This review delves into the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 20" dual-battery chainsaw after three months of rigorous use, examining its performance, strengths, and weaknesses. We explore whether this cordless powerhouse truly lives up to Milwaukee's claims of rivaling gas-powered saws, considering factors like cutting power, battery life, and overall usability. Particular attention is paid to real-world performance, addressing the challenges encountered during various cutting tasks.Our assessment covers key aspects including cutting efficiency with both the standard and upgraded steel chain, battery runtime with different battery capacities, and the importance of regular maintenance to prevent sawdust buildup and water ingress. We also analyze the chainsaw's considerable weight and its impact on user experience, ultimately offering a balanced perspective on its suitability for different users and applications, factoring in cost and practicality.
Pros And Cons
- Amazing torque
- Doesn't cut out like a gas chainsaw under strain; gives warning before turning off
- Onboard tool
- Good performance with a steel chain (upgrade recommended)
- Battery life is short, especially with smaller batteries; requires Forge 12 amp-hour batteries for extended use
- Very heavy (around 20 lbs with batteries)
- Collects sawdust in the area behind the sprocket, potentially leading to water ingress
- Full chisel chain makes limbing difficult
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Unmatched Torque, But Battery Life Concerns
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 20" dual-battery chainsaw boasts impressive torque, exceeding expectations for a battery-powered saw. Milwaukee claims it's comparable to a 70cc gas saw, but that's debatable. The sheer power is undeniable, making quick work of even substantial cuts.
However, battery life is a major drawback. While initially promising, the runtime significantly diminishes under real-world conditions. Cutting down just four small poplar trees with the included 8Ah batteries drained them completely, even without limbing.
Essential Upgrades and Maintenance
Upgrading to the 12Ah Milwaukee Forge batteries is strongly recommended to extend runtime. These provide noticeably longer use, although still not as long as a gas saw. It is crucial to use high-quality batteries to get full performance from this powerful saw.
Additionally, a steel chain is almost a necessity. The original chain lacks the aggression to cut efficiently, requiring excessive pushing. The steel chain remedies this, allowing the saw to effortlessly cut through wood.
Sawdust Accumulation and Maintenance
A significant issue is the substantial amount of sawdust accumulating around the sprocket area. Holes in the saw's housing allow sawdust to build up, potentially leading to issues over time. Regular cleaning with compressed air is vital to prevent this build-up from causing problems.
This build-up, along with occasional use in snowy conditions, led to water entering the saw's case. This unexpected water ingress highlights the importance of thorough cleaning and storage to protect the internal components of the chainsaw.
Weight and Overall Performance
The chainsaw's substantial weight (around 20 lbs with batteries) is a major factor. While powerful, it's not ideal for extended use or for individuals unaccustomed to heavier saws. The weight is primarily due to the substantial batteries.
Despite the weight, the saw's performance is impressive. It delivers the power of a 60cc gas saw, making quick work of cuts. The safety features, such as the trigger mechanism, are well-designed and intuitive.
Conclusion: Worth the Investment?
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 20" dual-battery chainsaw offers impressive power and torque, rivaling some gas-powered models. However, the substantial weight and relatively short battery life are significant drawbacks. The need for frequent cleaning and the possibility of water ingress add to the maintenance considerations.
Ultimately, this saw is best suited for users who need powerful, occasional cuts and are willing to invest in additional batteries and regular maintenance. It's not ideal for professional or extended use due to the weight and battery limitations. The high initial cost, including the necessity of high-capacity batteries, must also be considered. For users with a variety of Milwaukee M18 tools, the battery compatibility may outweigh these drawbacks, though for others, the cost of entry is high.
