Milwaukee Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill

As an electrician and frequent user of various power tools, the Milwaukee Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill has proven to be a compelling addition to my toolkit. At first glance, its brushless motor and advanced electronics are immediately apparent, promising enhanced power and speed. But the true measure of any tool comes from its performance on the job site, and this drill does not disappoint.

The Hole Hawg is designed with a lightweight and compact form factor, making it remarkably easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, it's balanced well enough to handle overhead tasks without causing excessive fatigue. The ergonomic top handle also deserves a shoutout for its comfortable grip, which is a significant plus when you're working long hours.

One of the standout features of the Hole Hawg is its ability to drill up to 220 holes of 7/8" diameter on a single charge. This impressive battery life is thanks to Milwaukee's M18™ battery system, which is compatible with all M18™ batteries. During my basement renovation project, I found that I could drill through multiple studs without needing to recharge frequently, which was both a time-saver and a productivity booster.

The drill's all-metal 1/2" keyed chuck offers a reliable grip on accessories, ensuring that bits don't slip during operation. The on-board storage for the chuck key is a thoughtful touch, keeping it accessible and reducing the chances of losing it. The maximum RPM of 1500 combined with the variable speed control via the trigger provides the flexibility to adjust to different materials and drilling conditions.

However, it's not all smooth sailing. The drill does have a tendency to stall out under heavy-duty applications, such as drilling through thicker or denser materials. This seems to be a built-in safety feature to protect both the tool and the user, but it can be frustrating when you're in the middle of a job. For instance, while trying to drill through an 8x8 lumber piling with a 17.5” auger drill bit, I found that the tool used up a 12Ah battery surprisingly quickly and stalled several times. This limitation suggests that the Hole Hawg is best suited for lighter duty tasks rather than heavy-duty applications.

Despite these limitations, the drill performs admirably for most standard tasks. The built-in LED light is another excellent feature, providing ample illumination for dimly lit areas, which is often the case when working between floor joists or in basements. The variable speed control allows for precise operation, making it easier to start holes accurately and avoid walking bits.

In terms of build quality, the Hole Hawg lives up to Milwaukee's reputation. The rugged construction and high-quality materials used in its design can withstand the rigors of daily use on a busy job site. The tool feels solid and durable, which is reassuring when you're investing in professional-grade equipment.

For tradesmen like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, the Hole Hawg offers a practical and efficient solution for drilling large numbers of holes quickly and efficiently. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for tight spaces and overhead work, while its powerful motor ensures it can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

That said, if your work frequently involves drilling through extremely thick or dense materials, you might find the Hole Hawg's stalling issue to be a significant drawback. In such cases, a corded model might be a more reliable choice. However, for most standard applications, the convenience of a cordless tool outweighs the occasional need for more power.

Overall, I would recommend the Milwaukee Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill for its balance of power, portability, and ease of use. It's a versatile and reliable tool that meets the demands of professional tradesmen while offering the convenience of cordless operation. Its minor drawbacks are outweighed by its many strengths, making it a worthy addition to any professional's toolkit.