Milwaukee String Trimmer

Switching from a gas-powered string trimmer to an electric model can feel like a leap of faith, but the Milwaukee String Trimmer, model 3046-20, might just make that transition smoother than expected. After spending ample time putting this tool through its paces, I came away with some strong impressions about its capabilities, as well as a few key areas where it could use some improvement.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing you notice about the Milwaukee String Trimmer is its robust build. The trimmer looks and feels well-made, with a solid construction that inspires confidence. At 9.9 pounds, it's not the lightest tool on the market, but its weight contributes to its sturdiness rather than being a drawback. The straight shaft, which measures 40 inches, provides good reach and helps maintain a comfortable working posture. Being 6'2", I appreciated that I didn't have to hunch over while trimming, a common issue with shorter models.

The adjustable cutting blade, which allows for either a 16-inch or 14-inch swath, is a thoughtful feature. It lets you decide whether you want to maximize power or runtime, which can be handy depending on the size and type of your yard. The trimmer accepts up to .095-inch diameter trimmer line, which is fairly standard but effective for most residential needs.

Motor and Performance

Equipped with a brushless motor, the Milwaukee String Trimmer delivers impressive power. Milwaukee claims this motor provides more oomph than a 31cc gas engine, and I found this to be accurate. The trimmer reaches full throttle in under a second, which significantly boosts productivity. In my tests, the tool handled dense grass and weeds with ease, rarely bogging down. Even when using it more like a lawn mower in particularly thick patches, the motor held up well.

However, it's important to note that the trimmer isn't without its heat issues. During extended use, especially in tall, dense grass, the battery and motor did overheat a few times, causing the tool to shut down temporarily. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of if you have a lot of ground to cover in one go.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is another crucial aspect, and here, the results were mixed. Running on an 18V lithium-ion battery from Milwaukee’s M18 platform, the trimmer offers decent runtime. I found that a 6.5Ah battery was sufficient for tackling about a quarter-acre of grass, although it required a top-up to finish the job. If you're planning on using the trimmer for longer periods, investing in multiple batteries or higher-capacity ones, like the 8.0Ah or even the 12.0Ah, would be wise.

The rapid charger that comes with the trimmer is efficient, usually getting a depleted battery ready for action in about 45 minutes. This quick turnaround is especially useful if you have multiple batteries on hand, allowing you to swap and continue working with minimal downtime.

Usability and Comfort

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee String Trimmer is its ease of use. The line loading process is straightforward, and the line itself is durable, holding up well against concrete and other tough surfaces. The trimmer also features three-speed settings and a variable speed trigger, giving you excellent control over the power output. This flexibility is particularly useful when transitioning between different types of vegetation.

I did, however, encounter some issues with the battery seating. The battery didn't fully lock into place on several occasions, causing the trimmer to stop unexpectedly. This was particularly frustrating when using the bump mechanism to feed more line, as each bump would often dislodge the battery. It’s a minor but persistent annoyance that Milwaukee could improve upon in future iterations.

The balance of the trimmer is generally good, but it can become nose-heavy when using certain attachments, like the hedge trimmer. A shoulder strap can help distribute the weight, but the one I used didn’t have a locking mechanism and required frequent adjustments. Milwaukee sells an optional strap, but it’s a bit disappointing that this isn’t included given the price point.

Versatility and Attachments

One of the most compelling aspects of this trimmer is its compatibility with Milwaukee’s QUIK-LOK system, allowing for a variety of attachments. I used the pole saw and hedge trimmer attachments, both of which were easy to swap out and performed admirably. The pole saw, in particular, made quick work of small branches and added significant value to the tool.

However, some attachments, like the hedge trimmer, make the tool awkward to handle due to its weight distribution. It would be beneficial if Milwaukee designed a way to rotate the attachment while keeping the powerhead in a more ergonomic position.

Noise Levels and Environmental Impact

One of the significant advantages of switching to an electric trimmer is the reduction in noise and environmental impact. The Milwaukee String Trimmer is notably quieter than its gas-powered counterparts, which is a relief for both the user and anyone nearby. The absence of emissions is another big plus, making this a more eco-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee String Trimmer, model 3046-20, is a powerful and versatile tool that performs exceptionally well in a variety of conditions. Its robust motor, quick throttle response, and compatibility with multiple attachments make it a valuable addition to any tool shed. However, the issues with battery seating and overheating can be frustrating, especially for larger jobs.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, particularly for homeowners with medium to large yards who are already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 battery platform. The benefits of power, ease of use, and versatility outweigh the drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment. Just be prepared to manage its quirks and consider investing in additional batteries to ensure uninterrupted work sessions.