Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw

Navigating tight spaces and making precise cuts has always been a challenge in my DIY projects and professional tasks. The Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw, model 2420-20, has been a game-changer in this regard. This compact, lightweight reciprocating saw has brought a new level of convenience and efficiency to my toolkit.

Design and Build

The first thing that struck me about the HACKZALL is its compact design. Measuring just 11 inches in length and weighing a mere 2.6 lbs, it's incredibly easy to maneuver. This makes it ideal for working in confined spaces where a full-sized saw would be cumbersome. The ergonomic handle adds to the comfort, allowing for extended use without causing hand fatigue.

Performance and Versatility

Equipped with a powerful motor, the HACKZALL is more than capable of cutting through various materials such as drywall, wood, and PVC. The variable speed trigger offers enhanced control, although I did notice a bit of a jump from low to high speed, making it challenging to maintain a medium speed. This could be a minor inconvenience for those who need precise control over their cutting speed.

One of the standout features is the keyless blade clamp, which allows for quick and easy blade changes. This is particularly useful when switching between different tasks, such as cutting wood and then moving on to metal. The built-in LED light is another thoughtful addition, illuminating the work surface and making it easier to see what you're cutting, especially in dimly lit areas.

Battery Life and System

The HACKZALL runs on Milwaukee's M12 battery system, which is known for its reliability. The battery fuel gauge is a handy feature, letting you know how much run time you have left. However, I found that the tool tends to consume a lot of battery power, especially during heavy use. The standard M12 batteries might not last long for extensive tasks, so having spare batteries on hand is advisable.

Practical Applications

In my experience, the HACKZALL excels in tasks that require precision and access to tight spaces. For example, while working on an old house renovation, I used it to cut through rusted bolts and brackets under a sink—areas where a full-sized saw would have been impractical. It also performed admirably when cutting through 1/2" steel all-thread rod, although it took a bit longer than a more powerful corded saw.

For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, this tool is a fantastic addition to your toolkit. It's perfect for small to medium-sized projects around the house, such as cutting through plastic, nails, and screws. The lightweight design and one-handed operation make it easy to use, even for those who may not have a lot of experience with power tools.

Limitations

While the HACKZALL is a versatile and convenient tool, it does have its limitations. For professional tradesmen who need to use a reciprocating saw all day, every day, this model might fall short in terms of power and battery life. The more powerful "Fuel" version of the HACKZALL would be a better fit for such demanding applications. Additionally, the tool's small stroke length can be a drawback when cutting through thicker materials, as it may not effectively remove sawdust from the kerf.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is always a concern with power tools, and the HACKZALL is no exception. While it has held up well in most of my tasks, I've heard of instances where the tool struggled to cut through materials and experienced motor cutouts. Ensuring you have the right blades and maintaining the tool can help mitigate these issues.

Conclusion

The Milwaukee HACKZALL Recip Saw, model 2420-20, is a highly practical tool for those who need a compact, lightweight, and versatile reciprocating saw. Its ease of use, quick blade changes, and built-in LED light make it a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast's or homeowner's toolkit. However, for professional tradesmen who require more power and longer battery life, the "Fuel" version or a different model might be more suitable.

Would I recommend the HACKZALL? Absolutely, but with some caveats. It's perfect for light to medium-duty tasks and excels in tight spaces where a full-sized saw would be impractical. For heavy-duty, all-day use, you might want to consider a more powerful alternative. Overall, the HACKZALL brings a lot of value and convenience, making it a worthy investment for the right user.