Milwaukee 1/2 in. Dual Speed Hammer-Drill

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in the world of power tools, and their 1/2 in. Dual Speed Hammer-Drill, model 5387-20, certainly showcases why. This tool is designed for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and powerful drill for various applications, particularly in concrete. After putting this hammer drill through its paces, I have a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and some areas where it could see improvement.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that strikes you about this Milwaukee hammer drill is its solid build quality. The heavy-duty metal gear case exudes durability, and the overall construction feels robust. At 6.4 lbs, it’s not the lightest hammer drill on the market, but it’s balanced well enough to handle extended periods of use without causing undue fatigue. The 10-foot QUIK-LOK cord is a welcome addition, providing ample reach and easy storage.

Power and Performance

The heart of this tool is its 8.5-amp motor, which is nothing short of impressive. This motor offers dual speed ranges: 0-1,000 RPM/0-16,000 BPM and 0-2,500 RPM/0-40,000 BPM. This flexibility allows it to handle a variety of materials with ease. Whether you're drilling into hardened cement, steel, or wood, the Milwaukee hammer drill doesn’t break a sweat. The power is consistent, and the overload protection ensures that the motor is safeguarded against potential damage during heavy-duty tasks.

Versatility

One of the standout features of this hammer drill is its versatility. The two-speed ranges are particularly useful when switching between different types of work. For instance, the lower speed range is excellent for concrete drilling, providing the necessary torque without compromising control. On the other hand, the higher speed range is perfect for lighter materials like wood and drywall, where speed is more critical than torque.

Ease of Use

Using the Milwaukee hammer drill is a straightforward affair, but it does come with a few caveats. The keyed chuck, while reliable, feels a bit dated in a market that’s increasingly moving towards keyless chucks. That said, the chuck holds bits securely, and I didn’t experience any slippage during use.

The drill’s weight can be a double-edged sword. While it contributes to the tool’s overall stability and control, it can also make overhead work a bit challenging. Drilling into ceilings or other overhead surfaces requires a fair amount of strength and endurance. However, the added power of the 8.5-amp motor does make the task quicker and somewhat less strenuous.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with this tool. On one hand, the build quality and materials used suggest a long lifespan with proper care. On the other hand, there have been instances where the drill has failed after a few uses. This is a concerning issue, especially for a brand known for its reliability. The head of the drill has been reported to become difficult to open and close over time, which could be a significant inconvenience during prolonged projects.

Practical Applications

Throughout my testing, I found that this hammer drill excels in several practical applications. Drilling lag bolts into concrete was a breeze, and the tool didn’t falter even when pushed hard. Mixing concrete is another task where this drill shines. The power it delivers makes mixing quick and efficient, saving both time and effort.

For those involved in construction or renovation work, this tool can handle tasks like installing anchor bolts and running wires through block work with aplomb. It’s also an excellent choice for heavy-duty tasks like drilling large holes through joists, provided the motor holds up.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the Milwaukee hammer drill isn’t without its flaws. The keyed chuck, as mentioned earlier, feels outdated and could benefit from an upgrade to a keyless system. The weight, while manageable, could be reduced slightly to make overhead tasks less taxing.

Another significant concern is the reliability of the motor. Instances of the motor failing or burning out after minimal use are troubling. Milwaukee could improve this model by addressing these durability issues, perhaps by offering more robust quality control or better post-purchase support.

Conclusion

All things considered, the Milwaukee 1/2 in. Dual Speed Hammer-Drill is a powerful and versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks with ease. Its robust build, dual-speed motor, and overload protection make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. However, its weight and some reported durability issues may give potential buyers pause.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you need a hammer drill that delivers excellent power and versatility for heavy-duty tasks, this Milwaukee model is a solid choice. Just be aware of its potential durability issues and consider whether the keyed chuck system meets your needs. For those who prioritize power and performance in a hammer drill, this tool is hard to beat. However, if reliability and ease of use are your primary concerns, you might want to explore other options or ensure you have access to good post-purchase support.