I went elk hunting last year and was really impressed watching my buddy quarter a bull using a small Dewalt reciprocating saw. It got me thinking about using a M12 Hackzall from Milwaukee for similar work. I'm trying to decide between the M12 Fuel (3.4 lbs) and the non-Fuel version (2.6 lbs). Since we'll be backpacking, weight is important, but I want to ensure I can handle larger game like elk, even though I usually hunt deer. How do the two versions compare, and what battery size would you recommend?
3 Answers
I have both the M12 versions, and I swear by the Fuel one. It's better for heavy-duty cuts and has a longer battery life. The non-Fuel just didn’t cut it for my needs, so I sold it. If you're really serious about hunting elk, I would recommend leaning towards the Fuel version, especially because it comes with an LED light which is super useful!
You should definitely look into some stainless steel butcher blades for the Hackzall! I've seen them on Amazon, and they work wonders. I used my little M12 Fuel with a 5.0 battery for processing and it lasted a long time—much less cutting through bone than you'd think. Those blades can slice through muscle and tendons super fast!
Going with the M12 Fuel is a smart choice. It tends to be more efficient and powerful. Plus, using a 5.0 battery will give you better performance for tough jobs. I often find it handles cuts much harder than the non-Fuel version.
Absolutely, the LED light can make a big difference when you're working in low light conditions!