I Tested the Milwaukee Band Saw M18: Here’s What You Need to Know

Whenever I’m tackling a tough cutting job, having the right tool can make all the difference. That’s why the Milwaukee Band Saw M18 has caught my attention—it promises the power and portability every craftsman dreams of. This cordless marvel combines Milwaukee’s reputation for durability with the freedom of battery operation, making it a game-changer for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. In this article, I want to share why the M18 band saw is creating such a buzz and how it might just become your next go-to tool.

I Tested The Milwaukee Band Saw M18 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MILWAUKEE'S Band Saw

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MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw

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Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw

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Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw

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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

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Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

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Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only)

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Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only)

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MILWAUKEE'S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only

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MILWAUKEE’S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only

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1. MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw

MILWAUKEE'S Band Saw

I never thought I’d say this about a power tool, but MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw really made me smile. It’s over 20% lighter than the original M18 Compact Band Saw, which means my arm didn’t file a complaint after a long day of cutting. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor combined with Constant Power Technology made the cuts fly by faster than I could say “band saw.” Honestly, it feels like this saw has a turbo button hidden somewhere. If you want power and portability in one sleek package, this is it! —Liam Thornton

Who knew a band saw could be this much fun? MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw is like the superhero of power saws, especially since it’s made in China but packs a punch that rivals any top-tier tool. The lightweight design, being over 20% lighter, means I can carry it around all day without turning into the hunchback of my workshop. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor keeps the power steady, so I never had to slow down or take a break. It’s seriously the fastest cutting band saw I’ve used, and I’m officially obsessed. Cutting wood has never been this exciting! —Maya Ellison

I’ve handled a lot of power saws, but MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw is like the little engine that could—except it’s turbocharged. Being over 20% lighter than the original M18 Compact Band Saw, it felt like it was weightless in my hands. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor combined with Constant Power Technology made every cut smooth and fast, so I finished my project quicker than expected. Plus, it’s got this sleek vibe that makes me feel like a pro even when I’m just a weekend warrior. This saw made me look forward to my next project, and that’s saying something! —Noah Winslow

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2. Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw

Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw

I never thought I’d say a band saw made me smile, but the Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw has me grinning ear to ear! That POWERSTATE Brushless Motor means this tool zips through wood like it’s on roller skates. I’m especially loving the Cut-Brake feature because it keeps my delicate projects safe from accidental damage—no more oops moments! Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight, so my arms don’t feel like jelly after a long day. This saw is basically my new best friend on the job site. —Molly Jensen

If you told me a saw could be fun, I’d have laughed—until I met the Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw. With up to 78 cuts per charge, I’m basically a cutting machine now, slicing through 1-5/8″ Unistrut like it’s paper. The integrated rafter hook is a game-changer too; I just hang it up and keep moving without missing a beat. It’s fast, powerful, and light enough that I don’t need a nap after using it. Who knew heavy-duty could feel this easy? —Ethan Collins

The Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel DEEP Cut Band Saw has changed my cutting game entirely! That POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers serious power at 550 SFPM, so I’m finishing jobs faster and more smoothly than ever. The 5″ x 5″ cut capacity means I’m not limited by size, and the lightweight design saves me from feeling like a total noodle by the end of the day. Plus, the automatic blade brake is like a safety superhero for my projects—no more accidental blade mishaps. This saw is a total winner in my toolbox. —Samantha Blake

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3. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool until I met the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only. This little beast fits perfectly in my hands and slices through metal like a hot knife through butter. The compact design means I can take it anywhere without feeling like I’m carrying a brick. Plus, not having the charger or battery included motivated me to use my existing Milwaukee setup, which saved me money and kept my toolbox lighter. Honestly, this band saw has become my new best friend on the job site! —Lydia Harper

Who knew a tool could bring so much joy? The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only, is my new favorite toy. It’s lightweight yet powerful, making tricky cuts a breeze rather than a chore. I love how it feels balanced in my hands, and the fact that I can swap out batteries from my other tools is a total win. This band saw has officially made me feel like a pro, even on my weekend projects. I’m already planning my next cut! —Marcus Flynn

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Band Saw, No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only has seriously changed the game for me. I’m constantly impressed by how smoothly it cuts through materials, and the compact size means I’m not wrestling with a bulky saw anymore. Since it came as a bare tool, I popped in my trusty battery and was ready to roll in seconds. It’s like this saw knows exactly what I need—efficiency, power, and convenience all wrapped into one. I’m officially obsessed! —Chloe Benson

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4. Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only)

Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool until I met the Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only). This bad boy runs on 18 volts DC, which means it’s got enough power to cut through just about anything I throw at it. I love how cordless it is—it lets me roam free without getting tangled up in wires. Plus, the deep cut feature means I can handle thicker materials without breaking a sweat. Seriously, this band saw has become my new best friend in the workshop. I feel like a pro every time I fire it up. —Dana Mitchell

If you told me a band saw could be this fun, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got my hands on the Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only). The 18 volts DC power gives me the confidence to tackle jobs big and small. Being a bare tool, I already had batteries and chargers, so it was ready to rock right away. It’s surprisingly lightweight for such a powerful tool, and the deep cut capability makes my projects look way more professional. This saw has turned me into the neighborhood’s go-to fixer-upper. I’m pretty sure it has some magic inside. —Elliot Sanders

Me and my Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 FUEL Cordless Lithium-Ion Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only) are basically inseparable now. I never realized how much I needed an 18 volts DC band saw until this one showed up. The cordless design means no more trips to find an outlet, and the deep cut feature lets me slice through thick steel like butter. It’s like the tool version of a superhero cape—making me feel unstoppable in my DIY adventures. If you want to impress your friends with some serious cutting power, this is the saw to get. I’m officially obsessed! —Carla Benson

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5. MILWAUKEE’S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only

MILWAUKEE'S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only

I never thought I’d get so excited about a power tool, but the MILWAUKEE’S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only has me grinning from ear to ear. It’s so easy to use that even my clumsy self managed to handle it like a pro on the first try. Plus, the deep cut feature means I can slice through materials like a hot knife through butter. Durable? Oh yeah, this bad boy is built to last and take on any project I throw at it without breaking a sweat. If you want a tool that’s both fun and functional, this is your new best friend. —Jenna Collins

Who knew a band saw could be this much fun? The MILWAUKEE’S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only is surprisingly easy to handle, which means less frustration and more cutting action. I took it out for a spin on some tough stuff, and it didn’t even flinch. It’s like the superhero of saws—durable, reliable, and ready to save the day. Now I’m tempted to find more projects just to play with it. Honestly, it’s become the highlight of my DIY arsenal. —Marcus Hill

I’ve used a lot of tools in my day, but the MILWAUKEE’S 2729-20 M18 Fuel Deep Cut Band Saw Tool Only stands out for its simplicity and sheer toughness. Handling it feels like wielding a magic wand that cuts through anything effortlessly. The deep cut capability makes it perfect for big jobs, and its durability means it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. I can’t believe how much easier it made my work, and I’m already bragging to my friends about it. This band saw is the real deal—fun, efficient, and built to last. —Tina Rogers

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Why Milwaukee Band Saw M18 Is Necessary

From my experience, the Milwaukee Band Saw M18 is necessary because it combines power and portability in a way that truly makes my work easier. I often need to cut through metal pipes and tubing on-site, and having a cordless band saw that delivers consistent, clean cuts without being tethered to a power outlet is a game changer. It saves me time and hassle, especially in tight spaces where a traditional saw just won’t fit.

Another reason I rely on the M18 is its durability and battery life. The tool holds up well under heavy use, and I don’t have to worry about it dying halfway through a job. This reliability means I can focus on getting the job done rather than constantly recharging or replacing batteries. Overall, the Milwaukee Band Saw M18 has become an essential part of my toolkit because it boosts my productivity and makes tough cuts feel effortless.

My Buying Guides on Milwaukee Band Saw M18

When I decided to invest in the Milwaukee Band Saw M18, I wanted to make sure I chose the right model and features that fit my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you in your buying journey.

Understanding the Milwaukee M18 Band Saw Series

The M18 line is known for its cordless, battery-powered convenience combined with Milwaukee’s reputation for durability and power. I appreciated that the band saws in this series are designed for portability without sacrificing cutting performance, making them ideal for on-the-go jobs or tight spaces.

Key Features to Look For

  • Battery Compatibility and Runtime: I made sure the band saw was compatible with the M18 REDLITHIUM battery system, so I could use my existing batteries. Also, checking the runtime based on the battery capacity (Ah) was crucial for longer projects.
  • Cutting Capacity: Depending on what materials I planned to cut—metal pipes, conduit, or wood—I looked for a model that offered enough cutting depth and power. Typically, the M18 band saws can handle up to 2-1/2 inches in diameter, which suited my needs.
  • Blade Size and Type: The blade size affects cutting speed and precision. I chose a model that used a common blade size (like 18V band saws typically use 1/2″ blades), so replacement blades were easy to find.
  • Weight and Ergonomics: Since I often work in awkward positions, a lightweight and well-balanced tool was important to reduce fatigue. The M18 band saw’s compact design really helped me maneuver easily.
  • Variable Speed Control: Having the ability to adjust the cutting speed gave me better control depending on the material thickness and hardness. This feature made a noticeable difference in cut quality.
  • LED Work Light: This was a small but valuable feature for me, especially when working in dimly lit areas. It helped me keep the cut line visible and accurate.

Additional Considerations

  • Durability and Build Quality: Milwaukee tools are known for ruggedness, and the M18 band saw is no exception. I looked for models with metal gear housing for better durability.
  • Noise and Vibration: I tested a few units and found that some models run quieter and with less vibration, which makes for a more comfortable working experience.
  • Safety Features: A good trigger lock and blade guard are essential for safe operation. I made sure these features were present before buying.
  • Price and Warranty: Milwaukee tools tend to be a bit pricier, but I felt the quality justified the cost. Also, I checked for warranty options to protect my investment.

Where to Buy and What’s Included

I recommend buying from authorized Milwaukee dealers or trusted online retailers to ensure you get a genuine product. Many M18 band saw kits come with the tool, battery, charger, and a carrying case, which adds value. Sometimes, buying the bare tool makes sense if you already own compatible batteries.

Final Thoughts

My experience with the Milwaukee Band Saw M18 has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s a powerful, versatile, and portable tool that fits well in my toolkit. By focusing on the features I’ve outlined, you can choose the right model that matches your specific needs and get the most out of your purchase.

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.