Milwaukee Cordless 5/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Kit

As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and professional contractor, I’ve had the opportunity to use a variety of tools, and the Milwaukee Cordless 5/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Kit, model 2612-21, has certainly left an impression. This compact yet powerful tool is designed for drilling holes up to 5/8" in concrete and masonry, making it a versatile addition to any toolbox.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this rotary hammer is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at just 5.5 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to handle, especially for overhead work or in tight spaces. The 12-inch length further adds to its maneuverability, allowing me to get into hard-to-reach areas without much hassle.

The build quality is robust, with a durable housing that feels like it can withstand the rigors of a construction site. Milwaukee’s reputation for quality is evident here, as the tool feels solid and reliable in hand. The rubberized grip is a nice touch, providing a secure hold even during extended use.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Milwaukee rotary hammer does not disappoint. It’s powered by an 18-volt battery, part of the M18 system, which offers impressive runtime and power. I was able to drill multiple 5/8" holes in concrete with ease, and the battery life held up remarkably well. The tool features two modes: rotary hammer and rotation only, which adds to its versatility. Whether you’re drilling into concrete or just need a powerful drill, this tool has you covered.

The no-load speed ranges from 0-1,300 RPM, and the blow energy is rated at 1 ft.-lb, delivering up to 7,000 BPM. This translates to fast and efficient drilling, even in tough materials. I found that it drilled through concrete like a hot knife through butter, significantly reducing the time and effort required compared to traditional hammer drills.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this rotary hammer is its user-friendly design. The SDS Plus chuck system allows for quick and easy bit changes. Simply pull back the chuck to release the bit, and pop in a new one. This feature is a game-changer, especially when you’re working on projects that require frequent bit changes.

The forward and reverse selection is conveniently located on the handle, right next to the trigger, making it easy to switch directions without interrupting your workflow. The LED light is another thoughtful addition, providing ample visibility in dark or dimly lit work areas.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Ergonomics play a crucial role in tool design, and Milwaukee has nailed it with this rotary hammer. The grip aligns perfectly with the drill bit axis, reducing wrist strain and fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for long drilling sessions, as it minimizes the risk of developing conditions like tennis elbow.

The tool’s balance is also noteworthy. With the battery attached, it feels well-balanced and easy to control. This balance, combined with its lightweight design, makes it an excellent choice for overhead drilling tasks.

Limitations

While the Milwaukee rotary hammer has many strengths, it’s not without its limitations. Some users might find the lack of a hammer-only mode a drawback, especially if they need to use the tool for chipping or chiseling tasks. Additionally, the tool does not have any form of vibration reduction, which can lead to hand fatigue during prolonged use.

There have also been occasional reports of the tool starting and stopping intermittently, which could be a concern for those relying on it for critical tasks. However, these instances seem to be relatively rare and may be covered under the 5-year limited warranty.

Battery System

The M18 battery system is one of Milwaukee’s strong suits, and this rotary hammer benefits from it. The batteries are interchangeable with other M18 tools, which is a huge plus if you already own Milwaukee products. The battery life is impressive, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging. For instance, I was able to drill over 100 3/8" holes on a single charge, which speaks volumes about its efficiency.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this rotary hammer is ideal for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, or general contractor, this tool will serve you well. It’s perfect for drilling anchor holes, installing tap-cons, and even drilling into granite for climbing anchors. The compact size and cordless convenience make it a go-to tool for both small projects and more demanding tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Cordless 5/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Kit is a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly tool that excels in a variety of applications. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to handle, while the robust build quality ensures it can withstand tough job site conditions. The quick-change SDS Plus chuck, ergonomic grip, and impressive battery life further enhance its appeal.

While it does have a few limitations, such as the lack of a hammer-only mode and occasional reports of intermittent operation, these are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. Overall, I would highly recommend this rotary hammer to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. It’s a reliable and efficient tool that will undoubtedly make your drilling tasks easier and more efficient.