FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only Review: The M18-Compatible Workhorse We Didn’t Know We Needed

Last spring, a vicious thunderstorm rolled through, leaving a trail of beautiful chaos in its wake. The centerpiece of this chaos was a massive limb from our old oak tree, sprawled across half the backyard. My trusty old gas chainsaw, which had been sitting dormant for a season, refused to start. After 20 minutes of yanking the pull-cord, smelling of gas and two-stroke oil, and nursing a sore shoulder, I gave up. The alternative? A corded electric saw that couldn’t reach the limb without three daisy-chained extension cords—a safety nightmare. It was in that moment of frustration that I knew there had to be a better way. The dream was simple: a powerful, lightweight tool that I could just grab, snap a battery into, and get to work with. No mixing fuel, no fumes, no tangled cords. This is the exact problem the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only promises to solve, especially for those of us already invested in a robust battery ecosystem.

What to Demand from a Cordless Chainsaw Before You Buy

A cordless chainsaw is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your time and energy on property maintenance. It represents freedom from the noise, fumes, and maintenance headaches of gas models, and liberation from the limited range of corded versions. Its main benefits are portability and convenience, allowing you to tackle tasks anywhere on your property, from pruning high branches to clearing a fallen tree on a back fence line, all with minimal prep time. For homeowners, this means storm cleanup, firewood processing, and routine tree trimming become quick, almost pleasant tasks rather than dreaded, day-long projects.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing routine yard work who already owns batteries from a major power tool line, in this case, Milwaukee’s M18 platform. They value efficiency and want a reliable tool for cutting limbs and small trees up to 10 inches in diameter. It’s perfect for the DIY enthusiast, gardener, or homeowner who needs powerful cutting performance without the commitment of a gas engine. However, it might not be suitable for those who need to fell large, mature trees daily, such as professional loggers or arborists. For heavy-duty, all-day use, a high-cc gas-powered saw remains the industry standard. Those who only have a few tiny twigs to trim might be better served by a simple pair of loppers or a reciprocating saw with a pruning blade.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Bar Length & Cutting Capacity: The guide bar length—12 inches in this case—directly dictates the maximum diameter of wood you can cut in a single pass. A 12-inch bar is the sweet spot for general homeowner tasks, easily handling branches from 4 to 10 inches thick. It keeps the tool compact and maneuverable, which is ideal for limbing and working in tight spaces.
• Power & Battery System: A brushless motor is non-negotiable for a serious cordless tool. It runs cooler, more efficiently, and delivers more power and a longer lifespan than older brushed motors. Critically, for a “Tool Only” model like this, compatibility is everything. Confirming that it works seamlessly with your existing Milwaukee M18 batteries is the most important step, as it saves you hundreds of dollars on a new battery and charger system.
• Chain, Oiler & Tensioning: The saw’s performance lives and dies by its chain and lubrication. An automatic oiler is a must-have feature; it continuously lubricates the bar and chain, reducing friction, preventing overheating, and extending the life of both components. Furthermore, look for a tool-free chain tensioning system. The ability to adjust chain tension quickly without needing a separate tool (a “scrench”) is a massive convenience in the field.
• Safety & Ergonomics: A chainsaw is a powerful tool that demands respect. Key safety features include a chain brake (to stop the chain in case of kickback) and a safety lock-off button to prevent accidental starts. Ergonomically, consider the tool’s weight and balance. A lighter saw, like the FXAFXA, reduces user fatigue, allowing you to work longer and more safely, especially when reaching overhead.

While the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: A Surprisingly Complete Package

Upon arrival, the first thing we noticed about the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only was the sheer completeness of the kit. Often, “tool only” means you get just that—the bare tool in a cardboard box. FXAFXA, however, provides a comprehensive starter package. Inside, we found the chainsaw body, the 12-inch bar and chain, a protective scabbard, a decent pair of work gloves, a zippered storage bag, and, most impressively, two extra replacement chains. This is an exceptional value-add, as chains are a consumable item, and having spares on hand from day one is a huge plus.

Assembly was straightforward. Attaching the bar and chain is standard for any chainsaw and took less than five minutes. The tool-free tensioning knob felt solid and made dialing in the correct chain tension a breeze. The body of the saw is constructed from a robust-feeling plastic, and while it doesn’t have the magnesium housing of a professional-grade Husqvarna or Stihl, it feels more than durable enough for its intended homeowner audience. Snapping in one of our own Milwaukee M18 5.0Ah batteries produced a satisfying click, and the saw felt balanced and surprisingly light in hand, confirming the advertised 5-pound operational weight. It immediately felt less intimidating and more approachable than a heavy, cumbersome gas saw.

In the Field: A Rigorous Test of the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Chainsaw

A tool can look great on the workbench, but its true character is only revealed in the thick of the work. We put the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only through a series of typical homeowner tasks, from light pruning to bucking up fallen logs for firewood, to see if its performance matched its promising features. Over several days of testing, we evaluated its power, cutting efficiency, ergonomics, and overall usability.

The Heart of the Beast: Brushless Power and M18 Compatibility

The core of this saw’s appeal is the combination of its brushless motor and its compatibility with Milwaukee M18 batteries. For anyone already invested in that platform, this is a game-changer. We slapped in a fully charged 5.0Ah M18 battery, and the saw came to life instantly. The 1000W brushless motor is impressively torquey. There’s no gradual ramp-up; pull the trigger (after depressing the safety switch), and you get immediate, consistent power. We started with some 4-inch pine limbs, and the saw zipped through them without a hint of hesitation. The sound is a high-pitched whir, a world away from the obnoxious roar of a two-stroke engine, making it much more neighborhood-friendly.

Moving up to seasoned 8-inch oak logs intended for our fireplace, the saw truly proved its mettle. We leaned into the cut, letting the weight of the saw do the work, and the motor never bogged down. It chewed through the hardwood steadily, spitting out large, healthy wood chips that indicated an efficient cut. This performance confirms what many users have discovered: this lightweight saw punches far above its weight class. One user described it as “lightweight but powerful,” and our testing validated this sentiment completely. The ability to leverage our existing collection of M18 batteries not only saved money but provided a seamless “grab-and-go” experience that made yard work feel less like a chore. For those looking for this level of convenience, you can see its full feature set and user reviews online.

Cutting Performance: Chain Speed, Oiling, and Real-World Nuances

Raw power is only one part of the equation. A chainsaw’s real-world cutting performance is a symphony of chain speed, sharpness, and proper lubrication. The advertised chain speed of 13 m/s feels accurate; the chain moves quickly enough to make clean, fast cuts without excessive vibration. The included German manganese steel chains came reasonably sharp out of the box and held their edge well through several hours of cutting.

The automatic oiler is a critical feature that worked flawlessly during our tests. We filled the translucent reservoir with standard bar and chain oil, and the small window made it easy to monitor the level. After a series of cuts, we could see a fine line of oil on a piece of cardboard when revving the saw above it, confirming it was dispensing correctly. This continuous lubrication is vital for preventing the bar from overheating and ensuring the chain runs smoothly, which it did throughout our testing. The tool-free tensioning knob on the side was another highlight. After the initial chain stretch that happens with any new chain, a quick twist of the knob—no tools required—had it perfectly tensioned again in seconds.

However, our testing also confirmed a quirk noted by another user: the two nuts that secure the guide bar can vibrate loose over time, especially during prolonged sessions of cutting hardwood. We found ourselves checking them every 15-20 minutes and giving them a quick hand-tighten. While not a deal-breaker, it’s a crucial safety and performance check to incorporate into your workflow. We also experienced the “bucking” on very thin, whippy branches. This isn’t a flaw of the saw but rather physics; the aggressive chain grabs the flimsy branch rather than cutting it. The solution is proper technique: ensure the branch is stable and apply firm, controlled pressure to engage the bucking spikes (the metal teeth at the base of the bar) for a secure cut. To check the latest price and availability is to see a tool that performs admirably once you understand these minor operational nuances.

Ergonomics and Safety Features in Action

This is where the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only truly shines and becomes an accessible tool for a wide range of users. Weighing just over 5 pounds with a battery, it is incredibly easy to handle. We spent over an hour limbing a fallen tree, a task that involves a lot of reaching and cutting at awkward angles. With a heavier gas saw, this would have been exhausting. With the FXAFXA, fatigue was a non-issue. The balance is excellent, and the rubberized rear handle provides a secure, comfortable grip.

This sentiment was echoed by a user who noted it was the “perfect size for a female’s hand lightweight.” This accessibility is a major selling point, making property maintenance less intimidating for those who might be uncomfortable with larger, heavier equipment. The safety features are well-implemented and confidence-inspiring. The lock-off button on the top of the handle must be depressed with your thumb before the trigger can be engaged. This two-action system makes it nearly impossible to start the saw accidentally, which is paramount for safety when carrying it or setting it down. The front hand guard is large and provides good protection, and while we didn’t experience any significant kickback events, it’s reassuring to know it’s there to protect your hand. The overall design prioritizes user comfort and safety, which we found to be a massive advantage during extended use. A feature that really sets it apart is this combination of user-friendly design and robust power.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, user feedback for the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only is overwhelmingly positive, mirroring our own findings. There is a strong consensus on its surprising power-to-weight ratio. Phrases like “impressed with this tool,” “exceeded my expectations,” and “game changer” appear frequently. Users consistently praise its brushless motor for cutting through branches and even small trees with ease. The compatibility with Milwaukee M18 batteries is, for many, the single most celebrated feature, transforming it into a logical and cost-effective extension of their existing toolset.

The practical features also receive high marks. The automatic oiler is called out as “very practical,” and the safety lock provides “great confidence.” However, the feedback is also balanced and authentic, highlighting the same minor issues we encountered. The most common critique is that the two nuts holding the bar can come loose, requiring users to “tighten every few cuts.” This appears to be the tool’s main quirk, but most, like the user who pointed it out, still highly recommend the product. Another user confirmed our experience with thin branches, noting it “bucks a lot,” reinforcing the need for proper technique. One concise review, which translates from Spanish as “It looks good quality, and it cuts perfectly,” seems to perfectly summarize the general feeling: it’s a well-made tool that does its job exceptionally well.

How the FXAFXA Chainsaw Compares to Other Yard Tools

While the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only excels in its niche, it’s helpful to understand how it fits into the broader landscape of outdoor power equipment. Depending on your specific needs, a different type of tool might be a better fit, or you may need accessories to complement your saw.

1. Oregon CS1400 15 Amp Electric Chainsaw

The Oregon CS1400 represents the corded electric alternative. Its primary advantage is unlimited runtime and consistent power output from its 15-amp motor, which never fades like a battery. It also boasts a larger 16-inch bar for tackling bigger logs. However, this power comes at the cost of mobility. You are forever tethered to an outlet by an extension cord, making it unsuitable for work far from the house or in dense woods. The FXAFXA offers near-comparable cutting power for its size class but with the supreme freedom to go anywhere. The Oregon CS1400 is a better choice for someone who does all their cutting in a small, fixed area, like a workshop or a small backyard right next to the house.

2. Husqvarna Classic Chainsaw Carrying Case

This isn’t a competing saw, but rather a vital accessory that highlights a point about tool care. While the FXAFXA generously includes a soft storage bag, a tool like a chainsaw is an investment that benefits from superior protection. A hard-sided case like the Husqvarna Classic offers robust protection against impacts, dust, and moisture during transport and storage. It prevents damage to the saw and, just as importantly, prevents the oily bar and sharp chain from damaging your vehicle or other items in your garage. For anyone who plans to transport their chainsaw frequently or wants the best possible long-term protection, upgrading from the included bag to a hard case is a very wise decision.

3. zozen Chainsaw Mill Portable Sawmill 14-36 inch

The Zozen Chainsaw Mill illustrates the difference in application and scale. The FXAFXA is a tool for subtraction: pruning, limbing, and bucking logs. A chainsaw mill, in contrast, is a tool for creation: it allows you to turn a log into usable lumber planks. This process, known as slabbing, requires a much larger, more powerful gas chainsaw (typically with a 24-inch bar or larger) and this specialized jig. The Zozen mill is for the advanced woodworker or homesteader looking to create their own building materials from fallen trees. It’s a completely different world from the quick cleanup and maintenance tasks where the lightweight and portable FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only truly excels.

The Final Cut: Is the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Chainsaw a Worthy Addition to Your M18 Arsenal?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear. For the homeowner already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery platform, the FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw Tool Only is not just a good choice; it’s an exceptional one. It delivers on every promise: it’s lightweight, surprisingly powerful, and incredibly convenient. The brushless motor chews through wood efficiently, the automatic oiler and tool-free tensioning add a layer of user-friendliness typically found on more expensive models, and the generous accessory package provides outstanding out-of-the-box value. It transforms daunting yard cleanup into a quick, manageable, and almost enjoyable task.

Yes, it has a minor quirk in its tendency for the bar nuts to vibrate loose, but this is easily managed with periodic checks and doesn’t detract from the saw’s overall stellar performance. It is the perfect tool for pruning, storm cleanup, and processing firewood up to 10 inches in diameter. If you’re tired of the hassles of gas and cords and want to leverage the batteries you already own, this chainsaw is a fantastic, cost-effective solution. We highly recommend it as a powerful and practical addition to any homeowner’s tool collection. If you’re ready to make your yard work easier, you can get your FXAFXA 12″ Brushless Electric Chainsaw here.