Milwaukee Drywall Screw Gun Compact Kit

The Milwaukee 2866-22CT Drywall Screw Gun Compact Kit is a cordless tool that promises to streamline drywall installation with its innovative features. Having spent a good amount of time with this screw gun on various projects, I’ve compiled my thoughts to help you decide if this tool deserves a spot in your toolbox.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the Milwaukee screw gun feels well-engineered. It’s lightweight at 2.5 lbs and ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The build quality is robust, which is something Milwaukee is known for. The tool comes with two M18 batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag, making it a comprehensive package for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Performance and Features

POWERSTATE Brushless Motor

The heart of this screw gun is its POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, capable of reaching up to 4,500 RPM. This is particularly advantageous for driving screws quickly and efficiently. In practice, I found that the motor delivers consistent power, driving screws with ease into various types of drywall and even into some denser materials like exterior-grade plywood.

Auto Start Mode

One of the standout features is the Auto Start Mode. This function activates the motor only upon contact with the drywall, reducing noise and conserving battery life. During use, this feature was incredibly beneficial. It significantly cut down on the constant noise I usually experience with traditional screw guns, making for a more pleasant working environment. Additionally, the Auto Start Mode helped extend the battery life, allowing me to work longer between charges.

Depth Adjustment

The depth adjustment feature is both a blessing and a curse. On the positive side, it allows for precise control over how deep the screws are driven, ensuring a consistent finish. However, the adjustment mechanism feels somewhat loose. On multiple occasions, I noticed that the depth setting would shift if the tool was clipped to my belt and rubbed against something. This led to inconsistent screw depths, which was frustrating, especially on larger projects.

Battery Life

The tool is compatible with all M18 batteries, and the kit includes two 5.0 Ah batteries. Battery life is impressive, especially when using the Auto Start Mode. I could easily get through a full day of work on a single charge, even when driving hundreds of screws. The charger is efficient, taking around 30-45 minutes to fully charge a depleted battery.

Usability

The screw gun is incredibly easy to use. The LED light is a thoughtful addition, illuminating dark corners and making it easier to see where you’re driving the screws. The lightweight and balanced design reduce fatigue, which is crucial when you’re hanging drywall for hours on end. However, the tool feels slightly bulky compared to other models, which can become a minor inconvenience in tight spaces.

Consistency Issues

While the tool performs exceptionally well, there were moments of inconsistency. At times, the screw gun struggled to drive screws into harder materials, and the bit would slip out of the screw head. This was particularly noticeable when working with older, denser framing wood. Additionally, there were instances where the depth adjustment collar would spin freely, throwing off my settings. These issues are not deal-breakers but do require some attention and adjustment.

Durability and Maintenance

Milwaukee offers a 5-year limited warranty on this screw gun, which speaks volumes about its durability. The tool seems built to withstand the rigors of professional use. Maintenance is straightforward; the nose cone is easy to remove for bit changes, and the tool’s overall design minimizes the need for frequent adjustments.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 2866-22CT Drywall Screw Gun Compact Kit is a solid tool with several innovative features that make drywall installation faster and more efficient. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor and Auto Start Mode are game-changers, delivering power and efficiency while reducing noise and extending battery life. The tool’s lightweight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to use, even for extended periods.

However, the depth adjustment mechanism needs improvement. Its tendency to shift during use can lead to inconsistent screw depths, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the tool’s performance can be inconsistent when driving screws into denser materials.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 2866-22CT Drywall Screw Gun Compact Kit? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re a professional drywaller or a serious DIY enthusiast, this tool’s benefits outweigh its drawbacks. The efficiency, battery life, and overall build quality make it a worthwhile investment. However, if you frequently work with older, denser materials or in very tight spaces, you might find the tool’s bulk and occasional inconsistency a bit challenging.

Overall, the Milwaukee 2866-22CT is a high-quality tool that can significantly enhance your drywall installation process, provided you’re aware of and can manage its few quirks.