M12 Fuel Hackzall | Who NEEDS This?

I would consider the M12 Fuel Hackzall a specialty tool. Can it beat a full size recip? Definitely not, but can this be a professional tool?
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[@chriskelvin248]

This is just a compact cut off tool. The use case is in the very name of the tool. Electric hacksaw. The use case is a quick cutoff operation that is made possible because you were able to fit it in your tool bag and have it with you in the first place! Another indicator is the battery form factor. If you want an efficient, compact toolkit, you want common batteries and one charger. If you have say, your drill duties performed by a compact M12 drill or driver, you can just add the Hakzall bare tool and share batteries. This is not for a framer or renovator cutting window openings in the sheathing or tearing down walls. It’s for a service tech, a handyman, a plumber, an electrician….anyone who comes into a small job or service call blind who could benefit from having this option.

[@mfcbuilds]

Thank you. Perfect summary of what I said in the video. This is a perfect tool for the trades. Meant for conduit, pvc, etc. and can even cut a stud in a pinch. The homeowner would be better suited to buying a full size recip instead of this.

[@lukeblackford1677]

I’m a landlord, this is the only cordless saw I own. I take everywhere. I have used it to cut framing lumber in a pinch, but it isn’t suitable for heavy demo. It works great for cutting drywall, cyclone fence rails and rusty toilet flange bolts. I have a corded sawzall for heavy demo.

[@mfcbuilds]

That's awesome. How long have you owned it? Just curious on the tools longevity.

[@benhassell3030]

Literally looking into this as I have some toilet bolts to cut off! You sir have answered my question!!!!!

[@IIlicit]

mechanics and body shops i sell to much prefer this over the full sized m18

[@mfcbuilds]

Didn't even think of mechanics. Would probably be a dream for exhause installs.

[@michaelr5606]

Who? Me is who. I use this saw all the time. I do pool plumbing repairs and this is my saw of choice. I used to have the 18 Ryobi and for this this is significantly better. I can get into more places, it’s easier to throw in a bag, runs the same battery as my drill of choice too. It’s clearly not for everyone but I’ve been using and abusing one for at least 4 years and I have no complaints.

[@vincentdelaney1900]

I used in in hvac rough- ins for about a year before it killed itself, plumbers love them for cutting pvc in tight spots and crawl spaces during rough-ins.

[@mfcbuilds]

Sounds right, thanks!

[@cesarsila5036]

I’m a apprentice plumber and I think I might get in to m12 stuff rather then the m18

[@dannystiasny3891]

As A Plumber , it's all about getting in a tight spot , slow & steady if that's what it take's , PRICELESS , !!

[@kD_5555_]

Do it​@@cesarsila5036

[@Cavett24]

HVAC tech here, I use M12 Fuel tools for the compact power. I own the M18 version of pretty much every M12 tool for repetitive tasks. Other than that, they almost never get used.

[@mfcbuilds]

I forgot about my HVAC guys 😂. Sounds legit. What battery do you normally use on M12?

[@Cavett24]

@mfcbuilds high output 5.0ah for high demand tools, high output 2.5ah for confined spaces and low demand tools. Older batteries for lights, fans, and radio.

[@mfcbuilds]

Thanks. I haven't noticed much difference between cp 2.0 and 2.5 HO, but the jump to XC 4.0 is huge. Still need to get myself a larger high output.

[@Cavett24]

@mfcbuilds you will only notice a difference in high demand tools in struggle situations when the tool bogs down and pulls more amps from the battery to power through. I can rip cut with the m12 circular saw much easier with high output 5.0. The 2.5 is good for when you need clearance with the drills and impact drivers/ wrenches. They also charge faster with rapid/ super chargers, and the clips on the sides are better.

[@mfcbuilds]

Awesome knowledge, thanks.

[@billdavis6978]

I’m a Tradesman who gets around to my local jobs by Bicycle (up to 50 miles). I carry my tools in a Bob Trailer. This M12 lineup has been vital for me to live without a Big work truck or Van. If I’m demoing, I’ll use the M18 standard sawzall, other than that, the 12 volt is fine for most applications in remodeling. If Im worried about seconds, I won’t BS as much.

[@mfcbuilds]

So if you can only have 1. Which are you choosing?

[@billdavis6978]

I’d take the M12 Fuel. I use a sawzall more for cutting PVC and plumbing than demo. I try not to demo houses personally anymore and very rarely do I need a sawzall to cut four by fours, actually I don’t think I’ve ever used one even when building decks. I’m just doing more finish work now. The M12 is great for cutting drywall if you don’t have a roto zip.

[@mfcbuilds]

That's great insight. Thank you for the response.

[@1970gregg]

I have the M12 non fuel version which is great in tight spots and also the M18 fuel which I mostly use for pruning trees/shrubs and cutting roots. I’m happy with both.

[@mfcbuilds]

That's awesome. Having both is fantastic. But, if you could have only 1 ???

[@1970gregg]

If I could only have one, I’d take the M12 for the compact size.

[@mfcbuilds]

Good to know. Thank you

[@MrManDiller]

It came in a kit with the driver, drill, light and ratchet w/charger and x2 batteries. It's why I have it. The kit was $250 making the tool cheap

[@mfcbuilds]

That's a sweet deal.

[@martingo2680]

Lol.. I got the Milwaukee 12 volt but non-fuel for only 40 bucks.. just for the heck of it. It truly does suck. I ended up giving it to my 9-year-old for him to go wreck some stuff around the yard.😂

[@mfcbuilds]

Lol that's awesome! The fuel is not a bad tool. If I was a tradesman, this would be a MUST own.

[@swayme67]

I have the full-size saw, but this little guy does great in confined spaces (think tight closets, interstitials, crawl spaces) and can be used one-handed. Sure--it's not as gutsy as a larger unit, but it's not designed for crazy big demo jobs, it's designed to get where nothing else can and get the needed results. I enjoy mine quite a bit, and if you work in tight spaces, then this is a great solution, especially if you are in the M12 battery platform. Thanks!

[@mfcbuilds]

I agree with everything you said. It is a phenomenal tool for professionals on a daily basis of use. I think the normal homeowner probably isn't buying this and full size recip. I think they would be better suited with a full recip and an oscillating multitool.

[@martylucas8557]

Are you for real? Those are two different tools, for two different types of jobs. You can’t compare an M12 Hackzall to an 18 volt Sawzall. Try using an M12 6.0 next time in the M12 FUEL Hackzall. The M12 Hackzall is great for smaller jobs, especially overhead, where finesse matters.

[@mfcbuilds]

Can the M12 do it all, or would I still need to buy a full recip saw? This was the point of my test. I think a homeowner would be better suited buying a full recip and an oscillating tool for the small tight spaces. XC 4.0 and XC 6.0 have generated very similar power in my testing. XC 5.0 High Output is a different story.

[@raymondbernhardt7617]

Bought it for the sole purpose of cutting off ABS, so I don’t have to demo the area around it

[@mfcbuilds]

That's a good niche

[@damianpascual97]

I do plumbing and works great for cutting pipes

[@mfcbuilds]

Seems to be perfectly designed for.

[@fixedit8689]

This has its place. I’m a millwright and use one all the time. I also own the 18v version and the 18v normal size one. Each has its place in my tools arsenal.

[@mfcbuilds]

I agree

[@barrylinkiewich9688]

I've got the non-Fuel, it's gutless and slow but for the couple cuts every month or two that I need a recip it's the one I grab. I can't remember the last time I pulled my corded dewalt out, even for bigger cuts because the M12 fits everywhere and it's good enough to get the job done without ever being bad enough that I feel like I need to spend more on a better tool or haul the weight of a full size.

[@mfcbuilds]

I need to test the 18v compact version. It might be the perfect size/power

[@3jmontg]

2625-20 the M18 original hackzall. It has longer stroke length than m12 fuel hackzall, with same length, but a lil heavier. All depends how heavy with the big M18 batterys. I really enjoy how small and light the non fuel M12 hackzall is. Even pruning trees, compact is so nice

[@darkseid8481]

Would you recommend it for RV work?

[@mfcbuilds]

I honestly don't know what that entails. The tool is perfect for pvc and small/thin wall metal pipe

[@davidmcgee2126]

Short tool. Short stroke. Perfect for tight spots. I like the M12 line up. I’m not building a house with it I’m doing repairs and small builds All the M12 cutting tools are a bit underwhelming and I’d recommend a 18-24 V tool with high amph batteries unless your doing only light occasional or tight spots I have M18 fuel saws but I work on RVs and love this tool and it’s M18 fuel one handed big brother as there are tight and there are “TIGHT” spots But would be great for a home kit for small repairs. Any cheap saw with a good blade will do.

[@mfcbuilds]

Agreed! My thought for a DIY home owner was: M18 can do everything M12 can do, but not the other way around. If the space is TOO small, I would just use an oscillating tool. OR just buy both and enjoy lol.

[@harlanborders943]

They are not great for demo but are great for plumbing under a sink or crawl space. I do use it for some demo work when I don’t want the weight or the kick back from the full size.

[@mfcbuilds]

It does feel like a must-have for a plumber. Can definitely do demo. I just wouldn't want to lol.

[@MarkJenkins-o9r]

Just a straight-up lousy comparison he compared a m12 to the Ryobi 20 instead of using the M18

[@mfcbuilds]

Thanks for watching. We compared the m18 fuel sawzall to the Ryobi 18v in a previous video (Ryobi got crushed). We knew the m12 couldn't touch the m18, and it was a similar price to Ryobi so...

[@DaleWilson-mz1wn]

I freaking loved this thing at first. I'm an electrician and do a lot of remodel work. It was light weight and great for cutting drywall from around old ceiling boxes, making room for cut in cans etc, but after a few years it's starting to slow and squeal. I've tried lubing it but I must not be doing it right

[@mfcbuilds]

I'm pretty sure this is an older model. But, if you've been running it for a few years at work, I'd be satisfied with purchase.

[@yinglouie9663]

As a handyman for 2 years I have both 12v and 18v. I am short for cargo room. I can carry more tools in M12. Also that took is for hack saw work, and tight spaces!

[@mfcbuilds]

I agree. Definitely said none of those things at the end of the video

[@jf7393]

I steal catalytic converters for a living and this tool has paid for itself many times over. I would accept no substitute. Joke’s on you I bet you didn’t think about my industry

[@unabridgeddick6645]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jonfromsyracuse]

Not sure why you'd try and run this thing through wood? This is almost exclusively for plumbing and HVAC; and yes, I know you used a wood blade..

[@mfcbuilds]

Because... I wanted to show the use for the tools. Some ppl haven't used them and don't know the capacity or proper use. I am trying to inform others.

[@jonfromsyracuse]

@@k1_w3 idk probably anyone who has used recip saws in a professional setting. Go ahead and bust out that M12 to hack through some studs if you want to though lol

[@MarkJenkins-o9r]

Milwaukee has a M18 version of that exact one and then multiple other

[@mfcbuilds]

The M18 Fuel is fantastic kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6nXm2CKfdJ1qLc

[@coreyrc1987]

The M12 Fuel hackzall is absolute trash compared to the M18 Fuel hackzall, I’m an electrician and use the M18 fuel hackzall everyday. And I’ll put my 18v fuel hackzall up against any standard sawzall anyday, it may be 1 second slower when cutting through a 2x4 but it’s also half the size, and I’d rather use up less space in the packout than to shave 16 seconds total off my work day.

[@mfcbuilds]

Sounds like I'm going to have to buy a new tool

[@Jemi8315]

I’ve been cutting 3/4” - 3” ridgid conduit with wire inside for demo at the refinery I work at for the past 2 weeks using the hacksaw and it performs just as well as my partners zawsaw

[@mfcbuilds]

That sounds like a perfect use case. Do you think it could completely replace a full recip for the average homeowner?

[@gregdee9085]

Doesn't realize he's testing the blade ... and the shorter stroke length is for finer work (thus finer blades), not to mention wrong application...

[@mfcbuilds]

I try not to use recip saws and blades called "Demo Demon" on my finer work, but who am I too judge. We love this tool for plumbers, electricians, and hvac guys. This test was purely to see what it was capable of. We know it's going to cut pvc and soft metal pipe, but could a plumber cut a stud in a pinch if needed, or does he need to own a full size recip as well.

[@davidsuchite9757]

I’m thinking of getting one of these. I feel it’s for specific jobs. For example I had to change a jet housing in my hot tub and needed to cut it out. I started with my multi tool but it wasn’t working so I had to use a sawzull but it was scary because I didn’t want to damage the shell and the sawzul was big and bulky. One of these would of worked better. Other than that I can’t imagine many times I’ll use it. I’m only getting it because it’s part of the set.

[@mfcbuilds]

Sounds right. I try to buy tools only when I need them for a specific job. A new tool is far cheaper than a new hot tub lol

[@vladimiremason3441]

toola as good as the blade. use the right and sharp blade for the job and even a handsaw witll cut a hard job in half

[@mfcbuilds]

With the shorter stroke length on the Hackzall a blade with more TPI was superior.

[@Motor-City_Ben-Diesel]

This thing comes in handy all the time. It’s small so it can get into tight places and you can use it with 1 hand. You can cut anything with it from wood to metal or pvc piping

[@mfcbuilds]

It is definitely impressive for its size

[@nbpt1000]

You need to compare apples to apples. I like the idea of using this on a ladder where I only have one hand available.

[@mfcbuilds]

We did the full size recip saw comparison. I was just curious how the m12 would stack up to the Ryobi.

[@nbpt1000]

@@mfcbuilds Yes I understand. I was hoping to get a comparison to other compact recip saws like the Ryobi ONe hand operation saw. But it is fine. It was helpful thanks.

[@slckerr7885]

I buy saws only in m18. m12 tools are great, but i want to have power when i do cuts.

[@mfcbuilds]

If I was a plumber, hvac, electrician, etc... this is perfect. For me, I'm at least buying the M18 version.

[@yunggolem4687]

What it's obviously for is notching out 2x4s, cutting conduit, cutting pvc.. Its for electricians, it's for plumbers, possibly HVAC, possibly tile guys, possibly drywallers. It's not for demolition or a woodshop. It's small & light bc you're carrying it around all the time & weight matters instead of just leaving it at a jobsite or a shop. You reviewed like it was competing with full size sawzalls. Sure it will do the stuff the big boys do, but slower & more painfully. It's not for that. I use an m18 fuel as my primary pruner on a 10acre well treed property.. Throw a 12" diablo carbide blade on it and it's about 40% the weight of a tophandle chainsaw, cut's maybe 50-60% as fast, no resharpening chains, no smelling like 2stroke exhaust, no mixing 2stroke fuel, no filling chain oil reservoir, don't even need hearing protection. And it's a hell of a lot safer, plus I can hang it from a drill hook on my belt instead of on the ground, saves a lot of energy over the course of a day. I just wanted to know if it might function well in a similar role for my mother in her 70s, but instead you reviewed it in all the ways it wasn't meant to perform, then complained about it obviously being a smaller, lighter & lower power tool... when that's the entire point of it.

[@mfcbuilds]

Please go to 9:02 in the video...

[@mfcbuilds]

I reviewed this as a homeowner. My recommendation would be to buy a full recip and an oscillating multitool

[@chug33]

As a plumber who has every milwaukee tool possible, I dont recommend it for anyone.

[@mfcbuilds]

How has it let you down?

[@johnmichael642]

I think it’s about the compact size lower weight and definitely not a demo tool

[@mfcbuilds]

Agreed. Personally, I would go with the m18 hackzall version. Should be the best of both worlds.

[@Ketchupbelongsonsteak]

I bought this tool. Then saw a dewalt 18v on site and was immediately pissed because the dewalt is basically the same size but 18v.

[@mfcbuilds]

I also suffer from F.O.B.O. Fear of better options

[@nosky4673]

I am in the m12 system. This saw is the one tool I wish I had in a m18.

[@mfcbuilds]

I have said in a few video, I would own all m12 if it wasn't for saw and routers.

[@luiscuba803]

I love this tool.

[@mfcbuilds]

It really is pretty impression for its size.

[@Mark-g4z2s]

As a garage door residential/ commercial installer, and service tech, sawzalls are a great and quite useful tool. I can see having both full size, and compact. Having the M12 tool collection is a huge plus. For heavy duty commercial work, i used a mix a corded tools and battery operating where feasible.

[@FoldingScreenMonkey]

6:54 maybe the blade length changes the vibration? Having a bunch of blade overhanging might allow for wiggling that isn't present with a shorter blade

[@melaniethomas-pack992]

Try using the 5.0 high output battery it’s a game changer

[@mfcbuilds]

I definitely need to buy. It's on the list.

[@pointnozzleaway]

Do you have a review on the M12 Jigsaw ?

[@mfcbuilds]

I do not yet. Only the m18 fuel barrel grip. But if I must buy another new tool.... 🤣

[@P3tray]

great for cutting pvc/copper in tight spots, I would not use this on cast iron it just doesn't have enough power but the m18 sawzall is perfect for cast iron/galvanized pipe

[@mfcbuilds]

Have you tried the M18 Hackzall? I think it might hit the sweet spot, but I haven't had a chance to test yet.

[@P3tray]

@@mfcbuilds yes, it's like the perfect balance between power and size imo I haven't pulled out my Sawzall since I got the hackzall

[@mfcbuilds]

Good to know. Thanks.

[@starmedicine]

every tool has its purpose for use. I tend to use this one a fair amount

[@LL-fb8wz]

Vibration therapy too! Get that circulation going.

[@mfcbuilds]

Lol 💪

[@anthonyocarroll5630]

How will it go cutting tree roots thanks

[@mfcbuilds]

I can't it imagine well... I would "think" the reciprocating action would pull dirt into it and jam up the tool. Nvr tried.

[@woodybooger2814]

It’s straight up for drywall

[@mfcbuilds]

Plumbers must love it for PVC

[@pandatactical4530]

It cuts stuff!

[@heatweasel]

i have had and still have a hackzall m12 non fuel.best thing since sliced bread.i use milwaukee short blades that were designed for it it is the most controllable reciprocating saw on the market here in the u.k. i have lent it to jobsite colleagues and they have said they hate recip. saws apart from my m12 milwaukee because they are uncontrollable. i amainly do heating and plumbing.if you are obsessed with cutting large wood get a chainsaw or dewalt alligator. love your channel, john.

[@mfcbuilds]

That's awesome input and insight. That you. It's appreciated!

[@DarenHarmon]

This a great saw for service plumbers! I rarely need more power than this and it gets into a lot of tight spots that an 18v cant. And its lighter so its easier to carry around. 12v is the way to in my line of work! Lol

[@mfcbuilds]

Agreed!

[@tylerhurst1437]

I’m a carpenter and I help my brother who’s a electrician in the weekend from time to time and I got the m12 fuel set with that saw cus it was cheeper than just the drill with what I wanted and I love that saw for small jobs and odds and ends its not going to replace the 18v but it’s perfect for what it is 0 complaints and highly recommend it for what it is

[@mfcbuilds]

Agreed, my verdict was, it's made for the tradesman and does a great job

[@broodyyedda5621]

​@@mfcbuilds What about for a tile tradesman? For light framing and other light-medium stuff?

[@mfcbuilds]

@@broodyyedda5621 If you are only buying one, I would recommend the M18 Fuel HACKZALL. You are getting the more compact tool with more power.

[@broodyyedda5621]

@@mfcbuilds yeah I just got money now to buy all my tile tools. Mainly used or give to buy retired tilesmann. I'm getting the m12fuel drivers set and the m18fuel multi tool and M18 hack saw with all the Milwaukee fan boy blades 😋😛 I'm stoked. Thanks for making the vid that helped me decide what tools I want. Plus red looks so cool!

[@mfcbuilds]

@broodyyedda5621 that's awesome. I get zero from home depot, but check out there promotions. I just bought the track saw and they have a spend $500 get $150 off. Pretty sure the Hackzall was in there.

[@rickjames520]

Junk glad i didnt buy it

[@mfcbuilds]

Lol it's not that bad. For its intended use (pvc/drywall) it's great

[@omegaplumbing]

This guy cant find a use for a lightweight sawzall the most versatile tool ever invented? 😂 Next he'll review the multi-tool I cant think of any use for this...😂

[@mfcbuilds]

It's always easy to know who watches the end of the video... I can't justify a homeowner buying this and a full size. I think you would be better off owning a full recip and an oscillating tool.

[@omegaplumbing]

@@mfcbuilds I watched to the end. No mention of multitool. Review still made no sense to me how could this not be good for a homeowner?

[@mfcbuilds]

No worries. The video was, do not buy unless you are a tradesman. I think a homeowner would be better off with a full recip. I'm not here to convince anyone, just my opinion.

[@mattnixon7728]

I have the dewalt12v extreme, and with their 5 a h batteries is a beast. Done all kind of demo with it for a few years. Love it

[@mfcbuilds]

This is a tool I've been wanting to test. Good to know. Thanks for watching.

[@flomondbarnes1578]

Dude you are definitely tripping and it's safe to say this tool is not for you , but the m12 has got me out of so many tight situations 😊

[@mfcbuilds]

I failed to mention in the video. My thought process is, own a full recip and an oscillating tool for everything else. Would the m12 be Amazing to have for small jobs... Absolutely, but most homeowners aren't going to buy both.

[@Nyeholt007]

Trim your bush with it?

[@mfcbuilds]

Would need the full size.

[@charlemarcharlemar2401]

Hit blade change is cross marketing to sell more Milwaukee gloves

[@glenarseneau1231]

As a plumber I use that saw all the time

[@omarparish6748]

YOU CANT GO WRONG WITH ANY MILWAUKEE CORDLESS TOOL 👍

[@craigwilson391]

The m18 is fantastic

[@mfcbuilds]

Agreed!

[@SketiSquad]

Yeah, I’ve almost fully replaced my corded sawzall with the m18 hackzall

[@mfcbuilds]

I don't know which tool you're referring to lol. M18 sawzall or m12 hackzall

[@melaniethomas-pack992]

Try using the high output 5.0 battery it’s a totally different level of performance

[@mfcbuilds]

I'm sure. I need to bite the bullet and purchase one. Judging by the m18 line it will be a substantial difference