DeWalt DCD791 vs Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall: Which Reciprocating Saw Wins?

Why Compare the DeWalt DCD791 Drill to a Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall?

At first glance, comparing a compact drill/driver like the DeWalt DCD791 to a full-size reciprocating saw such as the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall seems odd. But many tradespeople face a real dilemma: when you need to cut through lumber, drywall, or even metal studs on a jobsite, do you reach for a powerful drill with a hole saw or a dedicated sawzall? The DeWalt DCD791 is a brushless, 20V MAX compact drill known for its versatility and torque, while the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall is a brute designed for demolition and heavy cutting. This guide will break down their core specs, real-world cutting performance, and which tool actually wins for specific tasks—so you can decide whether the DCD791 can double as a cutting tool or if you must invest in a dedicated Sawzall.

What Are the Core Specs of the DeWalt DCD791 vs Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall?

To understand the matchup, we need to compare the fundamental specifications that govern what each tool can do. The DCD791 is a brushless drill/driver designed for drilling holes and driving fasteners. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall is a reciprocating saw designed for aggressive cutting. Here’s a side-by-side spec comparison:

This table reveals a fundamental divide: the DCD791 is a precision tool best for drilling and fastening, while the Sawzall is a brute-force cutter. The Sawzall weighs nearly three times as much and is purpose-built for reciprocating motion. However, the DCD791 can still drive large hole saws for cutting holes up to 4 inches in diameter—making it a surprising contender for certain cuts.

Can the DeWalt DCD791 Really Cut Like a Reciprocating Saw?

The short answer is no—not like a dedicated Sawzall. The DCD791 uses rotary motion, so it can only cut with attachments like hole saws or spade bits. For example, if you need to cut a 4-inch hole in plywood for a vent, the DCD791 with a good hole saw does it cleanly and quickly, often faster than a Sawzall can manage through rough cutting. But for demolition—like cutting through a nail-embedded stud, pruning tree limbs, or making a plunge cut into drywall—the Sawzall wins hands down. The reciprocating motion of the Sawzall uses a push-pull action that can handle curves, plunge cuts, and materials up to 8-12 inches thick. The DCD791 is limited to the depth of its hole saw (usually 1.5 inches at most) and cannot make long rip cuts. So if your job involves cutting large openings or demolition, the Sawzall is essential. For small-diameter holes and occasional wood cutting, the DCD791 is better due to its light weight.

In terms of speed: the Sawzall’s 0-3000 SPM allows it to rip through a 2×4 in about 10-15 seconds with a coarse blade. The DCD791 with a 1-inch spade bit can bore through a 2×4 in about 5-7 seconds, but it only creates a hole, not a cut line. So for cutting shapes, the Sawzall is superior. For drilling holes, the DCD791 is faster and more precise.

Which Tool Offers Better Battery Performance and Runtime?

Both tools are part of 18V-class battery systems. The DeWalt DCD791 uses the 20V MAX (18V nominal) XR batteries, while the Milwaukee Sawzall uses M18 REDLITHIUM packs. In practice, the DCD791 is far more efficient because it draws less current per operation. A typical 5.0Ah 20V MAX battery can run the DCD791 for over 2000 screw-driving cycles or drill around 300 holes in 3/4-inch plywood. The Sawzall, being a high-draw tool, will drain a 5.0Ah M18 battery in about 15-20 minutes of continuous heavy cutting. For jobsite use, this means you need two or three batteries for the Sawzall if you’re doing demolition all day, while the DCD791 can easily last a full day on one battery. If battery runtime is critical, the DCD791 is the winner. However, the Sawzall’s power is unmatched for cutting metal or thick lumber. For a detailed look at battery compatibility for the DCD791, see our guide: DeWalt DCD791 Battery Compatibility: Which Batteries Work?.

Both brands offer high-capacity batteries: DeWalt’s 8.0Ah and 10.0Ah packs work with the DCD791 (though they make it heavier), and Milwaukee’s 12.0Ah HD12.0 works with the Sawzall. But the DCD791 benefits from a lighter battery, improving balance. The Sawzall with a 6.0Ah battery weighs about 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs), which is fatiguing for overhead cuts.

How Does Cutting Performance Compare for Common Materials?

Let’s examine three common jobsite materials: wood, metal, and plastic.

Wood Cutting: The DCD791 with a 1.5-inch hole saw can cut clean holes up to 1.5 inches deep. For deeper cuts, you need a spade bit, which limits to 6 inches of depth (with an extended bit). The Sawzall with a 6-inch demolition blade can cut through a 2×6 in seconds and can flush-cut or make plunge cuts. Winner: Sawzall for versatility, DCD791 for clean holes.

Metal Cutting: The DCD791 can drill holes in steel up to 1/2 inch with a step bit, but it struggles with thick gauges. The Sawzall with a metal-cutting blade (18 TPI) can cut through rebar, conduit, and thin sheet metal easily. However, the Sawzall’s reciprocating action produces more vibration and rough edges. For precise metal holes, the DCD791 is better. For demolition, the Sawzall dominates. Winner: Tie depending on task.

Plastic Cutting: Both tools handle plastic well. The DCD791 with a high-speed steel twist bit drills clean holes in PVC and acrylic without melting if you use low speed. The Sawzall with a fine-tooth blade makes quick work of cutting PVC pipes, but tends to create rough edges. The DCD791 gives a neater finish. Winner: DCD791 for finish, Sawzall for speed.

Overall, if you only occasionally need to cut small holes or drive screws, the DCD791 is more versatile. For heavy cutting, especially in demolition or renovation, the Sawzall is irreplaceable. If your DCD791 experiences issues like overheating during extended drilling, check our guide: DeWalt DCD791 Overheating: Causes and Fixes.

Which Tool Is More Durable and Easier to Maintain?

The DeWalt DCD791 features a metal chuck (all-metal, keyless) and a robust housing that withstands drops from 6 feet according to DeWalt tests. Its brushless motor eliminates brush wear. The Milwaukee Sawzall is designed for abuse with a metal gear housing and a reinforced handle. However, the Sawzall’s reciprocating mechanism experiences more stress and vibration, leading to faster wear on the blade clamp and motor bearings. In the DCD791, the chuck can become loose over time—you can fix this with our guide: How to Replace the Chuck on a DeWalt DCD791 Drill. The Sawzall’s blade clamp is replaceable but can jam due to debris. The DCD791 also has a brushless motor that rarely fails, but if it does, see DeWalt DCD791 Brushless Motor Failure: Causes and Fixes. In terms of longevity, the DCD791 typically lasts longer because it sees less physical stress. The Sawzall, while rugged, requires more frequent blade changes and maintenance of the reciprocating mechanism. The DCD791 wins for overall durability in casual use; the Sawzall is built for tough jobs but demands more care.

What Do Owners Say About These Tools?

We analyzed hundreds of verified user reviews on UK and US sites. Here are the most common sentiments:

• DeWalt DCD791 owners praise its compact size and power-to-weight ratio. Many say it “drills like a larger drill but fits in tight spaces.” A common complaint: the LED light is decent but not as bright as newer models. Some report chuck wobble after heavy use.
• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall owners love its “unstoppable cutting power” and anti-vibration system. They note it’s “heavy but worth it for demolition.” Negative feedback includes the price and that the blade clamp can be stiff to change. Many say they go through batteries quickly.
• Crossovers: Some users own both and say that for drilling holes, the DCD791 is better, while the Sawzall is reserved for cutting pipes, lumber, and metal. A minority have tried using the DCD791 with hole saws for cutting large holes and found it acceptable for occasional use but not for production work.
• Value for money: The DCD791 is seen as excellent value for a compact drill, while the Sawzall is considered a premium tool for professionals who need it daily. For DIYers, the DCD791 gets 5 stars; for pros, the Sawzall gets 4.5 stars.

In summary, owners agree: each tool excels in its domain. The DCD791 is a best-in-class drill/driver; the Sawzall is a best-in-class reciprocating saw. You shouldn’t expect one to replace the other, but knowing their strengths helps you choose intelligently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the DeWalt DCD791 cut through metal studs?

   Yes, with a high-quality cobalt or titanium drill bit, the DCD791 can drill holes in metal studs easily. However, it cannot cut through a metal stud completely like a Sawzall can. For slicing through multiple studs, use the Sawzall with a metal blade.

2. Which tool gives better battery life per charge?

   The DCD791 offers significantly longer battery runtime because it draws less current. With a 5.0Ah battery, the DCD791 can last a full light-duty day, while the Sawzall will last only 20-30 minutes of heavy cutting. For battery troubleshooting on the DCD791, refer to our battery guide: DeWalt DCD791 Battery Compatibility: Which Batteries Work?.

3. Is the Milwaukee Sawzall worth the extra money over the DCD791?

   It depends on your cutting needs. If you need to make long, straight cuts in lumber, demolition cuts, or cut through metal, the Sawzall is superior. If you mostly drill holes and drive screws, the DCD791 is more versatile and much cheaper. The Sawzall is typically £60-70 more expensive than the DCD791.

4. Can I use hole saws on the DCD791 to cut wood up to 2 inches thick?

   Yes, but only if the hole saw depth is at least 2 inches (some are 1.5 inches). Using a pilot bit and a sharp hole saw, the DCD791 handles 2-inch thick wood with ease. For thicker material, consider a spade bit or a Sawzall.

5. Which tool is easier to control for precision cuts?

   The DCD791 offers much better control for precise drilling and small holes. Its two-speed gearbox allows low-speed torque for careful work. The Sawzall’s reciprocating action is inherently less precise—it’s best for rough cutting where accuracy isn’t critical.

6. Do I need both tools in my kit?

   For most professionals, yes—each tool serves a distinct purpose. A drill driver like the DCD791 is essential for fastening and drilling, while a Sawzall is crucial for cutting. DIYers can often get by with just the DCD791 and a hand saw or jigsaw. If you do occasional demolition, a Sawzall is a smart investment.