Milwaukee M12 Cable Stripper Kit with Cu THHN/XHHW Bushings

When I first got my hands on the Milwaukee M12 Cable Stripper Kit, I was eager to put it through its paces. Over the years, I've accumulated a fair number of Milwaukee tools, and I've come to expect a certain level of performance and innovation from the brand. The M12 Cable Stripper did not disappoint.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of this tool is its compact design. The head is small enough to maneuver in tight spaces, which is a huge plus when working in cramped electrical panels or dense conduit runs. Milwaukee has clearly put thought into making this tool as ergonomic and user-friendly as possible. The build quality is robust, as you'd expect from Milwaukee, and the tool feels solid in hand.

Safety Features

Safety is a big concern when stripping cables, and the M12 Cable Stripper addresses this with aplomb. The tool eliminates the need for exposed blades, significantly reducing the risk of knife injuries. This is a game-changer for anyone who has ever had a close call with a utility knife. The adjustable depth gauge ensures that you can strip cables to the exact length you need without damaging the wire, adding another layer of precision and safety.

Performance

In terms of performance, the M12 Cable Stripper is exceptional. The optimized bushing design ensures that the wire is stripped cleanly without any nicks or scratches. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the wire and ensuring reliable electrical connections. The quick-change bushing system is also a welcome feature, allowing you to switch between different cable sizes with ease. The variable speed trigger provides excellent control, making it easy to adjust the stripping speed based on the type of cable you are working with.

Ease of Use

Using the M12 Cable Stripper is straightforward. You set the length you want to strip, position the cable, and let the tool do the work. The process is quick and efficient, saving you valuable time on the job. One small gripe I have is the lack of a belt hook. For a tool that's designed to be used frequently and in various locations, a belt hook would have been a convenient addition.

Limitations

While the tool performs admirably with Cu THHN/XHHW cables, I found it lacking when it came to other types of wire, such as RWU. The current set of dies does not support these types of cables, which limits the tool's versatility. Additionally, it would be beneficial if Milwaukee offered dies for a wider range of wire sizes, such as #6 and #2. This would make the tool even more versatile and useful for a broader range of applications.

Battery Compatibility

The M12 Cable Stripper is compatible with M12 batteries, which is a plus if you already own other Milwaukee tools that use the same battery system. The battery life is adequate for a full day of work, and the tool maintains consistent performance throughout. However, it's always a good idea to have a spare battery on hand, especially for larger jobs.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee M12 Cable Stripper Kit is a highly effective and well-designed tool. It excels in safety, ease of use, and performance. The compact design and quick-change bushing system make it incredibly versatile and user-friendly. While it does have some limitations in terms of the types of cables it can strip and the range of dies available, these are relatively minor issues compared to the overall benefits the tool offers.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend the M12 Cable Stripper Kit to any professional electrician or DIY enthusiast who frequently works with Cu THHN/XHHW cables. The tool's safety features alone make it a worthwhile investment, and its performance and ease of use are top-notch. If Milwaukee can expand the range of compatible dies and perhaps add a belt hook, this tool would be nearly perfect. For now, it's a valuable addition to any toolbox and a testament to Milwaukee's commitment to quality and innovation.