Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ SUPER HAWG™ Right Angle Drill w/ QUIK-LOK™ Kit

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ SUPER HAWG™ Right Angle Drill w/ QUIK-LOK™ Kit is undoubtedly a powerhouse in the realm of cordless drills, and my hands-on experience with it has left me both impressed and mildly critical. This drill is designed to replicate the performance of corded drills while providing the freedom of cordless operation. As a seasoned enthusiast in tool usage, I have had the opportunity to put this tool through its paces on various projects, and here's an in-depth look at what this beast can do.

Unpacking the Power

Right out of the box, the first thing that strikes you about the M18 FUEL™ SUPER HAWG™ is its substantial build. Weighing in at 14.4 pounds, it's not a lightweight tool by any means, but this heft comes with an assurance of durability and robustness. The all-metal construction exudes a sense of reliability that’s vital for a tool meant to tackle rigorous tasks.

The power generated by the 18V POWERSTATE™ Brushless motor is commendable, boasting up to 1,550 RPMs. During my tests, the drill performed admirably, drilling through thick wood beams effortlessly. This tool truly lives up to its claim of generating power comparable to corded drills, making it a reliable companion for heavy-duty tasks.

Performance and Control

One of the standout features of the Super Hawg is its ability to drill up to 100 holes (2-9/16 inch) per charge. This is a game-changer on job sites where electrical outlets are scarce. However, I did notice that battery life can be somewhat inconsistent depending on the intensity and duration of use. For instance, drilling through denser materials tends to deplete the battery quicker. Upgrading to a higher capacity battery can mitigate this issue, but it also adds to the weight, making the tool even heavier.

Despite its weight, the drill is surprisingly easy to control, thanks to the included side handle. This handle provides the necessary leverage and balance needed to manage the tool's torque. In lower torque settings, I found it quite manageable, and it significantly reduced the strain on my hands and wrists during prolonged use. The LED light is another thoughtful addition, illuminating dark workspaces and ensuring precision, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Versatility with QUIK-LOK™

The QUIK-LOK™ chuck system is another feature worth mentioning. Changing attachments has never been easier, and this feature saves valuable time on a busy job site. However, I did encounter some resistance with the quick-release mechanism occasionally. While not a deal-breaker, it’s an aspect that could benefit from some refinement.

Practical Limitations

While the Super Hawg excels in many areas, it does have its limitations. The tool’s size and weight can be a hindrance in tight spaces, such as drilling holes in 2x4 walls near corners. The bulkiness prevents it from reaching the center of studs without significant maneuvering. This could be a drawback for those working in confined environments where precision is paramount.

Another point of contention is the drill’s performance with thicker or denser materials. While it handled most tasks with ease, there were instances where the torque seemed insufficient, causing the drill to stall. This is particularly noticeable when using larger bits or drilling into tougher materials. Adjusting the torque settings helps to some extent, but it’s an area where the tool could use more power.

Durability Concerns

During my extended use, I found the build quality of the Super Hawg to be generally impressive. However, there have been occasional issues with the trigger mechanism. While my unit performed flawlessly, reports of trigger failures do raise some concerns about long-term reliability. Milwaukee’s warranty does offer some peace of mind, but any downtime due to repairs can be frustrating, especially on time-sensitive projects.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ SUPER HAWG™ Right Angle Drill w/ QUIK-LOK™ Kit is a formidable tool that brings the power of a corded drill into a cordless format. Its robust build, ample power, and convenient features like the QUIK-LOK™ chuck and LED light make it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit. However, its weight and size may limit its versatility in tight spaces, and occasional issues with battery life and trigger reliability are worth considering.

Would I recommend the Super Hawg? Absolutely, but with some reservations. If your work involves heavy-duty drilling in open spaces where the tool’s size and weight are not a hindrance, this drill will serve you exceptionally well. Its power and performance are top-notch, making it a standout tool for demanding tasks. However, if you frequently work in confined areas or require a more lightweight option, you might want to explore other models or ensure you have a secondary tool on hand for those specific tasks.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ SUPER HAWG™ is a powerful and reliable tool that excels in many areas but has room for improvement in others. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a solid investment for professionals who need a high-performance, cordless right-angle drill.