The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Table Saw (2736-21HD) is the latest addition to the M18 Fuel line of cordless tools. It competes with the DeWalt FlexVolt table saw model, but I believe it stands out in its own right. When it comes to transitioning to a completely cordless job site, this table saw performs exceptionally well and justifies its price with convenience.
Advantages
- Ample power
- Smooth cutting
- Lightweight and portable
- Impressive features and well-designed
Shortcomings
- Lacks an AC adapter option to function as the primary table saw
- Ideally suited for an 8-1/4″ blade rather than a 10″
Milwaukee Cordless Table Saw Height Adjustment
The all-metal gearing enables seamless blade height adjustment. Unlike SawStop’s 1-turn dial, this table saw requires 14 turns to fully extend the blade, which is fewer turns compared to most table saws.
Adjusting the Bevel Angle
The standard version of this table saw allows you to tilt the blade angle to the left. What sets it apart is the placement of the scale on the right side, offering better visibility.
Milwaukee 2736-21HD Tearability
Milwaukee follows the trend of utilizing rack-and-pinion for adjusting rip length. It offers a smooth action and makes it easy to dial in the desired length. A simple lever on the right side locks the rip length securely.
Using a Milwaukee M18 Table Saw for Fencing
The fence on the Milwaukee 2736-20 features clip locks on both sides and swivel extensions to secure materials beyond the table’s edge. With two reliable contact points, the fence ensures square and precise cuts from 0 to 24-1/2 inches.
Pro tip: Remember to calibrate your table saw upon arrival. Adjust the fence by 1/8″ on both points of contact.
Install the Riving Knife
Disengage the riving knife clip using the release at the back. It’s effortless to keep the riving knife in the desired position, making it one of the best designs available.
Speaking of riving knives, you have two options – with or without a blade guard. Opting for the latter adds an extra section but eliminates the need to deal with a stubborn blade guard. However, you will still have to install the anti-kickback pawl manually.
Milwaukee One Click Integration
While this table saw lacks customizable tool controls, it integrates the Milwaukee ONE-KEY, providing features like tool tracking, lockout controls, and asset management.
Power Off Safety Switch
In the event of a battery failure or loss of connection to the trigger, the saw will not immediately spin the blade upon battery insertion. You need to manually turn it off first.
Single Wrench Blade Replacement
Similar to a miter saw, this table saw utilizes a push-button blade lock that requires only a wrench to loosen the nut for blade replacement.
When purchasing the Milwaukee 2736-20 cordless table saw, you have the option to buy the $79 scissor stand. Assembly is straightforward, and clamping the saw onto the stand is a hassle-free process. Although you’ll need to carry the saw and stand separately to and from the job site, the wide-splayed legs offer stability and the adjustable foot helps navigate uneven ground. With a weight of just 41 lbs, not having a gravity lift stand isn’t a significant inconvenience.
Additional Features
- Brushless Motor
- Electronic knife switch
- Convenient stick storage above the fence
- Miter gauge with a metal stem and plastic lock and gauge
- Dual Channel Miter Gauge
- Anti-kickback pawls mounted with standard spring clips
Missing Features
- AC power option for increased versatility
- Flesh detection feature (for use with SawStop)
- Premium stock blade included
Milwaukee M18 Table Saw Performance
Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Brushless Motor boasts a new large frame design that spins an 8-1/4″ blade at a remarkable 6300 RPM. A standard 10″ table saw typically has a no-load speed of 5000 RPM. Considering the difference in blade diameter, the Milwaukee offers a tip speed of 159 MPH, which is 10 MPH faster than its corded 10-inch counterpart.
While torque is crucial to achieve such speed, I conducted a series of test cuts on OSB, untreated pine, and pressure-treated pine using my M18 Fuel table saw. Initially, it took the saw slightly longer to catch up, but once it did, it performed exceptionally well.
After multiple test cuts performed by our Pro team, the results consistently showed that the Milwaukee cordless table saw matched the performance of its corded counterpart. Aside from its impressive power, this saw delivers smooth cuts even with regular Milwaukee blades.
Although the Milwaukee 2736-21HD has the capability to accommodate a 10″ blade, it’s not necessary for most residential job sites. The 8-1/4″ blade size is typically sufficient.
Milwaukee 2736-21HD Dust Collection
This table saw boasts above-average dust collection capabilities. Its soft, canvas-like layer moves with the blade bevel, effectively transporting more dust to the port. Even when used outdoors, the sawdust does not accumulate under the blade like with some other saws.
Price and Value
The Milwaukee Cordless Table Saw with the 12.0 Ah High Output Battery (216 Wh) and Fast Charger is priced at $599. This is considerably higher than a standard 10-inch corded table saw, but the premium is expected.
DeWalt’s current price for their table saw is $449, which includes a 2.0 Ah battery (108 Wh). To surpass the capacity of the Milwaukee saw, you would need DeWalt’s two-battery kit, priced at $648. This kit includes a 2.0 Ah and 3.0 Ah battery, totaling 270 watt hours. Alternatively, you can purchase an additional 2.0 Ah battery pack for $149. Whichever option you choose, the Milwaukee table saw offers better value for money and the added advantage of one-click integration.
Milwaukee 2736-21HD Bottom Line
The Milwaukee 2736-21HD Cordless Table Saw is a powerful and robust tool that expands the M18 Fuel range. In my opinion, it surpasses the DeWalt as the leader among the very few cordless table saws available. The question remains whether it can function as the primary job site table saw or if it is better suited as a secondary tool.
If your ripping needs don’t exceed 2-1/2″ in capacity, this table saw is self-sufficient. However, you may need to consider purchasing an additional battery for extended usage.
Milwaukee Cordless Table Saw Specifications
- Model: Milwaukee 2736-21HD
- Power: M18 RedLithium battery (high output recommended)
- Blade Diameter: 8-1/4″
- No-load speed: 6300 RPM
- Rip Capacity: 24-1/2″
- Maximum cutting depth: 2-1/2″
- 45° Depth of cut: 1-3/4″
- Maximum bevel angle: 47°
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 22 x 22.5 x 12 inches
- Weight: 41.6 lbs
- Warranty: 5 years
- Price: $599 (kit with 12.0 Ah high-output battery), $399 (bare)
- Scissor Stand: $99