Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit

As a long-time enthusiast of power tools and someone who frequently embarks on various DIY projects, I recently had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit (model 2695-24) through its paces. This kit comprises a 1/2" hammer drill/driver, a one-handed reciprocating saw, a 1/4" hex impact driver, and a work light. Given Milwaukee’s reputation for high-quality tools, I was eager to see if this set lived up to the brand’s name.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust build quality of each tool. The kit includes two REDLITHIUM™ XC Extended Capacity batteries and a multi-voltage charger, which is a significant advantage right out of the gate. The tools felt solid, and the ergonomic design was evident as soon as I held them. The hammer drill/driver, reciprocating saw (HackZall), and impact driver all had a satisfying heft without being overly heavy, making them comfortable to handle during prolonged use.

Hammer Drill/Driver

The hammer drill/driver features a torque of 500 in-lbs and a maximum RPM of 1800. It includes three modes: hammer, drive, and drill. I found this tool particularly versatile and powerful enough to handle a range of tasks from drilling into masonry to driving screws into tough materials. The balance and grip were excellent, although it did start to feel a bit heavy after extended use. The performance, however, was top-notch, with the torque and speed being more than adequate for all my drilling needs.

HackZall Reciprocating Saw

The one-handed HackZall was a pleasant surprise. With 3000 strokes per minute, it made quick work of cutting through wood, PVC, and even metal. Its compact design allowed for easy maneuverability in tight spaces, which is a significant advantage over bulkier two-handed models. I found the one-handed operation very convenient for tasks that required holding materials or making precise cuts. The HackZall’s performance was impressive, cutting through materials smoothly and efficiently without much strain.

Impact Driver

The impact driver, boasting 1500 in-lbs of torque, was another standout tool in the kit. It excelled at driving screws and bolts with ease, making it a valuable asset for both light and heavy-duty tasks. The driver’s compact design and lightweight nature made it easy to handle, and it felt comfortable during extended use. The power and efficiency of the impact driver were evident, as it drove screws into hardwood effortlessly and without stripping the heads.

Work Light

The work light, with its 100 lumens output, proved to be a useful addition. While it might not be the brightest light on the market, it provided sufficient illumination for most tasks, especially in dimly lit areas like basements and crawl spaces. One minor drawback was the lack of a focus feature, which would have been helpful in spreading the light over a broader area. Nonetheless, its sturdy build and portability made it a handy tool to have on hand.

Battery Life and Charging

The two REDLITHIUM™ XC Extended Capacity batteries included in the kit offered excellent battery life. During my testing, I found that one battery could last through several hours of intermittent use before needing a recharge. The multi-voltage charger worked efficiently, and the batteries charged relatively quickly, minimizing downtime. The battery power level indicator on each tool was a thoughtful feature, allowing me to monitor the charge and plan accordingly.

Performance and Durability

After using the kit for various projects, it’s clear that Milwaukee has delivered a set of tools that are both powerful and reliable. The hammer drill/driver, HackZall, and impact driver all performed exceptionally well under different conditions, from heavy-duty construction tasks to smaller DIY projects. The tools’ durability was evident, as they withstood significant use without any noticeable wear or performance issues.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Each tool in the kit delivers impressive power and efficiency, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Build Quality: The robust and ergonomic design ensures durability and comfort during prolonged use.
• Battery Life: The REDLITHIUM™ XC batteries offer long-lasting power and quick charging times.
• Versatility: The kit includes tools that cover a broad spectrum of applications, from drilling and driving to cutting and illumination.

Cons:

• Weight: The hammer drill/driver can feel a bit heavy after extended use, which might be tiring for some users.
• Work Light: The work light could benefit from a focus feature to spread the light more evenly.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit is a fantastic investment for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The combination of powerful performance, high build quality, and long battery life makes this kit a reliable choice for a variety of tasks. Despite minor drawbacks like the weight of the hammer drill/driver and the basic work light, the overall value and versatility of this set are hard to beat.

If you’re in the market for a comprehensive, high-quality tool kit that can handle a wide range of applications, I highly recommend the Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit. It’s a testament to Milwaukee’s commitment to delivering top-notch tools that stand the test of time.