Milwaukee Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit

I've been working in construction and DIY projects for over a decade, and my tool collection has seen its fair share of products from various brands. Recently, I decided to test the Milwaukee 2690-24 Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit, and it has certainly left an impression. This kit includes a hammer drill/driver, a reciprocating saw, a circular saw, and a work light, all powered by Milwaukee's 18V Lithium-Ion batteries. Here's my detailed take on each tool in the kit and the overall package.

The hammer drill/driver is the workhorse of this set. With 750 in-lbs of torque, it has proven itself in a variety of demanding tasks, from driving screws into dense hardwood to drilling through metal. The drill feels solid in hand, but it does weigh in at around 5 pounds with the battery attached. This might be a bit much for prolonged overhead work, but the balance and grip are excellent, helping to mitigate fatigue. One feature I particularly appreciate is the built-in LED light, which illuminates the work area effectively, a must-have for those dimly lit corners and tight spots.

Next up is the reciprocating saw, a tool that has surprised me with its versatility and power. The all-metal gearing gives it a rugged durability that inspires confidence. Whether I was cutting through PVC pipes, metal, or even doing some quick brush clearing, the saw handled it all without breaking a sweat. The quick blade release mechanism is a time-saver, allowing me to switch blades effortlessly as I move from one task to another. This saw is a true “sawzall,” living up to its name by tackling a wide range of materials.

The circular saw in this kit is equipped with a 6-1/2 inch blade and a motor that spins at 3,500 RPM. Initially, I was skeptical about the power of a cordless circular saw, but Milwaukee has alleviated those concerns. The saw has cut through plywood, 2x4s, and even some 2x6 rafters with ease. The smaller blade size strikes a nice balance between cutting capacity and battery life, and I found it particularly useful for on-the-go jobs where dragging around a corded saw would be impractical. The blade stops almost instantly when the trigger is released, adding an extra layer of safety.

The work light, while not the star of the show, still deserves a mention. It's durable and provides a good amount of light for those late-night projects or power outages. I haven't used it as much as the other tools, but it's a handy addition to the kit. The head can be angled to direct light where it's needed, and the battery life is impressive, lasting several hours on a single charge.

Battery performance is crucial for any cordless tool, and the Milwaukee kit doesn't disappoint. The included 18V Lithium-Ion XC batteries hold a charge well and deliver consistent power throughout their runtime. Charging time is around an hour, which is fairly quick, especially when you have two batteries to rotate. While the standard batteries are adequate, I found that upgrading to higher capacity batteries can significantly extend the performance, particularly for the saws.

One minor gripe I have is with the carrying bag. It’s functional but feels a bit lightweight given the robust nature of the tools it’s meant to carry. There are six internal pockets for accessories, but fitting everything in comfortably can be a bit of a challenge. A more durable and spacious bag would have been a welcome addition, especially for those who need to transport their tools frequently.

Overall, the Milwaukee 2690-24 Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit is a solid investment. The tools are built to last, offer excellent performance, and are backed by a brand known for its reliability. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a serious DIY enthusiast, this kit covers a broad range of applications and delivers the power and durability needed to get the job done. The initial cost may be higher compared to some other brands, but the long-term value and reliability make it worth every penny.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Milwaukee 2690-24 combo kit. The combination of power, build quality, and versatility makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to build or upgrade their tool collection. The hammer drill/driver, reciprocating saw, and circular saw all perform exceptionally well, and the work light, while a bit of an afterthought, is still a useful addition. If you’re in the market for a comprehensive and reliable cordless tool set, this Milwaukee kit should be at the top of your list.