Milwaukee M12 FUEL Hatchet 6" Chain Saw Review 2527-21 | Is It Right For You?

[@micaonyx5301]

I had my daughter get me one as a Christmas present a couple of years ago and I LOVE it!

[@javyLSU1]

I’ve used mine a ton and it’s fantastic for storm cleanup. Cutting up downed limbs and even bucking small trees are much easier not having to carry around my full size chain saw. My back also very much prefers to use this little saw over the full size.

[@S.c.combo123]

Had this for 18months travelling around Aus, sensational saw. Usb rechargeable thing for the battery, have cut hefty firewood and once had a tree down across the road, took a bit of creative cutting but got through it. Awesome piece of kit

[@seanfrank4158]

I think I'll pick one up. I own the Milwaukee chainsaw and I really like that a lot. My gas saw stays in the shed. This little saw will be great when doing what it was meant for....light pruning and clean up around my trees and fences.

[@davidmatz45]

Very helpful, no nonsense review. Appreciate how you emphasized safety, especially since this saw can lull one into negligence because of its “cute” size. Useful tips. Thank you!

[@RadDadisRad]

This is a BADASS pvc cutter. Js. If you do a lot of underground or pvc/plastic piping this thing will pay for itself in a day. Especially if you do a lot of 2”-4”. You don’t have to debur the pipe because it doesn’t leave a burr.

[@WorkshopAddict]

Awesome use!

[@Pro1er]

I have the Stihl GTA-26. I've seen a few videos on the Milwaukee and it definitely has more power than the Stihl, but the Stihl seems to be much smaller which can be a real advantage when pruning. The battery life on the Stihl is not very good though. As a side note, I'm glad you are trying to keep people aware of how dangerous a chainsaw can be - no matter the size.

[@WorkshopAddict]

I probably am going a bit overboard on safety, but if it saves one person's finger it was worth it. Chainsaws do not leave nice cuts in flesh that are easily repaired.

[@Pro1er]

​@@WorkshopAddict No, you're not going overboard. I don't know if you know this but the chainsaw was invented to remove limbs - human limbs. That was in the 1800's and it was a hand crank model, but that eventually lead to the modern chainsaw we all know and fear today.

[@jl9362]

Would love love to see an M18 Fuel with lets say maybe a 10" bar. Thanks for the review.

[@TheLexiconDevils]

Some guy modified it to use a 10” bar.

[@prototype3a]

I actually asked Milwuakee to make this tool several years ago. More recently, I just use a really nice tri-cut handsaw. Also, that thing cuts pretty good considering you say that is black locust. IMHO, if you don't know how to sharpen a saw chain, LEARN HOW. It's not hard and keeping your chain sharp makes a huge difference.

[@WorkshopAddict]

That is black locust. I planted that tree and 1,000 more just like it. The chain should be sharp from the factory, but you can say that about almost any chain. The difference between factory and shapening the chain was night and day.

[@orijimi]

@@WorkshopAddict Yeah, I'm glad I watched to that point in the video. The thing seemed kind of laughable before that. Like, slower than a hackzall.

[@mikemorgan5015]

Pleasantly surprised with the power for a 12v tool. The compact size and light weight are a huge bonus. The dexterity of one hand operation and the low chain speed make for quick safe work. Small enough to throw in a tool box or behind the seat. I absolutely DON'T need this. But I absolutely WILL get one. Never know when you may get a wild hair to trim your trees at 3am and not wake the neighbors. Why no LED Milwaukee?!! WHY?!! Ha!

[@edmundolanderos6085]

For safety matters , and the time cutting a 5 inch branch I just might go for the m18 chain saw.

[@WorkshopAddict]

If I was working with 4' and over branches all day, this would not be my pick.

[@kobelcofan]

This would be great to have on the truck for those times I come across a branch I can't trim with the weed eater or my swiss army knife. It's small enough it wouldn't get in the way of anything and I could carry it all the time.

[@petemander1777]

Ive seen many reviews already on this. but your not late, I always wait for your reviews first before i decide on a "buy" or not to "buy" thanks again! looks like a BUY!

[@WorkshopAddict]

I am late on this one. We did not make the cut for the chosen ones.

[@matthewsmith1461]

Thanks for telling the truth that it does leak oil. Another reviewer claimed that it was completely dry the next day so I was ticked off that mine leaked all over my tool box. Just not sure if it is the tool for me. Its not truly one handed and if thats the case then maybe my hacksall with a pruning blade would be better?

[@WorkshopAddict]

For 2-3" branches, you can do a hackzall with a pruning blade. Once you get larger than that, one handed you have to push too hard with one hand to get the job done.

[@BiggMo]

Wish it had a more pointed bar. I could see this being a good option for carving.

[@WorkshopAddict]

The first thing I thought when I picked up the saw was, wow, ice carvers would love this. But I think the chain might not work well for them.

[@thebigdoghimself]

I currently have a ton of Dewalt 20v tools. i also have several M12 tools including their fuel impact driver and their portable air compressor. I love the size of the M12 line but this doesn't do anything for me. I would rather buy a one handed sawzall. I know that there is one in the 20v Dewalt lineup and I am pretty sure Milwaukee makes a similar M12 unit. With one of the small single handed units you would not have to worry about the chain or oil. It might take a few seconds longer to cut through so0mething but the lack of hassel would be worth it.

[@mikemorgan5015]

I have the the 12v and 18v Hackzalls. They are surprisingly handy for trimming, especially with the pruning blades. The stroke length is short on the 12v(I believe 5/8"). So the long blades with a little manual motion to clear the chips and they're pretty good. This one works much faster though.

[@jeffarnold1983]

This is an interesting tool. I just don't see the advantage over a recip saw or a chainsaw. It seems to be pretty slow.

[@donnysanner342]

Great vid and demo as usual. I have no experience with this saw however it would be a great companion on the 4 wheeler. If it's used properly it's gonna be a awesome add on to any off road kit.

[@WorkshopAddict]

My buddy just told me I have to carry it when we go riding. I did not even think of that. It is nice and small and can work well on up to 10" stuff in a pinch.

[@donnysanner342]

@@WorkshopAddict exactly....

[@peanutbuttersanwhich1488]

Adorable tool. Man I want one

[@michaelc7283]

Hi, I see what you mean about grabbing the handle on the outside end. Maybe milwaukee should had put a stopper piece right above the chain just in case you do grab the outside. If you slip then the stopper can help a little bit before your hand hits the chain. Then again, train yourself to put your hand in the right place, LOL....

[@WorkshopAddict]

Should we have a safety guard for the safety guard? LOL.

[@michaelc7283]

@@WorkshopAddict Yup, LOL...

[@thehhoff69]

Stihl's similar GTA 26 has a little guard on top of the bar in lieu of the safety handle. Not sure which I prefer.

[@irmaztamal21]

The chain look too big for it size I still prefer Stihl MS120c with slimmer chains.

[@stevennihipali3607]

If you use a 4ah battery, every time you change batteries, fill oil

[@davidschlarp1606]

M12 saw zaw with a wood blade makes more sense to me

[@ollieh7627]

took the case apart and snipped the little tab off of the safety trigger button, way better.

[@brendanstemp684]

I have just returned my second Hatchet after it broke down in the same way as the first. Both had done little work in fact the second didn’t even last the life of a 6 amp battery. The problem sounded like the drive mechanism had broken as the motor would still spin but the chain wouldn’t move. I am interested to hear if anyone else has had this issue.

[@DL-by8el]

I wonder if you are rocking it over the wood rather than letting the chain fo the work.

[@briankleinschmidt3664]

I have to use my off hand to press the safety switch. I may modify that - lock it open. Use the variable speed for really thin twigs. If you go after one on full blast, it will smack you in the face.

[@henryholt5312]

I really want Milwaukee to make an m18 top handle chainsaw. Something comparable with the Husqvarna T536Li xp or the T540i xp.

[@artwilbur4253]

Great video! M12 is the best!

[@tomcarroll9478]

I was just looking for something like this. Many said the Milwaukee is the way to go. I find several sites selling the kit for under $100. How can that be? These are not sites I've ever dealt with before. On shows the saw, charger, 4mA battery and a 6mA battery for $98?

[@WorkshopAddict]

Fakes

[@Jarco101]

Nice tool my friend

[@loucifer323]

I was kinda shocked how heavy it was doesn't look it but it has some heft to it

[@scuba6797]

Need a 6-10 inch bar for M18 batteries or a battery converter for the 6 inch hatchet so I don't have to buy batteries. I want to use my M18.

[@thomasbooth9079]

100% better than a sawzall with a pruning blade for most stuff, doesn’t clog up and is easy to use with one hand. It does over oil and I don’t mean just a little bit. I also HATE the safety for the trigger, it’s awful.

[@n3bux]

i really don't understand what this tool is good at

[@tylersmith9868]

Battery powered hatchet.

[@4dchessplayer516]

Its not, it's a terrible tool. You can use bypass loopers to cut the size of branches they cut. Plus an m18 fuel hackzall with a pruning blade can do this as well. PLUS Milwaukee already had a chainsaw, And you can move the chainsaw down a bar if you want.

[@WeldingForJesus]

I agree with mr chess player. A Hackzall will additionally do things this saw cannot. If you have a Hackzall and need to get a better woodcutting saw a Husqvarna or Stihl is a better choice, simply because the M18 chain saw is ridiculously overpriced and eats batteries like snacks, and this one is waaay to small.

[@WorkshopAddict]

As a hunter, I was extremely thrilled to see this. I can cut 1-4" branches out of the way without much smell in the air and it is compact in size and fairly quiet. IMHO, a hackzall is not as easy to use. so for me, this is my go to clearing saw for hunting in the woods. I have a specific use and it fits it well. If you do not have a use like that, one might choose a sawzall or even a small 10" Stihl chainsaw.

[@nutz4gunz457]

It’s good for pruning and camping

[@SpookyNeo]

Is it fair to compare this to an M18 Hackzall with a pruning blade ? My M18 Hackzall with a pruning blade LOVES cuting through small trees and branches. This new hatchet might be more stable than the Hackzall, but I think powerwise, it's pretty much the same. As a home owner, the Hackzall is much more versatile as well.

[@WorkshopAddict]

Yes, very fair. For many, the M18 hackzall is plenty

[@TheLexiconDevils]

After pruning for years with the smaller hacksaw the last 2 weeks (it’s spring in Australia now) has been a dream with this. Definitely more stable & quicker.

[@ronaldwills2441]

I need a pole chainsaw. Any suggestions?

[@jessphilps4298]

I think my cordless Milwaukee Sawzall dose just as good if not better - but that's just me

[@WorkshopAddict]

I think if I was cutting pine, I might agree. cutting that black locust in 4-5" logs like show, oh hell no it is not. :) for 3" and under limbs, yes, your hackzall does fine and no reason to upgrade.

[@robertbenedict4651]

I wish I could post photos. My Milwaukee m18 Fuel Sawzall cut through 20 inch Red Gum Eucalyptus roots( its like cutting concrete) in no time with a Diablo Carbide 12 in blade. This seems like a nice little saw but is no comparison to the Sawzall with the correct blade. If you see the amount of pruning I do monthly and the hardness of woods to contend with in Southern California you would understand. I am originally from the stix in Upstate N.Y. and thought I knew what hard tough woods were like black locust, white oak, shagbark hickory, dogwood. Nowhere near as difficult to cut and hard on tools and equipment as eucalyptus, macadamia nut, screw bean mesquite, live oak, desert ironwood . That's just a few to name.

[@jessphilps4298]

@@robertbenedict4651 Yep I use my sawzall also. Even cut down a 8" oak tree with no problem at all. That's why I will just stick with my sawzall for my needs

[@felixlallangas6983]

My makita 18v top handle chainsaw is the same size as that, otherwise that m12 hatchet is pretty sweet.

[@VampireOnline]

I need dewalt to come out with one of these. I'd love one.

[@WorkshopAddict]

I think they could do it in 20 volt. This would have been a great tool for Milwaukee to make in M12 or M18!

[@reuelmonte567]

@@WorkshopAddict Because I own Makita M18 batteries. I am trying to decide between this saw and the Makita xcu06z. That one is 10 inch and the chain spins 4 times as fast. I have not decided yet.

[@johnbailey9682]

And if you cut green trees it will work a lot better . Dead branches are very hard on any saw .

[@WorkshopAddict]

Much of the 3-4" stuff I cut was green silver maple.

[@vanchristopher6830]

would be nice if it had a pole attachment

[@TheLexiconDevils]

Was looking to a cheap battery chainsaw but saw this is out in Australia now 🤔 I guess bottom line it’s quicker & easier than using a pruning blade in the m12 hakzall?

[@WorkshopAddict]

Not 100 percent sure long term it is easier. You need to sharpen the chain or buy a new one often. Most people will just use a recip saw.

[@TheLexiconDevils]

2 week review It’s definitely quicker/easier cuts than the m12 saw. Definitely less vibration than the saw. Might be different story with a larger saw with longer stroke but I like it. A full size chainsaw is overkill & I don’t need the reach of a pole pruner.

[@matthewgross6958]

My buddy’s would laugh at me if they saw that.... I’ve got commercial loppers and if they don’t cut it, then my Stihl arborist saw will. 🤦🏼

[@spreaddeezhazelnutz7511]

AvE has found a new tool for his unboxings.

[@shauncatlett6066]

Is the oiler adjustable? Also, if that saw is anything like the climbing saws, you probably want to make sure to clean it out fairly regularly to avoid the oiler and sprocket from getting clogged and bound up.

[@WorkshopAddict]

The oiler is not adjustable. IMHO, after using this saw for the past month, you will have to sharpen the blade often enough to get performance that cleaning it out will just be part of the routine. I am sharpening the chain about every 4th 6Ah battery. The chain it not dull at that time, but the performance does drop without a perfect chain.

[@shauncatlett6066]

@@WorkshopAddict I gotcha, is it running a full chisel chain?

[@WorkshopAddict]

@@shauncatlett6066 Yes.

[@shauncatlett6066]

@@WorkshopAddict That's good, and that explains why you need to sharpen it more often. If it's a 3/8 P chain, it should be able to use the 2 in 1 chain sharpening file that Stihl makes.

[@mostlikelywedoitservices6926]

Don't bother with the 4.0 get the the 6.0. This tool rips through 4x4s 2x4s lims and it is a one hand operated tool. My first one got stollen and I replaced it when it was back in stock.

[@brandonnelson4164]

You have videos on this this (M12 hatchet) and dewalt 20v. Which do you prefer?

[@WorkshopAddict]

I like the speed of the Dewalt, but you lose the power of the Milwaukee. So for small stuff I use the dewalt as it feels easier to cut with. But if I might be cutting 6" stuff or do not know what I might get into, I take the Milwaukee. It really depends on your use.

[@islandcharlie7132]

Life just keeps getting easier.

[@reallyhappenings5597]

not for our natural environment

[@michaelcollins1899]

Serious tool. Just got mine and it fill a nice void. We heat w wood and have large 28 inch, 20 inch 16, and 14 inch stihls.....and I certainly wanted the stihl g26 mini saw bc I am all stihl but it's a non oiler and that was a deal breaker!!! This Milwaukee is an awesome limber and once a tree is on the ground it can top and cut firewood off top limbs as u work your way down with the best of them!!! No, it's not as fast, but when u are lifting a 12 lb saw over your head to cut a 2 inch limb over and over, this 3 lb monster makes up time in a hurry and not as hard on the human!!! It has its purpose and spot on the tree!!! Just like every saw does. Some drop large buts, some work up blocks, some top out and some limb better than others. This is a fantastic limber and topper. I haven't used it as a yard trimmer but if u can reach it from the ground, I'd suppose this would be better than any shears, or loppers I've ever used.

[@KathyWeathersbeeSC]

Come out better by using a reciprocating saw (sawsall)

[@bradybooth14]

Great video.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Nice video Brian @WorkshopAddict

[@snowgorilla9789]

Great looking little saw beats the hell out of a hatchet and I'll bet there are a few hunters out there thinkin that might work for cuttin somethin other than wood if you follow lol

[@WorkshopAddict]

I dont follow. I am a huge hunter and use my hackzall to cut off lower legs and stuff when skinning because it is easy. not sure how a chain saw would do on that. Seems like it would be a mess!

[@snowgorilla9789]

@@WorkshopAddict am in Canada and while I don't hunt I do know several who were looking at the full sized electric chainsaws for quartering moose ?

[@WorkshopAddict]

@@snowgorilla9789 Very interesting to me. I would not want the chain and bar oil on my meat. That is another reason I use a sawzall.

[@shadoe1l0]

Hi does this thing have battery indicator light?

[@WorkshopAddict]

@@shadoe1l0 yes

[@shadoe1l0]

@@WorkshopAddict I would like to know how the battery indicator works please, I have Milwaukee M12 chainsaw but I never saw the indicator light come on

[@jseahmed2432]

I have two Milwaukee Drill Dead after 1 year , not like the old day Milwaukee.

[@gdu370]

a machete is way more useful for those perimeters, that chainsaw should be used for 10inch wood and carving.

[@robertfeliciano5723]

Can you McGyver that for making tenons? Instead of spending $1,800 on the Makita.

[@WorkshopAddict]

That is very possible!

[@reuelmonte567]

Man I wanted to see you fell the tree behind you at the end of the video........ Big Boys Toys.......

[@jek539]

Well it's just "cute" little tool

[@johnbailey9682]

Like you it’s very hard to find large gloves. Xl no xxl no xxxl ok very hard to find xxxxl gloves. Cannot even find milwaukee gloves that will even go on good luck with that .

[@jasona8396]

Corona hand saw would make much quicker work with very little effort 15 bucks Canadian

[@konamanstudio2447]

🍻🍺

[@profuse007]

This may replace my weedwacker chainsaw attachment

[@WorkshopAddict]

So, I have a Stihl circular saw blade on my KM130 and it rocks for small stuff on the ground. I would not want to bend over that much with this. Seems like it could be a wrist killer. Unless you are talking pole saw, than I get it.

[@artwilbur4253]

...but how does it work on bone and flesh?

[@petemander1777]

lol

[@WorkshopAddict]

I know where there is a dead cow that is a week old. I will gladly film you testing it out. Might be a bit like popping a balloon right now.

[@artwilbur4253]

@@WorkshopAddict $20 is $20

[@jetenginethrust863]

1ST! LOVE IT! TY

[@victrith1]

Makita is soo much beter