Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit

The Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit (model 2893-22CX) has been a significant addition to my tool collection. Milwaukee is a brand that's often synonymous with durability and performance, and this combo kit certainly lives up to that reputation. This set includes a 1/2" Hammer Drill and a 1/4" Hex Impact Driver, both powered by Milwaukee's M18 battery system and featuring advanced brushless motor technology.

From the moment I unboxed the kit, I could tell these tools were designed with the professional and serious DIYer in mind. The build quality is immediately apparent; both tools feel robust and well-balanced in hand. The kit also includes two battery packs and a multi-voltage charger, which is a great convenience for extended projects.

Performance and Power

The Hammer Drill boasts an impressive 725 in.-lbs. of torque, which is more than sufficient for most heavy-duty tasks. I put it to the test by drilling into various materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. The drill performed exceptionally well, maintaining power and speed without overheating. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control, which is particularly useful when working on delicate materials or when starting a hole.

The 1/4" Hex Impact Driver is equally impressive, delivering 1,600 in.-lbs. of torque. This tool is a powerhouse for driving screws and bolts. It handles everything from small screws to large lag bolts with ease. The impact driver operates at speeds up to 3400 RPM, making quick work of even the most stubborn fasteners. One of the standout features is the REDLINK™ electronics, which optimize performance and provide overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the most notable aspects of this combo kit is the compact and lightweight design. The Hammer Drill weighs in at 3.1 lbs, and the Impact Driver is even lighter at 2.3 lbs. This makes them incredibly easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces or when working overhead. The ergonomic design includes a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use.

The tools also feature LED work lights that illuminate the work area, which is particularly helpful in low-light conditions. The Hammer Drill comes with a side handle that can be quickly attached or removed, providing additional stability when needed.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is always a critical factor for cordless tools, and Milwaukee does not disappoint. The kit includes two M18 battery packs, which provide ample power for extended use. During my testing, the batteries lasted several hours on a single charge, even under heavy use. The multi-voltage charger is a nice touch, allowing you to charge both M18 and M12 batteries, which is convenient if you have other Milwaukee tools.

The batteries also feature a charge indicator, so you always know how much power you have left. Charging time is relatively quick, and the batteries are back to full power in about an hour.

Durability

Durability is where Milwaukee tools often shine, and this combo kit is no exception. The casing of both tools is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of a job site. I subjected the tools to various tests, including dropping them from a height of a few feet and using them in dusty and dirty conditions. They continued to perform flawlessly, showing no signs of wear or damage.

Additional Features

The carrying bag included in the kit is spacious and durable, with enough room to hold the tools, batteries, charger, and some additional accessories. This makes it easy to transport the kit to different job sites or store it neatly in your workshop.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit is impressive, it's not without its drawbacks. The most notable issue I encountered was with the drill chuck. On a few occasions, the chuck felt a bit loose, which could be problematic when working with smaller drill bits. Additionally, the Impact Driver does not have a variable speed trigger, which requires some getting used to, especially when working on tasks that require more finesse.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit is a top-tier toolset that offers excellent performance, durability, and convenience. The high torque and fast application speeds make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from light DIY projects to heavy-duty construction work. The compact and ergonomic design ensures that the tools are comfortable to use for extended periods, and the long battery life means you can work without frequent interruptions.

I would highly recommend this combo kit to both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. The minor issues with the chuck and the lack of a variable speed trigger on the Impact Driver are outweighed by the numerous benefits and high-quality performance of these tools. If you're looking for a reliable, powerful, and versatile set of cordless tools, the Milwaukee M18 Brushless Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit is an excellent choice.