Which kit is better for a first power tool set?

The 5-tool kit. It covers drilling, driving, demo and crosscuts with the circular saw, so you need fewer extra purchases.

Is the HACKZALL better than the SAWZALL?

For one-handed cuts overhead or in tight spots, yes. The SAWZALL has a longer 1-1/4 in. stroke for heavier demolition.

Do both kits use the same batteries?

Yes. Both include two M18 XC5.0 batteries and an M18/M12 charger, and both work with the 250+ tool M18 system.

Is the 3-tool kit worth the extra?

It is not extra right now: $399.00 versus $399.99 as of November 3. You pay about the same and trade the circular saw and light for the HACKZALL and less weight.

Which is better for a homeowner with a circular saw already?

The 3-tool kit. You skip a duplicate saw and get the compact recip saw plus a lighter bag.

How often do these kits go on sale?

Both move a lot: the 5-tool kit hit $399.00 on October 31 and $799.00 on November 1, and the 3-tool kit hit $248.75 on November 2. Check the price history before buying.

M18 FUEL 5-Tool Combo Kit vs Milwaukee M18 3-Tool Combo Kit (Hammer Drill, Impact Driver, Hackzall)

Buy the 5-tool kit if you want the most tools for the money: it adds a 6-1/2 in. circular saw and an LED work light to the drill, impact driver and recip saw. Buy the 3-tool kit if you already own a circular saw or want the one-handed HACKZALL. At the latest prices they are nearly identical: $399.99 at WoodArtSupply as of November 3 for the 5-tool kit and $399.00 at The Home Depot as of November 3 for the 3-tool kit. The 5-tool kit has dropped as low as $399.00 and spiked to $799.00, so check the price history before you buy.

Today the Milwaukee M18 3-Tool Combo Kit (Hammer Drill, Impact Driver, Hackzall) costs $0.99 less at its best price.

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