Milwaukee 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer w/ ONE-KEY™

As a seasoned professional in the world of power tools, I've had the opportunity to test and evaluate a wide range of products. Recently, I spent some time with Milwaukee's 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer w/ ONE-KEY™ (model 2915-20), and I have to say, this tool has a lot to offer—both in terms of power and technology. However, there are a few caveats worth noting.

Build and Design

The first thing that struck me about this rotary hammer is its sheer size and weight. Weighing in at 15.5 pounds, it's not the lightest tool on the market. However, this heft contributes to its robust build quality, which is immediately apparent. The tool feels solid and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty construction work.

The design includes Milwaukee's AVS Anti-Vibration System, which is a godsend for reducing hand and arm fatigue during prolonged use. Although the tool is heavy, the AVS feature makes it more comfortable to handle, especially when drilling into tough materials like concrete and masonry.

Performance

When it comes to performance, this rotary hammer does not disappoint. The brushless motor delivers an impressive blow energy of 3.6 ft-lbs and a no-load speed of up to 800 RPM. This translates to fast drilling and high impact energy, making it highly efficient for drilling in concrete and masonry.

I tested this rotary hammer on various materials, including old concrete and brick. Drilling 5/8" holes was a breeze, although I did notice that the battery life fell short of the advertised capacity. Using an 8.0 amp battery, I managed to get roughly half the number of holes per charge compared to what Milwaukee claims. While this was a bit disappointing, it wasn't a deal-breaker for me, as I had multiple batteries on hand.

Safety Features

Milwaukee has incorporated some noteworthy safety features into this tool. The AUTOSTOP™ Control and Kickback Control are designed to prevent over-rotation and enhance user safety. During my tests, these features worked effectively, providing an extra layer of security, especially when working with tougher materials.

One issue I encountered, however, was with the tool's chuck. After extended use, the chuck tends to get hot, causing grease to flow down the head and fling everywhere. This happened multiple times, and it's something to be aware of if you plan on using this tool for long periods.

ONE-KEY™ Technology

One of the standout features of this rotary hammer is Milwaukee's ONE-KEY™ technology. This allows for tool tracking and inventory management, which is incredibly useful for professionals who need to keep track of multiple tools on a job site. The app is user-friendly and offers various customization options, including setting up profiles for different applications.

Dust Extraction System

The tool comes with a dust extractor, which is supposed to minimize cleanup and reduce exposure to harmful dust particles. While the dust extractor works reasonably well, it's not without its flaws. The design includes an adjustable depth gauge on the side, which can be cumbersome in tight spaces. Additionally, the dust extractor itself is quite bulky, making the entire unit less portable.

Modes and Versatility

This rotary hammer offers three drilling modes: Rotary Hammer, Hammer Only, and Rotation Only. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from drilling and chipping to driving in ground rods. I particularly appreciated the Hammer Only mode, which made quick work of some DIY cement porch repairs.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is always a critical factor for cordless tools. While the 6.0 ah high output batteries lasted a reasonable amount of time, they didn't quite meet my expectations based on Milwaukee's claims. The fast charger included in the kit is a nice touch, allowing for quick turnaround times between charges.

Practical Considerations

One practical issue I encountered was the tool's safety button. The middle position to set the safety is not very obvious, and it can easily get nudged out of place. This requires constant vigilance to ensure the tool is safely inactive when not in use.

Additionally, the carrying case is enormous, which can be a hassle for transportation and storage. It leaves little room for accessories like bits or anchors, making it less user-friendly for those who need to move the tool frequently between job sites.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer w/ ONE-KEY™ is a powerful, well-built tool that excels in performance and safety features. Its robust construction and high impact energy make it ideal for heavy-duty drilling and chipping tasks. The ONE-KEY™ technology adds a layer of convenience for professionals who need to manage multiple tools.

However, the tool is not without its drawbacks. The grease flinging issue, bulky dust extractor, and cumbersome safety button are notable concerns. Additionally, the battery life falls short of the advertised capacity, which could be a limitation for those relying on extended use.

Would I recommend this tool? For professionals who need a powerful, versatile rotary hammer and can overlook some of its practical shortcomings, the answer is yes. The performance and safety features make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. However, if portability and battery life are critical factors for your work, you might want to consider other options.

In summary, Milwaukee's 1-1/8" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer w/ ONE-KEY™ is a robust and powerful tool that offers excellent performance and advanced features, but it comes with a few practical limitations that potential buyers should consider.