16 Inch Milwaukee Chainsaw Review (M18 Battery Power Tested)
Ever wondered if you could ditch the gas and embrace the future of firewood cutting with battery power? Let’s dive deep into whether the 16-Inch Milwaukee Chainsaw (M18) is genuinely up to the task.
The Buzz About Battery-Powered Chainsaws: A Modern Logger’s Perspective
The world of wood processing is changing. No longer are we solely reliant on the roar of gasoline engines. Globally, the demand for sustainable and convenient alternatives is driving the electric chainsaw market. According to a recent report by Global Market Insights, the electric chainsaw market is projected to exceed $1 billion by 2025, driven by increasing environmental awareness and advancements in battery technology. Here in my own neck of the woods, I’ve watched neighbors trade in their gas-guzzlers for quieter, cleaner battery models. But is it all hype, or is there real substance behind the shift?
I remember my grandfather, a seasoned logger, scoffing at the idea of a battery-powered chainsaw. “They’ll never have the guts,” he’d say, wiping sweat from his brow after felling a massive oak. But times change, and so does technology. My grandfather, bless his soul, would be amazed at the power and performance these modern machines pack.
Understanding Key Concepts: Setting the Stage
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw, let’s clarify some essential terms.
- Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood that still contains a high moisture content (often 50% or more). Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has been dried to a moisture content of 20% or less, making it ideal for burning as firewood. Seasoning wood is crucial for efficient burning and minimizing creosote buildup in your chimney.
- Bar Length: The bar is the metal guide that the chainsaw chain runs around. Bar length determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut.
- Chain Pitch: The chain pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. It’s a critical measurement for ensuring you use the correct chain for your chainsaw.
- Chain Gauge: The chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the groove of the guide bar. Again, matching the correct gauge is essential for safety and performance.
- Kickback: Kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar. It’s a serious hazard and requires proper technique and safety precautions to avoid.
- Logging Tools vs. Firewood Tools: Logging tools include heavy-duty chainsaws, axes, wedges, and skidding equipment designed for felling large trees and moving timber. Firewood tools are often lighter-duty and include smaller chainsaws, splitting mauls, axes, and log splitters.
Milwaukee M18 16-Inch Chainsaw: A Detailed Examination
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks and examine the Milwaukee M18 16-inch chainsaw.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Milwaukee M18 chainsaw comes well-packaged, typically including the chainsaw itself, a 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, a scabbard for the bar, and an instruction manual. You’ll need to purchase the battery and charger separately unless you opt for a kit that includes them.
My first impression was that it felt surprisingly robust for a battery-powered chainsaw. The build quality is solid, with durable plastics and a well-balanced design. It’s noticeably lighter than my old gas-powered saw, which is a welcome relief after a long day of cutting.
Key Features and Specifications
- Power Source: Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM battery platform (requires separate purchase)
- Bar Length: 16 inches
- Chain Speed: Up to 12 m/s (meters per second)
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″
- Chain Gauge: 0.050″
- Automatic Oiler: Yes
- Tool-Free Chain Tensioning: Yes
- Weight (without battery): Approximately 10.4 lbs
- Recommended Battery: M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery pack
Performance Testing: Putting it to the Test
I put the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw through its paces, cutting a variety of wood types, including:
- Softwoods: Pine, fir, and spruce (ideal for kindling and quick-burning firewood)
- Hardwoods: Oak, maple, and ash (excellent for long-lasting, high-heat firewood)
- Green Wood: Freshly cut oak logs
- Seasoned Wood: Oak logs that had been drying for over a year
Here’s a breakdown of my findings:
- Cutting Speed: The M18 chainsaw performed admirably, cutting through softwoods with ease. It handled hardwoods well, although cutting speed was slightly slower than with a gas-powered saw, especially with larger diameter logs.
- Battery Life: Battery life is a crucial factor for any battery-powered tool. With the recommended M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery, I was able to get approximately 45-60 minutes of continuous cutting time when processing medium-sized hardwood logs. Lighter tasks, such as limbing and cutting smaller branches, yielded even longer run times.
- Ease of Use: The tool-free chain tensioning system is a game-changer. It makes adjusting the chain tension quick and easy, even in the field. The automatic oiler worked flawlessly, keeping the chain lubricated for smooth cutting.
- Noise Level: The M18 chainsaw is significantly quieter than a gas-powered saw. This is a major advantage, especially if you live in a residential area or value your hearing.
- Vibration: Vibration is also reduced compared to gas-powered saws, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods.
Data Points and Statistics:
- Moisture Content Targets for Firewood: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. I measured the moisture content of the seasoned oak logs I cut using a moisture meter and consistently found readings between 15% and 18%.
- Wood Seasoning Effectiveness: I experimented with different firewood stacking methods to optimize drying. Stacking wood in single rows with good air circulation resulted in faster drying times compared to tightly packed stacks. In my region, wood stacked properly dries to the target moisture content within 6-12 months.
- Project Success Rates: I tracked the time it took to process a cord of firewood using both the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw and a gas-powered chainsaw. On average, the M18 took approximately 15-20% longer, primarily due to the need to swap batteries. However, the reduced noise and vibration made the task more enjoyable.
Actionable Steps: Using the Milwaukee M18 Chainsaw Effectively
- Charge the Battery: Before you start, make sure your M18 battery is fully charged. Use the Milwaukee M18 charger for optimal charging speed and battery life.
- Check the Chain Tension: Ensure the chain is properly tensioned. It should have a slight amount of slack, but not so much that it droops excessively. Use the tool-free tensioning system to adjust as needed.
- Fill the Oil Reservoir: The chainsaw has an automatic oiler. Fill the reservoir with bar and chain oil before each use.
- Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including:
- Safety glasses or a face shield
- Hearing protection
- Gloves
- Chainsaw chaps or protective pants
- Steel-toed boots
- Starting the Chainsaw: Insert the battery into the chainsaw and engage the safety lock. Grip the chainsaw firmly with both hands and pull the trigger.
- Cutting Techniques: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and ensure safe operation. Keep both hands on the chainsaw and maintain a firm grip. Let the chainsaw do the work; don’t force it.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean the chainsaw and sharpen the chain. A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and safety.
Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls
- Chainsaw Won’t Start: Check the battery charge, ensure the safety lock is disengaged, and inspect the chain for binding.
- Chain is Dull: Sharpen the chain using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder.
- Chainsaw is Smoking: This could indicate that the chain is dull, the oil reservoir is empty, or the chain is not properly lubricated.
- Battery Drains Quickly: Ensure you’re using the recommended M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery. Avoid using the chainsaw at full throttle for extended periods, as this will drain the battery faster.
Real Examples and Case Studies
- Firewood Production for a Small Cabin: A friend of mine uses the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw to prepare firewood for his small cabin in the woods. He finds it to be a convenient and reliable tool for cutting smaller logs and branches. The reduced noise is particularly appreciated by his neighbors.
- Storm Cleanup: After a recent storm, I used the M18 chainsaw to clear fallen branches and small trees from my property. It performed admirably, allowing me to quickly and efficiently clean up the debris.
- Community Firewood Project: A local community group uses the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw to prepare firewood for elderly residents in need. The ease of use and reduced weight make it a popular choice among volunteers.
Cost and Budgeting Considerations
The Milwaukee M18 16-inch chainsaw is an investment. Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs:
- Chainsaw (Tool Only): Approximately $250 – $300
- M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 Battery: Approximately $200 – $250
- M18 Charger: Approximately $80 – $100
- Bar and Chain Oil: Approximately $15 – $20 per gallon
- Chainsaw File or Chain Grinder: Approximately $20 – $50
- Safety Gear: Approximately $100 – $200
Resource Management Tips:
- Buy in Bundles: Look for deals that bundle the chainsaw with batteries and chargers.
- Consider Refurbished Options: Refurbished tools can be a cost-effective alternative.
- Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your chainsaw and reduce the need for costly repairs.
Chainsaws vs. Axes: A Timeless Debate
The choice between a chainsaw and an axe depends on the task at hand.
- Chainsaws: Ideal for felling trees, cutting logs to length, and processing large quantities of wood. They are faster and more efficient than axes for these tasks.
- Axes: Best suited for splitting wood, limbing small branches, and tasks that require precision and control. They are also a good choice for situations where noise is a concern or where power is not available.
I still use my trusty axe for splitting wood, especially larger rounds that the chainsaw can’t easily handle. There’s something deeply satisfying about splitting wood with an axe, a connection to the past that a chainsaw simply can’t replicate.
Here’s a rundown of some common wood species and their properties:
- Oak: A dense hardwood that burns long and hot. It’s an excellent choice for firewood, but it requires a longer seasoning time.
- Maple: Another excellent hardwood that burns well and produces good heat.
- Ash: A popular choice for firewood because it splits easily and seasons quickly.
- Birch: A good firewood option that burns with a bright flame, but it doesn’t last as long as hardwoods.
- Pine: A softwood that burns quickly and produces less heat. It’s best suited for kindling or starting fires.
- Spruce: Similar to pine, spruce is a softwood that burns quickly and produces less heat.
The key is to choose wood that is readily available in your area and that suits your needs. I prefer oak and maple for their long-lasting heat, but I also keep a supply of birch and pine for kindling.
Next Steps and Additional Resources
If you’re considering purchasing the Milwaukee M18 16-inch chainsaw, I recommend the following:
- Visit a Local Dealer: Go to a local hardware store or tool dealer to see the chainsaw in person and ask questions.
- Read Online Reviews: Check out online reviews from other users to get a broader perspective.
- Compare Prices: Shop around to find the best deal on the chainsaw, batteries, and chargers.
Additional Resources:
- Milwaukee Tool Website: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/
- Oregon Products: https://www.oregonproducts.com/ (for bars and chains)
- Local Hardware Stores: Check your local hardware stores for a wide selection of logging and firewood preparation tools.
- Drying Equipment Rental Services: Consider renting a wood kiln for faster drying of firewood.
Conclusion: Is the Milwaukee M18 Chainsaw Worth It?
The Milwaukee M18 16-inch chainsaw is a capable and convenient tool for a variety of wood processing tasks. It’s not a replacement for a high-powered gas chainsaw for heavy-duty logging, but it’s an excellent choice for homeowners, small landowners, and anyone who values convenience, reduced noise, and ease of use.
The key is to understand its limitations and use it within its capabilities. With proper care and maintenance, the Milwaukee M18 chainsaw can be a valuable addition to your wood processing arsenal. So, ditch the gas fumes and embrace the future of battery-powered cutting – you might just be surprised at how far it’s come!
