FIELD NOTES

THE FIELD NOTES

Guides, compatibility notes, gear reviews and how-tos for the DIY garage. For M18, M12 and DeWalt 20V tool owners.

Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE impact driver countersink bit set
UNIVERSAL

Impact Driver Countersink Bits for Deck Screws: What Works (and What Snaps)

Impact-rated ¼" hex countersink bits at 82° work in any M12, M18, or 20V MAX. Here's what fits, what snaps, and which sets to...

JUL 10, 2026
Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE impact driver bit set
UNIVERSAL

Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE vs DeWalt MAXFIT Impact Bits: Which One Should You Actually Buy?

SHOCKWAVE or MAXFIT? A pro's verdict — which impact bit lasts longer, when the wider MAXFIT tip is a trade-off, and why driver brand...

JUL 09, 2026
Milwaukee Carbide Thin-Kerf Circular Saw Blade 7-1/4"
UNIVERSAL

Thin Kerf vs Full Kerf Circular Saw Blades: Which One Belongs on a Cordless Saw?

Thin kerf or full kerf on a cordless circular saw? Which cuts faster, lasts longer, and stretches your battery — with the specs to...

JUL 09, 2026
Milwaukee M18 SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw
UNIVERSAL

Reciprocating Saw Blade Compatibility: Do Blades From Any Brand Fit Any Saw?

T-shank blades from any brand fit any current recip saw. What's compatible, what isn't, and how to pick the right TPI for your job.

JUL 09, 2026
Circular Saw Blade Tooth Count Guide: Which Count for Every Cut
UNIVERSAL

Circular Saw Blade Tooth Count Guide: Which Count for Every Cut

24T for framing, 40T for plywood, 60T for finish cuts — and on cordless, always thin-kerf. The complete tooth count guide for M18 and...

JUL 07, 2026
Magnetic Bit Holder: Milwaukee and DeWalt Compatible? Yes — Here's the Spec That Makes It Work
UNIVERSAL

Magnetic Bit Holder: Milwaukee and DeWalt Compatible? Yes — Here's the Spec That Makes It Work

A 1/4" hex magnetic bit holder fits every Milwaukee M18 and DeWalt 20V MAX impact driver. Here's why, what to look for, and our...

JUL 07, 2026
Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM Forge HD12 battery
UNIVERSAL

Milwaukee Forge HD12 vs DeWalt FlexVolt 12Ah: Which Big Battery Wins in 2026?

Milwaukee Forge HD12 or DeWalt FlexVolt 12Ah? Real charge times, on-tool weight, and which flagship 12Ah battery is worth the money for your platform.

JUL 06, 2026