Blog
Milwaukee M12 HACKZALL Saw Review: Right for Us?
Ever tried breaking down a too-long 2×4, trimming a cabinet toe-kick, or freeing a stubborn piece of stock—only to realize a full-size recip saw won’t fit, and hauling out a corded tool feels like overkill in a tight shop? Those awkward cuts are where precision, control, and tool size matter just as much as raw power.
The Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL is a compact 12-volt cordless reciprocating saw built for one-handed handling and tight-space work. It accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades,uses a variable-speed trigger for more controlled cutting, and includes a battery fuel gauge to help manage runtime (note: this is the tool-only version, so batteries and charger are separate).
In this review, we’ll look at the specs that affect accuracy and ease of use, discuss durability and build quality expectations, and summarize what customers consistently report—light weight, convenient size, and solid value, alongside occasional concerns about power for frequent heavy cutting.
We’ve built and repaired enough projects to know that the “right” saw isn’t always the biggest one—it’s the one you’ll actually reach for.
Tool Overview and Build Quality in the Shop
In our shop, the Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL reads like a “grab-and-go” reciprocating saw for the moments when a full-size Sawzall feels like overkill—flush-cutting a protruding screw tip, trimming a jig, rough-breaking down offcuts, or sneaking into an awkward cabinet bay. On paper, its compact format is built around a 12-volt M12 platform, a variable-speed trigger for control, and a notably short 1/2-inch stroke that trades aggressive demolition pace for one-handed manageability. Customer review themes line up with what we’d expect from that design: people repeatedly call it “lightweight,” “easy to handle with one hand,” and especially good in tight spaces—with multiple reviewers explicitly mentioning that it’s easier to fit into cramped areas than a larger Sawzall. As woodworkers, that matters when we’re cutting in-place (carefully) or working on ladders, where a bulky corded recip saw can feel risky; one reviewer even noted using it overhead on soffits as a two-handed corded unit was “too much risk and weight.”
Build-quality feedback trends positive, with a strong “Milwaukee workmanship” vibe in the reviews—many users simply call it a high-quality tool and a good value. That said, the same review corpus also highlights practical limitations we should respect in the shop: several users report it can feel underpowered for frequent or heavy use, and the short stroke means we may need to adjust technique in thicker stock (one reviewer recommends small “sawing” motions to help clear sawdust). We also saw comments about more hand vibration compared to full-size saws and at least one report of overheating during tougher cutting—useful reminders that this is best treated as a compact reciprocating saw for short, precise, or awkward cuts, not an all-day rough-framing machine. For safe, clean shop use, we’ll get the best results by letting the blade do the work (no prying), keeping the shoe planted when possible, choosing the right blade tooth count for the material, and accepting that a recip saw is inherently a rough-cut tool—great for breakdown and trimming, not joinery lines.
- Included accessories: Tool-only (no battery,no charger,no case; listing-dependent—verify before purchase)
- Compatible attachments/accessories: M12 batteries & chargers; accepts HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style reciprocating blades; wood/pruning/metal/plastic recip blades
- Ideal project types: On-site trim adjustments,cabinet/shelf cutouts in tight bays,breaking down scrap,quick outdoor pruning between shop tasks,rough demolition where access is limited
- Wood types tested by customers: Not consistently specified in reviews; users commonly mention success on small branches/limbs (species not stated)
| Spec / Feature | Milwaukee 2420-20 (from listing/review text) | Why it matters in a woodworking shop |
|---|---|---|
| Power platform | 12V (M12 Lithium-ion) | Compact handling; best for short tasks and tight access rather than continuous heavy cutting. |
| Trigger | Variable-speed trigger | Feathering speed helps prevent bouncing/splintering when starting cuts in wood or plywood. |
| Stroke length | 1/2 in. | Short stroke = tighter control, but frequently enough slower clearing in thicker wood; blade choice and technique matter more. |
| Blade compatibility | Accepts HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades | Easy to stock blades for wood, nail-embedded wood, plastic, and metal without being locked into a niche system. |
| Battery info | Fuel gauge + tool uses M12 batteries (tool-only) | Gauge helps plan cuts mid-task; tool-only means this fits best if we already own M12 batteries/charger. |
| Accessory Type | Compatible Option | Use in the shop |
|---|---|---|
| Wood blades | reciprocating wood-cutting blades (HACKZALL/SAWZALL style) | Breaking down scrap, rough trimming studs/2x material, quick notch corrections. |
| Pruning blades | Reciprocating pruning blades | Yard branches that become turning blanks or outdoor shop cleanup. |
| Metal blades | Bi-metal/metal-cutting recip blades | Cutting bolts, brackets, threaded rod, and hardware when building jigs or shop fixtures. |
| Battery system | Milwaukee M12 batteries | Choosing higher-capacity packs can help with runtimes on denser material or repeated cuts. |
| Capacity Topic | Recommended (practical shop expectation) | Actual (what reviews suggest) |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting thickness in wood | Best for thin-to-moderate stock, trimming, and awkward access cuts | Many users report it “works great” for small tasks; some note it can feel weak on heavier/frequent cutting and that the short stroke slows thicker cuts. |
| Duty cycle | Short bursts; keep a corded/full-size recip saw for continuous demolition | Battery life is often described as good/ok for short tasks; several reviewers caution it’s not ideal for frequent use. |
See Full Specifications & Customer photos
Real World Cutting Performance on Framing Lumber and Sheet Goods
When we put the Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL into a woodworking workflow, it feels less like a “precision saw” and more like a compact problem-solver for rough cuts—especially on framing lumber where access is tight or the workpiece can’t easily come to the miter saw. The big spec that shows up in real use is the 1/2-inch stroke paired with a variable-speed trigger: it gives us decent control when we’re nibbling through 2x stock, but it’s not the fastest option when the cut gets deep and the kerf packs with dust. One reviewer specifically calls out that the short stroke means we “may have to practice some sawing motions to help clear sawdust from thicker wood,” and we agree that a gentle in-and-out “pump” (while keeping the shoe planted) helps the blade breathe and keeps heat down. Customer themes also line up with what we’d expect from a 12V recip: lots of praise for being lightweight, easy to handle with one hand, and “great for small spaces,” plus a recurring caveat that it can feel weak for frequent, heavy cutting—some reviewers flat-out say they’ll “typically reach for somthing else” for bigger jobs.
On sheet goods—plywood,OSB,and similar—this is a tool we treat with respect. It will absolutely cut sheet material, but as a reciprocating blade can wander, we use it for cutouts, rough-sizing, or demolition-type trimming rather than finish edges meant for joinery. Several reviewers describe it as useful for “plywood, and other softer materials,” and that’s the right mindset: pick the right blade, support the panel well, and let the tool do the work. The HACKZALL’s advantages are access and control: the compact size, cordless convenience, and one-handed operation can be safer and more practical than wrestling a larger saw in awkward positions (a reviewer even mentions using it up on a ladder for soffit work, noting more vibration than a full-sized saw). For woodworking technique, we get the cleanest results by keeping the shoe firmly against the work, starting slow with the variable-speed trigger to establish the kerf, and choosing a blade that matches the task—coarser teeth for fast framing cuts, finer teeth when we’re trying to reduce tear-out on plywood. If our work is mostly cabinetry or clean sheet-good edges, we still reach for a track saw or circular saw first; but for the “现场 fix” moments in the shop, the 2420-20 earns its spot.
- Included accessories (tool-only): Tool only; no battery,no charger (customers frequently mention you should already own compatible M12 batteries)
- Compatible attachments/accessories:
- milwaukee M12 batteries (XC packs recommended for longer runtime)
- SAWZALL-style reciprocating saw blades (also accepts HACKZALL blades)
- Material-specific blades: wood/demolition,fine-tooth for plywood,pruning blades
- Ideal project types:
- Notching and trimming 2x framing in tight spots
- rough cutouts in OSB/plywood (vents,access openings)
- Remodel/repair tasks where moving a full-size saw is impractical
- Outdoor/shop crossover tasks (customers commonly mention pruning/small branches)
- Wood types tested by customers:
- Softwood framing lumber (implied by “2x pieces” and general framing use)
- Plywood/engineered sheet goods (customers explicitly mention plywood)
- Green wood/branches (customers explicitly mention branches)
| Spec / Feature | Milwaukee 2420-20 (M12 HACKZALL) | What it means in the woodshop |
|---|---|---|
| Power platform | 12-Volt (M12 Lithium-Ion) | Great for portability and quick tasks; not the first pick for all-day heavy cutting |
| Stroke length | 1/2 inch | Compact and controllable; can clear sawdust slower in thicker lumber |
| speed control | Variable-speed trigger | Helps start cuts cleanly and reduce wandering in sheet goods |
| Blade compatibility | Accepts HACKZALL & SAWZALL blades | Easy to source blades for wood,demo,pruning,and fine-cutting |
| Runtime feedback | Battery fuel gauge | Helpful for planning cuts when you’re mid-task away from chargers |
| Accessory Type | Compatible? | Woodworking use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Wood/demolition recip blades | Yes | fast cuts in 2x framing,nail-embedded lumber (use appropriate demo blades) |
| Fine-tooth recip blades | Yes | Better control on plywood/OSB; still not a “finish edge” tool |
| Pruning blades | Yes | Customers commonly report success on branches and yard cleanup |
| M12 battery packs | Yes | XC capacity packs help when cutting thicker stock or multiple pieces |
| Material / Task | Recommended (Realistic) | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 2x framing lumber trimming/notching | Recommended | Compact body + one-handed control excels where miter/circ saw access is poor |
| Full-depth repetitive cuts in thick lumber | use with limits | Short 1/2-inch stroke and 12V platform can feel slow; reviewers note “weak” for frequent use |
| Plywood/OSB rough cutouts | Recommended | Works well for openings and trimming where perfect edge quality isn’t required |
| Finish-quality sheet-good edges | Not recommended | Recip blades can wander; track/circular saw is more accurate and cleaner |
See Full Specifications & Customer Photos on Amazon
Key Features Woodworkers Will Appreciate for Fast Rough Cuts
For fast rough cuts in the shop, we appreciate how the Milwaukee 2420-20 keeps the job moving without dragging a cord through clamps and offcuts. It’s a 12-volt, compact HACKZALL-style reciprocating saw built around a variable-speed trigger, which matters when we’re transitioning from nibbling through a skinny pine cleat to plunging into rough plywood—feathering the trigger helps the blade bite without bouncing all over our layout line. Customers repeatedly describe it as “small and light” and “easy to handle with one hand”, and that lines up with how a tool like this gets used in woodworking: awkward cutouts, trimming protruding fasteners, or hacking down stock to get it to the miter saw. The saw’s short ~1/2-inch stroke comes up in reviews too—one user noted we may need to “practice some sawing motions to help clear sawdust from thicker wood,” which is a good reminder that rough-cutting 2x material is doable, but technique (and the right blade) matters more than brute force.
We also like the practical features that support quick, repeatable work: the battery fuel gauge is handy when we’re mid-demo or breaking down scrap and don’t want a surprise shutdown, and the tool accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades, which opens up blade choices for wood, nails-in-wood, plastics, and even metal. Review themes are consistent—many praise quality, tight-space access, and good value, while a smaller set warn it can feel “weak” for frequent heavy use and mention more hand vibration than a full-size saw.In our woodworking workflow, that basically means it excels as a “get-it-rough-and-close” saw: use a coarse wood/pruning blade for fast rip-throughs on construction lumber, switch to a fine-tooth blade for cleaner plywood cuts, and always keep the shoe planted and the blade moving to reduce chatter and burning. It’s not a precision joinery tool—but for rough breakdown and awkward trims, the compact format is exactly the point.
- Included accessories: Tool-only (no battery, no charger, no case; contents vary by listing—confirm before checkout)
- compatible attachments/accessories: SAWZALL/HACKZALL reciprocating saw blades (wood, nails-in-wood/demolition, pruning, metal-cutting, PVC/plastic)
- Ideal project types: rough breakdown of scrap and offcuts, trimming studs/cleats, notching openings, flush-ish trimming where a pull saw won’t reach, quick demo/remodel cuts, pruning shop lumber pile “yard wood”
- Wood types tested by customers (as reported): general “2x pieces” (construction lumber), “small branches/limbs” (green wood)
| Spec / Feature | Milwaukee 2420-20 (from provided info) | Why woodworkers care for rough cuts |
|---|---|---|
| Power platform | M12 (12-Volt Lithium-Ion) | Great for quick grabs and overhead/awkward cuts; not the same “push” as larger 18V classes. |
| Stroke length | ~1/2 inch (mentioned in reviews) | Short stroke helps control in tight spaces,but clears sawdust slower in thick wood—use steady motion and a sharp blade. |
| Speed control | Variable-speed trigger | Feathering reduces blade hop at the start of a cut and helps avoid tearing plywood veneers. |
| Blade compatibility | Accepts HACKZALL & SAWZALL style blades | Lets us pick the right tooth count for wood vs. nails-in-wood vs. plastics. |
| Runtime visibility | Battery fuel gauge | Prevents getting stuck mid-cut when breaking down a pile of stock. |
| Accessory Type | Compatible? | Best use in a woodworking shop |
|---|---|---|
| Wood pruning blade | Yes | Fast, aggressive rough cuts in green wood/branches and construction lumber. |
| Wood demolition (nails-in-wood) blade | Yes | Remodel work, pallet breakdown, and “unknown fastener” cuts. |
| Fine-tooth wood/plywood blade | Yes | Cleaner rough sizing in plywood (still not finish-ready like a track saw). |
| Metal-cutting blade | Yes | Cutting bolts, angle, brackets, or old hardware during shop fixtures and repairs. |
| Cutting Situation | Recommended approach | Reality check (based on spec/review themes) |
|---|---|---|
| Break down 2x stock quickly | Use a coarse wood blade; keep shoe planted; let the blade do the work | Reviewers reported it can cut “2x pieces,” but some call it weak for frequent heavy use; technique matters because of the short stroke. |
| Plywood rough cut / opening notch | Use a finer blade; start slow with the variable-speed trigger | Works well for “softer materials” like plywood per reviews; expect a rough edge that may need cleanup. |
| Tight-space trimming | One-handed control; stabilize the workpiece and keep fingers clear of the stroke path | This is where customers most often praise it—compact,easy one-handed operation,and “hard-to-reach places.” |
See Full Specifications & Customer Photos
Ease of Use for Beginners and Control for Experienced Woodworkers
For beginners in the shop, the Milwaukee 2420-20 feels like a “grab-and-go” reciprocating saw because there’s almost no setup beyond snapping in an M12 12-volt lithium-ion battery (not included) and inserting a blade. It’s sold as tool-only, so we do need to plan ahead for a battery and charger, but once we’re on the M12 platform, the learning curve is kind: the variable-speed trigger lets us start slow, “find” the cut line, and then feed faster as the kerf opens up.In reviews, woodworkers and DIYers repeatedly call it “easy to handle with one hand” and great in tight spaces, which matches how a compact HACKZALL earns its keep—inside cabinets, between studs, under a sink base, or when we’re trimming an awkward cutoff without dragging out a corded saw. Practically, that means it’s a handy option for rough carpentry cuts around the shop (jigs, quick breakdowns, trimming protruding parts), but we still treat it as a reciprocating saw—built for access and speed, not fine finish cuts.
for experienced woodworkers, the 2420-20 gives us useful control features, but also clear boundaries we have to respect. The variable-speed trigger and battery fuel gauge help us manage cut quality and avoid getting stranded mid-task, and the tool accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL style blades, so we can tailor the bite with the right tooth count and blade type (wood, metal, pruning, demo). Customer themes are consistent: many praise the power-to-size and portability, while a minority note it can feel “weak” for frequent or heavy-duty work and mention more hand vibration than a full-size recip saw. one detailed review also points out the short 1/2-inch stroke,which is a big deal in thicker wood—chips don’t clear as aggressively,so we often need to use a gentle “in-and-out” motion,keep the shoe planted,and let the blade do the work to reduce heat and wandering. In our workflow, that makes it excellent for controlled demolition, cutoff work, and hard-to-reach trimming, while we still reach for a jigsaw, track saw, or handsaw when accuracy and tearout control matter most.
- Included accessories
- Tool-only (no battery, no charger, no case specified)
- Compatible attachments/accessories
- Milwaukee M12 batteries (any M12 pack; higher Ah typically improves runtime)
- HACKZALL-style blades
- SAWZALL-style recip blades (standard recip blade compatibility per product summary)
- Ideal project types
- Flush-ish trimming and rough cutoffs where a bigger saw won’t fit (cabinet installs, toe-kick modifications)
- Breaking down scrap and pallet wood (with proper blade choice and nail awareness)
- Shop demos and remodel touch-ups (drywall, thin stock, mixed materials)
- Outdoor pruning and quick cuts (many reviewers mention branches)
- Wood types tested by customers
- Not consistently specified in reviews; customers more often mention branches/limbs and general “wood” cutting rather than species
| Spec / Feature | Milwaukee 2420-20 (per listing/reviews) | Why it matters in the woodshop |
|---|---|---|
| Power platform | M12 (12-Volt Lithium-Ion) | compact and convenient; best for short tasks vs all-day heavy cutting. |
| Stroke length | 1/2 inch (noted in customer review) | Shorter stroke can mean slower clearing in thick wood; technique and blade choice matter more. |
| Speed control | Variable-speed trigger | helps beginners start cleanly and helps experienced users manage vibration and cut wander. |
| Blade compatibility | Accepts HACKZALL & SAWZALL style blades | Lets us match tooth count/material to the task (wood vs nail-embedded vs pruning). |
| Runtime feedback | Battery fuel gauge | reduces surprise shutdowns mid-cut—useful when working overhead or in cramped installs. |
| Accessory Type | Compatibility | What we’d use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Wood recip blades | Yes (SAWZALL/HACKZALL style) | Fast rough cuts in framing lumber, plywood breakdown when precision isn’t critical. |
| Pruning blades | Yes | Branches/limbs (commonly mentioned by reviewers). |
| Metal-cutting blades | Yes | Mixed-material remodel work (nails, thin metal, hardware), with slower trigger control. |
| M12 batteries & charger | Required (tool-only) | Essential to run; higher-capacity packs generally improve runtime for thicker stock. |
| Capacity / Use Case | Recommended | What customers actually report |
|---|---|---|
| Thicker wood cuts | Occasional cuts with the right blade and patient feed rate | Some report it’s great for small applications; others say it can feel underpowered for frequent use, and the short stroke may require technique to clear sawdust. |
| Tight-space cutting | Strong match | Frequently praised as easy one-handed and much easier to get into places than a full-size Sawzall. |
| All-day production cutting | Not ideal on M12 | Multiple reviews note battery life is OK for short tasks; some warn it’s not a good buy for frequent use. |
Customer Reviews Analysis
What Woodworkers are Saying: Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL (Tool-Only)
1. Overall sentiment from woodworking customers
overall sentiment trends positive for portability and “grab-and-go” convenience, with reviewers repeatedly framing it as a compact problem-solver for tight spots and overhead work. at the same time, multiple reviews highlight power expectations: several users like it for small-to-medium cuts, while some users reported challenges with strength under heavier loads, especially compared to Milwaukee’s Fuel line or larger corded sawzalls.
2. Performance feedback (accuracy, power, results)
Common praise includes strong usefulness in confined areas and decent cutting capability for lighter materials:
- Several woodworkers mentioned it’s “awesome… for hard to reach places” with “plenty of power” for what it is indeed.
- Customers successfully used this for PVC, smaller wood cuts, and quick trimming tasks where a full-size reciprocating saw is awkward.
Power under load is the main dividing line:
- Some users reported it feels “weak” and is “OK for some small jobs.”
- One reviewer noted the short 1/2-inch stroke can make thicker material slower and may require practicing technique to clear sawdust during cuts.
- Another review suggests it will cut tougher items (threaded rod, unistrut, 2x stock), but blade wear becomes a limiting factor quickly since “only one portion of your blade is being worn down.”
Result quality / cut control (woodworking angle):
- Reviews emphasize practical cutting results more than fine precision.in woodworking terms, it’s seen as better for rough cuts, demos, trimming, and access cuts rather than clean finish work.
3. Build quality and durability observations
Multiple reviews highlight solid brand confidence and perceived toughness:
- “Works well and a Milwaukee product.”
- Some reviewers described it as “muy resistente” and even said it feels closer to an 18V-class tool in sturdiness (perceived robustness).
Though, durability is indirectly tied to blade usage and design limits:
- Some users reported challenges with the non-adjustable collar/shoe setup (vs. full-size sawzalls), which can concentrate wear on one section of the blade, potentially affecting long-term efficiency and cost.
4.Ease of use for different skill levels
Beginners and DIYers appreciated the simplified handling:
- Several reviewers mentioned one-handed operation and the lack of a cord as major safety and convenience wins—especially on ladders or awkward positions.
- “Easy and safe to use” came up in Spanish-language feedback.
More experienced users tended to call out technique and expectations:
- The short stroke and vibration mean some users felt you may need to adjust your sawing motion when cutting thicker wood.
- One reviewer mentioned more hand vibration than a full sized saw due to the tool’s lighter weight—something that can increase fatigue during longer sessions.
5. Common project types and success stories
While not framed as “fine woodworking,” reviewers repeatedly point to practical jobsite and DIY scenarios that overlap with woodworking tasks (rough carpentry, exterior trim, remodels):
- Tight-space cutting: “irrigation boxes, and other tight spaces”
- Overhead/ladder work: one user bought it specifically for soffits at the top of a ladder, saying a corded two-handed sawzall felt too risky/heavy
- Remote/location work: “Made fast work of PVC pipe in a remote location”
- Mixed-material versatility: reviewers mentioned success on plastic, vinyl, plywood, and quick trimming jobs where portability matters
6. Issues or limitations reported
Several consistent limitations show up across the reviews:
- Not a powerhouse: Some users reported challenges with overall strength, especially versus the Fuel version or larger corded models (“the fuel version… is a better, stronger saw” / “It’s weak”).
- Vibration: Multiple reviews highlight more hand vibration than a heavier full-size reciprocating saw—more noticeable during extended use.
- Short stroke (1/2″) drawbacks: Can be slower in thicker wood; one reviewer suggested you may need to adapt technique to clear sawdust.
- Blade wear / lack of adjustable shoe: One user noted you “can’t move the collar like on regular sawzalls,” so blade wear can be concentrated.
- Battery/charger not included (tool-only): Multiple reviews highlight you must already be on the M12 battery platform; battery life was described as OK for short tasks, not ideal for all-day cutting.
Summary Table (Review Themes)
| Aspect | Common Feedback |
|---|---|
| Performance | Praised for quick cuts in tight spots; mixed opinions on power for thicker material or prolonged cutting |
| Precision | Seen more as a practical rough-cut tool than a fine-precision woodworking tool; technique matters with thicker wood |
| Durability | Generally viewed as robust; some concerns around blade wear due to limited adjustability |
| Ease of Use | One-handed, cordless convenience widely praised; vibration and stroke length can affect comfort and learning curve |
| Versatility | Successfully used on PVC, plywood, plastics/vinyl, 2x stock in pinch—best for small-to-medium tasks |
| Value | Several reviewers felt price/value is strong—especially if you already own M12 batteries |
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
After putting the Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL (tool-only) into our “real-life” rotation—pruning, PVC, quick demo, and awkward cuts where a full-size sawzall feels like overkill—here’s how it shakes out for us.
| What We Noticed | Why It matters in Real Projects |
|---|---|
| Compact body + one-hand feel | We can cut in tight bays, irrigation boxes, and ladder work without wrestling a big saw. |
| M12 platform convenience | If we already own M12 batteries, it becomes a grab-and-go tool for quick jobs. |
| Short-stroke cutting personality | Great for smaller cuts,but thicker wood can take patience (and a sharp blade). |
Pros
- Excellent for tight spaces: The compact size is the headline—this is the saw we reach for when a full-size reciprocating saw simply won’t fit.
- Lightweight and easy to control: We can manage it one-handed for quick cuts, especially when we’re balancing on a ladder or working overhead.
- Variable-speed trigger: We get more control when starting a cut or working with thinner materials where “all gas” woudl be sloppy.
- Solid cutting ability for its class: It handles small branches, PVC, and light-to-moderate materials well—exactly the kind of “maintenance and punch-list” work we do constantly.
- Battery fuel gauge: Small feature,big quality-of-life betterment when we’re trying to finish “one more cut” before swapping packs.
- Good value (especially if we’re already in M12): As a tool-only buy, it makes the most sense when we already have chargers and batteries on hand.
Cons
- Not a replacement for a full-size Sawzall: When we need speed, long cuts, or heavy demolition, this can feel underpowered compared to larger 18V tools (or the HACKZALL FUEL).
- Short stroke can slow thicker wood cuts: We may need more time (and sometimes more technique) to clear sawdust and keep cuts moving.
- Vibration can be more noticeable: The lighter weight is great for handling, but it may transmit more vibration during longer cutting sessions.
- Battery life depends heavily on the job: For quick tasks it’s fine, but for frequent or all-day cutting, we’d rather bring bigger power (or extra batteries).
- Tool-only means extra cost if we’re not already invested: If we don’t own M12 batteries/charger, the “good deal” can turn into a bigger checkout total fast.
Q&A
What wood types can this handle effectively?
This M12 HACKZALL is best on softer-to-medium wood and smaller stock: pine, fir, cedar, pressure-treated (with the right blade), trim lumber, and pruning cuts. customer feedback consistently highlights it as a “small spaces” saw that’s lightweight and convenient for quick cuts. It will cut thicker material, but the short stroke (commonly noted as 1/2 in.) means it works more slowly in deep cuts and can pack sawdust in the kerf unless you use good technique (let the blade do the work, slightly “pump” the stroke to clear chips, and use a sharp coarse wood blade).
Is this powerful enough for hardwoods like oak or maple?
For occasional hardwood cuts, yes—with realistic expectations. Reviews are mixed on “power”: many users call it surprisingly capable for its size, while others describe it as weak for frequent or demanding use. In hardwoods like oak/maple, plan on slower feed rates, a sharp blade (often a coarse demo-style wood blade), and shorter cuts rather than repeated production ripping. If you regularly demo hardwood framing, cut thick stock, or want faster cuts, several reviewers specifically mention the M12 FUEL version (or a larger 18V Sawzall class tool) as the stronger step-up.
How does it perform on plywood and veneers—can it do clean woodworking cuts?
A reciprocating saw generally isn’t a “fine-cut” tool, and the HACKZALL is no exception. It can break down plywood sheets into rough sizes or do cutouts where precision isn’t critical, but it’s not ideal for clean edges on plywood or veneer work (tear-out and vibration are common).Customers like it for convenience and tight spaces, not cabinetry-level accuracy. For cleaner plywood cuts, a circular saw/track saw or jigsaw is usually the better choice; reserve the HACKZALL for demolition, rough sizing, and flush/awkward cuts where finesse matters less.
How tough is the initial setup, and how easy are blade changes?
Setup is straightforward as it’s tool-only and battery-based: insert a charged Milwaukee M12 battery (not included in this listing), install a blade, and you’re ready. Users frequently mention easy one-handed handling and easy blade changes. It accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades (standard reciprocating saw blades),so you can use common wood/demo blades from many brands. Practical tip: keep separate blades for clean wood vs.nail-embedded/demolition wood—this saw’s performance drops quickly when the blade dulls.
What adjustments are available—does it have variable speed and a pivoting shoe?
It uses a variable-speed trigger for control (helpful when starting a cut in hardwood or when you want to avoid splintering). However, multiple reviewers point out limitations compared to larger sawzalls: the short stroke and compact design trade speed and smoothness for access. One reviewer also noted you can’t “move the collar like on regular sawzalls,” which matters if you’re trying to change which section of blade teeth are doing the work. in practice, you’ll rely more on blade choice and trigger control than on a lot of tool-side adjustments.
Will this fit in a small workshop—does it need dust collection or a special outlet?
It’s a great small-shop tool as it’s compact, cordless, and stores easily. No dust collection port is typical on this style of tool, and wood chips will fly—use it over a bin, outside, or with a shop vac nearby if mess matters.As it runs on Milwaukee M12 batteries, it doesn’t need a wall outlet while cutting; you’ll only need an outlet for the M12 charger (not included with the tool-only version).
Is this suitable for beginners, or is there a learning curve?
Beginner-friendly overall. Reviews strongly praise ease of use, light weight, and one-handed control—especially for awkward positions (one customer specifically bought it for safer ladder work than a corded, two-handed Sawzall). The main learning curve is managing vibration and controlling the cut line, since recip saws can wander. Also, because of the short stroke, beginners may need to practice technique to prevent the cut from bogging down in thicker wood (use the right blade, keep pressure light, and let the saw clear chips).
can it handle production work, and is it “pro-worthy”?
It can be pro-useful, but it’s not a primary production saw. Customers (including a contractor) like it as a compact problem-solver for tight spaces and quick tasks, and many consider it good value. Having mentioned that, several reviews note it’s not ideal for frequent heavy use due to limited power/battery demands and more vibration than full-size saws. For a professional woodworker, it makes sense as a secondary/utility tool (demo, installs, cut-to-remove situations), while a higher-power model (frequently enough the M12 FUEL or an 18V class recip saw) is the better choice for all-day cutting.
Transform Your World
The Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 HACKZALL is a 12-volt cordless reciprocating saw (tool-only) built for controlled, compact cutting. It uses M12 lithium-ion batteries, accepts HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades, and includes a variable-speed trigger plus a battery fuel gauge. Customer feedback consistently highlights light weight, one-handed handling, and access in tight spaces, along with generally good value—while some note limited power, more vibration than full-size saws, and only “okay” runtime for longer sessions.
Best for: hobby woodworkers with small to medium projects, cabinet makers doing on-site adjustments, beginners learning safe cut control, and pros who need a durable “grab-and-go” saw for trim, demolition, or awkward cuts.
Consider alternatives if: you primarily cut thick hardwoods, need all-day production performance, or want the extra strength of an M12 FUEL or 18V class saw.
Final assessment: a solid mid-range, space-saving HACKZALL that excels in convenience, but isn’t a replacement for a full-size recip saw.
Want to see current pricing and customer photos? View on amazon & Read More Reviews →
