Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill, model 2707-20, stands out in the realm of cordless right-angle drills, thanks to its innovative design and robust performance. As someone who has spent considerable time with various drilling tools, I found the M18 Hole Hawg to be a noteworthy addition to my toolkit, particularly for its balance of power, portability, and user-friendly features.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the M18 Hole Hawg is its compact and well-balanced design. At 17 inches long and weighing in at 7.4 lbs, it feels substantial in hand but not overly cumbersome. The all-metal keyed chuck enhances the tool's durability and ensures a secure grip on bits, which is crucial for demanding drilling tasks. The on-board chuck key holder is a small yet thoughtful feature that adds convenience and ensures you won’t misplace the key during a job.

The tool also features an LED light that illuminates the work area, a practical addition for those tight, dimly lit spaces often encountered in construction and renovation projects.

Performance and Power

Equipped with a POWERSTATE brushless motor, the M18 Hole Hawg delivers impressive performance under load. I tested it on various materials, including 2x4 studs, 8x8 lumber pilings, and pressure-treated boards. The drill handled auger bits up to 1-1/4 inches and self-feed bits up to 2 inches with relative ease. However, it's worth noting that the tool did struggle a bit with larger holes in denser materials, stalling occasionally. This could be attributed to the built-in REDLINK PLUS Intelligence, which optimizes performance while protecting the motor from overload.

The variable speed trigger, ranging from 0 to 1,200 RPM, provides excellent control, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the material and bit size. This feature is particularly useful when transitioning between different types of wood or when precision is required.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One of the standout features of the M18 Hole Hawg is its use of the REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery, which offers extended run time and durability. In my tests, I was able to drill up to 220 7/8 inch holes on a single charge with a 6.0 Ah battery. The battery life is more than sufficient for a full day of work, though heavy-duty tasks like drilling through thick lumber or multiple studs may require additional battery swaps.

The rapid charger included in the kit is efficient, taking less than 45 minutes to fully charge the batteries. This quick turnaround minimizes downtime, which is a significant advantage on busy job sites.

User Experience

Using the M18 Hole Hawg is a generally positive experience. The ergonomics are well thought out, with handles positioned to give you full control over the drilling process. The tool's weight distribution is balanced, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. However, it can feel a bit heavy, especially when used overhead or for extended periods.

One area where the M18 Hole Hawg excels is in its ability to reduce kickback. The tool’s design minimizes the dangerous kickbacks often associated with older, corded models, making it safer to use. However, this safety feature can sometimes be overly sensitive, causing the drill to stall more frequently than desired during high-torque applications.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the M18 Hole Hawg is not without its limitations. Some users might find its performance lacking when drilling through extremely dense materials or when using larger bits. The auto shut-off feature, while protective of the motor, can be frustrating if it activates too easily. Additionally, the tool's weight, while manageable, can be a drawback for those who need to use it for extended periods or in awkward positions.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill is a powerful, versatile tool that excels in many areas. Its cordless design offers significant advantages in terms of portability and ease of use, making it a valuable asset for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and serious DIY enthusiasts alike. The robust build quality, effective LED lighting, and efficient battery system further enhance its appeal.

However, it's essential to consider the tool's limitations. If your work frequently involves drilling through very dense materials or requires the use of large bits, you might find the M18 Hole Hawg's performance somewhat lacking. Additionally, the tool's weight and occasional stalling issues could be potential drawbacks depending on your specific needs.

Would I recommend the M18 Hole Hawg? Absolutely, but with some reservations. For most standard drilling applications, especially in wood, this tool performs admirably and offers the convenience of cordless operation. However, if your tasks demand consistently high torque or involve particularly challenging materials, you might want to consider a more heavy-duty option or stick with a corded model for those specific needs. Overall, the M18 Hole Hawg is a solid, reliable tool that delivers on its promises, making it a worthwhile investment for many professionals and serious DIYers.