Milwaukee M18 HACKZALL (2625-20) review

What changes when the format shrinks

The Milwaukee 2625-20 is the M18 HACKZALL, a compact reciprocating saw marketed for one-handed use. That separates it from full-size two-handed SAWZALL models such as the 2621-20 and 2722-20. The manual lists an 18-volt supply, no-load speed from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute and a 3/4-inch stroke. Those are specifications for the exact tool, not a promise of a particular cut time or a substitute for judging the stock, blade and support.

A shorter stroke and smaller one-handed body create a different handling proposition, not an automatic advantage in every cut. A compact saw may be easier to place in a confined work area, but the job still needs a stable workpiece, a suitable blade and a firm shoe contact. Milwaukee calls the machine compact and lightweight and names a Dual Gear Anti-Vibration System. Those are the manufacturer's design descriptions; I did not independently measure weight, vibration, balance or cutting performance.

Blade fit and contact matter more than the name

The manual documents a collar-style QUIK-LOK clamp and accepts 1/2-inch universal-shank HACKZALL and SAWZALL blades. It calls for removing the battery before changing or removing accessories, checking that the blade locks firmly, and choosing a blade long enough to extend beyond the shoe and work through the stroke. Milwaukee cautions not to use blades shorter than 3-1/2 inches. That minimum is specific to this tool's instructions, not a generic blade recommendation.

Keep the shoe flat against the workpiece while cutting, as the manual directs. If blade selection or workpiece support leaves the blade striking the shoe or work, the result can be a damaged blade or loss of control. Before a blind or plunge cut, the manual says to check for hidden gas pipes, electrical wires and water pipes. Secure the work rather than holding it against your body, and follow the manual's eye, respiratory and other protective-equipment guidance for the material and environment.

The manual's functional description identifies an LED that lights when the trigger is pulled. The exact sources reviewed do not establish an adjustable pivot shoe, an orbital selector, a hang hook, the bare-tool weight or overall length. A visible shoe is not proof that it adjusts; absence of a specification is not proof that a feature could never exist, but it cannot satisfy a strict requirement in this assessment.

Read the suffix before comparing a listing

The 2625-20 page labels the tool-only configuration. The separately listed 2625-21 is a kit SKU whose official US Spanish product page identifies a different box arrangement with a battery, charger and bag. Those package contents do not belong to this -20. If M18 equipment is not already in the workshop, check the exact package label and itemized contents and account for a compatible battery and charger separately. If a retailer page mixes a kit image with a -20 title, the model code and seller's written box list should resolve the mismatch.

Platform compatibility is also not evidence of motor type. The reviewed 2625-20 page and manual identify M18 but do not establish a brushed or brushless motor. Likewise, the sources do not provide a bare-tool weight. The word lightweight in a product description does not answer a numerical weight limit, so someone choosing a saw for prolonged overhead handling should seek a clearly specified weight for the exact tool and any battery configuration they plan to carry.

When this model is a fit—and when it is not

The strongest evidence-based fit is a buyer who needs a compact one-handed format, has a compatible M18 battery arrangement and is comfortable with the 3/4-inch published stroke and the features that remain undocumented. Compared with the 2621-20, the 2625-20 is explicitly the compact HACKZALL and has the shorter listed stroke; compared with the 2722-20, it is a different form factor and does not have an established orbital mode or adjustable shoe in the sources reviewed. That is a comparison of documented identities and specifications, not a test ranking.

It is not a confirmed match if the non-negotiable requirements are a measured low weight, adjustable shoe, selectable orbital action, or an included battery-and-charger package. The HACKZALL's one-handed label should not encourage a reach beyond the operator's control or the manual's safety directions. This is a source-based evaluation only; I have not owned, tested or measured the 2625-20.