Milwaukee 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer w/ ONE-KEY™ Kit

A rotary hammer is one of those essential power tools that can make a world of difference on the job site, especially when working with concrete and masonry. That's why I was particularly excited to get my hands on the Milwaukee 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with ONE-KEY™ Kit (2915-22). Milwaukee has long been a trusted brand in the power tool industry, and I was eager to see if this tool lived up to its reputation.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this rotary hammer is its size. This tool is a beast. It’s substantial in every sense, from its weight to its build quality. Weighing in at 15.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest tool in its category, but the weight does contribute to a feeling of solid construction and durability. The dimensions also make it a bit cumbersome, especially when maneuvering in tighter spaces or during prolonged use.

The tool features a well-designed handle and grip, which makes it easier to manage despite its heft. The AVS Anti-Vibration System is a notable feature that does a commendable job of reducing user fatigue. Given the power this rotary hammer packs, the reduced vibration is a welcome relief, particularly during longer drilling sessions.

Performance

Performance-wise, this rotary hammer does not disappoint. It boasts an impact energy of 3.6 ft-lbs, a no-load speed of 800 RPM, and 4600 BPM (blows per minute). These specifications translate to superior drilling speed and efficiency. Whether I was drilling into concrete, brick, or even wood, this tool handled it all with ease. The SDS Plus chuck system allows for quick bit changes, which is a must-have feature for anyone who needs to switch between tasks rapidly.

One of the standout features is the AUTOSTOP™ Kickback Control. This safety feature prevents over-rotation, thereby reducing the risk of injury. The tool also includes a dust extraction system, which is a fantastic addition for maintaining a cleaner work environment and minimizing respiratory hazards. However, I did find that the vacuum function could be more effective. It’s not entirely useless, but it doesn’t capture all the dust, especially when drilling horizontally or in tight spaces.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a crucial factor when considering cordless tools. The Milwaukee 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer is compatible with M18™ HIGH OUTPUT™ batteries, and I used an 8.0 amp battery during my testing. Milwaukee claims that the tool can drill up to 50 holes per charge, but my experience was a bit different. Drilling 5/8 inch holes in older concrete, I found that the battery life was roughly half of what was advertised. While this could be due to the density of the material, it's something to consider if you’re planning extensive drilling tasks.

However, the battery life was still impressive considering the power output of the tool. I rarely found myself running out of juice mid-task, and having a couple of spare batteries on hand mitigated any downtime.

Usability

Using this rotary hammer is straightforward, although it does come with a learning curve if you’re new to such powerful tools. The tool's weight can become a factor after prolonged use, so it’s essential to take breaks to avoid fatigue. One minor inconvenience is the safety switch. The middle position is not very obvious, making it easy to accidentally switch the tool on or off when putting it down or picking it up. This could be improved with a more intuitive design.

The ONE-KEY™ feature deserves a mention as well. This Bluetooth-enabled technology allows you to customize and track your tool through an app. While it might seem like a gimmick to some, I found it genuinely useful for keeping track of usage statistics and ensuring the tool is always in optimal condition.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful Performance: Drills through concrete and masonry with ease.
• Build Quality: Solid and durable construction.
• Safety Features: AUTOSTOP™ Kickback Control and AVS Anti-Vibration System enhance user safety and comfort.
• Versatility: Compatible with M18™ HIGH OUTPUT™ batteries and features a quick-change SDS Plus chuck.
• ONE-KEY™ Technology: Useful for tracking and customizing tool settings.

Cons

• Weight: At 15.5 lbs, it can become cumbersome during prolonged use.
• Battery Life: Not as long-lasting as advertised, especially in older, denser concrete.
• Dust Extraction: The vacuum system is not fully effective in all scenarios.
• Safety Switch: The middle safety position is not intuitive, leading to accidental activations.

Conclusion

After extensive use, I can confidently say that the Milwaukee 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer is a highly capable tool that excels in power and performance. It’s particularly well-suited for professionals who need a reliable, robust rotary hammer for demanding tasks. The advanced safety features and anti-vibration system make it a user-friendly option, despite its weight.

However, it's not without its flaws. The dust extraction system needs improvement, and the tool’s weight can be a drawback for some users. The battery life, while generally good, might fall short of expectations depending on the material being drilled.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, but with some reservations. If you’re a professional or a serious DIYer who needs a powerful, versatile rotary hammer and can manage its weight, this tool will serve you well. Just be prepared to invest in extra batteries and perhaps a more effective dust extraction solution for optimum performance.