Milwaukee Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill Driver

When I first got my hands on the Milwaukee Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill Driver, I was immediately impressed by its compact design and lightweight feel. Weighing in at just 2.5 lbs and measuring 6.5 inches in length, this drill is engineered for convenience without sacrificing power. I was eager to see how it would perform in various tasks around my workshop and home.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out is the drill's robust build quality. Milwaukee opted for an all-metal gear case and a 1/2 inch metal ratcheting chuck, which gives it a solid, durable feel. The rubberized grip is comfortable to hold, even during extended use, and the compact size means you can easily maneuver it into tight spaces. This is especially helpful when working under sinks or in cramped quarters where a full-sized drill might be cumbersome.

Performance and Motor

Equipped with a brushless motor, this drill promises longer runtime and more efficient power usage. The drill features Milwaukee's REDLINK™ Intelligence, which provides overload protection to prevent the tool from overheating. This is a welcome feature for anyone who has ever pushed a drill too hard and ended up with a smoking, non-functional tool.

The variable speed settings range from 0-500 RPM in low gear to 0-1,800 RPM in high gear, allowing for precise control whether you're drilling holes or driving screws. With a peak torque of 500 in-lbs, it has enough muscle to handle a wide range of tasks, from light-duty work like hanging pictures to more demanding jobs like assembling furniture or even light construction.

Battery Life and Charging

The drill is part of the M18 battery system, which is compatible with a wide range of Milwaukee tools. The kit typically comes with a 2.0 Ah battery and a multi-voltage charger that can handle both M12 and M18 batteries. The battery life is impressive; I was able to complete several projects on a single charge without issue. There's also a handy battery level indicator on each battery, so you always know how much juice you have left.

One downside I noticed is that the charger included in the kit is not the Rapid Charger but the slower version. While the slower charger gets the job done, it does take a bit longer to fully charge a depleted battery. For those who need to work continuously, investing in the Rapid Charger might be a wise choice.

Usability and Features

The drill features an LED light located at the base, which is useful for illuminating your work area. However, I found the placement of the LED to be suboptimal. It doesn't light up the work surface as effectively as some other drills I've used, where the LED is positioned closer to the chuck.

Another minor gripe is the chuck itself. While it is a metal ratcheting chuck, I found it a bit difficult to tighten and loosen, especially when using smaller drill bits. This could be a dealbreaker for some, especially if you frequently switch between different bit sizes.

The included tool bag is spacious but lacks internal organization. It’s large enough to fit the drill, batteries, charger, and some accessories, but everything tends to get jumbled together. A more compact, organized case would have been a better fit for a tool designed to be compact and easy to carry.

Practical Applications

I put the drill through its paces in various tasks, from drilling pilot holes in hardwood to driving screws into drywall. The torque settings are easy to adjust and provide the right amount of power for different materials. The drill performed admirably in all tasks, and I was particularly impressed with its ability to handle more demanding jobs without bogging down.

The compact size proved to be a significant advantage in tight spaces. Whether I was working under a sink or in a narrow closet, the drill's small footprint allowed me to work comfortably and efficiently. The lightweight design also means less fatigue during extended use, which is a boon for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Durability and Warranty

Milwaukee backs this drill with a 5-year limited warranty, which speaks to the company's confidence in its durability and build quality. The all-metal gear case and chuck, combined with the brushless motor, make this a tool that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Conclusion

After spending considerable time with the Milwaukee Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill Driver, I can confidently say that it’s a solid addition to any toolkit. Its compact size, lightweight design, and powerful performance make it versatile enough for a wide range of applications. The brushless motor and REDLINK™ Intelligence add layers of reliability and efficiency that are hard to beat.

However, the tool is not without its flaws. The placement of the LED light and the somewhat tricky chuck are minor issues that might deter some users. Additionally, the included slow charger and lack of internal organization in the tool bag are areas where there is room for improvement.

Would I recommend this drill? Absolutely, especially for those who need a compact, powerful tool for tight spaces and varied tasks. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the overall performance and build quality make it a worthy investment. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this Milwaukee drill will likely become a reliable go-to tool in your arsenal.