Milwaukee M18™ FORCE LOGIC™ 6T Utility Crimper Kit with D3 Grooves "Snub Nose"

Milwaukee's M18 FORCE LOGIC 6T Utility Crimper, known colloquially as the "Snub Nose," has proven to be a robust tool in my arsenal. As a professional accustomed to daily crimping tasks, this crimper has stood out for several reasons, both positive and negative.

Balanced Design and Ergonomics

Let's start with the design. The Milwaukee crimper features a balanced design, which significantly improves control and accuracy. Whether you're working vertically or horizontally, the tool maintains a good balance, although I did find it slightly awkward to hold in a horizontal position. However, this is mitigated when working vertically, where the tool shines. The in-line design with 350-degree head rotation allows for flexibility in tight spots, making it easier to maneuver around obstacles.

Performance and Speed

The crimper's performance is commendable. With a crimp speed of 2.9 seconds, it operates faster than many of its competitors. This is particularly useful in high-volume scenarios where speed is of the essence. The adaptive pressure control system ensures that the correct pressure is applied for each crimp, enhancing both accuracy and consistency. This feature is a lifesaver, as it reduces the likelihood of making errors, thus saving time and materials.

Versatility

One of the standout features of this tool is its versatility. The crimper can handle a variety of heads, including D3, BG, ACSR, and even a wire-cutting head. This makes it a multi-functional tool that can adapt to different tasks. However, I did encounter an issue with the guy head, which sprung the aluminum guides on each side after cutting a guy wire. This resulted in off-set crimps, a minor but notable drawback.

Durability and Build Quality

Durability is another aspect where Milwaukee has done a commendable job. The weather-protected electronics and brushless motor contribute to the tool's longevity. The instant pressure verification and full pressure indicator are useful features that add an extra layer of reliability. However, I did notice that the crimper tends to short circuit on higher primary voltages, specifically 19kv. This could be a limitation depending on the type of work you're involved in.

User Experience

From a usability standpoint, the crimper has a few areas for improvement. The release button's placement is inconvenient, especially when working on hot primary voltages. This forces you to use both hands, which isn't always feasible. Additionally, the locking pins for the W dies are weak, causing me to lose several dies over time. Strengthening these aspects would make the tool more user-friendly.

Battery Life and Compatibility

Powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, the tool offers a decent runtime. The battery system is compatible with Milwaukee's M18 range, making it easy to swap batteries between tools. The tool also features auto-reset and data recording capabilities, enabled through ONE KEY, which is a handy addition for those who like to keep track of their work metrics.

Comfort and Weight

At 17.465 lbs, the crimper is on the heavier side. While the balanced center grip does help in managing the weight, long-term use can still be taxing on the shoulders. However, the tool's efficiency and speed somewhat compensate for this, as you'll likely complete your tasks faster, reducing the overall strain.

Customer Support

One area where Milwaukee could improve is customer support, particularly regarding the availability of dies. I found it challenging to obtain replacement dies, which could render the tool useless for extended periods. This is a significant drawback, especially for professionals who rely on the tool for daily operations.

Added Value

The tool's ability to record and store data through ONE KEY is a feature that adds significant value. This allows for easy reporting and tool diagnostics, which can be invaluable for maintaining the tool and ensuring it operates at peak performance. The full pressure indicator and adaptive pressure control system further contribute to the tool's reliability, making it a dependable choice for various crimping tasks.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee M18 FORCE LOGIC 6T Utility Crimper is a powerful tool that offers speed, versatility, and reliability. Its balanced design and adaptive pressure control system make it a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. However, it has a few drawbacks, such as the awkward release button placement and issues with the guy head.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you're primarily working with secondary voltage and de-energized primary, this tool is excellent. However, if your work involves higher primary voltages, you might encounter some limitations. Despite its few flaws, the tool's overall performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those in the utility and electrical fields.