Milwaukee M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw

It’s always exciting when a new tool arrives, promising to make your work easier and more efficient. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw certainly fits this bill with its compact design, lightweight build, and cordless convenience. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to put this tool to the test in various cutting applications, and here’s what I found.

Design and Build

One of the standout features of this band saw is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 6 lbs and measuring 14.12 inches in length, this tool is incredibly easy to handle, especially in tight spaces or when working overhead. The straight handle and well-balanced body make it comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing user fatigue.

The saw is built from a combination of metal, plastic, and aluminum, which gives it a robust yet lightweight feel. The integrated blade covers are a thoughtful addition, ensuring safe one-handed operation. This is particularly useful when you’re working on a ladder or in other precarious positions.

Performance

The M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw features a cut capacity of 2-1/2” x 2-1/2”, making it suitable for a variety of materials, including EMT conduit, copper, threaded rod, and strut. During my tests, the tool performed admirably on materials up to this thickness. The brushless motor is powerful and efficient, providing consistent cutting performance.

However, the variable speed trigger does take some getting used to. You need to apply quite a bit of pressure to reach maximum speed, which can be a bit cumbersome during longer cuts. Once you get the hang of it, the variable speed does offer excellent control, allowing you to match the speed to the material being cut.

Battery Life

The M12 system is known for its compact batteries, and this band saw is no exception. I used a 6.0 Ah battery, which provided enough power to last through a full day of intermittent use. However, for more demanding tasks, you might find yourself needing to swap out batteries or recharge during your lunch break. The battery life is decent but not exceptional, especially if you’re cutting thicker or harder materials.

Convenience Features

Milwaukee has included several features that enhance the usability of this band saw. The LED work light is a small but significant addition, providing improved visibility in dimly lit work areas. The rafter hook is another handy feature, allowing you to hang the tool when not in use, keeping it within easy reach.

Blade changes are straightforward and quick, thanks to the tool-less blade change mechanism. This is a crucial feature when you’re on the job site and need to switch out blades quickly.

Blade Availability

One area where this tool falls short is in the availability of replacement blades. The 30 9/16” blade size is not as commonly stocked as other sizes, meaning you may need to order them in advance or in bulk. This can be a bit frustrating if you find yourself needing a new blade unexpectedly.

Cutting Performance

In terms of cutting performance, the M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw excels in most tasks. It cuts through EMT, copper, and threaded rod like a hot knife through butter. However, it does struggle a bit with thicker or tougher materials, occasionally stalling or requiring multiple passes to complete a cut. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning to use this tool for heavy-duty applications.

Safety and Ergonomics

The safety lock is a bit cumbersome to use, especially if you have smaller hands. It requires a sideways push to unlock the trigger, which can be awkward. A chainsaw-style safety switch would have been a better choice. Despite this, the overall ergonomics of the tool are excellent. It’s easy to maneuver, and the rubber over-molded grip provides a secure hold.

Durability

The build quality of the M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw is impressive. The combination of metal, plastic, and aluminum gives it a sturdy feel, and the brushless motor is designed for longevity. However, some parts of the guard are made of plastic, which raises concerns about long-term durability. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning out metal shavings, will help extend the life of the tool.

Recommendations

So, would I recommend the Milwaukee M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. If you’re an electrician, plumber, or HVAC professional, this tool is a fantastic addition to your toolkit. Its compact size, lightweight design, and cordless convenience make it ideal for one-handed operation in tight spaces. The performance is solid for most applications, and the convenience features like the LED light and rafter hook add to its appeal.

However, if you frequently cut thicker or tougher materials, you might find the performance a bit lacking. Additionally, the availability of replacement blades can be an issue, so plan ahead to ensure you’re not caught without a spare.

Overall, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL™ Compact Band Saw is a well-designed, versatile tool that performs well in most cutting applications. It’s a worthy investment for professionals looking for a compact and efficient cutting solution, as long as you’re aware of its limitations.