Milwaukee Close Quarter Angle Drill

Drilling in tight spaces has always been a challenging task, but the Milwaukee Close Quarter Angle Drill, model 0370-20, promises to make it significantly easier. As someone who frequently works in cramped conditions, I was eager to see if this tool lived up to its claims. After putting it through its paces, I can confidently say that it does, with a few caveats.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you'll notice about this drill is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 3.9 lbs and measuring 11 inches in length, it’s easy to maneuver in tight spots. The angled chuck and angled cord exit are particularly well-thought-out features. They keep the cord out of your way, allowing for uninterrupted work even in the most confined spaces.

The construction feels robust, which is no surprise given Milwaukee's reputation for quality. The textured palm grip offers excellent control and comfort, making it easier to hold the drill steady during extended use. The large paddle trigger is another feature that stands out. It provides smooth control over the speed, which is crucial when you're working in delicate or awkward positions.

Performance

Powered by a 3.5-amp motor, this angle drill delivers a no-load speed of 0-1300 RPM. This range is versatile enough for both drilling and fastening tasks. I found that the drill had ample power to handle various materials, including wood and metal. The forward/reverse lever is conveniently located, making it easy to switch directions without having to reposition your hand.

One of the standout features is the keyed chuck, which has a 3/8-inch capacity. While keyless chucks are becoming more common, the keyed chuck on this drill is exceptionally secure. It holds bits tightly, minimizing the risk of slippage. However, some users might find it a bit inconvenient compared to keyless versions.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is where this drill truly shines. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle, even in the most awkward positions. The large paddle trigger allows for smooth speed control, which is essential when you need to apply just the right amount of pressure. The textured palm grip adds to the overall comfort, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

The angled cord exit is a small but significant detail. It keeps the cord out of your way, allowing you to focus on the task at hand. This is particularly useful when you're working overhead or between floor joists, where a dangling cord can be a major nuisance.

Durability

Durability is a key consideration for any tool, and this Milwaukee drill doesn't disappoint. The double-insulated construction and quality components give it a rugged feel. This is a tool that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The 5-year warranty is a testament to Milwaukee's confidence in their product, providing added peace of mind.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact and Lightweight: Easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Angled Chuck and Cord Exit: Keeps the cord out of your way.
• Large Paddle Trigger: Smooth control over speed.
• Textured Palm Grip: Comfortable and reduces fatigue.
• Keyed Chuck: Securely holds bits, minimizing slippage.
• Durable Construction: Built to last with quality components.

Cons:

• Keyed Chuck: Some might find it inconvenient compared to keyless versions.
• Price: Higher cost compared to some knockoff brands.
• Reversing Switch: While improved in newer models, it has been a weak point in older versions.

Real-World Applications

I used this drill for a variety of tasks, from drilling holes in tight corners to fastening screws in awkward positions. It performed admirably in all scenarios. The compact design allowed me to reach areas that would have been impossible with a standard drill. The power was more than sufficient for most tasks, and the speed control was precise, allowing me to avoid overdriving screws or damaging materials.

One particularly challenging job involved drilling holes between floor joists for running electrical cables. The Milwaukee drill made this task significantly easier. The angled chuck allowed me to get the drill into the narrow space, and the angled cord exit kept the cord out of my way, allowing for smooth, uninterrupted work.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Close Quarter Angle Drill is a well-designed, high-quality tool that excels in tight spaces. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with features like the large paddle trigger and angled cord exit, make it exceptionally easy to use. The keyed chuck, while secure, might be a minor inconvenience for those used to keyless versions. However, the overall build quality and performance more than make up for this.

While it is priced higher than some knockoff brands, the durability and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. The 5-year warranty further adds to its value, providing peace of mind that this is a tool built to last.

Recommendation

I highly recommend the Milwaukee Close Quarter Angle Drill for anyone who frequently works in tight spaces. Its combination of compact design, ease of use, and durability make it a standout choice. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this drill is a valuable addition to your toolkit. The higher price point is justified by the quality and performance, ensuring that you get a tool that will serve you well for years to come.