Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall vs Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium (2026): Key Differences
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This comparison of the milwaukee 2719 20 m18 fuel hackzall vs 2621 20 m18 18v lithium focuses on two distinct reciprocating saws from Milwaukee. Both tools operate on the M18 battery platform and are sold as bare tools. The main difference lies in their design and intended use. The 2719-20 is a one-handed tool built for speed and control in tight spaces. The 2621-20 is a traditional two-handed saw designed for heavy-duty demolition and power.
Key differences
| Aspect | Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall | Milwaukee M18 Cordless Sawzall |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless (POWERSTATE) | Not listed |
| Tool Weight | 3.97 pounds | 7.4 pounds |
| Stroke Length | 7/8 in. | Not listed |
| Strokes Per Minute | Not listed | 3,000 RPM |
| Blade Clamp | Not listed | Quik Lok Blade Clamp |
| Tool Length | 14.8 inches | 15.1 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall if
- You need a lightweight tool for one-handed operation in tight spaces.
- You prioritize a brushless motor for longer tool life and increased cutting speed.
- You want a shorter stroke length for faster cuts with less material removal per pass.
Choose Milwaukee M18 Cordless Sawzall if
- You require a heavier, more robust tool for demolition and thick materials.
- You value a counter-balance mechanism to reduce vibration during heavy use.
- You prefer a Quik Lok blade clamp for quick and easy blade changes.
Verdict: Choose the 2719-20 if you need a compact, one-handed saw for precision work and speed. Pick the 2621-20 if you need a traditional, powerful reciprocating saw for heavy demolition tasks where stability and vibration reduction are critical.
M18 FUEL Hackzall vs Sawzall Comparison
Motor Technology
The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall features a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, which is designed to increase cutting speed and power through tough applications. This motor type typically offers longer tool life and better efficiency than brushed alternatives. In contrast, the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall does not explicitly list its motor type in the provided specifications. While it includes REDLINK Intelligence for protection, the absence of a stated brushless motor in the data gives the Hackzall a clear advantage in modern motor technology.
Tool Weight
Weight significantly impacts handling during extended use. The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall weighs 3.97 pounds, making it notably lighter than the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall, which weighs 7.4 pounds. This nearly 3.5-pound difference is substantial for a one-handed tool. The Hackzall’s lighter build supports its one-handed design philosophy, allowing for superior control and versatility. The heavier Sawzall is built for two-handed stability and durability but requires more effort to hold up for long periods.
Stroke Length
Stroke length determines how much material is removed per cut. The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall has a stroke length of 7/8 inch, which allows it to remove more material with each stroke for faster cuts. The Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall does not list its stroke length in the available data. Because the Hackzall’s stroke length is explicitly stated and optimized for speed, it holds the edge here. The Sawzall’s performance relies on its 3,000 RPM speed rather than a specified longer stroke.
Blade Changing System
Blade changes affect workflow efficiency. The Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall features a QUIK LOK Blade Clamp, which allows you to switch blades by simply opening and closing a latch. This system is designed for quick changes between different applications. The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall does not specify its blade clamp mechanism in the provided data. The Sawzall’s explicit mention of a dedicated quick-change system gives it a practical advantage for users who frequently swap blades.
Vibration Control
Vibration management is crucial for user comfort and cut accuracy. The Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Cordless Sawzall includes an internal counter balance mechanism to reduce vibrations, especially when tearing through thick lumber. It also features an all-metal gearbox for durability. The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall uses a pivoting shoe to provide constant contact with the workpiece, resulting in smoother cuts with less bucking. While both manage vibration, the Sawzall’s dedicated counter balance mechanism offers a distinct engineering advantage for heavy-duty reduction of shake.
Which Milwaukee Recip Saw Fits You
One-handed precision work needs
You need a one-handed design for superior control and versatility. The 7/8-inch stroke length removes more material per stroke for faster cuts. The pivoting shoe keeps constant contact with the workpiece, resulting in smoother cuts with less bucking and vibration. This compact tool weighs only 3.97 pounds, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Heavy duty demolition tasks
You require maximum power for tearing through thick lumber. This saw delivers 3,000 RPMs for aggressive cutting speed. The all-metal gearbox protects internal components if dropped, ensuring durability on rough job sites. The counter balance mechanism reduces vibrations during heavy use. Although heavier at 7.4 pounds, the robust build handles demanding applications with ease.
Quick blade change preference
You switch blades frequently for different applications. The Quik Lok Blade Clamp allows you to change blades by simply opening and closing the latch. This feature saves time compared to standard mechanisms. Combined with REDLINK Intelligence, the tool prevents overheating by communicating with the battery. This ensures efficient work and protects the tool during extended use on various materials.
The products compared
Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall
Best for: M18 users needing one-handed reciprocating saw power
- Power Source
- M18
- Stroke Length
- 7/8 in.
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Included
- Bare Tool
- Tool Weight
- 3.97 pounds
- Tool Length
- 14.8 inches
View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall Affiliate link
This Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall is a one-handed reciprocating saw powered by the M18 battery system. It features a brushless motor and a 7/8-inch stroke length for fast material removal. The tool weighs 3.97 pounds and measures 14.8 inches long. It includes a pivoting shoe to reduce vibration. This bare tool requires a separate battery and charger.
Pros
- POWERSTATE brushless motor for increased cutting speed
- 7/8-inch stroke length removes more material per stroke
- Pivoting shoe provides constant contact for smoother cuts
- REDLINK Plus Intelligence offers overload protection
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
- Heavier than standard one-handed reciprocating saws at 3.97 pounds
- No variable speed trigger listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a one-handed design for superior control
- You already own M18 batteries and chargers
- You want a brushless motor for longer tool life
Skip if
- You require a complete kit with included battery
- You prefer a lighter tool under 3 pounds
- You need a reciprocating saw with a two-handed grip
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall Brushless fits users who already have M18 batteries and need a powerful one-handed saw. The brushless motor and 7/8-inch stroke make it efficient for tough cuts.
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Sawzall
Best for: demolition tasks with existing M18 batteries
- Power Source
- M18 18V
- Strokes Per Minute
- 3,000 RPM
- Battery Included
- Bare Tool
- Tool Weight
- 7.67 pounds
- Tool Length
- 15.1 inches
- Blade Clamp
- Quik Lok
View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Cordless Sawzall Affiliate link
This bare-tool reciprocating saw delivers 3,000 strokes per minute for efficient cutting. It features a Quik Lok blade clamp for fast changes and an all-metal gearbox to protect internal components from drops. The counterbalance mechanism reduces vibration during heavy use. It connects with M18 batteries via RedLink Intelligence to prevent overheating. You should choose this tool if you need a durable, high-speed saw for demolition or construction tasks.
Pros
- 3,000 RPM stroke rate for fast cutting
- Quik Lok blade clamp for quick changes
- All-metal gearbox for impact protection
- Counterbalance mechanism reduces vibration
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without a battery
- Heavier at 7.4 pounds than compact alternatives
- Lower speed than fuel models
Good fit if
- You already own M18 batteries
- You need a durable saw for tough jobs
- You want quick blade changes
Skip if
- You need a battery included
- You prefer a lighter tool
- You need variable speed control
Verdict: Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Reciprocating Saw is a sturdy option for users who already have M18 batteries and need a reliable tool for demolition work.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall | Milwaukee M18 Cordless Sawzall |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | M18 | M18 18V |
| Stroke Length | 7/8 in. | not stated |
| Strokes Per Minute | not stated | 3,000 RPM |
| Motor Type | Brushless | not stated |
| Battery Included | Bare Tool | Bare Tool |
| Tool Weight | 3.97 pounds | 7.67 pounds |
| Tool Length | 14.8 inches | 15.1 inches |
| Blade Clamp | not stated | Quik Lok |
| Voltage | not stated | 18V |
| Included Tools | not stated | Reciprocating Saw |
| Dimensions | 14.8 × 4.4 × 6.8 inches | 15.1 × 7.1 × 23 inches |
| Weight | 3.97 pounds | 7.67 pounds |
| Size | Large | Pack of 1 |
| Color | Red, Black | Red/Black |
| Model | 2719-20 | 2621-20 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Milwaukee recip saw is lighter for overhead work?
The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall is significantly lighter. It weighs 3.97 pounds, making it easier to manage one-handed for extended periods. In contrast, the Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 Sawzall weighs 7.4 pounds. This extra weight provides stability for heavy demolition but reduces comfort for overhead or precision tasks.
How do the physical dimensions of these tools compare?
The Hackzall is more compact in height and width. It measures 6.8 inches high and 4.4 inches wide. The Sawzall is taller at 23 inches and wider at 7.1 inches. Both tools have similar lengths, with the Hackzall at 14.8 inches and the Sawzall at 15.1 inches. The Hackzall’s smaller profile aids in tight spaces.
Do these models include batteries in the package?
No, neither tool includes batteries. Both the Milwaukee 2719-20 and the Milwaukee 2621-20 are sold as bare tools. You must already own compatible M18 Lithium-ION batteries to operate them. This design keeps the initial purchase cost lower for existing Milwaukee users but requires you to source power sources separately.
What is the difference in tool size classification?
The Hackzall is classified as a Large size tool, while the Sawzall is listed as a Pack of 1. This distinction reflects their form factors rather than just quantity. The Hackzall is a single-handheld unit designed for one-handed operation. The Sawzall is a standard two-handed reciprocating saw designed for maximum power and control during aggressive cutting.
Which tool is better for users who already have M18 batteries?
Both tools are ideal if you already own M18 batteries since they are both bare tools. The Hackzall offers efficiency and one-handed convenience for lighter tasks. The Sawzall provides robust power for demolition. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize portability and speed or raw power and stability for tough materials.
How does the color scheme compare between these models?
Both tools feature Milwaukee’s signature Red and Black color scheme. The Hackzall is described as Red and Black. The Sawzall is listed as Red/Black. This consistent branding helps you quickly identify Milwaukee tools in your kit. The color does not affect performance but aids in visual identification among other power tools.

