Milwaukee’s Track Saw Surprised Me—Here’s Why (needs photos)

January 21, 2023

Watch The Video Here

I’ve used track saws from Makita and Festool for years, so I wasn’t expecting much when I picked up Milwaukee’s new M18 track saw. But after putting it through its paces, I’ve got to admit—I’m impressed.

First Impressions

The build quality is the first thing that stood out. Milwaukee didn’t cut corners here. From the robust latches to the solid construction, it just feels like a premium tool. Even the included 40-tooth blade is a nice touch. One small hiccup? The splinter guard came slightly detached out of the box—but it was easy enough to fix.

Compatibility That Matters

One of the best things Milwaukee got right is compatibility. Their track system works seamlessly with Makita, Festool, and Powertec tracks. If you’ve already invested in a track setup, that’s a huge plus—you won’t need to start from scratch.

Performance and Handling

Milwaukee’s M18 saw glides smoothly and feels well-balanced. I ran it through thick hard maple and it held up beautifully—clean, accurate cuts without bogging down. The weight is balanced well, and even on deeper cuts, the motor didn’t flinch.

The dust bag is actually useful, and the saw does a solid job collecting debris. I still use it with my dust extractor for bigger jobs, but for quick cuts, the bag is convenient.

Cordless Convenience

There’s always a question of how cordless tools hold up in real shop use. With this saw, the answer is: better than expected. Even when hooked up to a vacuum hose, it’s not cumbersome. The freedom from a cord is a nice bonus—especially when you’re breaking down sheet goods.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $768, this isn’t a budget buy. But you’re getting a professional-grade tool that can hold its own against Makita and Festool. For woodworkers who want reliability, power, and flexibility, it’s a strong contender.

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee’s M18 track saw is a serious piece of equipment. It’s thoughtfully designed, rugged, and ready for real work. If you’re already on the M18 battery platform or looking for a cordless upgrade that doesn’t compromise performance, this saw is worth a look. It might even replace your current go-to—like it’s threatening to do in my shop.