavier than expected
- Battery life may require multiple batteries for extended use
- Onboard chain tool is hard to remove

Conclusion

After thoroughly testing the Milwaukee 14" Chainsaw, I can confidently say that it’s a powerful, efficient, and user-friendly tool, especially for those who are tired of dealing with the hassles of gas-powered models. Its performance in cutting, ease of use, and quieter operation make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced users. However, the bar oil leakage issue and the need for multiple batteries for extended use are drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend this chainsaw? Absolutely, particularly for homeowners and light to medium-duty users who value convenience and ease of maintenance. For heavy-duty, all-day tasks, you might need to invest in additional batteries or consider a gas-powered alternative. All in all, the Milwaukee 14" Chainsaw offers a significant upgrade in terms of convenience and performance, making it a worthy addition to your tool arsenal.