Nice review. I've been using M12 stuff at work for 12 or so years now and love them. Been eying that new M12 jig saw, but also have been looking at the Skil 12 volt barrel grip. Would love to see a match up between the M12 and the Skil 12V.
Heres my 5 cents: Have been using m18 for a while, its extremely powerfull, but every time i was trying to do a really chipless cut on laminated or painted surface...its just not possible with any blade on the market. M12 can do that even with pretty used blades. Im doing cabinetry and workstations(sometime i just need to notch a table top around a concrete round column with no gaps and chips on the laminate. For me m12 is a clear winner. For people who needs just rip materials it will not suit for sure, because its not that powerfull as m18! Perfect tool and im really happy to use it, it replaced my m18 with no regrets.
The first 1:30 seconds was absolutely great brother. You told me what you would get into and instantly had me hooked. Because as many others I am trying to decide between purchasing the m12 or the m18. Barrelgrip/ D haandle. Keep doing your thing! You gained a new sub
Great comparison, thanks for posting. I used to have the M18 barrel grip but sold it because of how heavy it was with a battery. I love the M12 fuel version. It's exactly what I was looking for in a jigsaw. Compact, light, powerful enough. I very much prefer barrel grip for the control it provides.
Working as a carpenter in the 90s there was mainly barrelgrips on the jobsite the D handle I saw was only DIYs saws and always crap. This was in north europe so maybe different somewhere else. And damn it I new I bought into the wrong plattform. Always been on Makita but needed a nailer so bought a M18 18g and some more M18 stuff. whish i gone with the M12 instead they got some sweet tools for sure
No, you didn’t. I’m on both and I’m a carpenter of 25 yrs and I use my M18 stuff much more that being said Milwaukee has an M18 barrel grip that’s been out for about 3 or 4 years now. It’s pretty much this but 18 V. I don’t know what capacity you use your tools in anymore. But you’re not getting a 15 gauge or 16 gauge on the M 12 platform, a proper circular saw, or any of the larger high demand tools. It is nice to be on both I first got into the M12 for the 23 gauge pin nailer.
It would be really hard to pick either M12 or M18. If someone was only going to be on a single platform, M18 is probably the better option just in case you have to do something a little more heavy duty, but for the majority of things, M12 does a lot and they have some unique tools like the Pin nailer that aren't on M18. I am looking forward to the new M12 18g Brad nailer that is coming out next year. Smaller capacity but a lot light and I like the sound of that.
@@TinkerWithTools for me, it’s not even a question. I added the M2 as a convenience but mainly because of the pin nailer and installation driver. But if I could only have one, the M12 literally would not even be an option. I’m a carpenter, so I use my routers regularly my miter saw my table saw all of my circular saws and track saw ect. Other than my pin nailer and detail sander the rest of my M2 tools are more of a convenience and because I have a little bit of a tool addiction. But everyone situation is different.
I was wondering about that new m12 barrel grip. I had the Skil platform in 12 volt but sold them recently. I do miss the jigsaw, that halo light, blower, and variable speed was awesome. Needed a deeper cut and used my Metabo HPT 18 volt D handle and was impressed. Flash forward last week, HD has $199 starter set m18 with free tool. Most I have but D handle jigsaw was calling for me, lol. Haven’t tried it yet. And I’m almost sure like you said I would prefer the barrel grip for the finesse work, which is why you’re reaching for a jigsaw in most cases anyway, but the Black Friday fever happened when it went to $179, 😜 So a D is what I got, I hope it it doesn’t reflect my final grade for it. 😔
It's a nice jig saw. I was needing a jig saw when I bought the M12 and like I said, it's more powerful in every way than the M12. I think they both have their place. Normally I am only cutting 3/4" material so I don't feel the need for more powerful most of the time.
They're honestly for different purposes. I've noticed that a lot with the m12 vs m18 tools, they're meant to either be in the same toolbox side by side, or the m12 actually seems to be targeted at a wider audience, offering most the power in a much smaller and lighter package. As a homeowner the m12 drill/impact set works just fine for me despite being notably smaller than any 18v drill or impact and they're much much smaller tools, easier to stash away in a closet. I learned about m12 when my plumber came to fix my main sewage pipe and the only power tools he had were m12. M12 won't take an all day beating like m18 tools will, but for job specific task they are gold
I agree to a certain point. My view is more that they won't necessarily pack as much power, meaning you won't take on as big of tasks with M12, but I think they are going to be just as durable. There is a reason the M12 tools are so popular with certain trades. Because I am mainly doing lighter tasks with it, I think it suits my needs just fine since I typically don't need the more powerful M18.
Tinker With Tools !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Anyone that has worked in the Cabinetry trades, knows that the barrel grip is indispensable. Scribing a counter top to a wall, or cutting something that requires care and precision and avoiding chipping, necessitates cutting from underneath. Less chance of scratching a fine finish wood or even Formica type counter top, and no risk of the saw ‘jumping’ and slammming the blade into the surface. That can ruin one’s day! 😯 Can you do it with a D handle, yes, but it is very awkward. I get that some like the variable speed, but the shop I worked for supplied the electric ( corded ) Bosch barrel grip saws, and they worked well. I have currently a DeWalt 20 Volt D handle saw, and it cuts fine and is very convenient, but the blade wants to deflect at times, and I have a love/ hate feeling about it. Everyone has their preferences, and I am just sharing mine, and what works. Please, not bragging, but before anybody starts the negative divisive stuff, I have put in $30,000 - $80,000 Kitchens for a living, in another season of life. Take that as you want. Peace!
I think that is what it comes down to is your background. If you were doing more of the cabinet or trim style work, the barrel grip lends itself well to that. But having given it a shot now, I doubt I'll buy another d-handle over a barrel grip again.
Sir I have the m12 new jigsaw for a month when I start cutting 3/4 material on pine I turn it on and in about 8 to 12 inches it stops and the light starts blinking
So I have tried to find anything official with Milwaukee and I can’t seem to find any indication of what it means so here is what I would check or try. What is the size of the battery you are using? Smaller batteries might under power the saw a little bit on a more demanding cut. I don’t think what you are doing is extreme based on your description but it could be a factor. Next thing is if you move through the cut more slowly does the issue persist? And then just for clarity is the battery light flashing, the light on the front of the tool flashing or both. I am not near the saw right now to try to replicate but I will try when I can. If none of that provides a different result and you have a warranty on the tool I might recommend contacting Milwaukee support.
I made contact with Milwaukee techs and they told me to take it back to Home Depot and tell them that the heat sensor malfunction the sensor is telling the tool that is hot and is not so I went and exchanged it I’ll use it tomorrow to see if that’s true or not thanks a million sir
The M12 only makes sense if you don't have 18V batterys Or you only do coping and light duty stuff or you are an DIYer Alone for the reason that most commen contracter tools are 18V. Why buy or bring a couple extra batterys while your Circular saw, Sawzall, DB miter, Impact, Drill driver, SDS hammer, grinder and so on allready runs on 18V? Of course its a personal choise but at least here in europe this M12 jigsaw is 210 bucks bare tool.. For example a bare Bosch GTS 18V 155 SC goes up to 155mm max capacity and is 2 kg bare tool. The M12 is max 135mm max and is 2.5 kg. So depending on battery the saws are both very light weight. The bosch has Auto mode, blower function the better shoe, splinter guard and more power as rhe 12V if needed, its compatible with Bosch, Festool and Makita tracksaw tracks with an original shoe adapter plate and that with 15 bucks price difference of 228 bucks. But that is not just the Bosch, basicly any brand that released a 18V Jigsaw in the last two years has an simular alternative. This M12 shines so much because the M18s are 5 years old and a bit outdated compared to an 2023/2024 tool. I don't want to talk shit about that M12 tool. I have myself like 10 of them but if i could choose again i would switch many of them for 18V versions. Exept for the drill driver, impacts the new dremel tool and the magnet light.. But the M12 inflator, Multittool comes very fast on its limits.. So this saw is only an alternative if you have like a half dozen M12 batterys and you only do short cuts or free hand coping where the ultra compact Design shines
As always I think it depends what you are using the tool for. The m12 jig saw and the multi tool (Fuel version) are both awesome and I have yet to find something where I thought they weren’t fast enough or strong enough. I agree that an 18v version would be stronger but for me I don’t find it necessary. If I were a tradesperson trying to minimize what I carry onto a jobsite then I might feel a lot different.
Nice review. I've been using M12 stuff at work for 12 or so years now and love them. Been eying that new M12 jig saw, but also have been looking at the Skil 12 volt barrel grip. Would love to see a match up between the M12 and the Skil 12V.
I’ll put it on list.
Heres my 5 cents: Have been using m18 for a while, its extremely powerfull, but every time i was trying to do a really chipless cut on laminated or painted surface...its just not possible with any blade on the market. M12 can do that even with pretty used blades. Im doing cabinetry and workstations(sometime i just need to notch a table top around a concrete round column with no gaps and chips on the laminate. For me m12 is a clear winner. For people who needs just rip materials it will not suit for sure, because its not that powerfull as m18! Perfect tool and im really happy to use it, it replaced my m18 with no regrets.
I agree. I think the lower speed power/speed leads to a better more controlled cut.
The first 1:30 seconds was absolutely great brother. You told me what you would get into and instantly had me hooked. Because as many others I am trying to decide between purchasing the m12 or the m18. Barrelgrip/ D haandle. Keep doing your thing! You gained a new sub
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback and thanks for the support.
Great videos, man. I've been binge watching them. Hope to see more from you. All the best.
Glad you like them!
I love Makitas barrel grip, i have a collins coping foot on it, but this looks really nice. Did the plastic guard have jigsaw storage in it?
Yes. There are spots for at least two blades there.
Great comparison, thanks for posting.
I used to have the M18 barrel grip but sold it because of how heavy it was with a battery. I love the M12 fuel version. It's exactly what I was looking for in a jigsaw. Compact, light, powerful enough. I very much prefer barrel grip for the control it provides.
Those are my thoughts. I won't get rid of my M18 d handle... but it won't get much use with the way the M12 performs.
Thank You ! Been looking at this M12 Jigsaw for months
Glad I could help!
Great video been thinking about buying one of the barrel grip jigsaws going to have to look into this a little more. Thanks for sharing
Thanks! Glad it was helpful.
Good job on explanation between M12 and M18.
Thanks!
I’ve been using the skil 12v one. 12v makes the best voltage for a jigsaw just for the control and power balance.
I think I agree after testing this one. I wish they sold the Skil tool only and I likely would already have it.
Just wondering why would ya turn off the blower? Great video!
Working as a carpenter in the 90s there was mainly barrelgrips on the jobsite the D handle I saw was only DIYs saws and always crap. This was in north europe so maybe different somewhere else. And damn it I new I bought into the wrong plattform. Always been on Makita but needed a nailer so bought a M18 18g and some more M18 stuff. whish i gone with the M12 instead they got some sweet tools for sure
No, you didn’t. I’m on both and I’m a carpenter of 25 yrs and I use my M18 stuff much more that being said Milwaukee has an M18 barrel grip that’s been out for about 3 or 4 years now. It’s pretty much this but 18 V. I don’t know what capacity you use your tools in anymore. But you’re not getting a 15 gauge or 16 gauge on the M 12 platform, a proper circular saw, or any of the larger high demand tools. It is nice to be on both I first got into the M12 for the 23 gauge pin nailer.
It would be really hard to pick either M12 or M18. If someone was only going to be on a single platform, M18 is probably the better option just in case you have to do something a little more heavy duty, but for the majority of things, M12 does a lot and they have some unique tools like the Pin nailer that aren't on M18. I am looking forward to the new M12 18g Brad nailer that is coming out next year. Smaller capacity but a lot light and I like the sound of that.
@@TinkerWithTools for me, it’s not even a question. I added the M2 as a convenience but mainly because of the pin nailer and installation driver. But if I could only have one, the M12 literally would not even be an option. I’m a carpenter, so I use my routers regularly my miter saw my table saw all of my circular saws and track saw ect. Other than my pin nailer and detail sander the rest of my M2 tools are more of a convenience and because I have a little bit of a tool addiction. But everyone situation is different.
Great review. Would you say the M12 is a little thinner than the DeWalts DCS 335 and have you used it?
I have not used the DEWALT. But I will keep an eye out for it if I ever see it in person and let you know.
I was wondering about that new m12 barrel grip.
I had the Skil platform in 12 volt but sold them recently. I do miss the jigsaw, that halo light, blower, and variable speed was awesome.
Needed a deeper cut and used my Metabo HPT 18 volt D handle and was impressed.
Flash forward last week, HD has $199 starter set m18 with free tool. Most I have but D handle jigsaw was calling for me, lol.
Haven’t tried it yet. And I’m almost sure like you said I would prefer the barrel grip for the finesse work, which is why you’re reaching for a jigsaw in most cases anyway, but the Black Friday fever happened when it went to $179, 😜 So a D is what I got, I hope it it doesn’t reflect my final grade for it. 😔
It's a nice jig saw. I was needing a jig saw when I bought the M12 and like I said, it's more powerful in every way than the M12. I think they both have their place. Normally I am only cutting 3/4" material so I don't feel the need for more powerful most of the time.
Awesome review, thank you. I’ve been looking at the m12
Thanks. I have loved it so far!
They're honestly for different purposes. I've noticed that a lot with the m12 vs m18 tools, they're meant to either be in the same toolbox side by side, or the m12 actually seems to be targeted at a wider audience, offering most the power in a much smaller and lighter package.
As a homeowner the m12 drill/impact set works just fine for me despite being notably smaller than any 18v drill or impact and they're much much smaller tools, easier to stash away in a closet. I learned about m12 when my plumber came to fix my main sewage pipe and the only power tools he had were m12.
M12 won't take an all day beating like m18 tools will, but for job specific task they are gold
I agree to a certain point. My view is more that they won't necessarily pack as much power, meaning you won't take on as big of tasks with M12, but I think they are going to be just as durable. There is a reason the M12 tools are so popular with certain trades. Because I am mainly doing lighter tasks with it, I think it suits my needs just fine since I typically don't need the more powerful M18.
I have the m18 fuel for about one year and she is a beast
Agreed!
Great video. Thank you!
Glad you liked it!
Tinker With Tools !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anyone that has worked in the Cabinetry trades, knows that the barrel grip is indispensable. Scribing a counter top to a wall, or cutting something that requires care and precision and avoiding chipping, necessitates cutting from underneath. Less chance of scratching a fine finish wood or even Formica type counter top, and no risk of the saw ‘jumping’ and slammming the blade into the surface. That can ruin one’s day! 😯 Can you do it with a D handle, yes, but it is very awkward.
I get that some like the variable speed, but the shop I worked for supplied the electric ( corded ) Bosch barrel grip saws, and they worked well. I have currently a DeWalt 20 Volt D handle saw, and it cuts fine and is very convenient, but the blade wants to deflect at times, and I have a love/ hate feeling about it.
Everyone has their preferences, and I am just sharing mine, and what works. Please, not bragging, but
before anybody starts the negative divisive stuff, I have put in $30,000 - $80,000 Kitchens for a living, in another season of life. Take that as you want. Peace!
I think that is what it comes down to is your background. If you were doing more of the cabinet or trim style work, the barrel grip lends itself well to that. But having given it a shot now, I doubt I'll buy another d-handle over a barrel grip again.
D Handle all day because of the variable speed trigger
I thought I would miss it more than I have but so far not really. But I guess that’s why it’s great they make both types
Interesting choice for Milwaukee. The old M12 is not the best tool ever, but it does have a trigger and quick release for the base angle.
Blessed Be
I have seen the light!
Sir I have the m12 new jigsaw for a month when I start cutting 3/4 material on pine I turn it on and in about 8 to 12 inches it stops and the light starts blinking
So I have tried to find anything official with Milwaukee and I can’t seem to find any indication of what it means so here is what I would check or try. What is the size of the battery you are using? Smaller batteries might under power the saw a little bit on a more demanding cut. I don’t think what you are doing is extreme based on your description but it could be a factor. Next thing is if you move through the cut more slowly does the issue persist? And then just for clarity is the battery light flashing, the light on the front of the tool flashing or both.
I am not near the saw right now to try to replicate but I will try when I can. If none of that provides a different result and you have a warranty on the tool I might recommend contacting Milwaukee support.
I made contact with Milwaukee techs and they told me to take it back to Home Depot and tell them that the heat sensor malfunction the sensor is telling the tool that is hot and is not so I went and exchanged it I’ll use it tomorrow to see if that’s true or not thanks a million sir
Glad you might have gotten it sorted out.
The M12 only makes sense if you don't have 18V batterys
Or you only do coping and light duty stuff or you are an DIYer
Alone for the reason that most commen contracter tools are 18V. Why buy or bring a couple extra batterys while your Circular saw, Sawzall, DB miter, Impact, Drill driver, SDS hammer, grinder and so on allready runs on 18V?
Of course its a personal choise but at least here in europe this M12 jigsaw is 210 bucks bare tool..
For example a bare Bosch GTS 18V 155 SC goes up to 155mm max capacity and is 2 kg bare tool.
The M12 is max 135mm max and is 2.5 kg. So depending on battery the saws are both very light weight.
The bosch has Auto mode, blower function the better shoe, splinter guard and more power as rhe 12V if needed, its compatible with Bosch, Festool and Makita tracksaw tracks with an original shoe adapter plate and that with 15 bucks price difference of 228 bucks.
But that is not just the Bosch, basicly any brand that released a 18V Jigsaw in the last two years has an simular alternative. This M12 shines so much because the M18s are 5 years old and a bit outdated compared to an 2023/2024 tool.
I don't want to talk shit about that M12 tool. I have myself like 10 of them but if i could choose again i would switch many of them for 18V versions. Exept for the drill driver, impacts the new dremel tool and the magnet light.. But the M12 inflator, Multittool comes very fast on its limits..
So this saw is only an alternative if you have like a half dozen M12 batterys and you only do short cuts or free hand coping where the ultra compact Design shines
As always I think it depends what you are using the tool for. The m12 jig saw and the multi tool
(Fuel version) are both awesome and I have yet to find something where I thought they weren’t fast enough or strong enough. I agree that an 18v version would be stronger but for me I don’t find it necessary. If I were a tradesperson trying to minimize what I carry onto a jobsite then I might feel a lot different.
I want see a video with a coping base on it
I don’t have a coping base nor do I claim to know what I am doing with one but if I ever pick one up I’ll make a follow up.