Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 Review: Worth It? (October 2026)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 suits one-handed cuts in tight spaces where control matters. It’s a bare tool, so choose it if you already use compatible M18 batteries and a charger.
On this page (6 sections)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 is a one-handed reciprocating saw for controlled cuts in tight spaces. Its brushless motor, 7/8 in stroke and pivoting shoe are the main reasons to consider it, especially if you already own M18 batteries.
This is a bare tool, so it won't suit someone who needs a complete saw kit out of the box. If you use another battery platform, compare the Makita and DeWalt options below before deciding.
What does the Milwaukee 2719-20 offer?
The 2719-20 pairs a one-handed grip with a 7/8 in stroke and pivoting shoe. That combination is aimed at maneuverability and workpiece contact rather than the two-handed feel of a standard reciprocating saw.
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall: Best for tight one-handed cuts
- One-handed design
- POWERSTATE brushless motor
- 7/8 in stroke length
- Pivoting shoe
A compact one-handed reciprocating saw with a brushless motor, 7/8 in stroke and pivoting shoe. It fits buyers who want control in tight spaces and already have an M18 battery.
Pros
- One-handed design
- Brushless motor
- Pivoting shoe helps maintain workpiece contact
- REDLINK Plus provides overload protection
Cons
- Bare tool, so battery and charger are separate
- One-handed format is not a substitute for a full-size saw on every cut
Milwaukee equips it with a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK Plus Intelligence. The brand says REDLINK Plus helps optimize performance and protect against overload through communication between the tool, battery and charger.
The pivoting shoe is designed to keep contact with the workpiece as you cut. Milwaukee says that contact helps make cuts smoother, with less bucking and vibration.
Where the 2719-20 fits best
Consider it for cuts where a larger saw feels awkward to position, such as working in a confined area or overhead. The one-handed design gives you more freedom to guide the tool, but it still needs a secure grip and a stable workpiece.
A compact format doesn't make every cut easy. Use an appropriate blade, keep the shoe against the work where practical, and follow the tool and blade makers’ safety instructions.
Is the M18 Hackzall a good match for your work?
The M18 FUEL Hackzall makes the most sense when you value access and control and already have M18 batteries. Its 7/8 in stroke provides a concrete point of comparison when you’re choosing among compact reciprocating saws.
The included components are listed as a bare tool. Budget for the battery and charger separately if you need them, and make sure they’re compatible with your tools.
For larger cuts or work that benefits from a two-handed grip, compare the Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall differences. The best Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall guide can help you compare other models in the same brand family.
How does it compare with the M12 Hackzall?
The M18 2719-20 is the clearer fit if you want its stated brushless motor and 7/8 in stroke. The M12 option is worth comparing when your other tools use Milwaukee’s 12V platform.
Milwaukee 2520-21XC M12 FUEL Hackzall Kit: Best for the M12 battery system
- M12 platform
- One-handed reciprocating saw
A Milwaukee M12 Hackzall option for buyers already using the 12V platform. Check the included items carefully so you know whether the battery and charger you need are covered.
Pros
- Uses Milwaukee's M12 platform
- One-handed Hackzall format
Cons
- The available details do not specify stroke length or speed
- Confirm included battery and charger before buying
The available details for the M12 2520-21XC identify it as a 12V Hackzall but don't specify a stroke length or speed. Confirm the exact battery and charger included in the kit before buying.
If you’re choosing between these two Milwaukee formats, see our M12 Hackzall vs M18 comparison. Your existing batteries and the type of cuts you make can matter more than the platform name.
What are the main alternatives?
The Makita XRJ08Z and DeWalt DCS369B are compact alternatives for buyers already invested in those battery systems. Compare their stated features and included parts with the Milwaukee’s before switching platforms.
Makita XRJ08Z One-Handed Recip Saw: Best for Makita LXT users
- Brushless motor
- 7/8 in stroke length
- Low-vibration design
- Tool-less blade change
A compact one-handed saw for buyers on Makita's 18V LXT platform. Its brushless motor, 7/8 in stroke and low-vibration design make it a useful alternative to compare.
Pros
- Brushless motor
- Tool-less blade change
- Low-vibration design
- Includes 3 blades
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Best fit depends on already owning Makita LXT batteries
The Makita XRJ08Z has a brushless motor and 7/8 in stroke, with a stated speed range of 0–3,100 strokes per minute. It includes 3 blades, while the battery and charger are sold separately.
DeWalt DCS369B Atomic Recip Saw: Best for DeWalt 20V users
- Brushless motor
- 12.5 in front-to-back length
- Variable-speed trigger
- Pivoting shoe
A compact one-handed reciprocating saw for buyers already using DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. It has a brushless motor, variable-speed trigger and pivoting shoe.
Pros
- Compact 12.5 in front-to-back length
- Brushless motor
- LED helps illuminate dark workspaces
- Includes 2 blades and belt hook
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Choose it only if its battery platform fits your tools
The DeWalt DCS369B has a brushless motor, variable-speed trigger, LED and pivoting shoe. It measures 12.5 in from front to back and includes 2 blades and a belt hook.
A brand switch can mean buying into a new battery platform. Our cordless vs corded reciprocating saw guide covers the wider power choice, while the reciprocating saw vs hacksaw comparison helps when a powered saw may not be necessary.
What should you check before buying?
Check battery compatibility, included components and blade needs before you choose the 2719-20. The tool is sold bare, and the right blade depends on the material and cut.
The saw’s listed surface recommendation is metal, but that doesn't mean one blade suits every metal job. Choose a blade made for the material and thickness, and read our guide to which reciprocating saw blade to use.
For safe control, keep both hands clear of the blade path, secure loose material and avoid forcing the saw through a cut. Follow the manual for blade installation and operating instructions.
Is the Milwaukee Hackzall 2719-20 worth choosing?
Choose the M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 if you want a one-handed Milwaukee saw with a stated 7/8 in stroke and already own M18 batteries. Pick the M12 alternative if your tools use that platform, or compare Makita and DeWalt if you’re already invested in their batteries.
For a broader brand comparison, start with our Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall guide. It can help you decide whether a compact one-handed model fits your work better than a full-size saw.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Milwaukee 2719-20 a bare tool?
Yes. The 2719-20 is sold as a bare tool, so plan on a compatible M18 battery and charger if you don't already have them.
Check what is included before ordering, and compare the total kit you need rather than judging the saw alone.
What makes the M18 FUEL Hackzall different?
The 2719-20 combines a one-handed design, POWERSTATE brushless motor, 7/8 in stroke and pivoting shoe. Milwaukee also describes REDLINK Plus as providing optimized performance and overload protection through communication between the tool, battery and charger.
Should I choose the M18 or M12 Hackzall?
Choose based on the Milwaukee battery platform you already own and the cuts you expect to make. The M18 FUEL 2719-20 has a stated 7/8 in stroke and brushless motor, while the M12 option uses a 12V platform; confirm kit contents for either choice.
Is a Hackzall right for every reciprocating saw job?
No. A one-handed Hackzall is useful when access and control are priorities, but a larger reciprocating saw may be easier to hold for long or demanding cuts.
Compare the job, blade and tool format before choosing; our Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall guide explains the distinction.
