Milwaukee 4-Piece Combo Kit

Milwaukee 4-Piece Combo Kit (2998-24): A Comprehensive Review

Having had the pleasure of using Milwaukee's 4-Piece Combo Kit (2998-24) for various DIY projects and professional tasks, I can confidently say that this kit is a powerhouse. The set includes a hammer drill, impact driver, circular saw, and LED stick light, all of which leverage Milwaukee's renowned M18 battery system. This review will walk you through each tool, their performance, and overall value, helping you decide if this combo kit fits your needs.

Hammer Drill

The 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver is perhaps the lynchpin of this combo kit. With a top speed of 2,000 RPM and a torque of 1,200 in-lbs, this tool tackles both light and heavy-duty tasks effortlessly. I’ve used it for drilling into various materials, including metal and masonry, and it never skipped a beat. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable for extended use, and the built-in LED light is a fantastic addition for working in dimly lit areas.

Impact Driver

The 1/4" Hex Impact Driver also shines in this kit. With a torque of 2,000 in-lbs and a compact length of just 4.59 inches, it’s a beast when driving screws into tough materials. It’s particularly useful for repetitive tasks like screwing in decks or assembling furniture, where its high torque and rapid-fire capability save both time and effort. The impact driver is well-balanced and fits comfortably in my hand, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

Circular Saw

The 6-1/2" Circular Saw is another standout tool. Spinning at 5,000 RPM, it’s more than capable of cutting through plywood, 2x4s, and other common building materials. The 6-1/2" blade size strikes a good balance between portability and cutting depth, making it versatile for a range of tasks. I’ve used it for everything from rough cuts to more precise bevel cuts, and it has consistently delivered clean, smooth results. The saw is lightweight at 6.8 lbs, which makes it easy to maneuver, but it’s robust enough to handle substantial workloads.

LED Stick Light

The LED Stick Light is the unsung hero of this combo kit. While I initially didn’t expect to use it much, it has proven invaluable for lighting up workspaces. Emitting 300 lumens and weighing just 1.1 lbs, it's easy to carry around and bright enough to illuminate dark corners. Whether working in an attic, crawl space, or during a power outage, this light has come in handy more times than I anticipated.

Performance and Battery Life

One of the most significant advantages of this combo kit is its use of Milwaukee’s M18 battery system. The kit comes with two XC batteries, which provide excellent runtime and quick recharge times. I’ve found that the hammer drill and impact driver can last through a full day’s work on a single charge, while the more power-hungry circular saw requires a bit more frequent recharging. However, the batteries' rapid recharge time ensures minimal downtime, keeping my projects on track.

Build Quality and Durability

Milwaukee’s reputation for build quality is well-earned, and this combo kit is no exception. Each tool feels solid and well-constructed, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The hammer drill and impact driver have taken quite a few knocks and drops but still perform flawlessly. The circular saw, despite its lighter weight, shows no signs of wear even after extensive use. The LED stick light, though not used as frequently, has also proven to be robust and reliable.

User Experience

Using these tools has been a pleasure. The ergonomic design and balanced weight distribution of each tool ensure comfortable use even during long projects. The intuitive controls and features, like the hammer drill’s LED light and the circular saw’s easy-to-adjust bevel settings, make these tools user-friendly and efficient. I appreciate the thoughtful design elements that Milwaukee has integrated into each tool, contributing to a seamless and enjoyable user experience.

Value for Money

Considering the performance, build quality, and versatility of the tools included, the Milwaukee 4-Piece Combo Kit offers excellent value for money. While the initial investment might be higher than some other brands, the long-term durability and efficiency of these tools justify the cost. The inclusion of two XC batteries and a charger further enhances the kit's value, ensuring you have everything needed to get started right out of the box.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 4-Piece Combo Kit (2998-24) is a stellar choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Each tool in the kit performs exceptionally well, offering power, efficiency, and durability. The M18 battery system ensures long runtime and quick recharges, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

I wholeheartedly recommend this combo kit to anyone looking to invest in a reliable, high-performance set of cordless tools. Whether you're just starting to build your tool collection or looking to upgrade your existing set, this Milwaukee combo kit is a worthwhile investment that will serve you well for years to come.