Milwaukee Blower

The Milwaukee 3017-20 blower promises a lot on paper, and as someone who’s spent a fair amount of time maintaining landscapes, I was eager to see if it lived up to its claims. With a brushless motor delivering 500 CFM and speeds up to 120 MPH, this blower aims to handle a variety of cleanup tasks efficiently. Here’s my hands-on experience with it.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Milwaukee 3017-20 doesn’t disappoint. The blower feels robust and well-built, which is consistent with Milwaukee’s reputation for durable tools. Weighing in at 7.5 lbs, it’s not the lightest blower on the market, but it’s not overly cumbersome either. The balanced design and ambidextrous sliding lock make it relatively easy to handle, though I did find that extended use could be tiring on the arms, especially without a shoulder strap.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee 3017-20 shines. The brushless motor provides impressive power, making quick work of leaves, grass, and even light debris. The blower reaches full throttle in under a second, which is a significant advantage for quick cleanups. The variable speed trigger offers excellent control, allowing you to adjust the airflow to match the task at hand. I found this particularly useful when working on different surfaces or around delicate plants.

Noise Level

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee 3017-20 is its low noise level. At just 54 dB(A), it’s quieter than many other blowers I’ve used. This makes it a good option for residential areas where noise can be a concern. However, it’s worth noting that some users might still find the high-pitched sound on the highest setting a bit annoying. While it’s quieter than a gas blower, it’s not entirely silent.

Battery Life

Battery life is often a make-or-break factor for cordless tools, and the Milwaukee 3017-20 has its highs and lows in this department. The blower is compatible with Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, which is convenient if you already own other M18 tools. On the highest setting, the battery lasts about 20 minutes, which is adequate for smaller tasks but might fall short for more extensive jobs. If you’re planning to use it for prolonged periods, having a spare battery on hand is advisable.

Usability

In terms of usability, the Milwaukee 3017-20 is a mixed bag. The blower is powerful and effective, but it’s also relatively heavy. This can lead to fatigue during extended use, and I found myself wishing for a shoulder strap to distribute the weight more evenly. On the plus side, the blower is well-balanced, and the ambidextrous sliding lock is a nice touch, making it easier to control with either hand.

Additional Features

The Milwaukee 3017-20 comes with a few additional features that enhance its usability. The nozzle attachment is designed to optimize airflow, and I found it to be effective in directing the air where it’s needed most. The blower also boasts a brushless motor, which not only improves performance but also reduces maintenance requirements. There are no engine emissions to worry about, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to gas blowers.

Durability

Durability is another area where the Milwaukee 3017-20 excels. The build quality is solid, and the materials used feel premium. I have no doubts about the blower’s ability to withstand the rigors of regular use. The three-year limited parts and labor warranty is a nice reassurance, though I doubt you’ll need to use it given the tool’s robust construction.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Milwaukee 3017-20 is on the higher end of the spectrum. However, considering its performance, build quality, and compatibility with the M18 system, I believe it offers good value for money. It’s a tool designed for professionals, and it performs like one. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful blower that can handle a variety of tasks, this one is worth considering.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 3017-20 blower is a powerful and efficient tool that excels in many areas. Its robust performance, low noise level, and solid build quality make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable blower. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The weight can be a bit much for extended use, and the battery life, while adequate for smaller tasks, might not be sufficient for more extensive jobs without a spare battery.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 3017-20 blower? Yes, but with some caveats. If you’re a professional landscaper or someone who already owns other M18 tools, this blower is a great addition to your toolkit. Its power and performance are hard to beat, and the low noise level is a definite plus. However, if you’re looking for a lighter, more budget-friendly option, you might want to explore other alternatives.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 3017-20 blower is a high-quality tool that delivers on its promises. It’s not perfect, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re in the market for a powerful, reliable blower, this one is definitely worth considering.