Milwaukee Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower

As a long-time fan of Milwaukee tools, I was excited to put the Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower, model 2823-20, through its paces. With its promising features and the reputation of Milwaukee for building robust, reliable tools, I had high expectations. To sum up my experience, this mower delivered on many fronts, but it’s not without its quirks and potential deal-breakers.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about the Milwaukee mower is its solid, no-nonsense build. The steel deck exudes durability, and the overall construction feels robust. It's certainly heavier than many other cordless mowers on the market, tipping the scales at 78.2 pounds, but this weight lends it a professional-grade feel. The ergonomic handle design is comfortable and helps in maneuvering the mower, although the weight can be cumbersome for some users.

One standout feature is the single-point height adjustment, which allows you to easily change the cutting height between 1" and 4" across seven positions. This makes it versatile for different lawn conditions and grass types. The LED lights are a thoughtful addition, particularly useful for those who might find themselves mowing in low-light conditions.

Performance

Performance-wise, this mower packs a punch. The dual M18 REDLITHIUM batteries offer substantial power, and the variable speed self-propelled operation is a godsend, especially for large lawns or users with mobility issues. In my tests, the mower handled thick, tall grass impressively well without bogging down. The 21-inch cutting capacity means fewer passes are needed, which significantly cuts down mowing time.

The mower's self-propelled function is generally reliable, making it easier to handle the mower's heft. However, there were occasional stalls, particularly in dry, short grass, which can be frustrating. This seems to be a quirk in the mower's design and may not affect all users, but it’s worth noting.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is one of the highlights of this mower. The 12.0 Ah batteries last longer than expected, often allowing me to complete my medium-sized lawn on a single charge. This is a significant improvement over many other cordless mowers I've used in the past. However, I did notice that in hot weather, the batteries tend to overheat more quickly, which can trigger thermal protection and temporarily halt mowing. This can be mitigated by mowing during cooler parts of the day or by ensuring proper battery cooling during charging.

Grass Management

The Milwaukee mower offers a 3-in-1 grass management system, allowing you to choose between mulching, bagging, and side discharge. The bagging functionality is particularly effective, with the mower providing plenty of lift to fill the bag completely. The mulching capability, however, left something to be desired. Despite the mower's power, the mulch plug doesn’t perform as well as I had hoped, with some clippings left behind.

Usability and Storage

Setting up and starting the mower is a breeze. The batteries slot in effortlessly, and the power-up process is straightforward. I appreciate the vertical storage capability, which is a space-saver in the garage. The height adjustment handle is easy to use, although it sticks out quite far, which can be a minor inconvenience.

Drawbacks and Concerns

While the Milwaukee mower has a lot going for it, there are some concerns worth mentioning. The build quality, despite being generally robust, has some weak points. If the blade hits a hard object, it can cause significant damage to the motor housing, which is a serious flaw given the mower's premium price point. Customer service experiences can vary, and warranty claims might not always be straightforward.

Another point of concern is the battery issue some users have faced, where the batteries refuse to take a full charge after some time. This can severely impact the mower's usability and is something prospective buyers should keep in mind.

Conclusion

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower? Despite its shortcomings, I would. The mower excels in power, battery life, and ease of use, making it a solid choice for those who value performance and convenience. The LED lights, single-point height adjustment, and self-propelled functionality are excellent features that enhance the mowing experience.

However, potential buyers should be wary of the mower's susceptibility to damage if it encounters hard objects and the occasional issues with battery performance. If you are diligent about avoiding obstacles and possibly investing in additional batteries or a cooling solution, this mower can be a reliable addition to your lawn care arsenal.

In summary, the Milwaukee mower is a formidable tool for those willing to navigate its few quirks. Its balance of power, ease of use, and thoughtful design features make it a worthwhile investment for serious landscapers and homeowners alike.