Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 6 ½" Circular Saw

When evaluating a circular saw, I prioritize functionality, durability, and ease of use. The Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 6 ½" Circular Saw (model 2630-22) has consistently met and, in some cases, exceeded my expectations in these areas.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about this saw is its build quality. Milwaukee has equipped this tool with a magnesium upper guard, which offers an excellent balance between durability and weight. The saw weighs in at 8.5 lbs, which is relatively lightweight for a tool that delivers such robust performance. The inclusion of a lightweight aircraft aluminum shoe is a thoughtful touch; it ensures accurate cuts while adding minimal weight. The ergonomic soft-grip handle is another feature that enhances comfort, especially during extended use.

Performance

Powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, this saw boasts a 3,500 RPM motor, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks, from rough framing to finer plywood cuts. One of the key features I appreciated was its maximum bevel capacity of 50 degrees, which offers flexibility in making angled cuts. The cuts were clean and precise, whether I was working on thick lumber or thinner plywood sheets.

However, the battery life can be a limiting factor. While the tool comes with two high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, the original XC batteries struggled to keep up during intense, prolonged use. Upgrading to the newer XC5.0 batteries made a significant difference, providing enough power to handle more demanding jobs without frequent interruptions for recharging.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee Circular Saw is its ease of use. The tool is well-balanced, and the placement of the handle and trigger allows for quick and accurate cuts with good control. The blade-change key stored on the tool itself is a convenient feature, making it easy to switch blades quickly. The saw also comes with a cut guide, which helps in making straight and accurate cuts. The electric brake is a notable safety feature, stopping the blade almost immediately after the trigger is released.

Battery and Charging

The saw’s battery system is part of Milwaukee's M18 line, which means it is compatible with other M18 tools. This is a significant advantage if you're already invested in Milwaukee's cordless ecosystem. The charge time for the batteries is about an hour, which is quite reasonable. However, for heavy-duty tasks, I found that using higher capacity batteries, like the XC5.0 or even the 9.0, is almost a necessity.

Durability

Durability is another area where this tool excels. Over several years of use, including demanding framing work and day-to-day carpentry tasks, the saw has held up remarkably well. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the saw after each use and timely blade replacements, can extend its life even further. This tool has taken quite a bit of abuse in various job sites and still performs as if it were brand new.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the saw is not without its limitations. There's a noticeable difference in performance compared to corded models, especially when cutting through thicker materials. The battery life, although decent, can become a constraint for more extensive projects, necessitating frequent battery swaps. Users may also find the maximum bevel capacity a bit limiting for certain specialized cuts.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 6 ½" Circular Saw is a versatile, reliable, and durable tool that should be considered by anyone in need of a high-quality cordless circular saw. Its lightweight design, coupled with robust cutting capabilities, makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from rough framing to detailed carpentry work.

The convenience of cordless operation cannot be overstated, especially for quick tasks and job sites without easy access to power outlets. However, for more demanding tasks, investing in higher capacity batteries is advisable. The tool's build quality and thoughtful design features, such as the ergonomic handle and electric brake, further enhance its appeal.

Would I recommend this saw? Absolutely. It is a well-rounded, high-performing tool that offers excellent value for both professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. The durability and compatibility with Milwaukee's M18 battery system make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it may not completely replace a corded circular saw for the heaviest tasks, its convenience and performance in most scenarios make it a highly worthwhile investment.