Milwaukee Brushless 1” SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer

The Milwaukee Brushless 1” SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer (Model 2613-20) is a tool that has quickly become indispensable in my arsenal. From the moment I first picked it up, its lightweight design and ergonomic D-handle immediately impressed me. Weighing just 5.3 lbs, this rotary hammer is deceptively powerful, making it ideal for a wide range of drilling and chipping tasks.

Performance and Power

One of the standout features of this tool is its brushless motor, which offers not only enhanced performance but also reduced maintenance. The motor delivers an impressive 1.95 ft-lbs of impact energy, which is more than sufficient for most concrete and masonry tasks. I was initially skeptical about whether a cordless tool could match the power of its corded counterparts, but this Milwaukee rotary hammer dispelled those doubts. The tool's maximum RPM of 1270 and 4580 BPM ensures that it can tackle even the toughest jobs with ease.

In practice, I found that the rotary hammer drilled 3/8” x 2” holes rapidly and with minimal effort. This efficiency was particularly noticeable when I used it to drill multiple holes into concrete for installing anchor bolts. The tool's power was consistent throughout, and I never felt that it lacked the necessary force to get the job done.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The in-line D-handle design significantly improves the balance and ergonomics of the tool, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. This is further enhanced by Milwaukee's AVS Anti-Vibration System, which effectively reduces vibration and minimizes user fatigue. During a project where I had to drill numerous holes into a concrete retaining wall, the reduced vibration made a noticeable difference in comfort and control, allowing me to work longer without discomfort.

The tool also features an onboard LED light, which, while small, proved quite handy in dimly lit areas. This added visibility is a nice touch, especially for those late-day projects when natural light is fading.

Battery Life and Compatibility

The Milwaukee rotary hammer is part of the M18 battery system, which means it is compatible with a wide range of Milwaukee tools. I paired it with a 5.0 Ah battery, and it lasted through multiple projects without needing a recharge. For those who require even longer run times, Milwaukee's XC 8.0 High Output battery is a great option. The battery life is impressive, and the quick charging time ensures minimal downtime between tasks.

Versatility and Additional Features

This rotary hammer is incredibly versatile, offering three operating modes: drilling, rotary hammer, and hammer-only (chiseling). This makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from drilling holes in concrete to chipping away at aged concrete or over-poured sections. I used the hammer-only mode to chip away excess concrete, and it performed flawlessly, making quick work of what would have been a labor-intensive task.

The tool also comes with a side handle and depth gauge, which are easy to install and adjust. The depth gauge ensures consistent drilling depths, which is particularly useful for tasks that require precision.

Build Quality and Durability

Milwaukee tools are known for their robust build quality, and this rotary hammer is no exception. Despite being lightweight, it feels sturdy and durable. The plastic components are high-quality and designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use. Even the rubber boot, which might seem like a minor detail, is well-made and adds to the tool's overall durability.

Potential Drawbacks

While my experience with this tool has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a few minor drawbacks worth mentioning. Some users might find the tool to be power-hungry, especially when using smaller batteries. However, this can be mitigated by using higher-capacity batteries, such as the XC 8.0.

Another point to consider is that, while the tool is powerful and efficient for drilling and chiseling, it might not be the best option for extremely heavy-duty demolition tasks. For breaking up large rocks or extensive concrete demolition, an SDS-MAX rotary hammer might be more appropriate.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee Brushless 1” SDS Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer is an exceptional tool that combines power, versatility, and user-friendly features in a compact and lightweight package. Its brushless motor ensures consistent performance, while the AVS Anti-Vibration System and ergonomic design make it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this rotary hammer is a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its compatibility with the M18 battery system adds to its convenience, and the range of operating modes ensures it can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

I highly recommend this tool for anyone in need of a reliable, powerful, and versatile rotary hammer. Its performance, build quality, and user-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment that will undoubtedly make your drilling and chiseling tasks more efficient and enjoyable.