Chainsaws are a staple for homeowners and professionals tackling everything from storm cleanup to tree maintenance. But a recent recall of nearly 100,000 Milwaukee M18 FUEL chainsaws has cast a spotlight on the hidden dangers that can lurk in even the most trusted tools. The recall, triggered by a critical safety failure, has left users across North America scrambling to check their equipment and underscores the importance of robust safety mechanisms in power tools.
A Fault That Couldn’t Be Ignored
The recall centers on Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL 12-inch and 14-inch Top Handle Chainsaws, catalog #2826-20, sold primarily at Home Depot and through other retailers from March 2023 to September 2024. These battery-powered saws, marketed for their portability and professional-grade performance, became popular among landscapers, arborists, and homeowners. However, two alarming incidents—one resulting in a severe finger laceration—revealed a dangerous flaw: the chain brake, designed to stop the blade instantly during kickback, could fail without warning.
Engineers confirmed that the defect could appear unpredictably, making the emergency brake unreliable. This discovery prompted Milwaukee Tool and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to issue an immediate recall, advising all owners to stop using the affected chainsaws.
Identifying the Risk
Owners can determine if their chainsaw is part of the recall by checking the serial number on the product label. If the fourth character is an “A,” the unit is affected and should be set aside immediately. Milwaukee Tool’s website provides detailed instructions for identification and registration. The recall covers 98,360 units in North America, including 7,500 in Canada, where authorities have mirrored the U.S. response.
The chain brake is a critical safety feature, acting as the last line of defense against injury during kickback—a sudden, forceful movement of the saw that can propel the blade toward the user. When this mechanism fails, even experienced operators have little chance to react in time, turning routine yard work into a potential emergency.
A Recall Despite Few Incidents
While only two failures have been reported among nearly 100,000 chainsaws sold, the severity of the risk prompted a sweeping recall. CPSC officials emphasize that even a single defective safety brake can have catastrophic consequences, justifying the large-scale response. The recall was publicly announced on October 30, 2025, about 19 months after the first units reached consumers. This timeline has raised questions about how many near-misses may have gone unreported and whether earlier detection could have prevented injuries.
Home Depot, the largest distributor, along with independent dealers and online marketplaces, has been instructed to remove affected chainsaws from shelves and notify customers through purchase records and email alerts. Store signage and online notifications are being used to maximize awareness.
Repair and Response
To address the hazard, Milwaukee Tool is offering free repairs for all recalled chainsaws. Owners can register their tools on the company’s recall portal by entering the serial number and contact information. Once registered, they receive prepaid shipping labels to send their chainsaw to an authorized service center, where technicians will inspect and replace the faulty chain brake assembly at no cost. The company has streamlined the process to encourage maximum participation, emphasizing that repaired units can be safely used again.
The recall extends to Canada, where the same repair and registration process applies. Authorities in both countries urge owners to act immediately, even if their chainsaw appears to function normally, as defects may not be visible until a failure occurs.
Industry Implications and Safety Lessons
The M18 FUEL recall highlights the delicate balance between innovation and safety in power tool design. While cordless technology has revolutionized convenience and performance, the incident demonstrates that even advanced engineering can overlook critical safety components. The recall also underscores the importance of prompt reporting and robust oversight by agencies like the CPSC, which coordinated the recall and ensured compliance with federal safety standards.
For the diverse group of users who rely on these chainsaws—from professional arborists to weekend gardeners—the stakes are high. The broad user base means that any unresolved defect could have far-reaching consequences.
Looking Ahead
As the recall unfolds, the focus remains on preventing further injuries and restoring confidence in a trusted brand. Owners are urged to check their serial numbers, stop using affected chainsaws, and participate in the free repair program. The incident serves as a reminder that safety must always come first, especially when a split-second mechanical failure can have life-altering consequences. The industry will be watching closely to see how manufacturers and regulators respond to ensure that innovation never comes at the expense of user protection.