The Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw 165mm CCS55-0 18V is a top-tier power tool designed to meet the needs of both professional contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts. With its robust build, advanced features, and reliable performance, this circular saw stands out in the crowded market of power tools. This comprehensive review will delve into its specifications, features, advantages, disadvantages, and comparisons with similar products, providing an in-depth look at what makes the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw a superior choice.
Check out the rest of our reviews on Circular Saws here.
Expansive Specifications and Features
POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor: The heart of the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw is its POWERSTATE™ brushless motor. This motor is designed to deliver higher efficiency and longer runtime compared to brushed motors. The absence of brushes reduces friction, resulting in less heat generation and more efficient power delivery. This translates to smoother operation, longer tool life, and reduced maintenance requirements.
REDLITHIUM™ Battery Pack: The saw’s power source is the M18™ REDLITHIUM™ battery pack, which provides extended run time and reliable performance. These batteries are designed to deliver consistent power throughout their charge cycle, ensuring that the saw performs optimally even as the battery drains. The batteries also feature a durable construction to withstand harsh job site conditions.
| Manufacturer Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| BLADE DIAMETER (MM) | 165 |
| BORE SIZE (MM) | 15.87 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH 45° (MM) | 41 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH 90° (MM) | 55 |
| NO LOAD SPEED (RPM) | 5000 |
Magnesium Shoe and Upper Guard: Durability is a key consideration for any power tool, and the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw does not disappoint. The magnesium shoe and upper guard provide a strong and lightweight construction that can endure the rigors of daily use. This not only extends the life of the tool but also enhances its performance by maintaining stability and accuracy during cutting.
Integrated LED Light: Visibility is crucial when making precise cuts, and the integrated LED light on the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw ensures that the cutting line is well-illuminated. This feature is particularly useful in dimly lit areas or when working late into the evening. The LED light provides a clear view of the workpiece, allowing for accurate and safe operation.
Dust Blower and Dust Port: Maintaining a clean cutting line is essential for precision, and the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw includes a dust blower to clear away debris. Additionally, the saw features a dust port that can be connected to a vacuum for more effective dust extraction. This not only keeps the workspace cleaner but also improves visibility and reduces the risk of inhaling harmful dust particles.
Bevel and Depth Adjustment: The saw’s bevel capacity ranges from 0 to 50 degrees, providing flexibility for various angled cuts. The depth adjustment mechanism is straightforward and allows for quick changes to the cutting depth. These features enable the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw to handle a wide range of cutting tasks with precision and ease.
Advantages of the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw
- Power and Performance: The combination of the POWERSTATE™ brushless motor and REDLITHIUM™ battery pack delivers exceptional power and runtime. This saw can handle demanding tasks, from cutting plywood and framing lumber to trimming doors and making precise finish cuts.
- Durability: With its magnesium shoe and upper guard, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw is built to withstand tough job site conditions. The tool’s robust construction ensures longevity and reliable performance over time.
- Versatility: The saw’s cutting capacity and bevel range make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you need to make straight cuts, beveled cuts, or compound cuts, this tool can handle the job with precision.
- User-Friendly Features: The integrated LED light, dust blower, and rafter hook are thoughtful additions that enhance the user experience. These features contribute to greater accuracy, convenience, and safety on the job site.
- Portability: Weighing only 3.2kg, this circular saw is easy to maneuver and transport. Its cordless design further enhances portability, allowing users to work in locations without power outlets.
Disadvantages of the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw
- Price: The Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw is positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum. While its performance and features justify the cost, it may be a significant investment for casual users or those on a tight budget.
- Battery and Charger Not Included: The CCS55-0 model is sold as a bare tool, meaning the battery and charger must be purchased separately. This can add to the overall cost, especially for users who are new to the Milwaukee M18™ system.
- Noise Level: As with many powerful circular saws, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw can be quite noisy during operation. Users should ensure they have appropriate hearing protection when using the tool for extended periods.
Comparison to Similar Products on the Market
DeWalt DCS570N-XJ XR 18V 184mm Cordless Circular Saw: The DeWalt DCS570N-XJ is a comparable model in the cordless circular saw category. It features an 184mm blade with a cutting depth of 65mm at 90 degrees and 42mm at 45 degrees. While it offers a slightly larger cutting capacity, it is also heavier at 3.6kg. Both saws provide excellent performance, but the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw is lighter and offers advanced features like REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence.
Check out our in-depth review of the DeWalt DCS570N-XJ here
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw: The Makita XSS02Z is another popular option. It features a 165mm blade and a maximum cutting depth of 57mm at 90 degrees. It is equipped with a brushed motor, which may not provide the same efficiency and longevity as the brushless motor in the Milwaukee saw. The Makita saw is also slightly heavier at 3.3kg. While the Makita model is a reliable tool, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw offers better performance and advanced features.
Bosch CCS180B 18V 6-1/2″ Circular Saw: The Bosch CCS180B is a lightweight and compact option with a 165mm blade and a cutting depth of 50mm at 90 degrees. It is one of the lighter saws on the market, weighing only 3.2kg. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in the Milwaukee saw, such as the brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence. While the Bosch model is a solid choice for light-duty tasks, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw offers superior performance and versatility for more demanding applications.
Real-World Applications and User Experience
Construction and Carpentry: For construction professionals, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw is a reliable workhorse that can handle framing, roofing, and general carpentry tasks. Its power and cutting capacity make it suitable for cutting lumber, plywood, and other common building materials. The portability and cordless design are significant advantages on job sites where power outlets may be scarce.
Home Renovation and DIY Projects: DIY enthusiasts and home renovators will appreciate the versatility and ease of use that the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw offers. Whether it’s trimming doors, cutting shelves, or making precise cuts for custom furniture, this saw delivers professional results. The lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it comfortable to use, even for extended periods.
Precision and Finish Work: For finish carpenters and those requiring precise cuts, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw provides the accuracy needed for detailed work. The adjustable depth stop and bevel settings allow for fine-tuning the cuts, ensuring a clean and professional finish.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw 165mm CCS55-0 18V is a powerful, versatile, and durable tool that stands out in the market of cordless circular saws. Its advanced features, such as the POWERSTATE™ brushless motor, REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence, and REDLITHIUM™ battery pack, ensure exceptional performance and longevity. The saw’s ergonomic design, integrated LED light, and dust management system further enhance the user experience.
In comparison to similar products on the market, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw holds its own with superior features and performance. Its combination of power, portability, and user-friendly design makes it a top choice for those seeking a high-quality cordless circular saw.
If you are in the market for a reliable, high-performing circular saw that can handle a variety of applications, the Milwaukee M18™ FUEL Circular Saw 165mm CCS55-0 18V is an excellent option to consider. Its advanced technology and robust build ensure that it will be a valuable addition to your toolkit for years to come.