Milwaukee 13 Amp 6" Small Angle Grinder

From the moment I unboxed the Milwaukee 13 Amp 6" Small Angle Grinder, I knew I was dealing with a high-quality piece of equipment. The overall build felt robust and well-balanced, and the weight was substantial without being cumbersome, which is a testament to its industrial-grade design. Milwaukee has a reputation for producing reliable tools, and this grinder certainly upholds that standard.

One of the first tasks I tackled with this grinder was sharpening my lawnmower blades. The grinder's control was superb, allowing for precise, balanced sharpening without over-grinding any specific areas. The 13 Amp motor, which operates at 9,000 RPM, provided more than enough power to make quick work of the blades, and the process felt smooth and controlled throughout. The lock-on switch was easy to engage and disengage, eliminating the common frustration of accidental shutoff.

The tool-free accessory changes are a fantastic feature, making it easy to switch out wheels or attachments without needing additional tools. This is particularly useful when switching between tasks, such as moving from sharpening blades to cutting metal or grinding concrete. The adjustable guard, which can also be modified without tools, adds to the convenience, allowing for quick adjustments to suit different applications.

I also used the grinder to shave down a small lip on a concrete sidewalk. Although this task is typically suited for a larger grinder, I wanted to test the limits of the 6" model. Impressively, it handled the job with ease. The grinder did get warm, but not excessively so, and at no point did I feel it was being overworked. The anti-vibration side handle was a welcome addition during this task, providing extra stability and comfort.

Cutting through metal was another area where this grinder excelled. I used it to cut an antique iron fence, and the grinder sliced through the metal effortlessly. The powerful motor and high RPM made quick work of the task, and the ergonomic design of the tool meant that I could work for extended periods without discomfort. The electronic clutch is a particularly noteworthy feature, as it helps prevent tool bind-up, enhancing both safety and performance.

I did encounter some difficulty assembling the guard initially. It took a bit of trial and error to get it properly positioned so that it could rotate to different positions. However, once it was correctly installed, adjusting the guard became straightforward and tool-free, which is a significant advantage in the field.

The grinder's soft start feature is another highlight. When you power on the tool, it ramps up to full speed gradually, which provides better control and reduces the risk of kickback. This feature is particularly beneficial for those new to using angle grinders or when working on more delicate tasks where precision is key.

Despite its many strengths, the grinder is not without its flaws. The paddle switch design, while functional, is not the most comfortable. Over extended use, I found it somewhat awkward to operate, and it took some getting used to. Additionally, there have been instances where the drive issues were reported, requiring a more permanent fix involving drilling and safety wiring to secure the drive gear.

That said, the grinder's overall performance and durability are commendable. I have used it extensively for a variety of tasks, and it has consistently delivered reliable results. Milwaukee's five-year warranty also provides peace of mind, knowing that the tool is backed by a substantial manufacturer guarantee.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the grinder's overload protection. This feature significantly extends the motor's life by preventing overheating, which is particularly useful during prolonged use or heavy-duty applications. The constant power technology ensures that the grinder maintains its speed under load, providing consistent performance regardless of the task at hand.

The 13 Amp 6" Small Angle Grinder is a versatile tool that bridges the gap between smaller 4.5" grinders and larger 7/9" models. Its intermediary size makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from cutting and grinding metal to more precise tasks like sharpening blades. The combination of power, durability, and user-friendly features makes it a valuable addition to any workshop.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Milwaukee 13 Amp 6" Small Angle Grinder. It offers a blend of power, precision, and convenience that is hard to match. Whether you're a professional in need of a reliable tool for daily use or a DIY enthusiast tackling various home projects, this grinder is an excellent investment. Its robust construction, coupled with thoughtful features like tool-free accessory changes and overload protection, make it a standout choice in its category. Despite minor drawbacks like the paddle switch design, the grinder's overall performance and reliability more than compensate, making it a tool worth having in your arsenal.