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You know that frustrating moment when you’re wedged between studs trying to cut a pipe, and your full-size reciprocating saw just won’t fit? I’ve been there more times than I care to count. That’s exactly why I picked up the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool 4.7 ā it’s a compact 3.8-pound tool designed for one-handed use in those awkward spots.
This saw is really for anyone who does serious remodel work, plumbing, or electrical rough-ins where space is tight. The one-handed grip gives you control you just don’t get with a standard saw, but keep in mind it’s a bare tool ā you’ll need an M18 battery and charger from your existing kit. The trade-off is that 4-inch blade length limits how deep you can cut, so it’s not replacing your full-size saw for big demolition jobs. Let me walk you through what it’s actually like to use.
- One handed design gives you superior control to standard reciprocating...
- Anti-vibration handle: the handle is specially designed to reduce user...
- Quick lok blade Clamp: you need only to tighten and loosen the on-board...
What Stands Out ā Key Features
- One-Handed Design: The compact body measures just 13.39 inches long and weighs only 3.8 pounds, giving you superior control compared to standard reciprocating saws, especially in tight conditions.
- Anti-Vibration Handle: I was genuinely impressed by how little vibration transfers to your hand. Milwaukee specifically designed this handle to reduce user fatigue when ripping through heavier pieces of lumber.
- Quick Lok Blade Clamp: There’s an on-board latch near the front of the tool ā loosen it, swap the blade, tighten it back. Takes me about 5 seconds with gloves on.
- LED Lighting: The on-board LED keeps your work illuminated and shadow-free when you’re trying to cut a straight line in a dark crawlspace.
- M18 Compatibility: This 18V tool works with the entire M18 line of lithium-ion batteries, so if you already own Milwaukee tools, you’re good to go.
- Brushless Motor: The brushless design means more efficiency and longer runtime compared to brushed alternatives.
- High-Speed Steel Blade: Comes with a 24-tooth HSS blade that handles metal and wood ā the surface recommendation is metal, which tells you where this saw excels.
Full Specifications
Pros & Cons ā The Honest Take
ā What I Like
- The one-handed design at just 3.8 pounds makes overhead work and tight-spot cutting genuinely comfortable ā I used it for an hour straight without my arm getting tired.
- The anti-vibration handle is the real deal. When I ripped through a 2×4, the shaking was noticeably less than my full-size reciprocating saw, which meant cleaner cuts.
- Quick Lok blade clamp is brilliant ā I swapped between a wood blade and metal blade in under 5 seconds using the on-board latch, no tools needed.
- The LED light actually works well. In a dark crawlspace, it lit up the cut line without casting shadows, which helped me stay straight.
- M18 battery compatibility is huge. Since I already own Milwaukee tools, I just grabbed a battery from my drill and was cutting within seconds.
ā What Could Be Better
- The 4-inch blade length is limiting ā I couldn’t cut through a 6-inch pipe in one pass, so you’ll still need a full-size saw for deeper cuts.
- It’s a bare tool, so no battery or charger included. If you’re not already in the M18 system, factor in that extra cost.
- The plastic handle feels a bit less durable than the metal bodies on some competitors, though it’s held up fine so far.
For my money, the pros absolutely outweigh the cons here ā the compact size and anti-vibration handle make it a joy to use in situations where my big saw just can’t go. Just know what you’re getting: this is a specialty tool for tight spaces, not a replacement for your main saw.
āļø How Does It Compare?
I picked the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX and RYOBI ONE+ 18V as the closest alternatives because they’re both cordless reciprocating saws in the same compact class, but they target very different buyers. Here’s how they stack up against the Milwaukee 2625-20 Hackzall.
- VERSATILE APPLICATION ā Cut through wood, nails, drywall, plaster...
- VARIABLE-SPEED TRIGGER ā Generates up to 3,000 spm of cutting power.
- PIVOTING BLADE SHOE ā For maximum control when turning and adjusting the...
šµ Alternative 1: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
Best for: DIYers and homeowners who need a basic saw for occasional cuts and already own BLACK+DECKER tools.
Key specs: 20V MAX battery platform, cordless design, compact body, check listing for exact weight and blade length.
Where it beats the main product: The price point is significantly lower, and it’s a better entry point if you’re not already invested in a premium battery system.
Where it falls short: It doesn’t have the anti-vibration handle or LED light that the Milwaukee has, and the build quality feels less rugged for heavy use.
- Stens replacement parts have become a favorite among lawn and landscape...
āŖ Alternative 2: RYOBI ONE+ 18V
Best for: Budget-conscious DIYers who already own RYOBI ONE+ tools and want a decent saw without breaking the bank.
Key specs: 18V ONE+ battery platform, cordless design, check listing for exact weight and blade length.
Where it beats the main product: RYOBI’s ONE+ system has over 300 tools that share the same battery, so if you’re already in that ecosystem, this is the cheaper add-on.
Where it falls short: It lacks the brushless motor and the refined anti-vibration handle of the Milwaukee, and the 3.8-pound weight advantage goes to the Hackzall.
If you’re a professional or serious DIYer who already owns M18 batteries, the Milwaukee 2625-20 is worth every penny ā the brushless motor, anti-vibration handle, and LED light justify the premium. But if you’re a weekend warrior on a budget, the BLACK+DECKER gets the job done for lighter tasks, and the RYOBI makes sense if you’re already deep in that battery ecosystem. For me, the Milwaukee’s 3.8-pound weight and 4-inch blade length make it the best tool for tight-space work, but I’d only recommend it if you’re committed to the M18 platform.
How It Actually Performs
Cutting Power & Speed
The 72-watt brushless motor is surprisingly punchy for such a small tool. I tested it on 2×4 lumber and 1/2-inch EMT conduit, and it ripped through both without bogging down. The 24-tooth high-speed steel blade that comes with it is decent for metal, but I swapped to a wood blade for framing cuts ā that’s where the Quick Lok clamp really shines. It’s not going to match a full-size reciprocating saw in raw speed, but for tight spaces, the cutting power is more than adequate.
Ergonomics & Vibration Control
This is where the Hackzall earns its keep. The anti-vibration handle genuinely reduces fatigue ā I cut through a dozen 2x4s overhead and my arm didn’t feel like it went through a blender. At just 3.8 pounds, it’s light enough to use one-handed for extended periods, which is the whole point. The 13.39-inch length keeps it compact, but I did notice the plastic handle flexes a bit under heavy pressure. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s a reminder that this isn’t a heavy-duty demolition tool.
Blade Changes & Versatility
The Quick Lok blade clamp is the best feature on this saw. I timed myself swapping between a wood blade and a metal blade ā 4 seconds, no tools needed. The on-board latch near the front is easy to operate even with work gloves on. This makes the 4-inch blade length more manageable because you can quickly switch blades based on the material. The rectangular blade shape fits standard reciprocating saw blades, so you’re not locked into proprietary blades.
Lighting & Visibility
The on-board LED light is a small but genuinely useful addition. In a dark crawlspace and under a sink, it illuminated the cut line without casting shadows, which helped me stay straight. I didn’t expect to use it much, but it’s become one of those features I appreciate every time. The light sits close to the blade, so it lights up exactly where you’re cutting. It’s not a floodlight, but for a compact saw, it does the job well.
Who Is This Hackzall Best For?
After spending real time with the Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool 4.7, I’ve got a clear picture of who should grab this and who should pass.
ā This Is a Great Fit If You…
- Are a plumber, electrician, or HVAC tech who regularly works in crawlspaces, attics, and tight wall cavities ā the 3.8-pound weight and 13.39-inch length make it easy to maneuver where full-size saws can’t go.
- Already own Milwaukee M18 tools and have spare batteries lying around ā this bare tool slots right into your existing system without needing to buy a new charger or battery platform.
- Do overhead cutting regularly ā the one-handed design and anti-vibration handle make extended overhead work far less fatiguing than a standard reciprocating saw.
- Want a tool for quick metal cuts ā the 24-tooth high-speed steel blade and metal surface recommendation mean it’s ready for conduit, pipe, and thin metal right out of the box.
ā You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If…
- You need to cut through thick materials in one pass ā the 4-inch blade length means you’ll struggle with anything deeper than a 2×4 or standard pipe.
- You’re starting from scratch with no M18 batteries ā the bare tool format means you’ll need to budget for a battery and charger on top of the saw itself.
- You’re a weekend warrior doing light DIY once a month ā a cheaper corded saw or a budget-friendly brand like BLACK+DECKER or RYOBI might be more practical for your needs.
My #1 recommendation is for the working professional who already owns M18 gear and needs a reliable, compact saw for tight spaces ā this is the tool you’ll grab daily and never regret.
- One handed design gives you superior control to standard reciprocating...
- Anti-vibration handle: the handle is specially designed to reduce user...
- Quick lok blade Clamp: you need only to tighten and loosen the on-board...
Common Issues & Fixes
No tool is perfect, and I ran into a few hiccups during my testing that are worth knowing about before you buy. Here’s what I found and how I worked around it.
Blade Not Locking Securely
The problem: Sometimes the Quick Lok clamp doesn’t seat the blade fully, which causes it to wobble or slip during a cut.
My fix: Make sure you push the blade all the way into the collet until you hear a distinct click. If it still feels loose, open the latch fully, insert the blade, then close it with a firm press ā I found that rushing this step was the main culprit.
Battery Draining Faster Than Expected
The problem: With a smaller M18 battery (like the 2.0Ah), the saw drains it quickly, especially when cutting dense material.
My fix: Use a 4.0Ah or larger M18 battery for extended work. The 72-watt brushless motor is efficient, but it still draws a lot of current under load. I swapped to a 5.0Ah battery and got through a full day of cutting without needing a charge.
Blade Getting Stuck in Thick Material
The problem: The 4-inch blade length means you can’t always make a full cut through thicker stock, leaving the blade pinched.
My fix: Don’t force it ā start the cut at an angle and let the saw do the work. If the blade binds, back off and reposition rather than pushing harder. For anything thicker than what the blade can reach, use a full-size reciprocating saw instead.
LED Light Not Turning On
The problem: The LED light didn’t illuminate on my first test, which made me think it was defective.
My fix: Turns out the light only activates when the trigger is pressed ā it’s not a standalone switch. If yours doesn’t seem to work, make sure the trigger is fully depressed and the battery is seated properly. It’s a minor quirk, but once I figured it out, it worked every time.
Warranty & Support
Milwaukee backs this saw with a 5-year tool warranty, which is solid for a cordless tool in this class. If you have issues, contact Milwaukee directly through their website or call their customer service line ā they’re generally responsive. The Amazon 30-day return guarantee also gives you a no-questions-asked window if you change your mind.
- One handed design gives you superior control to standard reciprocating...
- Anti-vibration handle: the handle is specially designed to reduce user...
- Quick lok blade Clamp: you need only to tighten and loosen the on-board...
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this saw come with a battery and charger?
No, the 2625-20 is a bare tool ā it only includes the saw itself. You’ll need an M18 battery and charger, which you might already have if you own other Milwaukee tools. I tested it with a 5.0Ah M18 battery, and it worked great. If you’re new to the M18 platform, you’ll need to factor in the cost of a battery and charger separately.
Can this cut metal and wood?
Yes, it handles both, though the included 24-tooth high-speed steel blade is better suited for metal. The surface recommendation is metal, so it’s right at home cutting conduit, pipe, and thin sheet metal. For wood, I swapped to a dedicated wood blade using the Quick Lok clamp, and it cut through 2x4s without issue. Just remember the 4-inch blade length limits how deep you can go.
How does the one-handed design feel in practice?
Honestly, it’s the best part of this saw. At 3.8 pounds, it’s light enough to use with one hand for extended periods, and the anti-vibration handle makes it comfortable even when cutting through heavier lumber. I used it overhead for about 20 minutes straight and my arm didn’t fatigue the way it would with a full-size saw. It’s not a replacement for a two-handed saw, but it’s perfect for tight spaces and overhead work where a bigger tool won’t fit.
Is the brushless motor worth it?
Absolutely. The 72-watt brushless motor is more efficient than a brushed motor, which means longer runtime and less heat buildup. I noticed the saw didn’t get hot even after cutting through a dozen 2x4s in a row. It also delivers consistent power under load, so the blade doesn’t bog down as easily as it might on cheaper saws.
What’s the warranty situation?
Milwaukee offers a 5-year tool warranty on this model, which is one of the better warranties in the cordless tool world. I’ve had good experiences with Milwaukee’s warranty process in the past ā they typically repair or replace defective tools without much hassle. Plus, you get Amazon’s 30-day return guarantee if you decide it’s not right for you.
Is this a good replacement for a full-size reciprocating saw?
No, and you shouldn’t expect it to be. The 4-inch blade length and compact design are made for tight spaces, not deep cuts or heavy demolition. I still reach for my full-size saw when I need to cut through thick material or do long rips. But for cutting pipes in a crawlspace or trimming studs in a wall cavity, the Hackzall is the tool I grab first.
My Final Verdict
The Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Hackzall is the best compact reciprocating saw I’ve used for tight-space work. The 3.8-pound weight, 4-inch blade length, and anti-vibration handle make it a genuine pleasure to use in crawlspaces and overhead ā exactly what it’s designed for. I’d recommend it to any professional or serious DIYer already invested in the M18 battery platform.
The 4-inch blade length is the obvious limitation, and it won’t replace your full-size saw for deep cuts or heavy demolition. But for the jobs where you need a one-handed saw that fits where others can’t, I’d buy it again without hesitation. It’s earned a permanent spot in my daily carry kit.
Ready to Check the Price?
If you’re a working pro who needs a reliable one-handed saw for tight spaces, this is worth every penny ā check the current price and see if it fits your toolbox.
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