Best Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall Models of 2026
Milwaukee dominates the reciprocating saw market with its legendary Sawzall line and the compact one-handed Hackzall series. In 2026, the choice between raw demolition power and one-handed portability is sharper than ever, and we have broken down the published specs and owner feedback to find the right tool for your cutting tasks.
Quick answer
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall (2821-20) is the best all-round full-size pick for demolition, and the even heavier M18 FUEL Super Sawzall (2722-20) is the step up if you want Milwaukee's highest cordless output. For one-handed overhead work and tight spaces, the M12 FUEL Hackzall (2520-20) is the top pick, while the M18 FUEL Hackzall (2719-20) offers the best balance of power and portability.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Compared on published specs (stroke length, SPM, weight)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Owner feedback read, not counted or scored
- Model numbers checked against Milwaukee's catalog
- Build quality & warranty checked
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated August 2026.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20
Milwaukee's current-generation full-size FUEL Sawzall, built for heavy demolition on the M18 platform.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20 | Heavy demolition | 1-1/4 in stroke, 3000 SPM | 4.8/5 | Check |
| M12 FUEL Hackzall 2520-20 | One-handed portability | 5/8 in stroke, 3000 SPM | 4.6/5 | Check |
| M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 | Balance of power & size | 3/4 in stroke, 3000 SPM | 4.7/5 | Check |
| M18 Sawzall 2621-20 | Budget full-size | 1-1/8 in stroke, 3000 SPM | 4.5/5 | Check |
| M12 Hackzall 2420-20 | Entry-level compact | 1/2 in stroke, 3000 SPM | 4.4/5 | Check |
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20
Best For Heavy DemolitionPros
- Long 1-1/4 in stroke for fast material removal
- POWERSTATE brushless motor with REDLINK PLUS
- Takes standard full-size demolition blades
Cons
- Heavy for overhead use
- Expensive bare tool
The M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20 is Milwaukee's current-generation full-size cordless reciprocating saw. It pairs a 1-1/4 inch stroke length with a variable speed trigger that runs up to 3000 strokes per minute. Owners regularly report it cutting through thick lumber, nail-embedded wood and cast iron without bogging down, and the POWERSTATE brushless motor with REDLINK PLUS intelligence is what keeps power up under load.
Note that 2821-20 is a FUEL brushless model, not a budget one, and that Milwaukee's higher-output option above it is the M18 FUEL Super Sawzall 2722-20, which adds a constant-power gearbox and an adjustable speed dial at the cost of extra weight. The 2821-20 runs on any M18 REDLITHIUM battery, weighs roughly 6.4 pounds bare, and includes the quick-release blade clamp and adjustable shoe owners expect. It is the best choice for contractors who need one cordless saw that will cut almost anything on site.
Milwaukee M12 FUEL Hackzall 2520-20
Best For One-Handed UsePros
- Very lightweight and compact
- Excellent for overhead cutting
- Brushless motor is efficient on small M12 packs
Cons
- Short stroke limits cutting speed
- Not for heavy demolition
The M12 FUEL Hackzall 2520-20 is the most portable reciprocating saw in Milwaukee's lineup. It weighs roughly 2.6 pounds bare and is genuinely comfortable to run one-handed. Its 5/8 inch stroke is much shorter than a full-size Sawzall, but at up to 3000 SPM it still gets through PVC, copper pipe, conduit and drywall quickly. Owners most often praise it for plumbing and electrical work where space is limited.
This tool is part of the M12 system and uses the smaller M12 REDLITHIUM packs, which is a large part of why it stays so light. The compact body fits into stud bays and under sinks where a full-size Sawzall simply will not go, and the Hackzall in-line grip gives good control overhead. It is not designed for thick lumber or nail-embedded wood, but for its intended work it is a top performer.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20
Best Balance Of Power & PortabilityPros
- Longer stroke than the M12 Hackzall
- Much lighter than a full-size Sawzall
- Shares the M18 battery platform
Cons
- Not as capable as a full-size Sawzall
- Bulkier than the M12 Hackzall in tight spaces
The M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 bridges the gap between the compact M12 Hackzall and the full-size M18 Sawzall. Its 3/4 inch stroke is longer than the M12 FUEL Hackzall's 5/8 inch, which means noticeably faster cuts in wood and metal, and the brushless motor gives it real bite. At around 4.4 pounds bare it is still manageable one-handed for short cuts, and owners commonly use it for everything from pruning branches to cutting rebar and strut.
Because it runs on M18 REDLITHIUM packs, it shares batteries with the full-size Sawzall and the rest of the M18 range, which matters if you are already invested. The in-line Hackzall grip is the same idea as the M12 version, just scaled up. It is a strong choice for homeowners and pros who want one saw covering a wide range of jobs without the bulk of the biggest model. If you see the brushed M18 Hackzall 2625-20 instead, that is the non-FUEL version of the same concept and a cheaper way in.
Milwaukee M18 Sawzall 2621-20
Best Budget Full-SizePros
- Lower price than the FUEL models
- Still plenty for standard demolition
- Same M18 battery platform
Cons
- Brushed motor, so less runtime and power
- Heavier than any Hackzall
The M18 Sawzall 2621-20 is the brushed-motor, non-FUEL full-size saw and the affordable entry point into Milwaukee's cordless reciprocating range. It has a 1-1/8 inch stroke and a variable speed trigger reaching 3000 SPM. Owners describe it as a dependable tool for standard demolition such as cutting studs, plywood and light pipe, and it is a sensible pick for homeowners who do not need FUEL-level output.
It weighs about 6.4 pounds bare and runs on the same M18 REDLITHIUM packs as everything else on this list. Build quality is solid and it keeps the quick-release blade clamp and adjustable shoe found on the pricier models. The trade-off versus the 2821-20 is the brushed motor: expect shorter runtime per charge and more slowdown when you lean on it. For occasional full-size work at the lowest M18 price, that is a fair deal.
Milwaukee M12 Hackzall 2420-20
Best Entry-Level CompactPros
- Cheapest way into the Hackzall format
- Lightest Milwaukee reciprocating saw
- Easy to handle for beginners
Cons
- Brushed motor is less efficient
- Shortest stroke here, so slower cuts
The M12 Hackzall 2420-20 is the entry-level compact reciprocating saw from Milwaukee. It uses a brushed motor and the small M12 battery platform, weighs only around 2.4 pounds bare and is the lightest saw in this guide. Owners like it for its low cost and easy handling on light jobs around the house such as trimming PVC pipe, cutting drywall or clearing small branches.
Its stroke is 1/2 inch, shorter than the 5/8 inch of the M12 FUEL version, and it also runs to 3000 SPM. That short stroke plus the brushed motor is why it feels slower than the FUEL Hackzall in anything solid, and runtime per charge is lower too. It makes most sense for someone who already owns M12 batteries and wants a basic saw on hand rather than a daily driver.
What to check before buying a Milwaukee Sawzall or Hackzall
Start with the cutting you actually do. Full-size Sawzall models are built for heavy demolition, while Hackzall models are in-line, one-handed saws meant for tight spaces. The battery platform matters just as much: M18 offers more power and runtime, M12 keeps the tool light and small. Stroke length is the spec that separates them most, running from 1/2 inch on the M12 Hackzall up to 1-1/4 inch on the full-size FUEL Sawzall, and a longer stroke removes more material per cycle. Also check for a quick-release blade clamp and an adjustable shoe, and weigh up the tool weight if you will be cutting overhead for long stretches.
Mistakes to avoid when choosing a Milwaukee reciprocating saw
A common mistake is buying a full-size Sawzall when a Hackzall would do, because the extra weight causes real fatigue during overhead work. Another is ignoring the battery platform: if you already own M12 tools, an M18 saw means buying new batteries and a charger too. Watch the model numbers as well, because Milwaukee's FUEL and non-FUEL versions look similar but perform differently, and numbering across the M12 and M18 catalogs is easy to confuse. Do not overlook blade selection either, since the wrong blade for the material means poor cuts and fast wear. Finally, avoid a brushed model if you plan to use the saw frequently, as brushless motors offer better efficiency and longer life.
FAQs
What is the difference between a Sawzall and a Hackzall?
A Sawzall is a full-size reciprocating saw designed for two-handed use and heavy demolition. A Hackzall is a compact, in-line, one-handed reciprocating saw for cutting in tight spaces.
Which Milwaukee Sawzall is the most powerful?
The M18 FUEL Super Sawzall 2722-20 is Milwaukee's highest-output cordless model, with a 1-1/4 inch stroke, up to 3000 SPM and an adjustable speed dial. The standard M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20 is the lighter everyday version.
Can I use M18 batteries on an M12 Hackzall?
No. M18 batteries are physically larger and not compatible with M12 tools. You must use M12 batteries for M12 tools and M18 batteries for M18 tools.
Is the Milwaukee Hackzall good for cutting tree branches?
Yes, a Hackzall handles pruning well, especially the M18 FUEL 2719-20 which has more power and a longer stroke. Use a pruning blade for best results.
What is the stroke length of the Milwaukee M12 Hackzall?
The brushed M12 Hackzall 2420-20 has a 1/2 inch stroke. The M12 FUEL Hackzall 2520-20 steps that up to 5/8 inch.
Is the 2821-20 a budget Sawzall?
No. The 2821-20 is an M18 FUEL brushless model and sits near the top of the range. The budget full-size option is the brushed M18 Sawzall 2621-20.
Does the Milwaukee Sawzall come with a blade?
Most Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall tools sold as bare tools ship without batteries or a charger, though many include a starter blade. Kits add a battery and charger.
How do I change the blade on a Milwaukee Sawzall?
Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall models use a quick-release blade clamp. Pull or twist the collar, insert the blade, then release the collar to lock it in place.
What is the warranty on Milwaukee reciprocating saws?
Milwaukee offers a 5-year limited warranty on most M12 and M18 cordless power tools, including Sawzall and Hackzall models. Batteries carry a shorter separate warranty.
Which is better for plumbing, Sawzall or Hackzall?
The Hackzall is generally better for plumbing because it is more compact and can be run one-handed in tight spaces under sinks or in crawl spaces.
Can I cut metal with a Milwaukee Sawzall?
Yes, Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall saws cut metal when used with an appropriate metal-cutting blade at a lower speed setting.
Our verdict
The best all-round Milwaukee reciprocating saw for 2026 is the M18 FUEL Sawzall 2821-20, with the M18 FUEL Super Sawzall 2722-20 as the step up if you want maximum cordless output. For a compact one-handed saw the M12 FUEL Hackzall 2520-20 is the top pick, and the best budget full-size option is the brushed M18 Sawzall 2621-20.