Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Every so often, I come across a tool that sparks both excitement and frustration in equal measure. Recently, that tool has been the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw. With its cordless convenience and a suite of features that promise top-notch performance, it seemed like an ideal addition to my workshop. But as with many tools, the story is a bit more nuanced.

First Impressions and Setup

From the moment I unboxed this saw, I was struck by its robust build and lightweight design, especially considering it's a 12" miter saw. The integrated handles and the top carry handle make it notably portable, which is a major plus for job site mobility. The shadow light feature is a standout, providing a clear and accurate cut line that I found incredibly useful right away.

Setting the saw up was straightforward. The adjustable stainless steel detent plate and the various integrated bevel stops at 22.5° and 33.9° were easy to figure out and use. The LED light for cut line visibility is a thoughtful inclusion, ensuring precise cuts even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

In Use: Performance and Precision

During my initial tests, I appreciated the saw's power. The brushless motor delivers a solid 3,500 RPM, which tackled everything from 2x4s to more delicate trim work with ease. The saw’s vertical capacity against the fence and nested crown capacity are impressive, making it versatile for a range of applications.

The cut quality is excellent, with the saw producing clean, precise cuts straight out of the box. Calibration was minimal, which speaks to the craftsmanship of the tool. The 12" blade size offers significant cutting capacity, and the dual bevel feature allows for complex cuts without needing to reorient the workpiece constantly.

Portability and Battery Life

One of the main reasons I opted for this model was its cordless nature. Powered by the M18 battery system, this saw promises freedom from cords and the convenience of quick setup and tear down on job sites. During my use, I found the battery life to be commendable. Using a 12.0 High Output battery, I rarely had to worry about swapping batteries during a day's work of cutting pressure-treated wood and composite decking. The long battery life is a definite plus for anyone needing to work in areas without easy access to power outlets.

Durability Concerns

However, as much as I wanted to be entirely sold on this saw, I have encountered some notable issues. The brake system, which initially performed well, started to show signs of failure within a few months. The brake stopped engaging properly, causing the blade to free-spin to a stop rather than halting abruptly. This not only impacts the safety of the tool but also its efficiency.

More troubling was the intermittent power issues. At times, the saw would become unresponsive after engaging the trigger, requiring battery reseating or even complete battery swaps to reset. This is particularly frustrating in the middle of a job where reliability is paramount. On one occasion, the saw completely died mid-cut, despite the battery showing full charge and no signs of overheating.

Customer Support and Repair Logistics

Addressing these issues with Milwaukee has been a mixed bag. While the customer service team was responsive, the logistics of repairs were cumbersome. Given the weight and size of the saw, shipping it for repairs is not feasible. The nearest authorized repair center is over an hour's drive away, which is a significant inconvenience. The downtime associated with these repairs further adds to the frustration, particularly when the tool is a critical part of daily operations.

Pros

• Portability: The lightweight design and integrated handles make it easy to transport.
• Cut Quality: Excellent out-of-the-box precision with minimal calibration needed.
• Battery Life: Long-lasting battery power with the M18 system, especially with high-output batteries.
• Features: Useful features like the shadow light, adjustable detent plate, and dual bevel capabilities enhance usability.

Cons

• Durability: Issues with the brake system and power reliability can be problematic.
• Repair Logistics: Difficulties in getting the saw repaired due to size and weight.
• Inconsistent Performance: Occasional power failures and unresponsive triggers affect work efficiency.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 12" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a tool with immense potential. Its cordless nature, excellent battery life, and impressive cut quality make it an attractive option for professionals needing mobility and precision. However, the durability concerns and logistical challenges of repairs cannot be overlooked.

Would I recommend this saw? If your work environment demands high mobility and you can manage the occasional hiccup, this saw might be worth the investment, especially if you already have a collection of Milwaukee tools and batteries. However, if you require absolute reliability and cannot afford downtime, it might be wise to consider other options or wait until Milwaukee addresses these durability issues.

In summary, while this saw has many strengths, its recurring issues prevent it from being a wholehearted recommendation. It's a tool that promises a lot and delivers in many areas but falls short in the critical aspect of consistent performance.