Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit (model 2492-22) is a versatile and compact addition to any toolbox, especially for those who need reliable performance in tight spaces. The kit includes a 3/8” Drill/Driver and a Jobsite Radio, both powered by Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM™ technology, which promises consistent power and long battery life. After putting this combo kit through its paces, I’ve gathered some insights on its performance, ease of use, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this Milwaukee combo kit is its compact and lightweight design. The 3/8” Drill/Driver is particularly easy to handle, making it ideal for working in confined spaces. The metal single-sleeve chuck feels robust and provides a secure grip on drill bits, ensuring they stay in place during use. The overall build quality is what you’d expect from Milwaukee: solid, durable, and designed to withstand the rigors of jobsite use.

The Jobsite Radio, on the other hand, is a bit bulkier but still manageable. It’s designed to be rugged and can handle the bumps and drops that are inevitable in a work environment. The radio’s controls are intuitive, and the sound quality is surprisingly good for a tool-focused device. It’s a nice addition to have, especially for those long days on the job.

Performance

The 3/8” Drill/Driver is powered by the M12 battery system and delivers a maximum RPM of 1,500 and a peak torque of 275 in-lbs. In practical terms, this means the drill is more than capable of handling most light to medium-duty tasks. I found it particularly effective for drilling into wood, metal, and even some masonry tasks with the appropriate bits. The drill’s clutch settings are precise, allowing for fine control over the amount of torque applied, which is crucial for tasks that require a delicate touch.

One of the standout features of this drill is its work light, which is bright enough to illuminate the work area effectively. This is particularly useful when working in poorly lit spaces. The belt clip is another handy addition, making it easy to keep the drill within reach when you need both hands free.

The Jobsite Radio, while not a tool in the traditional sense, adds significant value to the kit. It’s powered by the same M12 battery system, which means you don’t need to worry about carrying multiple types of batteries or chargers. The radio’s reception is good, and it can easily fill a medium-sized work area with sound. It’s a great morale booster and helps keep the team motivated throughout the day.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit includes two 1.5 Ah M12 batteries and an M12™ Lithium-ion Battery Charger. The batteries provide a decent runtime, especially considering the compact size of the tools. I was able to get through a full day of light to medium-duty tasks on a single charge. For heavier tasks, you might need to swap out batteries more frequently, but the charger works quickly, so downtime is minimal.

One tip I’d recommend is to invest in a larger capacity battery for more demanding jobs. The larger batteries not only provide longer runtime but also a bit more power, which can be beneficial for tougher tasks.

Ease of Use

One of the best things about this combo kit is how user-friendly it is. The drill/driver’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue during extended use. The controls are straightforward, and the clutch settings are easy to adjust, even with gloves on. The Jobsite Radio’s controls are similarly intuitive, making it simple to switch between stations or adjust the volume on the fly.

Value for Money

In terms of value, the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit offers a lot of bang for your buck. The inclusion of both a high-quality drill/driver and a rugged jobsite radio makes this kit a versatile addition to any toolbox. The performance of the drill/driver is impressive for its size, and the jobsite radio adds a level of convenience and enjoyment that shouldn’t be underestimated.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I highly recommend the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit for anyone in need of a reliable, compact, and versatile set of tools. The drill/driver’s performance is more than adequate for most light to medium-duty tasks, and its compact design makes it a joy to use in tight spaces. The jobsite radio is a fantastic bonus, providing good sound quality and rugged durability.

While the kit is not without its limitations—such as the battery life during heavy-duty tasks and the somewhat bulky radio—it offers excellent value for money and performs admirably in a variety of scenarios. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this Milwaukee combo kit is a solid investment that will serve you well for years to come.