Milwaukee Magnetic Utility Nozzle

Cleaning up shop floors and workbenches is a task that many DIY enthusiasts and professionals know all too well. Over time, I've gathered an array of vacuum attachments, yet none have piqued my interest quite like Milwaukee's Magnetic Utility Nozzle. This seemingly modest attachment promises to keep metallic debris from entering the vacuum, a claim I found myself eager to test.

Straight out of the package, the nozzle feels robust. Its rigid plastic construction is noticeable, and unlike other cheaper nozzles I've encountered, this one doesn't have any flex. This durability immediately suggests that it won't break easily, even under rigorous use. The black zinc-coated magnets—strategically placed on the front and back—are the star feature, designed to capture metal shavings, screws, and nails before they get sucked into the vacuum.

The versatility of the nozzle is commendable. Compatible with wet/dry vacuums that have 1-1/4”, 1-7/8”, and 2-1/2” hose diameters, it offers a snug fit across a range of different hoses without the need for additional adaptors. This convenience is a significant plus, as searching for the right adaptor can often be a hassle.

One of the standout uses of this nozzle, beyond its magnetic capabilities, is its effectiveness in general vacuuming tasks. Whether you're dealing with sawdust in a workshop or cleaning up after a construction project, this nozzle performs admirably. The magnetic strips do an excellent job of catching metallic objects like screws and nails, safeguarding the inner components of the vacuum from potential damage. This feature also spares you the trouble of sifting through the collected debris to find small metallic parts you might need later.

In practice, the magnets are strong enough to capture ferrous metal debris efficiently. I did notice, however, that it doesn't grab non-magnetic metals like stainless steel screws. This limitation aside, the nozzle's magnetic capability is a significant time-saver and remarkably effective. I even found myself using the nozzle without the vacuum as a makeshift magnetic sweeper to retrieve small metal items from hard-to-reach places, such as under workbenches and cabinets.

For those concerned about rust, the black zinc coating on the magnets provides a layer of protection, ensuring the nozzle remains rust-free over time. This feature is particularly useful if you're working in environments where moisture is prevalent.

Using this nozzle with different vacuum models yielded mixed results. With a high-power 5-6 HP vacuum, the suction was more than adequate, and the nozzle performed seamlessly. However, when paired with a compact handheld vacuum that has a 1-1/4” hose diameter, I noticed a drop in suction efficiency. This issue might be a consideration for those who rely on smaller, less powerful vacuums for quick cleanups.

Another practical aspect is the nozzle's compatibility with multiple hose sizes. The design cleverly accommodates various diameters, although it does create a bottleneck when used with a larger 2-1/2” hose. This restriction might lead to clogs if you're dealing with larger debris. For fine dust or liquid cleanups, however, the nozzle works impeccably, maintaining a good balance between suction and debris collection.

While the Magnetic Utility Nozzle doesn't have a locking mechanism to secure it to the hose, the fit is tight enough to prevent it from falling off during use. This feature adds to its ease of use, making it a reliable attachment for both professional and personal applications.

In terms of overall construction, the nozzle is well-made. The heavy-duty plastic feels durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of a busy workshop or construction site. Despite its sturdy build, the nozzle isn't overly heavy, making it easy to handle over extended periods.

A minor critique would be the strength of the magnets. While they are effective, they aren't as powerful as one might expect from a brand like Milwaukee. However, they are sufficiently strong to pick up most small metal items that could pose a threat to the vacuum's internal components.

After testing the nozzle extensively, I found it to be an invaluable addition to my toolkit. It saves time, protects the vacuum, and simplifies the cleanup process. Whether you are a DIY hobbyist or a professional contractor, this attachment is a worthy investment.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Magnetic Utility Nozzle. Its robust construction, effective magnetic strips, and compatibility with various hose sizes make it a versatile and practical tool. While it has some minor limitations, such as the performance drop with smaller vacuums and the moderate magnetic strength, these are outweighed by its numerous benefits. If you prioritize protecting your vacuum and simplifying debris collection, this nozzle is an excellent choice to add to your cleaning arsenal.