Milwaukee ROCKET Tower Light/Charger

Having used Milwaukee tools for years, I was excited to try out the ROCKET Tower Light/Charger, model 2136-20. Designed to be a versatile jobsite companion, this tower light promises to deliver ample illumination with the added benefit of charging capabilities for M18 batteries and devices. After using it extensively in various scenarios, I have quite a bit to share about its performance, features, and overall utility.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the ROCKET Tower Light is its robust build. Weighing in at 21 pounds, it's solid enough to withstand the rigors of jobsite conditions but still manageable enough to transport easily. The light can extend up to 7 feet, which provides excellent coverage for a wide area. When collapsed, it reduces to less than 4 feet, making it compact for storage and transport.

One of the standout features is the three independently pivoting light heads. This allows you to direct light exactly where it's needed, which is incredibly useful in complex work environments. The impact-resistant design with reinforced legs gives it a stable stance, even on uneven surfaces. Additionally, it's IP54 rated for water and dust resistance, so you know it can handle tough conditions.

Performance

The ROCKET Tower Light delivers an impressive 6,000 lumens of bright, white light. The three output settings—high, medium, and low—allow for control over brightness, which is handy depending on the task at hand. For most of my indoor tasks, the medium setting was more than sufficient, while the high setting was perfect for outdoor night work.

One minor drawback is the lack of granular control over brightness. The three settings are useful, but having more incremental adjustments would make it even better. However, for most applications, the existing settings are adequate.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most convenient features is the integrated AC plug and USB port. This dual-power capability means you can run the light off a battery or plug it into an outlet, which also charges the battery. This is particularly useful for extended use, as you don’t have to worry about the battery running out mid-task. In my experience, a 5.0 Ah battery lasts around 3.5 hours on full brightness, which is decent but not exceptional. Using a higher capacity battery like the 9.0 Ah significantly extends the runtime.

The built-in charger is also a nice touch. You can charge all M18 batteries directly from the light, making it a multifunctional tool on the jobsite. The USB port is handy for charging devices, though I found I didn’t use it much.

Practical Applications

I found the ROCKET Tower Light to be incredibly versatile. It served as a primary light source during various tasks, from home renovations to outdoor events. The ability to angle the light heads independently allowed me to illuminate multiple areas simultaneously, which is a significant advantage over single-head lights.

One of my favorite uses was during a basement renovation. With no natural light and limited electrical outlets, the ROCKET Tower Light provided ample illumination and stayed out of the way, thanks to its tall, adjustable design. It also proved invaluable during a power outage, serving as emergency lighting that could be quickly set up and moved around as needed.

Durability and Portability

Durability is where the ROCKET Tower Light truly shines. The impact-resistant design means it can take a beating without any issues. I've accidentally knocked it over a couple of times, and it held up without any damage. The legs are sturdy and provide a stable base, even on uneven ground.

Portability is another strong point. Despite its weight, it’s easy to carry around, thanks to its compact, collapsible design. The side handle, however, could use some improvement. With the added weight of the charger in the base, the light tends to be bottom-heavy, making it a bit awkward to carry. This is a minor inconvenience but worth noting.

Areas for Improvement

While the ROCKET Tower Light excels in many areas, there are a few points where it could be better. Firstly, the side handle design could be improved to balance the weight better. Secondly, it would benefit from more granular control over brightness settings. Lastly, given its price point, it would be nice if Milwaukee included a protective case. This would help protect the light during transport and storage, particularly for those who move it around frequently.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the ROCKET Tower Light/Charger is an outstanding tool that lives up to Milwaukee’s reputation for quality and performance. Its combination of bright, adjustable lighting, dual-power capability, and rugged design makes it an invaluable addition to any jobsite. The ability to charge M18 batteries and devices adds to its versatility, making it more than just a light.

Would I recommend the ROCKET Tower Light? Absolutely. While it is on the pricier side, the features and performance justify the investment. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this light will prove to be a reliable and versatile tool in your arsenal. The few minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by its numerous advantages, making it a worthwhile purchase for anyone in need of a high-quality, durable, and multifunctional lighting solution.