Milwaukee M18 Brushless String Trimmer (Tool-Only)

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in the world of power tools, and their M18 Brushless String Trimmer (model 2828-20) is no exception. As someone who has used various string trimmers over the years, both gas and electric, I was eager to see how this cordless, brushless model would stack up. Here's a detailed breakdown of my experience with this tool.

Design and Build Quality

The M18 Brushless String Trimmer boasts a robust design typical of Milwaukee's craftsmanship. The tool feels sturdy in hand, with a balanced weight distribution that makes it relatively comfortable to use for extended periods. At 9.1 pounds, it’s not the lightest trimmer on the market, but the weight is well-managed thanks to the adjustable handle, which allows you to find a comfortable grip.

One of the standout features is the adjustable cutting swath. You can switch between a 14-inch swath for longer run times or a 16-inch swath for increased clearing capacity. This flexibility is a significant advantage depending on the task at hand, whether you’re tackling a large open area or more intricate trimming around obstacles.

Performance

Performance-wise, the brushless motor is a game-changer. It reaches up to 6,200 RPM, providing more than enough power to cut through thick grass and weeds. The variable speed trigger offers precise control, which is particularly useful for delicate trimming tasks where you don’t want to damage surrounding plants or structures.

In my experience, the trimmer handled everything I threw at it with ease. From dense patches of overgrown grass to edging along concrete paths, the tool maintained a consistent performance. The two-speed settings are a nice touch, allowing you to conserve battery life when full power isn’t necessary.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, and this trimmer is no different. Using a 6.0Ah battery, I was able to get about an hour of continuous use, which was sufficient for my yard. For larger properties, having an extra battery or two on hand would be beneficial. The trimmer is compatible with Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, so if you already own other M18 tools, you can easily swap batteries.

One issue I encountered was the battery seating. The battery doesn’t always click securely into place, which can cause the trimmer to shut off unexpectedly. This is particularly frustrating when you’re in the middle of a task and have to stop to reseat the battery. This seems to be a design flaw that Milwaukee should address in future iterations.

Ease of Use

Loading the trimmer line is straightforward thanks to the Easy Load Trimmer Head. It’s compatible with both .080" and .095" trimmer lines, giving you options depending on your needs. The bump feed mechanism works well, although I did notice that it sometimes caused the battery to come loose, leading to the aforementioned shutoff issue.

The trimmer is relatively quiet compared to gas-powered models, which is a significant plus if you’re working in a noise-sensitive area. The reduced noise level also makes it more pleasant to use for extended periods.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is where the M18 Brushless String Trimmer has some mixed reviews. While the build quality is generally solid, there have been reports of the tool overheating during heavy use. In my experience, the trimmer did get warm, but it never reached a point where it shut down or caused damage to the battery terminals. However, this is something to be mindful of if you plan to use the tool for extended, heavy-duty tasks.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a big advantage over gas-powered trimmers. There’s no need to worry about fuel mixtures, spark plugs, or carburetors. Just keep the trimmer line loaded, and you’re good to go.

Additional Features

I also tested the trimmer with Milwaukee’s pole saw attachment, which was easy to swap out thanks to the QUIK-LOK system. The pole saw performed admirably, making quick work of small branches and overhanging limbs. However, I did find it a bit cumbersome to use for extended periods due to the added weight and length.

Recommendations

Would I recommend the Milwaukee M18 Brushless String Trimmer? Yes, with some caveats. If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, this trimmer is a no-brainer. It offers excellent performance, ease of use, and the convenience of cordless operation. However, the battery seating issue and potential for overheating are significant drawbacks that could be deal-breakers for some users.

For homeowners with small to medium-sized yards, this trimmer is more than capable of handling regular maintenance tasks. The adjustable cutting swath, variable speed trigger, and quiet operation make it a versatile and user-friendly tool. Just be prepared to invest in an extra battery or two if you have a larger property or plan to use the tool for extended periods.

In summary, the Milwaukee M18 Brushless String Trimmer is a powerful and efficient tool that delivers on most fronts. With a few design tweaks, it could easily be one of the best cordless trimmers on the market. For now, it remains a strong contender that’s worth considering, especially if you’re looking to make the switch from gas to electric.