Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw w/ ONE-KEY™

Milwaukee's 9" Cut-Off Saw w/ ONE-KEY™ (model 2786-20) represents an ambitious leap into the realm of battery-powered construction tools. As someone who appreciates the convenience and portability of cordless tools, I was eager to see how this saw would perform in a real-world setting. Spoiler alert: it’s a mixed bag.

Upon first inspection, the saw’s lightweight design immediately stands out. Weighing in at just 10.6 lbs (bare tool), it is significantly lighter than its gas-powered counterparts. This is a welcome change, especially for those of us who’ve spent long days lugging around heavier equipment. The instant start feature is another highlight, eliminating the need to mix fuel and making the tool suitable for indoor use.

The saw is powered by Milwaukee’s M18 REDLITHIUM batteries, and this is where things get interesting. The performance of the saw is heavily dependent on the battery life and the type of work you’re doing. For instance, when cutting a concrete slab indoors, I found that a fully charged 12.0 battery allowed me to cut about 4 linear feet at full depth before the tool shut down due to battery overheating. This is a manageable issue if you have multiple batteries and a fan to cool them down quickly. However, it's clear that continuous use is not this tool’s strong suit.

The ONE-KEY™ technology is a noteworthy feature, offering tracking and management options that can be quite beneficial on larger job sites. It’s a useful addition for those who need to keep tabs on their tools and manage inventory efficiently.

Cutting performance is where the saw truly shines. When used properly, it cuts through materials like reinforced concrete and rebar with ease. I particularly appreciated the RAPIDSTOP blade brake, which adds an extra layer of safety by stopping the blade quickly when the trigger is released. The fully adjustable guard and onboard water connection with a quick connect feature also contribute to a more user-friendly experience, especially when dealing with dust control during cutting operations.

However, the saw’s battery consumption is a significant drawback. High output batteries tend to overheat quickly, especially during demanding tasks. In my experience, a 12.0 battery would last about 5-7 minutes of continuous cutting before overheating. This necessitates having multiple batteries on hand and a strategy for cooling them down between uses. For professionals who need to work continuously, this can be a deal-breaker.

The tool’s design also has some room for improvement. The battery compartment does not allow for adequate ventilation, leading to quicker overheating. Additionally, accessing replacement parts and accessories for the saw can be challenging, which is frustrating for those who rely on their tools for daily work.

On a positive note, the saw’s build quality and craftsmanship are commendable. It feels sturdy and well-balanced, making it easier to control during precise cuts. The adjustable blade guard and solid water valve add to its overall usability, ensuring that dust and debris are kept to a minimum during operation.

For occasional use, particularly in environments where gas-powered tools are impractical, the Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw w/ ONE-KEY™ can be a valuable addition to your toolkit. It excels in portability, ease of use, and cutting capability, provided you have a robust battery management plan in place. However, for heavy-duty, continuous use, it falls short due to the limitations of its battery life and the associated downtime for cooling and recharging.

In conclusion, would I recommend this tool? It depends on your needs. If you’re a contractor or professional who requires a reliable, continuous-use cut-off saw, you might find the battery limitations too restrictive. In such cases, a gas-powered alternative or a more robust battery system would be more appropriate. On the other hand, for those who need a portable, easy-to-use saw for intermittent tasks, especially indoors, the Milwaukee 9" Cut-Off Saw w/ ONE-KEY™ offers a compelling option. With its lightweight design, instant start, and impressive cutting capabilities, it can be a significant asset for specific applications. Just be prepared to invest in multiple high-capacity batteries and a cooling strategy to get the most out of this tool.