Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit

Navigating the world of cordless power tools can be daunting, but the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit (model 2694-24) stands out as a solid investment for both seasoned professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Having had the opportunity to use this kit extensively, I can confidently say it delivers on power, durability, and versatility.

Unpacking the Combo Kit

The kit includes four essential tools: a hammer drill/driver, a reciprocating saw, a circular saw, and a work light, all powered by Milwaukee’s robust 18V lithium-ion battery system. The package also comes with two batteries and a charger, neatly packaged in a soft carrying bag. While the bag is convenient, it does feel a bit tight if you plan to pack additional accessories or tools.

Hammer Drill/Driver

The hammer drill/driver in this kit is a workhorse. Weighing in at 4.5 lbs, it’s not the lightest on the market, but its build quality is top-notch. The all-metal gear case and chuck add a level of durability that gives confidence, even in demanding tasks. With a peak torque of 500 in-lbs and a maximum RPM of 1,800, it handles everything from drilling into masonry to driving screws into dense wood with ease.

The built-in LED light is a thoughtful addition, illuminating the work area effectively without casting shadows. The variable speed control is smooth, allowing precise adjustments for different applications. The drill is comfortable to use for extended periods, thanks to its balanced design and ergonomic grip.

Reciprocating Saw

The reciprocating saw, often referred to as a Sawzall, is another highlight of this combo kit. It’s a versatile tool that has proven invaluable in a variety of tasks, from demolition work to pruning branches. The tool-free blade change system is a real time-saver, making it easy to switch blades on the fly.

With a speed range of 0-3,200 SPM, it offers ample power for cutting through wood, metal, and even PVC pipes. Despite its power, the saw is surprisingly manageable, weighing 6.4 lbs. It’s well balanced and easy to control, which is crucial for making precise cuts.

Circular Saw

The circular saw included in this kit features a 6-1/2” blade, which I found to be an excellent compromise between performance and battery life. It’s powerful enough to rip through plywood and cut 2x4s effortlessly, yet it remains compact and lightweight at 8.5 lbs. This makes it easier to handle, especially in tight spaces.

The saw’s blade guard and safety trigger are well-designed, ensuring safe operation without being cumbersome. The saw stops almost immediately when the trigger is released, which is a great safety feature. Though it struggled a bit with bevel cuts at a 45-degree angle, this is more a limitation of the blade size rather than the tool’s power.

Work Light

The work light is a nice addition, though it’s not the star of the show. It outputs 100 lumens and provides up to 29 hours of run time on a single charge. While I didn’t find myself using it as often as the other tools, it’s handy for illuminating work areas in low light conditions. Its compact design makes it easy to position, and it’s durable enough to withstand the occasional drop.

Battery Performance

The RED LITHIUM battery technology is where this combo kit truly shines. The batteries charge quickly and provide long run times, even under heavy use. I appreciated the battery gauge, which gives a clear indication of the remaining charge. This helps avoid unexpected downtime.

I did notice that the circular saw and reciprocating saw perform noticeably better with the higher capacity XC5.0 batteries, compared to the standard XC batteries included in the kit. If you plan to use these tools heavily, investing in additional high-capacity batteries might be worthwhile.

Durability and Build Quality

Milwaukee tools are known for their durability, and this combo kit is no exception. The metal gear cases and chucks are built to last, and the overall construction feels solid. Even after extensive use, the tools show minimal signs of wear, and their performance remains consistent.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this kit is its ease of use. The tools are designed with the user in mind, featuring ergonomic grips, well-placed controls, and thoughtful design elements like the tool-free blade change system on the reciprocating saw. These features make the tools not only effective but also a pleasure to use.

Final Thoughts

After spending considerable time with the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit, I can say it’s an excellent investment for anyone looking to build or expand their cordless tool collection. The tools are powerful, durable, and well-designed, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. The battery performance is impressive, and the convenience of cordless operation cannot be overstated.

While the carrying bag could be more spacious and the standard XC batteries may not provide the longest run times for heavy-duty tasks, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise outstanding kit. For professionals and DIYers alike, this combo kit offers great value and reliable performance.

Recommendation

I highly recommend the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit. Its combination of power, durability, and versatility makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this kit provides the tools you need to tackle a wide range of projects with confidence and ease.