Milwaukee M18 4 Tool Combo Kit

Milwaukee has long been a staple in the tool industry, known for its reliable and high-performance products. The M18 4 Tool Combo Kit, model 3693-24CX, certainly lives up to this reputation. As someone who frequently tackles various home improvement projects, I found this combo kit to be a versatile and efficient addition to my tool collection.

Versatile and Compact Design

One of the standout features of this Milwaukee kit is its compact design. The hammer drill and impact driver are particularly noteworthy for their small size, making them ideal for tight spaces. Measuring just 5.8 inches in length and weighing 2.3 lbs, the hammer drill is easy to maneuver and doesn't cause fatigue during prolonged use. Similarly, the impact driver, at 4.4 inches and 1.7 lbs, is lightweight yet powerful, making it a go-to tool for driving screws with ease.

Brushless Motors for Enhanced Performance

All four tools in this kit are equipped with brushless motors, which are known for their efficiency and longevity. The brushless motor technology ensures that these tools run cooler and last longer than their brushed counterparts. This feature is particularly beneficial for the circular saw and reciprocating saw, which often face heavy-duty tasks. The circular saw, with its 5000 RPM and 2-1/2 inch cut depth, handles a variety of cutting tasks effortlessly. The reciprocating saw, capable of 0-3000 strokes per minute, is versatile enough to cut through wood, metal, and other materials with ease.

REDLINK Intelligence

Milwaukee's REDLINK Intelligence is another feature that sets this kit apart. This advanced system ensures optimized performance and protection from overload, overheating, and over-discharge. This feature is particularly useful for those who use their tools intensively, as it helps to prolong the life of both the tools and the batteries.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit comes with two batteries: a 4.0 Ah and a 2.0 Ah, along with an M18 and M12 Multi-Volt Charger. The larger 4.0 Ah battery is excellent for tasks that require more power and longer runtime, while the 2.0 Ah battery is perfect for lighter tasks. The charger is versatile and efficient, accommodating both M18 and M12 batteries, which adds to the convenience.

However, it's worth noting that some users have reported issues with battery life. While I found the batteries to be adequate for most tasks, they did drain faster under heavy use. This is something to consider if you plan to use the tools for extended periods without breaks.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of these tools is impressive. The circular saw features a substantial metal shoe, which adds to its durability and stability during cuts. The impact driver and hammer drill both feel solid and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The reciprocating saw, or Hackzall, is particularly robust, making it suitable for demolition work and other heavy-duty tasks.

Ease of Use

The tools in this kit are designed with user convenience in mind. Each tool is equipped with LED work lights, which are incredibly helpful when working in dimly lit areas. The compact size and lightweight design of the hammer drill and impact driver make them easy to handle, even for extended periods. The circular saw and reciprocating saw are also straightforward to use, with intuitive controls and ergonomic designs.

Minor Drawbacks

While the M18 4 Tool Combo Kit is largely impressive, it does have a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, the kit does not include instructions for the reciprocating saw, which could be a minor inconvenience for those unfamiliar with its operation. Additionally, the kit comes with a tool bag rather than a more durable and organized storage solution like the Milwaukee pack-out boxes. While the bag is functional, it doesn't offer the same level of organization and protection as a hard case.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee M18 4 Tool Combo Kit is a remarkable set of tools that offers versatility, power, and convenience. The compact design and brushless motors make these tools efficient and easy to use, while the REDLINK Intelligence adds an extra layer of protection and performance optimization. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as battery life and the lack of a hard case, this kit is an excellent investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

I would highly recommend the Milwaukee M18 4 Tool Combo Kit to anyone in need of a reliable and versatile set of tools. The combination of compact design, powerful performance, and advanced features makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're tackling home improvement projects or professional tasks, this kit is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.