Milwaukee 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver

The Milwaukee 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver (model 2604-20) has become a staple in my toolbox, and for good reason. This drill packs a punch with its brushless motor, delivering up to 725 in-lbs of torque. It's a versatile tool that's proven its worth across a variety of tasks, from drilling into concrete to driving screws into dense wood.

Performance and Power

One of the standout features of this drill is its brushless motor. This isn't just marketing fluff; the brushless motor truly offers improved efficiency and a longer motor life compared to traditional brushed motors. The torque this drill produces is impressive, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. Whether I'm drilling into masonry or driving large screws, the drill doesn't bog down or overheat, even after extended use.

The hammer drill function is particularly noteworthy. With 31,450 BPM, it makes quick work of concrete and brick. I've used it to drill holes for anchors in concrete walls, and it performed flawlessly, maintaining speed and power throughout. The dual-speed settings (0-550/0-1,850 RPM) allow for precise control, whether I'm working on delicate materials or tough surfaces.

Battery Life and Efficiency

The drill runs on Milwaukee's M18 battery system, which is known for its reliability and long life. I use the XC4.0 batteries, and they last significantly longer than I expected. On a single charge, I can get through an entire day's worth of drilling and driving without needing to swap batteries. The battery life is particularly impressive when using the hammer function, which typically drains batteries faster.

Charging the batteries is also quick and convenient. The charger that comes with the drill kit can handle both M18 and M12 batteries, which is a nice touch if you have other Milwaukee tools. The batteries provide consistent power until they're fully drained, so there's no noticeable drop in performance as the battery depletes.

Ergonomics and Build Quality

Milwaukee has done an excellent job with the ergonomics of this drill. The contoured soft grip is comfortable to hold, even during extended use. The drill is well-balanced, which reduces fatigue and makes it easier to control. At 8.1 inches in length, it's compact enough to fit into tight spaces, yet it doesn't feel cramped in my hands.

The all-metal ratcheting chuck is another highlight. It provides excellent bit retention, so I never have to worry about bits slipping or coming loose during operation. This is especially important when using the hammer function, as the vibrations can sometimes cause bits to loosen in lesser-quality chucks.

Durability and Longevity

I've been using this drill for several years now, and it's held up remarkably well. The build quality is top-notch, with durable materials that can withstand rough job site conditions. I've dropped it a few times, and it still works perfectly, with no signs of damage.

However, it's not without its flaws. Some users have reported issues with the internal components failing after several years of use. While I haven't experienced this myself, it's worth noting for those considering a long-term investment. The 5-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind, but repairs can be costly if the drill fails outside of the warranty period.

Versatility and Use Cases

This drill is incredibly versatile. I've used it for a wide range of tasks, from basic home repairs to more complex construction projects. The dual-speed settings and hammer function make it adaptable to different materials and applications. Whether I'm drilling pilot holes in wood, driving screws into metal, or drilling into concrete, this drill handles it all with ease.

One of my favorite uses for this drill is mixing materials. I've used it to mix buckets of tile mortar, and it performs admirably without overheating or slowing down. The consistent power and torque make it ideal for this kind of heavy-duty application.

Drawbacks

While I have a lot of praise for this drill, it's not perfect. The main issue I've encountered is with the side handle design. It only has two positions, both sticking out sideways, which can be inconvenient for storage and transport. I often find myself removing the handle to fit the drill into my toolbox, which is a minor annoyance.

Another point of concern is the weight. While it's not excessively heavy, it can become cumbersome during prolonged use, especially when working overhead or in awkward positions. This is a trade-off for the power and durability it offers, but it's something to consider if you need a lighter tool for extended use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver is a powerful, versatile, and reliable tool that has earned its place in my toolkit. It offers excellent performance, long battery life, and robust build quality, making it suitable for both professional and DIY applications. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they are outweighed by its numerous strengths.

I highly recommend this drill to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful tool for a variety of tasks. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this drill will serve you well. Just be prepared for its weight and consider the side handle design if storage space is a concern. Overall, it's a fantastic tool that delivers more than it promises, making it a worthwhile investment.