Testing the Gen 2 Milwaukee M12 FUEL 5-3/8” Circular Saw - 25% More Power & Runtime!

Hey friends! Today, we're taking a close look at the Milwaukee M12 Circular Saw, Model #2521-21HO. This Gen 2 beast packs a punch and is perfect for any DIY enthusiast or pro builder. We'll dive into its features, performance, and why it's a must-have in your toolbox. Don't miss out on this in-depth review! 🔧🔥
Question of the day: What's your favorite circular saw setup? Blade left or blade right?
------- LINKS TO ITEMS IN VIDEO: ---------
MILWAUKEE M12 CIRC SAW KIT: homedepot.sjv.io/oqrNR9
--------- CONNECT ---------
🎯 Subscribe! bit.ly/3QdN2yu
►Instagram - / markthomasbuilder
►Facebook - / markthomasbuilder
►Twitter (X) - / markthomasbldr
--------- 👕MERCH🧢 ---------
Check out the M.T.B. Merch!! markthomasbuilder-shop.fourth...
------------ Support The Channel ------------
🐾🐾 BUY OAKLEY & LEO A TREAT! or BUY ME A COFFEE 🐾🦴🐶 buymeacoffee.com/markthomasbu...
--------- Favorite Amazon Gear ------------
► tinyurl.com/37y2d797
---------- Video Gear ---------
★DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/4b1MiVl
★Canon EOS 80D Camera Body: amzn.to/46bLVWi
★ Canon EF 16-36 LENS: amzn.to/3EWvroJ
★ Sennheiser Pro Lav Mics- amzn.to/3PAOudp
★ GoPro Hero 11 - amzn.to/3PI5T3Y
★ Manfrotto 190X Tripod - amzn.to/3tbMMaI
★ Manfrotto X-Pro Tripod Head - amzn.to/3RE6TZb
★ Aputure Key Light - amzn.to/48yo9VR
★ Aputure Light Dome III: amzn.to/3QeaonL
--------- Who Am I?---------
Hi! My name is Mark Thomas and I'm a licensed residential home builder in Michigan and a fan of home improvement projects, which includes lawn and landscaping.
I'm always looking for the best tool for the job, so that was the idea to the start of my KZbin channel, reviewing all my favorite tools!
--------- 🎼 MUSIC ---------
www.epidemicsound.com/
elements.envato.com/
Thanks for watching and supporting my channel! There will be more tool reviews and DIY projects to come. Please consider subscribing and hitting that bell icon to be notified of future tool videos.
FTC disclaimer: some links in the descriptions of my videos may be affiliate links which means i receive a small commission. it is no cost to you to use the links, it is totally free.
Timecodes
0:00 Intro
0:29 What's included in the box
1:31 Dust port option
2:10 Blade installation
3:16 First time use on 2x4
3:54 2x12 cross-cut
4:35 Specs on the box
5:13 Blade left or right?
5:34 Rafter hook demo
5:48 Bevel cuts
6:32 Storing in various PACKOUTS
8:01 How many 2x4 cuts on single charge?
10:19 Addition test ideas
10:40 M12 5Ah Charge time?
11:35 Final thoughts
#m12circularsaw #milwaukeecircularsaw

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

QUESTION OF THE DAY: What's your favorite circular saw setup? Blade left or blade right?

[@Dirtyharry70585]

On left but owned a 1989 porter cable cord rh so doesn’t matter

[@brianf9619]

Blade Left , its the Only Way to Fly ....😂

[@brianhall9019]

Left side only..except for tracksaw 😂

[@rickyperkins232]

@brianhall9019 I always wanted a blade left track saw, but none is available.

[@Crypto-we7lq]

I’m right handed but blade left all day.

[@iridemotorbikes]

Very nice. I prefer blade right. 😎 Keep up the great videos!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Cool, thanks for voting!

[@AB-un2yr]

After running the 5aH down you mention good to get that out of a 12.0. Thinking of the 18v batt largest size obviously FWIW. Nice Vid. I’m enjoying my Gen 2 5.5 12v saw!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Glad to hear it! Milwaukee PIPELINE is next week, so maybe they'll introduce some New M12 batteries.

[@AB-un2yr]

@@MarkThomasBuilder 🎉🤤 Yeah man, maybe you can twist their arm to get you some info on tabless 1865 cells for all our m12 toys and usb lights! If they don’t release new 12v tabless cell batts till next year anyway, which would be my guess… You mention the good handle feel on this saw. I agree and noticed it’s more tapered than other m12 products and more ergonomic, nice to find. I’m also a big fan of the width reduction vs Gen 1 for fitting in my Packout much better.

[@johnnewell5025]

The bare tool is currently available in very limited quantities at Home Depot stores for $99. No idea why it's marked down, but the stores in my area had received only one or two each. The lower blade guard can be swapped for the metal lower guard on the 2530 (gen 1) M12 circular saw.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a great deal for such a powerful saw!

[@scottmorris4914]

Blade left is nice, so you can see the blade. Blade righ is nice if you don't have a hose connected to dust control.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yep, good point!

[@scottmorris4914]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I like seeing the blade

[@Lostin2024]

Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

You bet, thanks for stopping by! 🤜💯

[@CarlYota]

I think for most situations I want blade left. I'm right handed so I want to see the blade easily. The one issue with this is that if you're cutting the very end off a board you end up cutting away your base of support since the saw weight is on the off cut. This likely isn't a big deal with a 5 lb. compact saw. I'm used to a plug in worm drive skilsaw. But then again, if you're making cuts like that you're probably doing framing so it really doesn't matter if it's perfect. IF you're making fancy furniture you're using a miter saw or table saw for such cuts and you're not using 2x4s.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes, good point! I agree.

[@txvet7738]

Blade left for me! Your review came out at the perfect time. I was considering getting this new model saw when I found out they were updating it but was hesitant because the last model I thought was under powered. Specs look better, I value your opinion, and it’s oddly on sale so the stars aligned for me to pull the trigger and so I bought it! Thanks for the great review my friend!

[@EveryDayCivilianBlog]

$99 on the Home Depot app right now! Don’t know if it’s a pricing error or not. Google gen ii m12 circular saw and it’ll come up. I couldn’t find it listed on Home Depot app.

[@txvet7738]

@@EveryDayCivilianBlog nope it’s a legit price. I just picked one up last night but for $10 less with my military discount, still a freaking good deal for a newly released Milwaukee tool! It’s there on the HD website, that’s how I knew my store had them in stock.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's cool to hear the timing of it all. I think you'll be happy with this saw! The tool-only price is pretty good for a nice saw like this.

[@EveryDayCivilianBlog]

@@txvet7738 picked it up yesterday for $89 with a $10 coupon!!

[@georgedavall9449]

Wow, @ 09:43! Mark has access to a M12 12.0 Ah battery?!? Lucky guy! 😯 😆 🤣 Sorry, couldn’t resist! Great review Mark. I couldn’t help notice how similar this sounds to DeWalt’s 12 Volt Xtreme 5&3/8” saw, which is a nice smooth running little saw, but I believe the M12 will outperform it. I have and use the DeWalt, and I think it is best left to trim work. It will cut dimensional lumber, but not with a bevel. I had to ‘work’ on the adjustment levers, and spray the bevel pivots with healthy dose of Silicone spray, to get them to work! DeWalt’s QC seems to leave a bit to be desired of late? If a person was heavily invested in the M12 system, this is a no brainer, otherwise, I personally would go for the New 6&1/2” M18 saw. She is a screamer! Stay safe!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Oh man, a 12Ah would have some crazy power, lol! 😂. Good catch, George! My very first battery powered saw was a 14.4V DeWalt 4-1/2" circular saw/trim saw from the mid 90s. I bought it with hopes that it could cut treated 2x6s when installing a sill plate. I think I could just get 4 cuts on 1 battery. They've come a long way since then! I haven't tried any of their 12V items yet, but would like to see a comparison.

[@georgedavall9449]

@@MarkThomasBuilder Oh yeah, I was there too “back in the Day.” DeWalt tools had the power, at the expense of battery life. It was always my contention the tools put too much demand on the batteries, and the battery tech back then pales in comparison to Today. I had a similar experience with an early 18 volt 6&1/2 “ circ saw. After a half dozen cuts or so, and time to switch out batteries! Appreciate your good sense of humor, in dealing with mine! Take care

[@Crypto-we7lq]

Ammo can all day. It’s like they were made for each other. Awesome review brother.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks brother, yeah it fits perfect. I appreciate you stopping by!

[@AB-un2yr]

Blade left all the way

[@rickyperkins232]

Mafell, Festool, and Mikita have the best variety of small saws

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I just checked out Mafell, and wow, they're more expensive than Festool.

[@rickyperkins232]

@MarkThomasBuilder Mafell is the premiere premium best in class. Example Their electric jigsaw is over $800.00, including the 45° angle it's is the most powerful jigsaw in the world and the only jigsaw that will stay true at a 90°, 45° and any angle it is set. This jigsaw is so great that Mafell hadn't changed the design for over 14 years. Their cordless Jigsaw is just the best money can buy, which cost more than $800.00. I could keep on going, but in a nut shell, Mafell, you are paying for the absolute best. Mikita XGT planer just beat Mafell after 22 years, so I expect an updated planner soon. Anyway, Mafell, Festool, and Mikita are the 3 makers of hand-held saw the world over, that's coming from a guy who solely buys FLEX tools.

[@brianhall9019]

I’d store it in a packout.. and use the bag for either straps and bungees or as a quick hand tool bag.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Good idea keeping bungees in it!

[@jayd6607]

Haven't had the gen 1 long. Had to get it at $99. I store it in the bottom of the packout with sawzall and jigsaw. Pretty much a mix of m12 & m18 tools.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Sounds like you're well equipped to take on some work!

[@georgedavall9449]

Hello Mark Thomas and Community! Cant say on the PackOut, but as to blade left VS blade right, I have and use both. I am right handed, but I mainly use whatever works for what I am cutting. Kind of subjective? Rear handle/ blade left saws are great for ripping sheet goods, or cross cuts for framing, etc. But I make a lot of cross cuts using a speed square like You did here, with a right handed blade. To each their own, and of course, YMMV. I use the speed square opposite of the way You had it Mark, no offense; With the heel against the board, it wont move under the prsssure of the saw as it cuts. Others prefer it the other way, and whatever works is what it is. 😊👍💪🇺🇸🤝

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I'll have to try the setup you mentioned. I just picked up some habits along the way and stuck with them, right or wrong. Well, one habit I changed was the using the table saw push stick to now be between the blade and the fence. I'm thankful for this community helping each other out and having conversations to think about. You made some interesting points. As always, thanks for stopping by! 😁🙌💯

[@georgedavall9449]

@@MarkThomasBuilderMy pleasure Mark! 😊🙌

[@anthonygant7207]

Left side That grass looks good

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks! Good choice. 👍

[@georgedavall9449]

“ It’s A Cut Above the Rest ! “. 😆

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

🤣🙌

[@leonardpaciora5039]

Right

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks for voting!

[@brianf9619]

Definitely seams like a nice little saw , especially if you're already on the M12 Platform , but if I had to make 130 cuts I definitely would get a Bigger Saw .... 😅🤣😂👍🖖

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

😅🙌

[@electricalron]

Blade Left. I've got at least 6 Milwaukee circular saws and I dont need another.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Haha, that's quite a collection! I like blade left as well.🙌

[@electricalron]

@@MarkThomasBuilder good video Mark. Have a great weekend.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks, Ron, you too!

[@freedomconstruction]

I’ll keep my 60v rear handle and my m18 as well 😂❤

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I like my rear handle saw too.

[@jamesclark4270]

Blade left

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

👍💯

[@IppiopaidFEEDBACK]

Bag, I’m not spending money for pack out.

[@rickyperkins232]

Blade left, I wish track saw come in blade left.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I've heard that from a few others. It would be interesting to see if they ever offer that.

[@toolsdealsautomobiles6980]

Isn't that one of the new 5amp high output m12 batteries?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes

[@Dirtyharry70585]

Send me the bag Mark😂

[@Dirtyharry70585]

I have a ridgid 71/4” brushless 5500 rpm box only $90!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

You can't beat that price!

[@spainkid7644]

is this a good tool for DIY and home use? I noticed it is currently $99 at Home Depot

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes, definitely works well for that. $99 is a great deal for such a powerful saw.

[@jamesclark4270]

Packout

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes!👍 💯

[@TBird89]

At 45 degrees can the mitre be cut on a 2x4 ?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

No, at 45 it's only 1.3" depth cut.

[@TBird89]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I live in a metric county mate so what does than mean regarding timber sizing ?

[@TBird89]

@@MarkThomasBuilder looks like a good saw but disappointed that it can cut a basic industry standard timber mitre for a rafter

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

@@TBird89 A 2x4 is 1.5", so this can't cut one at 45°. It only goes 1.3.

[@adanabundrz7017]

👍🏻

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

😎💯

[@bengonzalez5355]

Did it seem underpowered cutting that 2x12?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That 2x12 has been sitting outside a long time and is weathered and has some moisture in it. I should try it again on a nice dry one from the lumberyard. Stay tuned for a Short video in a few days.

[@tedmcdonald3377]

😎⚒️😎⚒️😎

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

😎🙌

[@georgedavall9449]

TEDMCDONALD IN DA HOUSE !!!!!!!!!!!! 👍✌