Key Features
15A Corded-Class PowerThe POWERSTATE brushless motor is built to give this cordless metal cutting circular saw the output of a 15-amp corded saw, so you get jobsite mobility without giving up cutting performance. Built for Bigger CutsWith a 2-9/16 inch cut capacity and 4,000 RPM, it is made for demanding metal cutting work like corrugated decking and other larger metal stock where smaller saws come up short. Jobsite ControlThe dual-action trigger, overload indicator light, onboard chip collection, and electric blade brake all work together to make the saw easier to control, cleaner to use, and safer between cuts.
Overview
The Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw is a cordless metal cutting saw built for pros who need corded-level performance without dragging a cord across the deck or shop floor. This is a metal cutting circular saw designed for cutting steel decking and other demanding metal materials. Model Number 2982-20. If you already run Milwaukee’s M18 platform and need a bare tool that can handle heavier metal cutting work, this is the one aimed squarely at that job.
The big story here is output. Milwaukee rates it to generate the power of a 15-amp corded metal cutting circular saw, and the POWERSTATE brushless motor spins the blade at 4,000 RPM. On the job, that means faster cuts through metal while keeping the convenience of a cordless setup. Milwaukee also states it can cut up to 120 feet of corrugated decking per charge when paired with the recommended battery, which matters if you are trying to keep production moving instead of stopping to swap tools or chase power.
Capacity is another reason this saw stands out. The 2-9/16 inch blade cut capacity gives it the reach for larger metal cutting applications than earlier cordless metal cutting circular saws. That makes it a better fit for crews working with corrugated decking, steel panels, and similar material where a smaller blade limits what you can get done in one pass. The adjustable shoe helps you dial in depth so you are not overcutting material when you do not need to.
Milwaukee also built in the practical stuff that matters after the first day on site. The onboard chip collection helps manage metal chips during cutting and makes cleanup easier. The overload indicator light gives you feedback if you are pushing too hard, which helps the operator stay in the tool’s sweet spot instead of bogging it down. The electric blade brake stops the blade quickly after the cut, and the dual-action trigger helps prevent accidental startup. Those are not brochure features. They directly affect control, cleanup, and day-to-day usability.
From a system standpoint, this saw makes the most sense for users already invested in M18. It is compatible with all M18 batteries, and Milwaukee specifically calls out stronger performance with the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC8.0 battery, which is not included. That bare tool format is a plus if you already own batteries and chargers, but it is worth knowing up front if you are buying into the platform for the first time.
Physically, it is a substantial tool at 15.5 inches long and 12.1 pounds. That weight is part of the tradeoff for the larger 8 inch blade, higher capacity, and heavy-duty metal cutting focus. This is not a trim carpentry saw pretending to cut metal. It is purpose-built for the kind of work where power, capacity, and durability matter more than shaving every possible ounce.
Who should buy it? Steel deck installers, commercial contractors, metal building crews, and fabricators who need a cordless circular saw for repeated metal cutting are the clear target. Serious DIY users with M18 batteries can absolutely use it, but the Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw really earns its keep when you are cutting metal often enough that speed, capacity, and portability pay you back.
Cut Metal Without Chasing a Cord
This saw is about bringing real metal cutting performance to places where a cord slows you down. For deck crews and commercial work, that means less setup, fewer trip hazards, and easier movement from cut to cut.
- POWERSTATE brushless motor is built to deliver 15A corded-class power
- Milwaukee rates it for up to 120 feet of corrugated decking cuts per charge
Built for Clean, Controlled Metal Cutting
Metal cutting gets messy fast, and a saw like this needs more than just power. Milwaukee added the features that help you stay in control and keep the workflow moving when you are making repeated cuts.
- Onboard chip collection helps with metal chip removal and cleanup
- Electric blade brake, overload indicator light, and dual-action trigger improve control between cuts
What’s in the Box
- (1) Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw
- (1) 42T Circular Saw Blade
Battery and charger are not included.
Key Specifications
| Battery System | M18 |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless |
| Motor Type | POWERSTATE Brushless |
| No-Load Speed (RPM) | 4,000 RPM |
| Cutting Capacity | 2-9/16 in |
| Length | 15.5 in |
| Height | 10.1 in |
| Weight (lbs) | 12.1 lbs |
Compatibility
Battery Platform Compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries. Recommended Performance Setup Milwaukee calls out the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC8.0 battery for increased power and cooler operation. Battery not included.
Built For
Steel DeckingMetal CuttingCommercial ConstructionGeneral ContractingMetalworkingRemodeling
Pro Tip
If you are cutting thinner metal, set the shoe depth just past the material instead of burying the whole blade. You will get better control, less unnecessary blade exposure, and cleaner work out of the chip collector.
Warranty & Support
5 Year Limited Warranty.
Tool Nut’s Take
Tool Nut’s Take
Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw Means Business
This is the kind of cordless metal cutting circular saw you buy when a smaller saw or a corded setup is costing you time.
- Who it’s for: Contractors, deck crews, and metalworking users who already run M18 and need bigger capacity with cordless mobility.
- Why it stands out: 15A corded-class power, 4,000 RPM, a 2-9/16 inch cut capacity, and the real-world features like chip collection and a blade brake that make it easier to use all day.
- Worth knowing: This is a bare tool, so plan on adding a battery and charger if you are not already on M18. It is also a substantial saw, which is exactly what you would expect from an 8 inch metal cutting platform built for heavier work.
Common Questions
- Is this a corded or cordless saw? It is a cordless saw built on Milwaukee’s M18 battery platform.
- What battery platform does it use? It is compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries.
- What is the saw’s cut capacity? The maximum cut capacity is 2-9/16 inches.
- How fast does the blade spin? The Milwaukee 2982-20 M18 FUEL 8″ Metal Cutting Circular Saw has a no-load speed of 4,000 RPM.
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