Milwaukee 6 ½" Circular Saw

Power tools have always been a cornerstone of any serious DIYer or professional's toolkit. Recently, I had the opportunity to work extensively with the Milwaukee 6 ½" Circular Saw, model 2630-20. This cordless circular saw is part of Milwaukee’s M18 series, which boasts compatibility with over 200 tools, making it a versatile addition if you already own other Milwaukee products.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that struck me about this saw was its lightweight yet robust construction. Weighing in at 8.5 lbs, it strikes a balance between portability and durability. The magnesium upper guard and aircraft aluminum shoe contribute to its solid feel while keeping the weight manageable. The ergonomic design and soft-grip handle make it comfortable to use, even during extended periods.

However, I did notice a few design quirks. The blade guard is made of plastic, which, although lightweight, feels somewhat flimsy. Given the amount of abuse blade guards typically endure, a metal guard would have been preferable for long-term durability. Additionally, the shoe's depth and bevel adjustment indicators are not the most precise, requiring a bit of guesswork to get the exact settings.

Performance

Performance-wise, the saw does a commendable job on various materials. It cuts through plywood and 2x4s like butter, thanks to its powerful motor. The electronic brake is a standout feature, stopping the blade almost instantly, which adds a layer of safety and convenience. The saw has a maximum bevel capacity of 50 degrees, which is more than adequate for most cutting tasks.

However, the saw's power can be inconsistent. While it handles basic cuts on softwood and plywood effortlessly, it struggles with denser materials like pressure-treated lumber and OSB plywood. On several occasions, I had to back off and let the blade rev up again to complete the cut, which can be frustrating during intensive projects.

Usability

One of the significant advantages of this tool is its cordless nature, freeing you from the hassle of managing cords, especially in tricky environments like roofing or outdoor projects. The M18 battery system offers decent runtime, and the batteries are interchangeable with other Milwaukee tools, which is a big plus if you're already invested in the Milwaukee ecosystem.

That said, the saw's design does have its drawbacks. As a right-handed user, I found the motor placement (to the right of the handle) a bit awkward. This configuration tends to place the saw's weight on the cut-off portion of the material, causing some binding if you're not careful. Additionally, the blade guard occasionally catches on the wood during thin trim cuts, forcing me to manually lift it, which should ideally be unnecessary.

Features

The Milwaukee 6 ½" Circular Saw comes with several features aimed at enhancing user experience. The on-tool wrench storage for easy blade changes is a thoughtful addition, ensuring you always have the necessary tool at hand. The saw also includes a dust port for connecting a shop vacuum, although you might need an adapter to fit it properly.

One feature I found particularly useful is the fine adjustment capability, which allows you to ensure the blade is perfectly aligned at 90 degrees to the shoe. This ensures more accurate cuts, which is crucial for precision tasks.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is a mixed bag with this saw. On one hand, it has held up well during several months of use, showing no signs of wear and tear. On the other hand, some users have reported issues with the blade bolt loosening over time, which can be a significant drawback. In my experience, I didn't encounter this problem, but it's something to be mindful of.

The tool comes with a 5-year limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind. However, given the mixed reviews on long-term reliability, it's worth considering how heavily you plan to use this saw before making a purchase.

Value for Money

Priced as one of Milwaukee’s more affordable circular saws, the 2630-20 offers good value for money, especially if you're a homeowner or a DIY enthusiast. It performs well for most light to medium-duty tasks and offers the convenience of cordless operation. However, if you're a professional contractor who requires a more robust tool for heavy-duty use, you might want to consider Milwaukee’s higher-end models or their Fuel series, which offer better build quality and more power.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee 6 ½" Circular Saw is a solid, versatile tool that performs well for a range of tasks. Its lightweight design, powerful motor, and convenient features make it a good choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. The compatibility with the M18 battery system adds to its appeal, especially if you already own other Milwaukee tools.

However, the saw is not without its flaws. The plastic blade guard, imprecise adjustment indicators, and occasional power inconsistencies are notable drawbacks. For heavy-duty professional use, this saw might fall short of expectations.

Would I recommend this tool? For the average homeowner or DIY enthusiast, absolutely. It offers a good balance of performance, convenience, and value. But for professional contractors who need a more robust, powerful saw for daily use, investing in a higher-end model would be a better choice.