Milwaukee SAWZALL® Recip Saw Kit

As an avid DIY enthusiast and professional contractor, I've had my fair share of experience with a variety of power tools. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Milwaukee SAWZALL® Recip Saw Kit (model 0719-22), and I was quite eager to see how it stacks up against other reciprocating saws on the market.

The first thing you'll notice about this saw is its cordless convenience. Powered by a 28 Volt lithium-ion battery, it offers the freedom to move around without the hassle of being tethered to a power outlet. This is a significant advantage, especially when working in areas where electricity isn't readily available or when you're tackling a project that requires a lot of mobility.

One of the standout features of this tool is its variable speed trigger, which offers two speed ranges: 0-2000 strokes per minute for cutting metal and 0-3000 strokes per minute for cutting wood. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from pruning trees to cutting through metal pipes. The stroke length of 1-1/8 inches provides efficient cutting, allowing you to get through materials quickly and with less effort.

Changing blades on the SAWZALL is a breeze, thanks to the QUIK-LOK™ blade clamp. This feature allows for quick and easy blade changes without the need for additional tools, which is a real time-saver on the job site. Additionally, the keyless shoe adjustment provides better control over the cutting depth, ensuring precision and safety.

Durability is another area where this tool excels. The gear-protecting clutch is designed to extend the life of the tool by absorbing high-impact forces, which can otherwise cause wear and tear. Coupled with a robust build and a 5-year warranty, it's clear that Milwaukee has put a lot of thought into making this tool both tough and reliable.

In terms of performance, the saw doesn't disappoint. It's powerful enough to cut through thick branches and metal with ease. During my testing, I used it to prune some overgrown trees and tackle a small demolition project. The saw handled both tasks effortlessly, demonstrating its versatility and power. The balance between portability and power is well-executed, making it a dependable tool for both professional and home use.

The tool's weight is 9.4 lbs, which is slightly on the heavier side for a cordless reciprocating saw. However, the weight is well-distributed, and the ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. I found that the added weight actually helped to stabilize the saw during cutting, reducing vibration and improving control. This is particularly beneficial when making precise cuts or working in awkward positions.

One minor drawback is the lack of orbital action, which can enhance cutting speed and efficiency, especially in wood. While this feature is missing, it didn't hinder the tool's performance significantly in my experience. The saw still managed to complete tasks quickly and efficiently, and the variable speed control compensated for the lack of orbital action to some extent.

Another point worth mentioning is the storage case. While the hard plastic case provides adequate protection for the saw, it lacks additional compartments for storing blades and accessories. This can be a bit inconvenient, as it means you might need to carry an extra container for your blades. It's a small gripe, but worth noting for those who like to keep their tools and accessories organized.

Overall, the Milwaukee SAWZALL® Recip Saw Kit is an impressive tool that lives up to its reputation. It's powerful, durable, and versatile, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit. The cordless design adds a level of convenience that is hard to beat, and the features like the QUIK-LOK™ blade clamp and gear-protecting clutch enhance its usability and longevity.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Milwaukee SAWZALL® Recip Saw Kit offers the performance and reliability you need to get the job done efficiently. Its combination of power, versatility, and durability makes it a standout choice in the realm of reciprocating saws. While it has a few minor shortcomings, they are far outweighed by the numerous advantages this tool provides. If you're in the market for a high-quality, cordless reciprocating saw, the Milwaukee SAWZALL® is well worth considering.