Milwaukee 6-1/2” Plunge Track Saw

Navigating the world of precision cutting, especially when dealing with solid hardwoods and intricate bevel cuts, requires a tool that doesn’t just promise performance but delivers it without compromise. Enter the Milwaukee 6-1/2” Plunge Track Saw, a tool designed with the professional carpenter and remodeler in mind. After putting this tool through its paces, I have a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and areas where it could use some improvement.

Build and Design

The first thing that strikes you about this track saw is its robust build. Milwaukee has a reputation for producing sturdy and reliable tools, and this one is no exception. The body is predominantly steel, ensuring durability while still maintaining a manageable weight of 9.13 lbs. The saw feels balanced and solid in hand, with ergonomic grips that make prolonged use less fatiguing.

Performance and Precision

Performance-wise, the Milwaukee track saw shines with its brushless motor capable of delivering up to 5,600 RPM. This power is more than adequate for cutting through dense hardwoods, and the adjustable speed dial allows you to fine-tune the RPM for different materials and cutting conditions. The variable speed is a welcome feature, providing the flexibility needed for both rough cuts and fine, detailed work.

One standout feature is the smooth pivoting plunge motion. This allows for precise plunge cuts, which is particularly useful for starting cuts in the middle of a workpiece. The saw also boasts a maximum cutting depth of 2-1/4”, sufficient for most carpentry tasks.

Bevel Cuts and Track Alignment

However, the tool reveals some quirks when it comes to beveled cuts. At 90 degrees, the saw aligns perfectly with the edge of the track, ensuring clean and accurate cuts. But when shifted to 45 degrees, the cut line is inset from the track’s edge by about 1/32”. This discrepancy means that you need to account for this offset manually, which can be a bit of a hassle if you're aiming for precision without constant recalibration.

Dust Collection

Milwaukee has incorporated a highly efficient dust collection system in this saw, which can be connected to any standard shop vac. During my tests, this system captured the majority of the sawdust, making cleanup significantly easier and keeping the workspace cleaner. There is also an included dust bag, which works well for smaller jobs but can fill up quickly during more extensive cutting tasks.

Blade Change and Adjustments

Changing the blade is straightforward, thanks to the quick locking blade change system. An onboard allen wrench storage ensures you won’t be scrambling to find the right tool when it’s time to swap out blades. The adjustable cam system is also a thoughtful feature, allowing for precise track fitment, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy over repeated cuts.

Storage and Portability

For those who need to transport their tools frequently, the included PackOut box is a mixed bag. While it offers robust protection and has room for additional accessories, the foam insert could be better designed to hold everything more securely. During shipping, there were instances where the saw moved around, indicating that the packing could use some refinement.

Battery Life

Powered by Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, the saw offers impressive runtime. Even with heavy use, the battery life holds up well, which is essential for professionals who need to rely on their tools throughout the workday. The 18V power source is more than capable, and the convenience of cordless operation cannot be overstated.

Real-World Application

In practical use, this saw excels in making straight cuts, especially on sheet goods like plywood and MDF. The track system, with its rubberized grip, holds firmly in place even without clamping, which speeds up the workflow considerably. The anti-tip feature is another highlight, providing stability during bevel cuts and ensuring the saw doesn’t pop off the track unexpectedly.

Potential Improvements

While the Milwaukee track saw brings a lot to the table, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The bevel cut alignment issue, as mentioned earlier, is something that could be addressed in future iterations to avoid the extra step of manual measurement. Additionally, the availability of tracks and accessories could be more streamlined. Having to order tracks separately and dealing with occasional quality control issues on those tracks can be frustrating.

Overall Impression

Despite a few quirks, the Milwaukee 6-1/2” Plunge Track Saw is a formidable tool for both professional and serious DIY carpenters. Its power, precision, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any workshop. The dust collection system, robust build, and efficient battery use further add to its appeal.

Recommendation

I would recommend this tool to anyone in need of a reliable, cordless track saw. Its strengths far outweigh its minor drawbacks, and the overall performance is impressive. Whether you’re breaking down sheet goods, trimming countertops, or making precise plunge cuts, this saw delivers the results you need. Just be prepared to spend a little extra time aligning your bevel cuts and sourcing compatible tracks.