Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer Kit

The Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer Kit (model 2623-21) is an enticing addition to the M18 lineup, promising cordless convenience and a host of features aimed at making planing tasks more manageable and efficient. As someone who frequently engages in woodworking and carpentry projects, I was eager to put this tool through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the planer feels robust and well-constructed, which is characteristic of Milwaukee tools. It weighs in at 6.15 lbs, which is relatively lightweight for a power planer, and its compact dimensions (12.38" length and 6.17" width) make it easy to handle. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during extended use.

One of the standout features is the depth adjustment dial with 20 locking positions, allowing for precise control over material removal. The dial is clearly marked, making it easy to set the desired depth. However, I did encounter an issue with the zero setting. Despite being marked as zero, the planer does remove a small amount of material, which can be problematic for fine-tuning and delicate tasks. This inconsistency is something Milwaukee needs to address in future iterations.

Performance

The 18V lithium-ion battery provides ample power for most planing tasks. In my tests, the planer performed admirably on various types of wood, from soft pine to harder oak. The motor is powerful enough to handle substantial stock removal without bogging down, which is impressive for a cordless tool. However, for more demanding tasks, such as leveling large surfaces or dealing with exceptionally hard wood, the motor does struggle a bit, and I found myself wishing for a bit more power.

One of the features I appreciated was the left or right chip ejection, which enhances safety and productivity by directing debris away from the user. This is particularly useful in confined spaces or when working on vertical surfaces. However, the debris ports do tend to clog, especially when making deeper cuts or working with resinous woods. This necessitates frequent stops to clear the ports, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Battery Life

Battery life is a mixed bag. Using a 3.0 Ah battery, I could get through several planing tasks without needing a recharge. However, for more extensive projects, I found myself reaching for a spare battery or waiting for the charger. The tool's on-board fuel gauge is handy for keeping track of battery life, but it's clear that having multiple batteries on hand is essential for uninterrupted work. The larger 6.0 Ah batteries offer extended run time but add significant weight to the tool, affecting balance and maneuverability.

Accuracy and Adjustability

One of the critical aspects of any planer is its ability to produce flat, even surfaces. Unfortunately, the Milwaukee planer falls short in this regard. The front and rear shoes are not perfectly aligned, leading to uneven cuts and a trapezoidal finish on the workpiece. This misalignment is a significant drawback, especially for precision work where accuracy is paramount. Additionally, there are no adjustments available for squaring the blades or the shoes, which limits the tool's versatility and precision.

Additional Features

The included edge guide is a practical addition, aiding in making straight, accurate cuts. However, it lacks the robustness and precision of higher-end models, feeling flimsy and prone to bending under pressure. Another notable omission is the absence of a dust bag. While the planer is designed to work with a vacuum system, the lack of a dust collection bag is disappointing, particularly for a cordless tool meant to offer portability and convenience.

Durability and Maintenance

The planer appears to be durable, withstanding the rigors of various woodworking tasks without significant wear. However, the aluminum shoe surface is prone to scratching and denting, which can affect the tool's performance over time. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy access to the blades for replacement. However, given the tool's tendency to clog, regular cleaning of the debris ports is necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer Kit has several commendable features, such as its cordless convenience, powerful motor, and ergonomic design. However, it falls short in crucial areas like accuracy, adjustability, and debris management. The zero setting issue, misaligned shoes, and frequent clogging are significant drawbacks that impact the tool's overall performance and usability.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your specific needs and expectations. For hobbyists or DIY enthusiasts looking for a cordless planer for light to moderate tasks, this tool could be a valuable addition to your toolkit, especially if you already own other M18 batteries. However, for professional woodworkers or those requiring high precision and reliability, the Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer Kit may not meet your needs. In such cases, investing in a higher-end model with better accuracy and adjustability would be a wiser choice.