Milwaukee M28 SAWZALL Recip Saw (Tool Only), 0719-20 review

A full-size cordless SAWZALL from the M28 generation

The Milwaukee 0719-20 is a specific tool-only M28 SAWZALL, not an M18 saw and not the 0719-22 kit. Milwaukee’s exact U.S. page identifies the catalog number and package, while its product data gives a 2012 launch date. This assessment treats the M28 model as an earlier-generation reference; the continued presence of an archived product page is not evidence that a particular seller has new stock. The full-size SAWZALL format is relevant when the cut and work support allow a two-hand grip, but a tool label is not a substitute for checking where the blade and shoe can reach.

Its power system is an important buying constraint. The page calls out a 28-volt M28 battery system, and the model-matched 0719-20 operator’s manual says to use only Milwaukee M28 or V28 packs. M18 is a different battery platform. A buyer with only current M18 packs should not assume that they fit because the tool carries the Milwaukee name. Check that the exact used or new-old-stock offer includes compatible M28 batteries and a charger, or that suitable equipment is already in hand. The -20 page lists one tool-only saw, not a battery or charger.

Two speed ranges, not a measured cut-rate promise

The operator manual lists a 1-1/8-inch stroke, a high setting up to 3,000 strokes per minute and a low setting up to 2,000. Milwaukee’s product description associates the slower range with metal and other hard materials and the faster range with wood and other materials; the manual says low speed is generally used for metal. These are no-load manufacturer specifications and guidance, not a measured cut rate or proof that the saw will out-cut another model in a particular material. The trigger varies speed within the selected range, so material, blade type, blade length, work support and operator control remain part of the cut plan.

The manual also documents a gear-protecting clutch. Treat that as a described design feature, not a guarantee against impact damage or a substitute for avoiding a jam. The exact page lists 12-3/4 inches as its length, but does not explain a measurement method or provide a clearance drawing; confirm the actual space around the tool, shoe and blade before planning a restricted-access cut.

Blade and shoe setup are concrete strengths

The model-specific manual specifies Milwaukee’s Quik-Lok clamp for universal Sawzall blades with a 1/2-inch shank. It says not to use blades shorter than 3-1/2 inches because they will not extend beyond the shoe through the stroke. The clamp is operated by turning a collar, so no blade-change wrench is named, but “tool-free” does not mean “change it while powered”: remove the battery before changing a blade, keep the clamp clean, verify the blade is locked and tug-check it before operating. The manual calls for keeping the blade beyond both the shoe and the workpiece throughout its motion.

The shoe adjusts forward and backward in six positions. Milwaukee explains that this can expose unused blade length or support special jobs needing low blade clearance. The shoe must remain fitted; the manual warns against operating without it. For blind or plunge cuts, first check for concealed utilities, and do not plunge-cut into metal. Clamp or otherwise stabilize the work rather than holding it against the body. Those restrictions matter more than a general marketing claim that the tool is suitable for many materials.

Tool-only versus the separately numbered M28 kit

The exact 0719-20 page lists one M28 SAWZALL tool and no battery or charger. The separate 0719-22 review covers a package that lists the 0719-20 saw, two 48-11-2830 M28 battery packs and a 48-59-2819 28-volt charger. These are related but distinct catalog numbers: kit contents belong to -22, not to the tool-only -20. The kit does not change the saw’s operating specifications, and the old battery system makes the included components particularly important to verify on an exact offer.

Milwaukee’s 0719-20 product page and manual do not establish bare-tool weight. A weight reported by a seller or a battery-on figure would answer a different question, so this review leaves the weight unknown. The exact sources also do not document selectable orbital action, a work light or a hang hook. If any of those features is essential, compare a model whose maker identifies it rather than assuming a capability from the family name or appearance.

Evidence basis and limits

This is a source-based assessment of the exact 0719-20 U.S. page and its catalog-number-matched operator manual, with the separate 0719-22 page checked to keep package contents apart. The manufacturer provides the stroke, speed ranges, M28/V28 restriction, Quik-Lok clamp, minimum blade length and adjustable shoe positions. The saved exact product page has no weight value, and the manual’s specification table has no weight entry. I did not use or test this saw; there is no hands-on cut, runtime, vibration, durability or weight result behind the review. No price, stock, seller condition or battery health is inferred.