Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit 5.0 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
Review 6 reciprocating saws compared to the Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit with 5.0 Ah battery. We analyze weight, voltage, and runtime specs to help you choose the right tool.
By GaugeKit Editorial Team 5 min read
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The Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit with 5.0 Ah Battery offers a durable all-metal build and a 5.0Ah runtime for tradespeople who prioritize longevity. If you are searching for milwaukee m18 sawzall kit 5 0 alternatives, you might need a different voltage, motor type, or weight profile. This list compares 6 similar reciprocating saw kits that share key specifications with your current choice.
We selected these options because their specs overlap with the original tool. You might prefer a brushless motor for efficiency or a 20V system for higher torque. Some picks offer a lighter bare tool if you already own compatible batteries. Others provide a complete kit with a charger and battery included. This guide helps you compare voltage, weight, and motor types to find the right fit for your specific job requirements.
How these alternatives compare to Milwaukee
Makita 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
The Makita XRJ05T Kit shares the 18V voltage and 5.0Ah battery capacity of the Milwaukee original, making runtime expectations similar. However, it weighs 18.2 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the Milwaukee’s 11.7 pounds. This kit includes a brushless motor, offering potentially better efficiency than the brushed motor in the Milwaukee. The Makita is a complete package for those who do not yet own batteries. You trade the lightweight feel of the Milwaukee for a robust, albeit heavier, system. If you prefer a complete kit with a brushless motor and do not mind the extra weight, this is a solid alternative for general use.
Milwaukee 2621-20 18V Reciprocating Saw
The Milwaukee 2621-20 is the bare tool version of the original saw. It removes the battery and charger, reducing the initial footprint and cost for users who already own M18 batteries. It retains the all-metal gearing and durability of the kit version. The dimensions are listed as 18 inches in length. This option is ideal if you are expanding your M18 ecosystem and do not need a new battery. You get the same robust build quality but must supply your own power source. It is a practical choice for existing Milwaukee users who only need the tool for specific demolition tasks.
DEWALT XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
The DEWALT DCS384WW1 Kit operates on 20V MAX, providing a higher voltage platform than the Milwaukee’s 18V system. It weighs 15.6 pounds, which is heavier than the Milwaukee’s 11.7 pounds. This kit includes a brushless motor and is designed for high-torque, demanding cuts. The increased weight and voltage suggest it is built for more aggressive applications. You gain potential power and a complete kit but sacrifice the lighter, more manageable feel of the Milwaukee. This is a good fit for users who prioritize raw power and torque over lightweight handling in their reciprocating saw.
Milwaukee SAWZALL Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
The Milwaukee 2821-22 Kit is a brushless upgrade to the original brushed model. It weighs only 6.8 pounds, which is substantially lighter than the 11.7-pound original. It includes a 5.0Ah battery, maintaining similar runtime. The brushless motor offers improved efficiency and longevity. The QUIK-LOK blade clamp is retained for easy changes. This model is ideal for users who want the same Milwaukee ecosystem benefits but with reduced weight and modern motor technology. You gain a lighter, more efficient tool while keeping the familiar blade change system and battery compatibility.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw
The DEWALT DCS384B is a bare tool operating on 20V MAX voltage. It weighs just 4.5 pounds, making it much lighter than the Milwaukee original’s 11.7 pounds. It features a brushless motor for efficient performance. This option is suitable for users who already have 20V MAX batteries and want a lightweight, high-speed tool for heavy-duty cuts. You trade the Milwaukee’s 18V system for DEWALT’s 20V platform and significantly reduced weight. It is a practical choice for pros who prioritize lightweight handling and do not need to purchase a new battery or charger.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Brushless Reciprocating Saw
The Milwaukee 2821-20 is a bare tool version of the brushless M18 Fuel line. It weighs 6.8 pounds, which is lighter than the original brushed kit. It lacks the battery and charger, requiring you to use existing M18 batteries. This model offers a brushless motor for better efficiency and runtime compared to the brushed original. It is designed for demanding cutting tasks. You get a lighter, more modern Milwaukee tool but must supply your own power. This is a strong option for existing M18 users who want to upgrade to a brushless motor without buying a full kit.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit with 5.0 Ah Battery Best overall | Users prioritizing durability and runtime | |
| 2 | Makita 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit Also great | Users needing a complete 18V kit with battery | |
| 3 | Milwaukee 2621-20 18V Reciprocating Saw Best budget | M18 battery owners needing a bare tool | |
| 4 | DEWALT XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit Best premium | Users wanting a complete 20V MAX XR kit | |
| 5 | Milwaukee SAWZALL Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit Also great | Milwaukee M18 ecosystem users | |
| 6 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Also great | Users with existing 20V batteries needing heavy-duty cuts | |
| 7 | Milwaukee M18 Fuel Brushless Reciprocating Saw Also great | Existing M18 users needing a bare tool |
Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit with 5.0 Ah Battery
Best for: Users prioritizing durability and runtime
- Stroke Length
- 1-1/8 inch
- Voltage
- 18V
- Blade Clamp Type
- Lever Action QUIK-LOK
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Included Tools
- Reciprocating Saw
- Power Source
- Cordless
This Milwaukee M18 Sawzall kit includes an 18V reciprocating saw, a 5.0Ah battery, and a multi-voltage charger. It features a 1-1/8 inch stroke length and a lever action QUIK-LOK blade clamp for quick changes. The tool uses counter balance mechanics to reduce vibration. It suits users who need a durable, all-metal geared saw with a substantial battery pack for extended runtime.
- Includes 5.0Ah REDLITHIUM XC battery for longer runtime
- All-metal gearing and gear case for durability
- Lever Action QUIK-LOK blade clamp for fast changes
- Counter balance mechanism reduces vibration
- Heavier at 11.7 pounds compared to brushless competitors
- Lower stroke length of 1-1/8 inch limits cutting speed
- You want a complete kit with a high-capacity battery
- You prefer metal gearing for tool longevity
- You need reduced vibration for better control
- You prioritize lighter weight for overhead work
- You want a brushless motor for efficiency
- You need a higher stroke length for faster cutting
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Sawzall with 5.0Ah Battery fits users who value durability and runtime over raw speed. It is ideal for tradespeople who prefer a robust, all-metal build and do not mind the extra weight.
Makita 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
Best for: Users needing a complete 18V kit with battery
- Stroke Length
- 1-1/4"
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Configuration
- Kit
- Battery Capacity
- 5.0Ah
- Power Source
- Cordless
This Makita kit includes an 18V brushless reciprocating saw with a 5.0Ah battery. The motor offers two speeds: 0-2,300 and 0-3,000 strokes per minute. A 1-1/4 inch stroke length aids cutting efficiency. The refined crank mechanism reduces vibration. An LED light with preglow illuminates your work area. This setup suits users who need a reliable, cordless tool for various demolition or pruning tasks.
- Brushless motor delivers 0-3,000 strokes per minute
- Includes 5.0Ah battery for extended runtime
- 1-1/4 inch stroke length improves cutting efficiency
- LED light features preglow and afterglow
- Maximum speed of 3,000 strokes per minute is lower than some competitors
- Total kit weight of 18.2 pounds is heavier than tool-only options
- You want a complete kit with a 5.0Ah battery included
- You prefer a brushless motor for better efficiency
- You need a built-in LED light for dark workspaces
- You prioritize the highest possible stroke speed
- You want to minimize carry weight
- You already own compatible 18V batteries
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit provides a solid balance of speed and runtime for general use. It fits professionals who value vibration reduction and included battery capacity over maximum raw power.
Milwaukee 2621-20 18V Reciprocating Saw
Best for: M18 battery owners needing a bare tool
- Stroke Length
- 1 1/8"
- Stroke Speed
- 3,000 strokes per minute
- Voltage
- 18V
- Blade Clamp Type
- Lever action quik-lok
- Configuration
- Tool Only
- Tool Length
- 6 inches
This is a Milwaukee M18 cordless reciprocating saw sold as a bare tool. It features an 18-inch body and a 3,000 strokes per minute speed. The 1 1/8-inch stroke length provides solid cutting power. You need your own 18V battery to use it. The metal gearing and counterbalance mechanism help with durability and vibration control. It is a solid choice if you already own Milwaukee M18 batteries.
- 3,000 strokes per minute speed
- 1 1/8-inch stroke length
- All metal gearing and gear case
- Counterbalance mechanism for vibration control
- Sold as a bare tool without a battery
- Lower stroke speed than brushless competitors
- You already have Milwaukee M18 batteries
- You want a durable metal-gear saw
- You prefer a standard 18V platform
- You need a kit with a battery included
- You want the highest possible stroke speed
- You prefer a brushless motor design
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Sawzall 18V Tool Only is a durable, metal-gear saw for users who already own M18 batteries. It offers reliable performance for general demolition tasks.
DEWALT XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
Best for: Users wanting a complete 20V MAX XR kit
- Stroke Length
- 1-1/8 in.
- Voltage
- 20V MAX
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Blade Clamp Type
- Keyless lever-action
- Configuration
- Kit
- Included Tools
- Reciprocating Saw
This DEWALT kit includes the DCS384WW1 reciprocating saw, a battery, and a charger. It features a brushless motor and a 1-1/8 inch stroke length for fast cutting. The tool delivers up to 102 cuts per charge. Weighing 15.6 pounds with the battery, it is a complete solution for heavy-duty jobs. The keyless lever-action clamp allows for quick blade changes. It suits users who need a ready-to-use power tool setup.
- Brushless motor delivers more power for tough demands.
- Fast cutting speed with a 1-1/8 inch stroke length.
- Keyless lever-action blade clamp for quick changes.
- Includes battery and charger in the kit.
- Heavier build at 15.6 pounds compared to lighter alternatives.
- Lower voltage system (20V) than the 18V competitors on this list.
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger included.
- You prefer a keyless lever-action blade clamp for fast changes.
- You want a brushless motor for higher efficiency.
- You are already using the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem and prefer 18V tools.
- You need a tool-only purchase to save weight or cost.
- You require a lighter tool for extended overhead work.
Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit is a robust option for users who prioritize a complete package with a brushless motor. It fits those who want a heavier, high-torque tool for demanding cuts rather than a lightweight 18V alternative.
Milwaukee SAWZALL Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit
Best for: Milwaukee M18 ecosystem users
- Voltage
- 18V
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Blade Clamp Type
- Lever actuated QUIK-LOK
- Configuration
- Kit
- Tool Length
- 22 inches
- Tool Weight
- 6.8 pounds
This Milwaukee M18 Sawzall kit includes a brushless reciprocating saw and a REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery. The tool weighs 6.8 pounds and measures 22 inches long. It features a lever actuated QUIK-LOK blade clamp for quick changes. REDLINK plus intelligence protects the motor and battery. The included LED light illuminates your work surface. This kit suits users who need durable power in a standard 18V platform.
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- Includes REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery
- QUIK-LOK lever actuated blade clamp
- REDLINK plus overload protection
- Built-in LED work light
- Heavier at 6.8 pounds
- 22 inch tool length
- 18V system limits peak power
- You already own Milwaukee M18 batteries
- You prefer lever actuated blade clamps
- You need a complete kit with battery
- You require a lighter tool under 6 pounds
- You prefer 20V MAX platforms
- You need a tool only purchase
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Brushless Sawzall Kit delivers reliable performance with its brushless motor and included 5.0Ah battery. It fits professionals who value the durability of the QUIK-LOK clamp and the protection of REDLINK plus electronics.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw
Best for: Users with existing 20V batteries needing heavy-duty cuts
- Stroke Length
- 1-1/8 in.
- Stroke Speed
- 3,000 max SPM
- Voltage
- 20V MAX*
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Blade Clamp Type
- Keyless lever-action
- Configuration
- Tool Only
The DEWALT DCS384B is a 20V MAX* brushless reciprocating saw designed for heavy-duty cutting. It features a 1-1/8 inch stroke length and reaches 3,000 max SPM. The tool weighs 4.5 pounds and includes a keyless lever-action blade clamp. You will appreciate the counterbalance mechanism for reduced vibration. This bare tool requires a separate battery and charger.
- Brushless motor delivers high power for tough demands.
- Fast cutting speed of 3,000 max SPM.
- 1-1/8 inch stroke length for efficient material removal.
- Keyless lever-action blade clamp for quick changes.
- Counterbalance mechanism limits vibration during use.
- Heavier at 4.5 pounds compared to lighter alternatives.
- Sold as a tool only, requiring separate battery purchase.
- Lower stroke length than some competitors with longer strokes.
- You already own DEWALT 20V MAX* batteries.
- You need a brushless motor for extended runtime.
- You prefer a keyless lever-action blade clamp.
- You want a complete kit with battery and charger included.
- You require a lighter tool for overhead work.
- You prefer a 18V system for compatibility.
Verdict: DEWALT DCS384B 20V XR Brushless Saw suits users who already have 20V MAX* batteries and need a durable, high-speed tool for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Brushless Reciprocating Saw
Best for: Existing M18 users needing a bare tool
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Blade Clamp Type
- Lever actuated
- Configuration
- Bare Tool Only
- Tool Length
- 10 inches
- Tool Weight
- 6.8 pounds
- Included Tools
- Reciprocating Saw
This is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall bare tool. It features a brushless motor and weighs 6.8 pounds. The lever-actuated blade clamp allows for quick changes. A built-in LED light helps you see your work surface. It is designed for users who already own M18 batteries and want a durable, high-performance reciprocating saw without the extra weight of a battery pack.
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Lever actuated blade clamp for fast changes
- Built-in LED work light
- Metal reinforced battery connection
- Heavier at 6.8 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
- You already have Milwaukee M18 batteries
- You need a durable saw with a lever clamp
- You prefer a brushless motor for longevity
- You need a complete kit with battery and charger
- You want a lighter tool under 6 pounds
- You are looking for a cheaper entry-level option
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Bare Tool is a robust choice for pros who already own M18 batteries. It offers a durable build and efficient brushless motor for demanding cutting tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Milwaukee M18 Sawzall Kit with 5.0 Ah Battery | Makita 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit | Milwaukee 2621-20 18V Reciprocating Saw | DEWALT XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit | Milwaukee SAWZALL Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw | Milwaukee M18 Fuel Brushless Reciprocating Saw |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stroke Length | 1-1/8 inch | 1-1/4" | 1 1/8" | 1-1/8 in. | – | 1-1/8 in. | – |
| Stroke Speed | – | – | 3,000 strokes per minute | – | – | 3,000 max SPM | – |
| Voltage | 18V | 18V | 18V | 20V MAX | 18V | 20V MAX* | – |
| Motor Type | – | Brushless | – | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Blade Clamp Type | Lever Action QUIK-LOK | – | Lever action quik-lok | Keyless lever-action | Lever actuated QUIK-LOK | Keyless lever-action | Lever actuated |
| Configuration | – | Kit | Tool Only | Kit | Kit | Tool Only | Bare Tool Only |
| Tool Length | – | – | 6 inches | – | 22 inches | 19.3 inches | 10 inches |
| Tool Weight | – | – | 4 pounds | – | 6.8 pounds | 4.5 pounds | 6.8 pounds |
| Battery Capacity | 5.0Ah | 5.0Ah | – | – | – | – | – |
| Included Tools | Reciprocating Saw | – | Reciprocating Saw | Reciprocating Saw | Reciprocating Saw | Reciprocating Saw | Reciprocating Saw |
| Power Source | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless |
| Set Type | – | – | Tool Only | – | – | Tool Only | Tool Only |
| Weight | 11.7 pounds | 18.2 pounds | 4 pounds | 15.6 pounds | 6.8 pounds | 4.5 pounds | 6.8 pounds |
| Dimensions | – | 6.02 × 21.6 × 13 inches | 6 × 16 × 10 inches | 20.8 × 5.4 × 11.9 inches | 22 × 17 × 6.5 inches | 19.3 × 4.19 × 7.38 inches | 10 × 6 × 4 inches |
| Color | Black Color459 | Factory | – | Yellow | Red, Black | Black, Yellow | Black |
| Model | 2621-21P | XRJ05T | 2621-20-NBX | DCS384WW1 | 2821-22 | DCS384B | 2821-20 |
| Size | – | One Size | – | – | – | STANDARD | – |
Frequently asked questions
Which 18V reciprocating saw is the lightest option?
The Milwaukee 2821-22 Brushless Kit is the lightest choice at 6.8 pounds. It also offers a bare tool version with the same weight. This makes it easier to handle for overhead work or extended use compared to heavier 18V alternatives.
Is there a 20V alternative with a brushless motor?
Yes, the DEWALT DCS384WW1 Kit uses a 20V MAX system with a brushless motor. It weighs 15.6 pounds and includes a battery for immediate use. The bare tool version weighs 4.5 pounds if you already own compatible batteries.
Which kit includes a 5.0Ah battery?
The Milwaukee 2621-21P Kit includes a 5.0Ah battery and weighs 11.7 pounds. The Makita XRJ05T Kit also features a 5.0Ah battery but weighs 18.2 pounds. Both provide similar runtime expectations for general demolition and cutting tasks.
What is the best bare tool for existing M18 users?
The Milwaukee 2821-20 Fuel Sawzall is a robust bare tool for those with M18 batteries. It weighs 6.8 pounds and features a brushless motor. The standard 2621-20 model is another metal-gear option for users who already own batteries.
Which saw is best for heavy-duty cutting?
The DEWALT DCS384B Bare Tool is designed for heavy-duty cuts. It operates on 20V and weighs only 4.5 pounds. The Milwaukee 2821-22 Kit also offers high performance with its brushless motor and QUIK-LOK clamp for demanding jobs.
Does the Milwaukee M18 Brushless Kit include a battery?
Yes, the Milwaukee 2821-22 Kit includes a 5.0Ah battery. It features a brushless motor and weighs 6.8 pounds. This configuration provides a complete package for professionals who need the protection of REDLINK plus electronics and durable construction.
See also
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