Milwaukee Stick Light

The Milwaukee Stick Light (model 2351-20) has become an indispensable part of my toolkit. Its compact design and robust features make it an excellent choice for various applications, from home projects to professional job sites. This review will cover my hands-on experience with the Stick Light, highlighting its strengths and areas where it could be improved.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the Stick Light feels durable and well-constructed. Weighing just 0.55 lbs and measuring 9.25 inches in length, it’s easy to handle and carry around. The impact and chemical-resistant lens are particularly impressive, ensuring that the light can withstand the rigors of a job site. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it still functions perfectly, without any visible damage.

The Stick Light features three LEDs that deliver a consistent and bright 220 lumens of output, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. The light pattern is even and wide, illuminating work areas effectively without creating harsh shadows or hotspots. The color temperature of the LEDs is a true white, which is a significant improvement over the bluish tint often found in cheaper LED lights. This makes it easier to see details and colors accurately, which is crucial for tasks like electrical work or painting.

Usability and Features

One of the standout features of the Stick Light is its simplicity. The power button is straightforward—press once to turn it on, and press again to turn it off. There are no multiple modes or strobe functions to cycle through, which I find refreshing. It’s either on or off, making it incredibly user-friendly.

The multi-position hook is another excellent feature. It allows for hands-free use, which is invaluable when you need both hands to work. The hook can be positioned horizontally or vertically, providing flexibility in how you hang the light. However, I did notice that the detent holding the hook in place is somewhat weak. Any slight movement can cause the light to shift from its intended position, which can be frustrating during delicate tasks.

Battery Life

The Stick Light is compatible with Milwaukee’s M12 REDLITHIUM batteries, which are sold separately. I tested the light with a 2.0Ah battery, and it lasted over 5 hours on a single charge, which is impressive. For extended use, you can swap out the battery quickly, ensuring that you’re never left in the dark. The battery life indicator is a useful addition, letting you know how much charge is remaining at a glance.

Areas for Improvement

While the Stick Light is excellent in many respects, there are a few areas where it could be improved. Firstly, the lack of a built-in magnet is a notable omission. Milwaukee offers a magnet accessory, but it’s an additional purchase and not particularly cheap. Including a built-in magnet would add significant value and convenience, allowing the light to be attached to metal surfaces without needing extra accessories.

Secondly, the light’s functionality is somewhat limited. It can either stand up, hang upright from its hook, or hang facing down. While these options are useful, having the ability to bend or pivot the light would provide more versatility. For example, Milwaukee’s M18 version of this stick light offers more flexibility in positioning, which would be a welcome addition to the M12 model.

Practical Applications

In my experience, the Stick Light excels in various practical applications. It’s perfect for automotive work, providing ample light under the hood or inside the car. The even light distribution makes it easy to see what you’re doing without creating glare. It’s also great for home repairs and DIY projects. Whether you’re fixing a leaky pipe, working in the attic, or setting up a tent while camping, the Stick Light provides reliable illumination.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee Stick Light is a robust and reliable tool that delivers excellent performance in a compact form. Its durable construction, bright and even light output, and long battery life make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. The simplicity of its design ensures that it’s easy to use, while the multi-position hook provides hands-free convenience.

However, the lack of a built-in magnet and limited positioning options are areas where Milwaukee could improve the design. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Stick Light offers excellent value, especially if you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M12 battery system.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Stick Light? Absolutely. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and it has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool in various scenarios. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this light will undoubtedly enhance your work experience.