Milwaukee 2731 M18 FUEL 7 1/4" Circular Saw

woodstockva · Sep 27, 2014

Hey Everybody

For the last couple weeks I have been using the new M18 FUEL 7 1/4" Circular Saw to do many different projects & I have done a lot of testing with it. It is one of those tools that you cannot believe until you use it.

In the past I have used many different cordless circ saws & have been extremely unimpressed with them.....normally they die quickly, dont have much power, and arent worth getting out of the truck. Milwaukee has changed my attitude about that & this blows the others out of the water.

I first saw these last month when Milwaukee announced them & had a chance to use them at the NPS14 event. While I was there, I cut through 4 sheets of OSB at the same time & it didnt even slow down.

I have tested the runtime on this, and here are the results :

(Each result was with a fresh battery & new blade)

2x4 = 233 cuts
2x10 = 59 cuts
7/16" OSB = 71 cuts (4' each = 284 feet total)

Check out the video to see how fast it cuts & how much work you could get done on one battery charge. My dad helped me out making the video & he could not believe how long the batteries lasted....this is one of the most impressive cordless tools I have ever used.

rice rocket · Sep 27, 2014

Good review, I like that you're moving towards using the time to show more of the tool doing work, rather than letting us know about every detail of the saw.

I have the 2730 6-1/2" one, I might have to upgrade.

slyonedoofy · Sep 28, 2014

Blade is on the wrong side. I don't care how well that saw runs if I have to lean over and try and see my cut line.

I use my Craftsman Pro 7-1/4 and the blade is on the left side so I can see my cut. Just like my worm drive.

rice rocket · Sep 28, 2014

Depends on the use, but for crosscuts, it's mostly advised to use a blade-right saw because it puts most of the weight off the drop (assuming you're righty and holding your piece down with your left). When you put the weight of the saw on the drop, you risk ripping the piece you want to keep and/or dropping the saw on the ground. Also less dust in your face.

slyonedoofy · Sep 28, 2014

rice rocket said:
Depends on the use, but for crosscuts, it's mostly advised to use a blade-right saw because it puts most of the weight off the drop (assuming you're righty and holding your piece down with your left). When you put the weight of the saw on the drop, you risk ripping the piece you want to keep and/or dropping the saw on the ground. Also less dust in your face.

I understand what you are saying but since I am right-handed when I rip a board if the blade is on the left side I don't have to lean over the saw to see my cut line. To me a right-blade saw is actually more dangerous because I have to place my body directly behind the saw. I framed for many years and only saw one guy use a sidewinder (right-side) saw. He was from Canada. Everyone else used Skil wormdrives.

I have never had a problem with weight or balance or having it fall off the wood.

Just my opinion.

Conductor562 · Sep 29, 2014

Another great review Woodstock

It really is remarkable how far cordless technology has come. As recently as a couple years ago a circ saw was still one of those tools where cutting the cord came at a steep drop in performance, but with these 4.0 ah (or higher) batteries, and brushless motors, even a pro level user can go cordless if he wants.

Like most others, I honestly believed TTI would ruin Milwaukee and relegate them unacceptable in the professional market, but I was wrong. Owned by a Hong Kong based company or not, Milwaukee as really turned things around.

IndyGarage · Sep 29, 2014

It's Impressive, but like above, I can't figure out why they keep putting the blade on the right. I'll not be switching back to blade right circular saw again.

cgv69 · Sep 29, 2014

rice rocket said:
I have the 2730 6-1/2" one, I might have to upgrade.

That's the one I want so if you decide to upgrade, let me know what you want for the 2730?

Rogue1987 · Sep 29, 2014

IndyGarage said:
It's Impressive, but like above, I can't figure out why they keep putting the blade on the right. I'll not be switching back to blade right circular saw again.

Left Handed People?

Ign · Sep 29, 2014

I have to admit, I also thought the blade was on the "wrong" side as soon as I saw the picture. I'm hesitant to pull the trigger on purchase just for that reason. If I'm gonna pay top dollar for Fuel the ergonomics should also be top-tier.

I don't think it would be out of the question for Milwaukee to offer this saw with either configuration, and that would really show a dedication to "the trades" as Milwaukee often tries to do.

neonlazer · Sep 29, 2014

Curious to see how it compares to the 6 1/4 FUEL..might cut a bit more but it's nice being being smaller and lighter!(6.8 vs 7.5lbs)

Fcvapor05 · Sep 29, 2014

neonlazer said:
Curious to see how it compares to the 6 1/4 FUEL..might cut a bit more but it's nice being being smaller and lighter!(6.8 vs 7.5lbs)

I have the 6 1/4.. would sure be nice to be able to do a full bevel on 2x lumber.

gus1962 · Sep 29, 2014

That's some nice review. The video said it all but not buying one for now though.

woodstockva · Sep 30, 2014

rice rocket said:
Good review, I like that you're moving towards using the time to show more of the tool doing work, rather than letting us know about every detail of the saw.

I have the 2730 6-1/2" one, I might have to upgrade.

Thanks Rice Rocket! I am always trying to improve my videos, I am happy to hear that you liked the way I did this one

rocket1420 said:
Not gonna watch. Not gonna watch. Not gonna watch.

SK Day ruined my tool budget. Don't wanna add something else to the CC.

Haha nice

slyonedoofy said:
I understand what you are saying but since I am right-handed when I rip a board if the blade is on the left side I don't have to lean over the saw to see my cut line. To me a right-blade saw is actually more dangerous because I have to place my body directly behind the saw. I framed for many years and only saw one guy use a sidewinder (right-side) saw. He was from Canada. Everyone else used Skil wormdrives.

I have never had a problem with weight or balance or having it fall off the wood.

Just my opinion.

I am not a carpenter, so I was kind of puzzled by this....but I went to Lowes and checked out the corded saws & it looked to me that MOST of them had this blade layout....except for the wormdrives. I think Milwaukee is wanting people to switch from corded to cordless & they kept the design between the two the same. Thanks for pointing it out though!

Conductor562 said:
Another great review Woodstock

It really is remarkable how far cordless technology has come. As recently as a couple years ago a circ saw was still one of those tools where cutting the cord came at a steep drop in performance, but with these 4.0 ah (or higher) batteries, and brushless motors, even a pro level user can go cordless if he wants.

Like most others, I honestly believed TTI would ruin Milwaukee and relegate them unacceptable in the professional market, but I was wrong. Owned by a Hong Kong based company or not, Milwaukee as really turned things around.

Thanks Conductor!

IndyGarage said:
It's Impressive, but like above, I can't figure out why they keep putting the blade on the right. I'll not be switching back to blade right circular saw again.

Thanks! I am sure it is because they modeled this after corded saws (which is their target group they want to buy these).

Ign said:
I have to admit, I also thought the blade was on the "wrong" side as soon as I saw the picture. I'm hesitant to pull the trigger on purchase just for that reason. If I'm gonna pay top dollar for Fuel the ergonomics should also be top-tier.

I don't think it would be out of the question for Milwaukee to offer this saw with either configuration, and that would really show a dedication to "the trades" as Milwaukee often tries to do.

I guess it will boil down to demand....we will see!

neonlazer said:
Curious to see how it compares to the 6 1/4 FUEL..might cut a bit more but it's nice being being smaller and lighter!(6.8 vs 7.5lbs)

Not sure, I have not used the smaller variety.

gus1962 said:
That's some nice review. The video said it all but not buying one for now though.

Thanks!

bcradio · Sep 30, 2014

Any word on when the M12 fuel circ saw will be out?

tarbellb · Sep 30, 2014

The cheapest street price I could find for the bare tool 2731-20 was $230 shipped. That seems like a lot of money?

Yes its arguably the best cordless full size circ saw, which for some is the only viable option.

But.... its also more money then a new worm drive, more then any other corded sidewinder, and 1/2 -2/3 the cost of a track saw.

I only mention this because while I would love to have this saw, at this price point im considering the other circ saws I would like to add to my arsenal ie Festool track saw before another sidewinder.

btw, fantastic review.

LB-1911 · Sep 30, 2014

bcradio said:
Any word on when the M12 fuel circ saw will be out?

"They say"

Launching January 2015

Published on Aug 18, 2014

Milwaukee is continuing to expand their M12 brushless platform and the next logical step is a circular saw. This tool really going right after other 18V tools in power and runtime making it a great addition for those who already have some M12 batteries and looking for a compact cutting solution. Launching January 2015

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 5-1/2" Circular Saw vs Cordless 12V & 18V Competition

theoldwizard1 · Sep 30, 2014

Before you decide that you "need" a full size cordless saw, seriously consider a cordless "trim" saw. I have used my son's older DeWalt 18V saw (6-1/2") a lot. It is no where near the same class as the Milwaukee, but with a carbide tooth blade it will cut a lot of 2by's or rip a lot of plywood/OSB on a single charge.

You can find the bare tool version (DW939 or DW390) on CL in "like new" for under $50.

I would not hesitate to use it to cut in a window. Of course you have to use a reciprocating saw to get though the full width of the studs.

cgv69 · Sep 30, 2014

woodstockva said:
I went to Lowes and checked out the corded saws & it looked to me that MOST of them had this blade layout....

Yes, most corded sidewinder saws have the blade on the right side of the tool. Porter Cable used to offer sidewinders with either left or right side configuration.

woodstockva said:
except for the wormdrives.

That is a big except IMO because in my experience, most professional framers/carpenters use worm drive saws (and more often than not the wormdrive they use is the Skill 77).

woodstockva said:
I think Milwaukee is wanting people to switch from corded to cordless & they kept the design between the two the same.

While I don't doubt that is the case, I think if they had put the blade on the left, that would have enticed more buyers but what do I know? I can only tell you that a right sided blade is a deal killer for me. For my purposes, the 6.5" version (2730) is perfect for me.

YMMV?

Conductor562 · Sep 30, 2014

My corded Milwaukee Circ Saw is right blade. It was a little different at first, but I got used to it and really don't have an issue with it now.

Ign · Sep 30, 2014

FWIW (nothing) I emailed Milwaukee & linked this thread. I've sent them at least a half-dozen emails in the last 2 weeks, so I'm sure they think I'm a loon by now. We'll see though, I do believe Milwaukee makes a fair attempt at listening to their customers, while I also understand they're now making so many products with many more in the design phases they can't fulfill or even contemplate every request.

But they do always respond to my emails....... which reminds me: What is a "restraining order" anyway??

Fcvapor05 · Sep 30, 2014

I have the smaller Fuel saw, and have no problems using it as a righty. Sightlines are fine.

slyonedoofy · Sep 30, 2014

Fcvapor05 said:
I have the smaller Fuel saw, and have no problems using it as a righty. Sightlines are fine.

Stand on a wall 2-3 stories up, lean out, and try and cut a rafter tail with a right side blade when you are right handed. Very hard to see your cut line.

That's why almost all framers use Skil. (left side blade)

And yes, we pin the guards when needed. (don't tell OSHA)

woody 73 · Sep 30, 2014

Don't get me wrong I have cordless circular saws, but I am not a big fan of them conking out in the middle of a cut. For all the million power tools I would love to own this is not one of them.

I don't love cords but power when I need it, forget dead batteries, forget new battery prices. Until some company comes up with a battery that is stronger then superman and lasts as long as a 2000 year old mummy then I will change my mind.

rice rocket · Oct 1, 2014

woody 73 said:
Don't get me wrong I have cordless circular saws, but I am not a big fan of them conking out in the middle of a cut. For all the million power tools I would love to own this is not one of them.

Did you even read the first post? It does like 71 crosscuts on four-foot wide boards on one charge, if you had any ounce of foresight, you would either charge it between or just swap batteries.

Ign · Oct 1, 2014

rice rocket said:
Did you even read the first post? It does like 71 crosscuts on four-foot wide boards on one charge, if you had any ounce of foresight, you would either charge it between or just swap batteries.

No, there are a few people on the board who absolutely hate cordless tools and will just enter every thread to tell us we're all wrong and cordless is a stupid, expensive mistake. They're entitled to their opinion but it adds nothing to the technical discussion of the specific tool in question. I've always realized cordless has limitations while simultaneously costing more, but I still love 'em and choose to spend the money that I earn as I choose to spend it. Just ignore the naysayers, you won't sway their opinion any more than they will sway yours.

KTMrider · Mar 2, 2015

Rogue1987 said:
Left Handed People?

Oh yeah that's me!!!!! In for one!

C96 · Mar 2, 2015

As far as I’m concerned Milwaukee screwed this one up big time. Most framers use the Skill 77 or its equivalent for good reason and one is the fact that the blade is on the left. In my opinion they would sell a lot more of these saws with the blade on the left.

At least make it an option… :willy_nil

Oh well, maybe DeWalt will get it right if they put out a 7-1/4” saw (blade on left) in their 20 volt line-up.

Ign · Mar 2, 2015

C96 said:
As far as I’m concerned Milwaukee screwed this one up big time. Most framers use the Skill 77 or its equivalent for good reason and one is the fact that the blade is on the left. In my opinion they would sell a lot more of these saws with the blade on the left.

At least make it an option…

Oh well, maybe DeWalt will get it right if they put out a 7-1/4” saw (blade on left) in their 20 volt line-up.

I don't care to argue which side is "best" and I completely agree it would be really cool if Milwaukee offered the saw in either configuration. I still question their product development, they do odd things like re-design the M18 Sawzall to be longer and heavier:
http://toolguyd.com/milwaukee-m18-sawzall-reciprocating-saw-2621/

and even did the M18/M12 quick charger, but I think those efforts would be better suited bringing in completely new products (like a real die grinder) or significant options like right or left blade circulars.

In the corded stuff Milwaukee has the Tilt-Lok for the handle, it would be cool if they could make the handle swivel a full 180 for right or left blade and not make it gimmicky. I dunno, just thinking out loud.

71goldss · Mar 2, 2015

C96 said:
As far as I’m concerned Milwaukee screwed this one up big time. Most framers use the Skill 77 or its equivalent for good reason and one is the fact that the blade is on the left. In my opinion they would sell a lot more of these saws with the blade on the left.

At least make it an option…

Oh well, maybe DeWalt will get it right if they put out a 7-1/4” saw (blade on left) in their 20 volt line-up.

I'm pretty sure my next Milwaukee purchase is going to be the new 5 3/4" M12 Fuel circular saw. Seems like it would be great for small jobs and the left sided blade is a plus! I already have a left sided Craftsman C3 7 1/4" that I'm real happy with, so I'm already covered in that size!

KTMrider · Mar 5, 2015

I broke down and bought the 7-1/4 fuel last night. I went back and fourth between the M12 and M18 saws but decided I really wanted the extra capacity of the 7-1/4".

chrisexv6 · Mar 5, 2015

71goldss said:
I'm pretty sure my next Milwaukee purchase is going to be the new 5 3/4" M12 Fuel circular saw. Seems like it would be great for small jobs and the left sided blade is a plus! I already have a left sided Craftsman C3 7 1/4" that I'm real happy with, so I'm already covered in that size!

I bought the M18 Fuel 6.5" circ saw like a week before the M12 saw was announced.

Thought about returning the M18 I got and waiting for the M12, but 1 thing stopped me: blade size. 5-3/8" is not a very common size...not sure how many (if any) choices we'll have with different blades. 6.5" is more common, and 7.25" is the standard

I know its lighter than the m18 saw (not sure exactly how much by, Ive only seen manufacturer specs) but I feel better with the higher capacity and easier to find blades.

But the M12 saw looks cool too! If Home Depot ever does another funky promo to knock some $$$ off I might bite on it just to try it.

KTMrider · Mar 12, 2015

My 7-1/4" M-18 fuel saw arrived, LOVE IT!

Milwaukee 2731 M18 FUEL 7 1/4" Circular Saw

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