Milwaukee Compact Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit

The Milwaukee Compact Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit, model 3602-22CT, is a tool that stands out in the crowded market of cordless drills. From the moment I picked it up, I could tell that this tool was designed with the user in mind. Its compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to handle, especially in tight spaces and overhead applications where larger, bulkier drills can become cumbersome.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this drill was its build quality. Milwaukee has a reputation for crafting durable tools, and this model is no exception. The all-metal gear case and chuck provide a robust feel that inspires confidence. Despite its sturdy construction, the drill remains lightweight at just 2.3 lbs (without the battery), which significantly reduces fatigue during prolonged use.

The compact design, measuring only 5.8 inches in length, allows for excellent maneuverability. This is particularly useful when working in confined spaces where a larger drill would struggle to fit. The ergonomic design further enhances control, making it a joy to use for extended periods.

Performance

The performance of this drill is where it truly shines. Equipped with a brushless motor, it delivers impressive torque and speed. The motor is not only powerful but also efficient, extending the life of the tool and its batteries. With a peak torque of 550 in-lbs and a hammer function that delivers up to 25,500 BPM (blows per minute), this drill is versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks, from drilling into wood and metal to tackling tougher materials like concrete.

During my testing, I drove several lag bolts into pine and was impressed by how effortlessly the drill handled the task. The speed modulation via the trigger was smooth and precise, allowing for excellent control over the drilling process. The 13 torque settings, plus additional drill and hammer settings, provide ample flexibility for various applications.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit includes two CP2.0 batteries and a dual charger, which is a nice addition. The M18 battery system is known for its reliability and long life, and these batteries are no exception. Despite the added weight of the M18 batteries compared to the M12 system, the overall performance and extended runtime make it a worthwhile trade-off.

One minor gripe is that the included charger is not a super charger, which means longer charging times. However, the batteries do charge relatively quickly, and their performance during use more than makes up for the slightly longer wait.

Usability and Features

The usability of this drill is enhanced by several thoughtful features. The LED work light, while not the brightest, covers a wide area and is useful in dimly lit environments. I found it particularly helpful when working in basements and other low-light areas. However, I do wish it was a bit brighter to match the performance of the rest of the tool.

Another feature worth mentioning is the advanced overload protection and temperature monitoring. These features ensure that the tool remains safe to use and prolong its lifespan by preventing overheating and overloading. It's a testament to Milwaukee's commitment to producing reliable, long-lasting tools.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee Compact Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit is an excellent tool overall, there are a couple of areas where it could be improved. Firstly, the LED work light could be brighter to provide better visibility in dark areas. Secondly, the trigger housing partially covers the torque selector ring, making it a bit challenging to grip and change settings, especially when wearing gloves.

Additionally, some users might find the lack of a hard case disappointing. The kit comes with an oversized carry bag, which is functional but doesn't offer the same level of protection as a hard case. It's a minor issue, but something to consider if you need a more rugged storage solution.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee Compact Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit is a fantastic tool that combines power, versatility, and ease of use in a compact package. Its robust build quality, impressive performance, and thoughtful features make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. While there are a few minor areas for improvement, they do not detract significantly from the overall functionality and reliability of the tool.

I would highly recommend this drill to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for a wide range of applications, from household tasks to more demanding projects. The brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance, and the advanced safety features provide peace of mind during use. If you're in the market for a new hammer drill/driver, the Milwaukee 3602-22CT is definitely worth considering.