Milwaukee Mud Mixer with 180° Handle

The Milwaukee Mud Mixer with 180° Handle (model number 2810-20) is an intriguing addition to any professional’s or DIY enthusiast’s toolkit. As someone who has had the opportunity to use this versatile piece of equipment, I’ve found there are several standout features that make it a valuable asset, although it isn’t without its flaws.

First and foremost, the cordless nature of this mud mixer cannot be overstated in terms of convenience. No longer being tethered to an outlet while mixing heavy compounds like concrete, mortar, or drywall mud provides a level of flexibility that is incredibly useful on job sites—especially those without immediate access to power. The mixer is powered by Milwaukee’s M18 battery system which is known for its reliability and longevity. I tested it with a 5.0 Ah battery and found that it did indeed live up to its claim of mixing up to 15 five-gallon buckets on a single charge, although the type of material being mixed can affect this.

The motor packs a punch, offering robust performance that easily handles heavy-duty mixing tasks. With variable speed control via an 8-speed dial and a variable speed trigger, it’s easy to achieve the desired consistency for a variety of materials. The lock-on button for continuous running is another practical feature, allowing for more controlled and less strenuous mixing over extended periods.

A standout for me is the 180° adjustable handle. This feature brings a considerable amount of comfort and ergonomics to the table. Mixing compounds can be a physically demanding task, and being able to adjust the handle to multiple angles makes it easier to manage the tool’s weight and vibration, reducing user fatigue. The handle’s design also includes a conveniently stored chuck key, a thoughtful touch that ensures you won’t misplace it when you need to change bits.

However, my experience wasn’t entirely without issues. One of the more frustrating aspects was the tendency of the chuck to loosen when removing the paddle to clean off excess material. While it held firm during use, the chuck often required retightening afterward, a minor inconvenience but still noteworthy. Additionally, while the tool is marketed as being able to handle heavy compounds, I found that using wider mixing blades could sometimes overheat the tool, causing it to shut down. This was particularly evident when mixing thicker materials like epoxy-based compounds.

The tool’s weight is another aspect to consider. At 6 lbs, it is not exceptionally heavy, but the weight distribution can make it slightly unwieldy during prolonged use. Balancing the tool, especially when mixing heavier materials, can be a bit of a workout. The addition of an LED light is a nice touch, illuminating the mixing area to ensure there are no unwanted particles in the mix.

One of the more pleasant surprises was the mixer’s versatility. While it excelled in mixing drywall mud and thinset for tiling, it also performed admirably when used for mixing concrete and other heavy-duty materials. The brushless motor ensures consistent power delivery, reducing the likelihood of the tool bogging down under load.

In terms of durability, the mixer feels solidly built, with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of job site abuse. The 5-year limited warranty provides peace of mind that Milwaukee stands behind the durability and performance of their product.

On the downside, some users might find the mixer’s power insufficient for the heaviest of mixing tasks. While it performed well for me in most scenarios, there were moments when it struggled with particularly thick or heavy mixtures, requiring frequent pauses to reset. This could be a deal-breaker for those who routinely mix very dense materials and need a tool with more torque.

Storage and portability are other strong points in favor of the Milwaukee Mud Mixer. The included contractor bag is spacious and robust, with room to store the mixer, batteries, charger, and a few other small tools or accessories. This makes it easy to transport everything you need to the job site in one go.

In summary, the Milwaukee Mud Mixer with 180° Handle offers a blend of power, versatility, and convenience that makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Its cordless design, adjustable handle, and robust motor provide a high level of functionality and ease of use. While it has a few minor flaws, such as the chuck loosening and occasional overheating with wider mixing blades, these do not overshadow its overall performance and utility.

I would recommend this tool, particularly for those who value the freedom of cordless operation and need a reliable mixer for various compounds. It may not replace a corded mixer for the heaviest tasks, but it certainly holds its own in most applications, making it a solid choice for both professionals and serious DIYers.