Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel Review
If you’re a seasoned woodworker, a DIY enthusiast, or simply someone who occasionally needs to make intricate cuts in various materials, a reliable jigsaw is a staple in your toolkit. Milwaukee, a name synonymous with top tier power tools, has introduced the Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel, promising a blend of precision, power and durability.
In this review, we’ll explore the key features, pros, cons and how it stacks up against the competition.
Key Features
Brushless Motor: At the heart of the Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel lies a powerful brushless motor. This motor not only provides ample power but also ensures efficiency and longevity. Brushless motors are known for their ability to deliver consistent performance over time, which is essential for any power tool.
M18 Fuel Technology: This jigsaw is part of Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel lineup, which means it’s compatible with their 18 volt Lithium-Ion battery system. This not only offers excellent runtime but also interchangeability with other M18 Fuel tools, reducing the need for multiple battery types.
Precision Cutting: The Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel boasts a 4 position orbital cutting system, allowing you to adjust the aggressiveness of the cut. This feature is invaluable when working with different materials; you can switch to a more aggressive setting for fast cuts in softwood or dial it down for precise cuts in hardwood.
Tool Free Blade Change: Swapping out blades can be a time consuming task on some jigsaws, but not with this model. It features a tool free blade change system, making it quick and easy to switch between different blades, including T-shank and U-shank varieties.
Variable Speed Control: The variable speed trigger lets you adjust the cutting speed to match the material and the type of cut you’re making. This level of control is essential for achieving clean and accurate cuts in a variety of applications.
LED Work light: Working in low light conditions can be challenging. Milwaukee addresses this with a built in LED work light that illuminates your cutting area, ensuring you can see exactly where the blade is going for precise cuts every time.
Bevel Cutting: The Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel allows for bevel cutting up to 45 degrees, giving you the versatility to make angled cuts with ease.
Performance
The Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel truly shines in the performance department. With its robust brushless motor, this tool effortlessly cuts through a variety of materials, from softwood to metal, delivering consistent power and precision.
The 4 position orbital cutting system and bevel cutting capabilities make it incredibly versatile, handling straight cuts and intricate curves with ease. The user friendly features, including tool-free blade changes and an illuminating LED worklight, enhance productivity and user experience.
While it comes at a premium price, its exceptional performance, backed by Milwaukee’s reputation for durability, ensures that it’s a reliable, long term investment for professionals and enthusiasts seeking top notch cutting performance.
Pros
Power and Performance: The Milwaukee M18 Fuel’s brushless motor delivers an impressive amount of power. Whether you’re cutting through hardwood, plywood or metal, it tackles the task with ease. The variable speed control ensures you can tailor the speed to the material, preventing overheating or splintering.
Durable Build: Milwaukee power tools are known for their durability and this jig saw is no exception. It feels solid in your hand and the construction is built to withstand the rigors of a worksite.
Battery Compatibility: If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel ecosystem, this jigsaw is a natural addition. You can use the same battery packs across multiple tools, eliminating the need for extra batteries and chargers.
Precision Cutting: The 4 position orbital cutting system and bevel cutting capabilities make this jigsaw exceptionally versatile. It’s equally adept at making straight cuts, curved cuts and bevel cuts, making it a reliable all rounder.
User Friendly: Tool free blade changes and the LED work light simplify operation and increase productivity. These features, combined with the comfortable grip and ergonomic design, make it user friendly even for extended periods of use.
Minimal Vibration: Jigsaws are notorious for causing hand fatigue due to vibrations. Milwaukee has worked to minimize this issue, allowing for more comfortable and controlled operation.
Cons
Price: Milwaukee tools, known for their quality, come with a premium price tag. While the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Jigsaw is undoubtedly a top notch tool, it might be out of budget for some hobbyists and occasional users.
Heft: The robust build that contributes to its durability can also make this jigsaw feel somewhat heavy, especially during extended use. Some users may find it a bit tiring to handle over long periods.
Comparison with Competitors
Milwaukee M18 Fuel vs Bosch JS470E
The Bosch JS470E is a formidable competitor in the jigsaw market. It offers a powerful 7.0 amp motor and a precision control system. However, it lacks the convenience of Milwaukee’s tool free blade change and M18 Fuel compatibility.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel vs DeWalt DCS331B
The DeWalt DCS331B is a cordless alternative, running on their 20 volt Max battery platform. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, but it may not match the Milwaukee in terms of raw power and durability.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel vs Makita XVJ03Z
Makita’s XVJ03Z offers a balance between power and portability. It’s cordless, utilizing their 18 volt LXT battery system and has a comfortable grip. However, it might not deliver the same level of power as the Milwaukee M18 Fuel.
Conclusion
The Milwaukee Jigsaw M18 Fuel is a powerhouse of a tool designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts. Its combination of power, precision and durability makes it a valuable addition to any workshop. While it comes at a premium price, the investment is justified by its performance and the compatibility with Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel battery system.
Whether you’re cutting through thick hardwood, making intricate curved cuts, or tackling a variety of materials, this jigsaw is up to the task. Its user friendly features, such as tool free blade changes and the LED worklight, enhance your workflow and the minimal vibration reduces operator fatigue.
While it may not be the lightest option on the market and the price may deter some budget conscious buyers, those who demand top tier performance and reliability will find the Milwaukee Jig saw M18 Fuel to be an exceptional tool that lives up to the Milwaukee name. It’s a powerful, versatile and durable addition to any toolbox or workshop, making precision cutting tasks a breeze.
