Milwaukee 25' Fish Stick Combo Kit

Navigating the intricacies of electrical work often requires specialized tools that not only make the job easier but also ensure safety and efficiency. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out Milwaukee's 25' Fish Stick Combo Kit, model number 48-22-4160, and I must say, it has significantly elevated my wire fishing tasks. Here's a detailed look at my experience with this kit.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the build quality of the Milwaukee fish sticks is immediately noticeable. Each stick is made of smooth fiberglass, which is both sturdy and lightweight. The knurled grip on the connection points is a small but incredibly thoughtful feature, making it easy to twist the sticks together even when wearing gloves. The reinforced connection points ensure a secure fit, preventing any wobble or looseness during use.

The kit includes four low-flex sticks and one mid-flex stick, each measuring 5 feet. This flexibility in design allows for a range of applications, from navigating tight corners to pushing through insulation. The low-flex sticks provide the rigidity needed for straight runs, while the mid-flex stick offers the bendability required for more complex routes. The color-coded flexibility system is a simple yet effective way to quickly identify the right stick for the job.

Glow in the Dark Feature

One of the standout features of this kit is its glow-in-the-dark capability. After just a few seconds of exposure to light, the sticks glow brightly, making them easy to locate in dark spaces such as attics, basements, or wall voids. This feature significantly reduces the need for additional lighting, freeing up hands and improving overall efficiency. In my own experience, the glow lasted for quite a while, which was particularly useful for longer fishing tasks.

Performance

The performance of these fish sticks is where they truly shine. I recently used them to install a new LED light in a bathroom ceiling, a task complicated by thick insulation and numerous framing obstacles. My old fish tape simply couldn't navigate the tight space. However, the Milwaukee fish sticks, with their combination of low and mid-flexibility, made the job manageable. The mid-flex stick was particularly useful in bending around obstacles, while the low-flex sticks provided the necessary push through the insulation.

The included bullet nose and hook tips are versatile and effective. The bullet nose is excellent for straight runs, while the hook tip is perfect for grabbing wires in tight spots. Both tips screw on securely and are stored conveniently in the cap of the storage tube, ensuring they are always within reach.

Storage and Portability

The storage tube is another well-thought-out component of this kit. Made from durable, clear poly material, it protects the sticks from damage and makes it easy to see the contents. The cap is tethered to the tube, eliminating the risk of losing it, and the accessory storage in the tube cap is a nice touch. The tube is robust enough to withstand the rigors of transport, whether in a truck or on a job site.

Practical Applications

Whether you're a professional electrician or a DIY enthusiast, this kit has a wide range of applications. From running wires through walls and ceilings to navigating tight spaces in attics or basements, the Milwaukee fish sticks are up to the task. The combination of low and mid-flexibility sticks allows for adaptability in various scenarios, making it a versatile addition to any toolkit.

During a recent home renovation project, I had to run wires through a finished basement ceiling. The 25-foot reach of the connected sticks was more than adequate, and the glow-in-the-dark feature made it easy to see what I was doing, even in the dimly lit space. The smooth coating on the sticks ensured they slid effortlessly through the insulation, and the knurled grip made it easy to assemble and disassemble the sticks as needed.

Durability

Durability is a critical factor for any tool, and the Milwaukee fish sticks do not disappoint. The anti-splinter coating on the fiberglass sticks ensures a smooth surface, preventing any splinters from forming and making them safe to handle. The reinforced connection points are robust and show no signs of wear even after multiple uses. Milwaukee's lifetime warranty further attests to the durability and reliability of this product.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee fish sticks are impressive overall, there are a few minor areas for improvement. The mid-flex stick, while useful, broke during a particularly challenging task. It would be beneficial if Milwaukee could enhance the durability of the mid-flex stick to withstand even more rigorous use. Additionally, while the glow-in-the-dark feature is fantastic, it requires frequent recharging to maintain its brightness, which can be a minor inconvenience during extended tasks.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 25' Fish Stick Combo Kit is a high-quality, well-engineered tool that makes wire fishing tasks significantly easier and more efficient. The combination of low and mid-flexibility sticks, glow-in-the-dark feature, and durable construction makes it a versatile and reliable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're a professional electrician or a DIY enthusiast, this kit is well worth the investment.

I highly recommend the Milwaukee fish sticks for anyone looking to streamline their wire fishing tasks. The thoughtful design, robust build quality, and practical features make it a standout product in its category. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall performance and durability of this kit make it a valuable tool that will serve you well for years to come.