Milwaukee Stick Light

If there's one tool in my kit that consistently impresses me with its versatility and functionality, it's the Milwaukee Stick Light (model 2352-20). This compact yet powerful light has become an indispensable companion for a wide range of tasks, from automotive work to home improvement projects. Here’s my comprehensive take on this task light after extensive use.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about the Stick Light is its robust construction. Milwaukee has a reputation for creating durable tools, and this light is no exception. The impact and chemical-resistant lens provide a sense of security that it can withstand the rigors of a tough work environment. The body is designed to be both sturdy and lightweight, weighing in at just 1.1 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

The compact design, measuring 11.6 inches in length, allows it to fit into tight spaces where more cumbersome lights would be impractical. This is particularly useful in automotive work, where you often find yourself needing to illuminate nooks and crannies under the hood or beneath the vehicle.

Lighting Performance

One of the key features of this light is its TRUEVIEW™ High Definition Output, which delivers a crisp and clear lighting experience. Initially advertised at 300 lumens, the packaging now indicates an upgraded 400 lumens. This increase in brightness is a welcome surprise, providing ample illumination for most tasks.

The light offers two brightness settings: high and low. The high setting is perfect for situations where maximum visibility is crucial, while the low setting helps conserve battery life for extended use. I have found the pivoting head, which can adjust up to 45 degrees, to be incredibly useful for directing light exactly where it’s needed. Whether you need to light up an overhead area or something at ground level, the flexibility of the pivoting head ensures you have the right angle of illumination.

Battery Life and Power Options

The Stick Light runs on Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, which is a huge plus if you already own other M18 tools. The battery serves as a stable base, especially when using larger capacity batteries like the 5.0 Ah, ensuring that the light remains upright and steady on most surfaces. With a 5.0 Ah battery, you can expect up to 17 hours of run time on high and an impressive 36 hours on low. This long battery life means you can rely on the Stick Light for extended projects without constantly worrying about recharging.

The lack of a USB charging port or dual-power options may be a downside for some users, but in my experience, the M18 battery system’s reliability more than makes up for these omissions.

Usability and Features

The usability of the Stick Light is one of its strongest points. The two stainless steel hooks provide multiple hanging orientations, making it easy to position the light exactly where you need it. The top hook swivels and unclips, while the handle hook rotates up and also swivels, offering a range of mounting configurations.

One minor gripe is the switch mechanism. Switching between high, low, and off requires three clicks, which could potentially wear out the switch over time. While this hasn’t been an issue for me yet, it’s something to keep an eye on, especially if you’re planning to use the light frequently.

Practical Applications

I’ve used the Stick Light in a variety of scenarios, and it has consistently performed well. In automotive work, the wide beam covers more area than traditional round flashlights, making it easier to see what you’re doing. The light’s stability and adjustable head have been particularly helpful when working under the hood or beneath the vehicle.

In home improvement projects, the Stick Light has proven invaluable. Whether it’s electrical work in a windowless room or plumbing tasks under the sink, the light’s ability to illuminate tight spaces with a bright, clear beam has made these jobs much easier.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a crucial factor for any tool, and the Stick Light doesn’t disappoint. It has held up well to drops and exposure to various chemicals. The impact-resistant lens and rugged construction give me confidence that this light will last for years, even with heavy use.

Areas for Improvement

While the Stick Light is generally excellent, there are a few areas where I see room for improvement. The switch mechanism, as mentioned earlier, could benefit from a more straightforward on-off functionality. Additionally, while the upgraded 400 lumens is sufficient for most tasks, having an option for even higher brightness would make this light even more versatile.

Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Stick Light (model 2352-20) is a highly versatile and reliable tool that excels in a variety of settings. Its robust construction, long battery life, and flexible lighting options make it an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. While there are minor areas for improvement, these do not detract significantly from the overall performance and utility of the light.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Stick Light? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a durable, versatile, and powerful task light that integrates seamlessly with the M18 battery system, this is a fantastic option. It has become a staple in my toolkit, and I’m confident it will be a valuable addition to yours as well.