Milwaukee Cordless LITHIUM-ION 4-Tool Combo Kit

As someone who has spent considerable time working with various power tools, I was eager to get my hands on the Milwaukee Cordless LITHIUM-ION 4-Tool Combo Kit, model 2407-22C. Milwaukee has a solid reputation in the industry, and this combo kit promised to be a versatile addition to my toolkit. After using it extensively on a range of projects, I feel well-equipped to share my thoughts on its performance and practicality.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon unboxing, the kit includes a drill/driver, jig saw, multi-tool, work light, two 1.5Ah batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag. The first thing that caught my attention was the compact and lightweight design of each tool. This is particularly beneficial for someone who often works in confined spaces or needs to transport tools frequently.

Drill/Driver: Reliable and Sturdy

The drill/driver comes with a 3/8” all-metal locking chuck and delivers 275 in-lbs of torque. I found it to be robust and reliable for most light to medium-duty tasks. The all-metal chuck provides a firm grip on bits, ensuring they don't slip during operation. Its compact size and lightweight nature (2.4 lbs) make it easy to handle, even during extended use. The lack of included drill bits was a minor inconvenience, but the performance of the drill itself was impressive, offering sufficient power and control for various applications.

Jig Saw: Efficient but Needs Improvement

The jig saw in this kit features a QUIK-LOK™ T-Shank blade clamp, which makes blade changes quick and easy. It operates at 0-2800 SPM and has a stroke length of 3/4 inches. While it cuts efficiently through various materials, I noticed it lacks a mechanism to blow away sawdust from the cutting line. This can obscure your view and make precision cuts more challenging. Despite this drawback, the jig saw is compact and lightweight, making it suitable for smaller, more intricate tasks.

Multi-Tool: Versatile but Basic

The multi-tool is perhaps the most versatile component of this kit. It can handle a range of tasks, including cutting, grinding, sanding, and scraping. The tool operates at 5,000 to 20,000 OPM, and the speed dial allows for easy adjustments based on the task at hand. However, changing attachments requires a wrench, which is less convenient compared to some other models that offer tool-free accessory changes. Despite this, the multi-tool performs well for various light-duty tasks and includes a universal adapter for compatibility with other brands' accessories.

Work Light: Surprisingly Useful

The work light was a pleasant surprise. It features TRUEVIEW™ High Definition output and a 90° rotating head, making it highly adaptable for different lighting needs. The built-in magnet allows it to attach to metal surfaces, freeing up your hands for other tasks. With a brightness of 100 lumens, it’s more than adequate for illuminating workspaces, especially in darker or confined areas.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit comes with two 1.5Ah batteries, which I found to be sufficient for most short to medium-duration tasks. However, for more extended projects, you might find yourself needing additional or higher-capacity batteries. The batteries charge relatively quickly, allowing you to minimize downtime between tasks. One notable aspect is the battery life indicator on the tools, which helps in planning work sessions more efficiently.

Carrying Bag: Functional but Basic

The carrying bag included in the kit is functional but not particularly robust. It fits all the tools, batteries, and charger comfortably, but it lacks additional pockets for organizing smaller accessories. While it serves its purpose for transport, it might not withstand heavy daily use without showing signs of wear.

Overall Performance and Value

In terms of overall performance, the Milwaukee Cordless LITHIUM-ION 4-Tool Combo Kit offers a lot of value for its price. Each tool is designed to handle specific tasks efficiently, and their compact, lightweight nature makes them ideal for various applications, from home improvement projects to professional use in tight spaces. The build quality is consistent with Milwaukee's reputation, and the five-year limited warranty provides additional peace of mind.

Areas for Improvement

While the kit offers excellent value, there are a few areas where it could be improved:
1. Dust Management on Jig Saw: A mechanism to clear sawdust from the cutting line would significantly enhance the jig saw's usability.
2. Tool-Free Accessory Changes on Multi-Tool: Implementing a tool-free system for changing multi-tool attachments would make it more convenient and user-friendly.
3. Battery Capacity: Including higher-capacity batteries or offering an option to upgrade would benefit users who need extended runtime.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Cordless LITHIUM-ION 4-Tool Combo Kit? Absolutely. It’s a versatile, reliable, and high-quality set of tools that offers excellent value for its price. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall performance and practicality of the kit make it a worthwhile investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're looking to expand your tool collection or need a reliable set for various tasks, this combo kit is a strong contender.