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Milwaukee 2420-21 12-Volt Hackzall Saw Alternatives: 3 Similar Picks Compared

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You are looking for Milwaukee 2420-21 12 Volt Hackzall Saw Alternatives. The original 12V Hackzall Saw Kit delivers a balanced mix of power and portability. It features a variable speed trigger and reaches up to 3,000 strokes per minute. The tool weighs 2.62 pounds and includes a 12V Lithium-Ion battery and charger. This setup works well for general home DIY tasks.

You might want something else for specific reasons. You may need a bare tool if you already own compatible batteries. You might prefer a different brand like Bosch for a complete three-tool combo. Some users seek a more focused single cutting tool within the M12 system. We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original. This list compares 3 similar picks to help you find the right fit for your specific needs and existing tool inventory.

Our top pick: Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit.

Comparing the Top Alternatives

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit

This Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall focuses on raw cutting power rather than versatility. It shares the 12V platform but is designed as a dedicated reciprocating saw. The kit includes only the saw, lacking the extra battery and charger found in the original 2420-21 bundle. You get a tool optimized for demolition and cutting tasks. The dimensions are slightly different, measuring 15 inches in length. If you need a single, powerful cutting tool for the M12 system, this is a strong choice. It sacrifices the broader kit contents for a focused performance profile. This pick suits users who do not require a drill or other accessories and want a specialized saw.

Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool

The Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall bare tool is the lighter option for existing battery owners. It weighs just 2.14 pounds, making it more portable than the 2.62-pound original kit. This model does not include a battery or charger, so it is only suitable if you already own Milwaukee 12V power sources. It features a fuel gauge, which the original kit does not explicitly list in its specs. The compact design fits into tight spaces better. You save money by not buying redundant power sources. This pick is ideal for users who already have Milwaukee 12V batteries and want a versatile saw without the bulk of a full kit. It offers blade flexibility in a smaller package.

Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo

The Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo Kit offers a different approach by including a drill driver, work light, and reciprocating saw. It targets users who need a complete set for compact overhead work and tight spaces. The reciprocating saw in this kit is part of a larger system. You get three tools instead of just the saw. The drill driver provides 265 inch-pounds of torque, which the original Hackzall does not offer. This kit is heavier at 2 pounds for the saw component alone, but the overall utility is broader. It is best for those who need a drill and light alongside their saw. This pick suits professionals or serious DIYers who want a versatile 12V system for various tasks beyond just cutting.

Quick picks

#ProductBest forPrice
1 Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit Best overall General home DIY tasks Check price of Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit on Amazon
2 Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit Also great Users needing a single M12 cutting tool Check price of Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit on Amazon
3 Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool Best budget Existing Milwaukee 12V battery owners Check price of Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool on Amazon
4 Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo Best premium compact overhead work and tight spaces Check price of Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo on Amazon

Our 4 picks

Best overall

Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit

Best for: General home DIY tasks

Power Source
12V
Stroke Length
1/2 in.
Strokes Per Minute
0-3,000 SPM
Battery Included
Kit with battery and charger
Battery Capacity
12V LITHIUM-ION
Tool Weight
2.62 lbs.

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit Affiliate link

The Milwaukee 2420-21 is a 12-volt Hackzall saw kit. It delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute with a 1/2-inch stroke length. The tool weighs 2.62 pounds and features a variable speed trigger. This kit includes a battery, charger, blade, and carrying case. It suits users who need a compact reciprocating saw for light to medium cutting tasks.

Pros

  • Variable speed trigger for control
  • QUIK-LOK universal blade clamp
  • Includes battery and charger
  • Compact 2.62 lb weight

Cons

  • Single 12V battery included
  • 0-3000 SPM speed range
  • 1/2-inch stroke length limit

Good fit if

  • You need a lightweight saw
  • You prefer a complete kit
  • You work in tight spaces

Skip if

  • You require high power cutting
  • You want a brushless motor
  • You need dual batteries included

Verdict: Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit offers a balanced mix of power and portability for general use. It fits homeowners needing a versatile tool for occasional projects.

Also great

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit

Best for: Users needing a single M12 cutting tool

Power Source
M12 12v
Battery Included
Kit
Voltage
12V Max
Included Tools
Reciprocating Saw
Dimensions
15 × 9 × 5 inches

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee 2520-21XC kit includes a 12-volt M12 Fuel Hackzall reciprocating saw. The tool measures 15 inches in length, 9 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. It comes with a battery kit. This setup is designed for users who need a compact, cordless cutting solution. The brushless motor offers efficient power. It is a solid option for general cutting tasks around the home or job site.

Pros

  • Includes M12 12V battery kit
  • 15-inch overall length for reach
  • Brushless motor for efficiency
  • Compact 9x5 inch tool body

Cons

  • Only includes one reciprocating saw
  • No additional accessories listed
  • Single tool in the kit

Good fit if

  • You need a dedicated reciprocating saw
  • You already own M12 batteries
  • You prefer a compact cutting tool

Skip if

  • You want a multi-tool combo kit
  • You need a 18-volt system
  • You require multiple tools in one box

Verdict: Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall Reciprocating Saw is a focused choice for users who specifically need a single, powerful cutting tool. It suits those who value the M12 system and do not require a broader set of tools.

Best budget

Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool

Best for: Existing Milwaukee 12V battery owners

Power Source
12-Volt
Tool Weight
2.14 pounds
Tool Length
10 inches
Variable Speed Trigger
Variable-speed trigger
Voltage
12V Max
Included Tools
Reciprocating Saw

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool Affiliate link

This is the Milwaukee 2420-20, a 12-volt cordless reciprocating saw sold as a bare tool. It weighs 2.14 pounds and measures 10 inches long. The variable-speed trigger gives you control over the cut. A fuel gauge shows remaining battery life. It accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL blades. You need a compatible 12-volt battery to operate it.

Pros

  • Variable-speed trigger for controlled cutting
  • Accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL blades
  • Battery fuel gauge displays run time
  • Compact 10-inch tool length

Cons

  • Sold as a bare tool without battery
  • Heavier than some compact 12V alternatives
  • No included carrying case or storage

Good fit if

  • You already own Milwaukee 12-volt batteries
  • You need a lightweight reciprocating saw
  • You want blade compatibility with older models

Skip if

  • You need a complete kit with battery
  • You prefer a brushless motor option
  • You require a longer stroke length

Verdict: Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Bare Tool fits users who already have 12-volt batteries and want a versatile saw. It offers blade flexibility and a fuel gauge in a compact package.

Best premium

Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo

Best for: compact overhead work and tight spaces

Power Source
12V Max
Strokes Per Minute
0-3,000 SPM
Battery Included
2 batteries and charger included
Battery Capacity
2.0 Ah
Tool Weight
2 pounds
Number of Tools
3-Tool

View on Amazon: Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo Affiliate link

The Bosch GXL12V-310B22 is a 12V Max 3-tool set including a drill/driver, reciprocating saw, and work light. It comes with two 2.0 Ah batteries and a charger. The drill delivers 265 inch-pounds of torque in a 2-pound body. The saw offers 0-3,000 SPM. This kit suits users needing compact tools for tight spaces and overhead work.

Pros

  • Includes three tools: drill, saw, and light
  • Drill weighs only 2 pounds for easy handling
  • Reciprocating saw reaches 3,000 strokes per minute
  • Comes with two 2.0 Ah batteries and charger

Cons

  • Drill chuck size is limited to 3/8 inch
  • Battery capacity is 2.0 Ah, which is modest
  • Saw strokes per minute max out at 3,000

Good fit if

  • You need a compact drill for tight spaces
  • You want a lightweight saw for overhead use
  • You require a complete 3-tool starter set

Skip if

  • You need a 1/2 inch drill chuck
  • You require high-capacity batteries over 2.0 Ah
  • You need a reciprocating saw over 3,000 SPM

Verdict: Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo Kit is a practical choice for users who prioritize compactness and balance in their 12V tools. It fits those who work in tight spaces or overhead positions and need a drill with 265 inch-pounds of torque.

Specifications side by side

Spec Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit Milwaukee M12 Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Tool Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo
Power Source 12V M12 12v 12-Volt 12V Max
Stroke Length 1/2 in. not stated not stated not stated
Strokes Per Minute 0-3,000 SPM not stated not stated 0-3,000 SPM
Battery Included Kit with battery and charger Kit not stated 2 batteries and charger included
Battery Capacity 12V LITHIUM-ION not stated not stated 2.0 Ah
Tool Weight 2.62 lbs. not stated 2.14 pounds 2 pounds
Tool Length not stated not stated 10 inches not stated
Blade Clamp QUIK-LOK Universal 1/2 in. Tang not stated not stated not stated
Variable Speed Trigger Variable speed not stated Variable-speed trigger not stated
Number of Tools not stated not stated not stated 3-Tool
Voltage 12V Max 12V Max 12V Max 12V Max
Included Tools not stated Reciprocating Saw Reciprocating Saw Drill Driver, Work Light, Reciprocating Saw
Chuck Size not stated not stated not stated 3/8 Inch
Dimensions 7.2 × 4.76 × 15.4 inches 15 × 9 × 5 inches 10 × 6 × 2.25 inches not stated
Weight 2.62 pounds not stated 2.14 pounds 2 pounds
Size 15.60 L x 7.70 W x 3.95 H not stated not stated not stated
Color Red/Black Black Red not stated
Model 2420-21 2520-21XC MIL2420-20 GXL12V-310B22

Frequently asked questions

How does the Milwaukee 2420-21 compare to the Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo?

The Milwaukee 2420-21 is a single reciprocating saw kit weighing 2.62 pounds. The Bosch kit includes a drill, work light, and saw for 2 pounds total. The Bosch option provides a drill with 265 inch-pounds of torque and a 3/8 inch chuck. Choose Milwaukee for dedicated cutting power or Bosch for a multi-tool setup.

Is the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall a bare tool or a full kit?

The Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hackzall model 2520-21XC is sold as a kit. It includes the reciprocating saw but lacks the extra battery and charger found in other bundles. This makes it a focused choice for users who already own M12 batteries and need a single powerful cutting tool.

What is the weight difference between the standard Hackzall and the bare tool version?

The standard Milwaukee 12V Hackzall Saw Kit weighs 2.62 pounds. The bare tool version, model MIL2420-20, weighs 2.14 pounds. This difference reflects the inclusion of the battery and charger in the kit. The bare tool is lighter and suits existing battery owners.

Does the Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo include a drill driver?

Yes, the Bosch 12V Max 3-Tool Combo Kit includes a drill driver. It also contains a work light and a reciprocating saw. The drill features 265 inch-pounds of torque and a 3/8 inch chuck. This makes it a practical choice for users needing a versatile compact toolset.

Which Milwaukee saw is best for users with existing 12-volt batteries?

The Milwaukee M12 12V Hackzall Bare Tool is ideal for existing battery owners. It is sold without a battery or charger. This model offers blade flexibility and a fuel gauge in a compact package. It weighs 2.14 pounds and fits users who want a versatile saw.

How do the dimensions of the Milwaukee 2420-21 compare to the Bosch kit?

The Milwaukee 2420-21 measures 15.60 inches long, 7.70 inches wide, and 3.95 inches high. The Bosch 3-Tool Combo weighs 2 pounds total, with individual tool weights not fully specified. The Milwaukee kit is a dedicated saw, while the Bosch set offers a drill and light for broader utility.

See also