The Milwaukee M12 brushed jigsaw is a compact and versatile cordless cutting tool designed for light to medium-duty applications. Its balance between power and precision makes it ideal for carpentry, home projects, and professional installations. One of the most important factors affecting its performance is blade compatibility. Using the correct blade ensures clean cuts, longer tool life, and smoother operation across different materials. From my own experience, even a great jigsaw performs poorly with the wrong blade type, the cut wanders, edges burn, or material chips easily. Understanding which blades the M12 brushed jigsaw uses, how to fit them, and which materials they’re designed for is key to getting consistent, high-quality results.
Blade Type Used by the M12 Brushed Jigsaw
The Milwaukee M12 brushed jigsaw uses T-shank jigsaw blades, which are the industry standard for most modern jigsaws. Its tool-free blade clamp makes changing blades fast and secure, fitting the majority of T-shank designs available from leading brands. These blades lock firmly into the chuck, preventing slippage during operation and allowing for more precise cutting control.
U-shank blades are not compatible with the M12 brushed jigsaw unless you use a special adapter, which is generally not recommended due to reduced stability. Always confirm your jigsaw’s model number, such as 2445-20 or 2445-21, to ensure you’re purchasing the correct blades.
“Using a T-shank blade ensures the best fit and performance, they’re designed for rigidity and easy changes without tools,” says Mark Petersen, tool reviewer at Pro Tool Reviews.
Compatible Blade Materials & Applications
For Wood Cutting
For cutting softwoods and general-purpose lumber, choose high-carbon steel (HCS) blades. They offer flexibility and sharpness ideal for fast, rough cuts. When working with hardwood, plywood, or laminated panels, switch to bi-metal or precision wood blades for improved durability and cleaner results. These blade types resist heat and stay sharper longer under heavy use.
For Metal Cutting
When cutting metal, select high-speed steel (HSS) or bi-metal blades that can withstand higher temperatures and friction. Look for blades with 18–24 TPI (teeth per inch) for thin sheet metal or aluminum, and lower TPI counts for thicker metal sections. Proper blade selection minimizes vibration and extends the tool’s lifespan.
For Plastic, PVC, and Plexiglass
For plastics, PVC, or plexiglass, use specialty blades rated for acrylic or non-ferrous materials. Maintain a slow cutting speed to avoid melting or fusing the material to the blade. Using masking tape along the cut line also helps prevent chipping or surface damage on transparent materials.
Blade Size & TPI Recommendations
The standard blade length for the M12 brushed jigsaw is between 3 and 4 inches, which provides the best balance between reach and control. Longer blades may introduce flex and chatter, reducing cut precision and potentially damaging the workpiece.
Tooth count plays a major role in cut quality. For fast, rough wood cuts, use blades with 6–10 TPI. For smooth wood or plastic cuts, choose 12–20 TPI, while 18–24 TPI is best for metal or fine trimming. Always match your blade to the material for smoother performance and fewer imperfections.
“Cut quality depends more on matching the right TPI than the tool itself, let the blade’s design do the work,” explains Bob Flexner, materials specialist and woodworking author.
How to Change Blades on the M12 Brushed Jigsaw?
Before changing blades, remove the battery to prevent accidental activation. Pull up the quick-release lever located on the front clamp to open the blade holder. Insert the T-shank blade into the slot until it clicks into place, ensuring the teeth face forward in the cutting direction. Release the lever to secure the blade and give it a gentle pull to confirm it’s locked. Reinstall the battery and make a short test cut on scrap material to verify that the blade tracks properly and doesn’t wobble. This quick process keeps blade swaps safe and efficient.
Best Practices When Using Blades with the M12 Brushed Jigsaw
The most effective way to get consistent results from the M12 brushed jigsaw is to match the blade to the material every time. Using a wood blade on metal or plastic shortens its life and can damage both the blade and motor. Keep your blades clean and free from resin or pitch buildup, as these residues can cause drag and overheating.
Store spare blades flat and dry to prevent rust or bending, and inspect them before installation for chipped teeth or cracks. Replace blades at the first sign of dullness or poor performance, a fresh, sharp blade makes cutting smoother, faster, and safer.
FAQs
What kind of blades does the M12 brushed jigsaw take?
The M12 brushed jigsaw uses standard T-shank jigsaw blades, which fit securely into its quick-release clamp system.
Can I use U-shank blades in the M12 brushed jigsaw?
No, the M12 brushed jigsaw is designed for T-shank blades only. U-shank blades will not lock properly without an adapter.
What is the best blade for cutting wood with the M12 brushed jigsaw?
Use high-carbon steel or bi-metal T-shank blades with 6–10 TPI for fast wood cuts or 12–20 TPI for smoother finishes.
What kind of blades should I use for metal on the M12 brushed jigsaw?
Choose high-speed steel or bi-metal T-shank blades with 18–24 TPI for sheet metal or thin tubing.
Can the M12 brushed jigsaw cut plastic or plexiglass?
Yes, with a fine-tooth acrylic or plastic blade and lower cutting speed to prevent melting.
Are the M12 brushed jigsaw blades interchangeable with other Milwaukee jigsaws?
Yes, any Milwaukee jigsaw that uses T-shank blades (including M18 and Fuel models) can use the same blade sets.
How do I know when to replace a blade in the M12 brushed jigsaw?
Replace the blade when cuts become rough, slow, or produce excess heat or vibration, signs of dullness or tooth wear.
Final Takeaways
The Milwaukee M12 brushed jigsaw takes T-shank blades, known for their secure fit and universal compatibility. Choosing the right blade material and TPI ensures better performance and longer tool life, HCS for wood, HSS or bi-metal for metal, and acrylic-rated blades for plastics. Always remove the battery before changing blades, verify correct fit and direction, and test before cutting. By keeping blades clean, sharp, and properly matched to your project, you’ll get precise, clean cuts every time while protecting both the tool and your materials.
his personal experience and loves to share their nitty gritty details with his audience.
Although Richard does focus on other home improvement tools, his focus remains on cutting fallen trees or maintaining his backyard via chainsaw tools. He pledges to come up with new knowledge about chainsaws every once in a while.
- What Kind of Blades Does the M12 Brushed Jigsaw Take? - October 28, 2025
- How to Cut Plexiglass with a Jigsaw? - October 28, 2025
- How to Change a Scroll Saw Blade? - October 23, 2025