Milwaukee M12 Copper Cutter

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As a plumber, remodeling contractor, or DIYer, you know the importance of having the right tools for the job. That’s where the Milwaukee M12 Copper Cutter comes in. This innovative tool is designed to make your job easier, faster, and more efficient.

We tested this Copper Tubing Cutter on a couple of bathroom remodels and found the following benefits.

1. Precision Cutting: The M12 Copper Cutter features a precision cutting mechanism that produced accurate cuts every time. The deburring required was similar to your average manual cutting wheel.
2. Versatility: This cutter automatically adjusts to different copper pipe sizes from 3/8″-1″ eliminating the need to carry multiple cutting wheels.
3. Easy to Use: The M12 Copper Cutter is easy to operate, even in tight spaces, thanks to its lightweight and inline design. Great for replacing shower line, etc.
4. Durability: The M12 Copper Cutter seems built to last, with a metal cutting head that is corrosion and rust resistant, and sealed for water protection. I wouldn’t submerge it in water but we got it wet cutting out a shower valve and it still works.

Feature Round-Up

Okay, so the Milwuakee M12 Copper Cutter has a light, view window, fuel gauge, is water resistant, cuts 3/8″-1″ pipe to within 1-1/2″ of the wall and is 10-X faster than a manual cutter. Pretty sweet!

Specifications

• Cutting Mechanism: Automatically adjusts diameter to cut Type K, L and M copper pipes from 3/8” to 1” (OD from ½” to 1-1/8”)
• Motor: 500 RPM
• Battery: Milwaukee M12 lithium-ion battery system
• Weight: 2.8 lbs
• Warranty: 5 years

What can’t it do?

Unfortunately for my friends in the HVAC business the Milwaukee M12 Copper cutter will not cut the AC line seen below with its 3/8″ outside dimension. It will cut the pipe in my hand with its 3/8″ outside dimension.

And for the sparkies, the Milwaukee M12 Copper Cutter will not cut 1/2″ EMT (seen below). For electric and HVAC there’s a UK version of this tool called the Raptor that reportedly will handle EMT and refrigerant line and we’ll let you know if that version comes to the US. Not holding my breath though.

Compared to DeWalt

DeWalt’s 1/2″ to 1″ Copper Cutter Attachment for impact drivers requires you to carry 3 cutting wheels: 1/2″ 3/4″ and 1″ in addition to the attachment and attachment base.

In contrast, the Milwaukee Copper Cutter is a small self contained unit. It’s also MUCH quieter.

All that said, while the Milwaukee is 10X faster than a manual cutter, the DeWalt is a bit faster still.

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Bottom Line

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The Milwaukee M12 Copper Cutter is an excellent tool for plumbers and remodelers. It’s fun to use, efficient, versatile, and it will save your wrists. Hopefully, we’ll see the UK Raptor version here in the States at some point. Until then, I prefer Milwaukee’s cutter over the competition. If you’re not invested in the M12 platform and are looking for a power cutter, the DeWalt might be the better option.

To see this tool in action check out this video: See ya!