Milwaukee 10-Piece Combo Kit

Exploring the extensive capabilities of Milwaukee's 10-Piece Combo Kit (model 2695-10CX) has been quite the enlightening experience. As someone who's tackled both commercial and residential projects, having a comprehensive set of reliable tools is paramount. This kit delivers on many fronts, boasting a lineup that includes a drill/driver, impact driver, right angle drill, reciprocating saw, cut-off/grinder, oscillating multi-tool, circular saw, high-torque impact wrench, compact blower, and a work light, all powered by the M18 battery system. Let's break down the key aspects of this kit to assess its true value.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout aspects of Milwaukee's tools is their robust build quality, and this combo kit doesn't disappoint. Each tool feels solid in hand, constructed with durable materials that promise longevity. The compact design of these tools enhances their accessibility, particularly in tight spaces where bulkier tools would struggle. This is a critical advantage for anyone working in confined areas or on intricate tasks.

The 4-Pole Frameless Motor incorporated in these tools is a game-changer, providing enhanced power and speed. Whether you're drilling into tough materials or cutting through dense wood, the performance is consistently reliable. The REDLINK™ Intelligence system is another thoughtful feature, optimizing performance and offering overload protection to extend the lifespan of each tool.

Performance and Versatility

Performance across the board is impressive. The drill/driver and impact driver, for instance, offer sufficient power for a wide range of applications. The drill/driver is particularly adept at handling both standard and challenging drilling tasks, while the impact driver delivers a respectable amount of torque, making it perfect for driving screws into tougher materials.

The right angle drill is a notable inclusion, providing access to hard-to-reach areas that standard drills can't manage. Meanwhile, the reciprocating saw and cut-off/grinder are workhorses in their own right, capable of slicing through various materials with ease. The oscillating multi-tool, circular saw, and high-torque impact wrench further enhance the kit's versatility, ensuring that you're well-equipped for almost any task that comes your way.

A particularly useful addition is the compact blower, which is perfect for quick clean-ups on the job site. The work light, though a simple tool, is incredibly handy, providing ample illumination in dimly lit areas.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit comes with multiple battery options, which is a lifesaver for extended projects. The M18 battery system is known for its reliability and long runtime, which means fewer interruptions to swap out batteries. Additionally, the inclusion of an extra charger ensures that you always have a charged battery ready to go, minimizing downtime.

Areas for Improvement

While the kit is predominantly impressive, a few areas could use improvement. The portaband saw, for example, is the smallest model offered by Milwaukee. While it might suffice for light tasks, it falls short for more demanding applications. A larger portaband saw would have made this kit even more robust.

Another minor drawback is the lack of a saw blade with the bandsaw. It's a small oversight, but one that can cause inconvenience if you're not prepared with spare blades. Additionally, for those who prefer their tools neatly organized, the kit doesn't come with a custom storage solution that fits into a standard 2'x4' gang box, which could be a useful addition for professionals who need to transport their tools frequently.

Overall Value

In terms of value, the Milwaukee 10-Piece Combo Kit offers an extensive array of tools that cover a broad range of applications. The build quality, performance, and versatility of each tool make this kit a worthy investment for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. The five-year limited warranty further adds to the peace of mind, ensuring that you're covered in case of any issues.

Final Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 10-Piece Combo Kit? Absolutely. The combination of robust build quality, impressive performance, and comprehensive tool selection makes it a standout choice for anyone in need of a reliable toolset. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall benefits far outweigh these small drawbacks.

This kit is particularly suited for those who need a versatile and reliable set of tools that can handle a wide range of tasks, from heavy-duty construction to detailed craftsmanship. If you're looking to invest in a toolset that will serve you well for years to come, the Milwaukee 10-Piece Combo Kit is a solid choice.