D-Handle Drill

Features

  • 7.0-amp motor
  • Delivers up to 500 RPM
  • ½” capacity in steel
  • Heavy-duty keyed chuck with holder
  • 8-ft. fixed rubber cord

Specifications

Amps 7
Cord Type 8' Fixed
Tool Warranty 5 Years
Power Source Corded
Length 14-3/4"
Weight 6.8 lbs
No Load Rpm 500
Spindle Lock No
Chuck Size 1/2"
Chuck Type Keyed
Capacity In Wood Flat Boring Bit 1-1/2" | Hole Saw 5" | Auger 1-1/2" | Self-Feed 3-5/8"
Construction Type Grounded
Soft Grip Handle No
Spindle 1/2"-20
Gear Train Triple
Voltage 120V AC

This D-Handle Drill is designed for jobsite performance. It features a powerful motor and is suitable for use with various materials including wood, metal, plastics, and composites. It includes a D-handle and side handle for improved grip and control.

Model Number: 1101-1

Milwaukee D-Handle Drill Review

5.0 out of 5

When tackling a variety of materials on job sites, having a reliable and powerful drill in your toolkit is essential. The Milwaukee 1101-1 D-Handle Drill is an impressive piece of equipment that stands out for its performance and durability. After spending some time with this tool, I can confidently share my insights and experiences with it, highlighting its strengths and a few considerations to keep in mind.

Performance and Power

The Milwaukee D-Handle Drill is powered by a robust 7.0-amp motor, which provides ample power for a wide range of drilling tasks. Whether you're working with wood, metal, plastics, or composites, this drill handles each material with ease. The motor delivers up to 500 RPM, which is more than sufficient for most drilling applications. I found that it maintains consistent power even under heavy loads, ensuring that the job gets done efficiently.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the standout features of this drill is its D-handle design. This design, coupled with the side handle, offers improved grip and control, which is particularly beneficial when working in tight spaces or at awkward angles. The handles are well-positioned, making it easier to apply the necessary pressure and maintain stability during drilling. Despite its powerful motor, the drill is not overly heavy at 6.8 lbs, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use.

The drill's length of 14-3/4" provides a good balance between reach and maneuverability. It is long enough to reach tight spaces but not so long that it becomes cumbersome. The 8-ft fixed rubber cord offers sufficient length to move around the job site without constantly needing to switch outlets or use extension cords.

Versatility and Capacity

The Milwaukee D-Handle Drill boasts a ½” capacity in steel, which is quite impressive for a drill of this size. It also has various capacities in wood: a flat boring bit up to 1-1/2", a hole saw up to 5", an auger up to 1-1/2", and a self-feed bit up to 3-5/8". These capacities make it a versatile tool capable of handling a wide range of drilling tasks.

The heavy-duty keyed chuck with a holder ensures that the drill bits are securely fastened, minimizing the risk of slippage during operation. While some might prefer a keyless chuck for quicker bit changes, the keyed chuck here offers a more secure grip, which can be crucial for heavy-duty applications.

Durability and Construction

Milwaukee tools are known for their durability, and the 1101-1 D-Handle Drill is no exception. The construction feels solid, and the grounded design adds an extra layer of safety. The drill is built to withstand the rigors of job site use, and Milwaukee backs this up with a 5-year warranty, which speaks to their confidence in the product's longevity.

Ease of Use

Using the Milwaukee D-Handle Drill is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive design. The keyed chuck, while requiring a bit more effort to change bits, is easy to use and ensures that bits are held securely. The drill's triple gear train offers smooth operation and helps distribute the load evenly, reducing wear and tear on the components.

One aspect that could be improved is the inclusion of a spindle lock, which would make bit changes even easier. However, this is a minor inconvenience and does not significantly detract from the overall usability of the tool.

Value for Money

Considering its performance, build quality, and versatility, the Milwaukee D-Handle Drill offers excellent value for money. It is priced competitively for a professional-grade tool and delivers on its promises. The 5-year warranty adds further value, providing peace of mind that the tool is built to last and will be supported by the manufacturer.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 1101-1 D-Handle Drill is a powerful, versatile, and durable tool that is well-suited for a variety of drilling tasks. Its ergonomic design, impressive capacities, and solid construction make it a reliable choice for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts.

I would highly recommend this drill to anyone in need of a robust and dependable tool for their drilling needs. Its performance and ease of use, combined with Milwaukee's reputation for quality, make it a standout option in its category. Whether you're working on electrical, plumbing, or general construction projects, this drill is more than capable of getting the job done efficiently and effectively.


Project Ideas

Business

Custom Furniture Business

Start a custom furniture business where you design and create unique, made-to-order furniture pieces for clients. Use the D-Handle Drill for precise drilling and assembly to ensure high-quality craftsmanship.


Home Renovation Services

Offer home renovation services that include custom cabinetry, shelving, and other built-in solutions. The drill’s versatility will allow you to efficiently handle various tasks and materials.


Metalworking Shop

Open a metalworking shop where you create custom metal parts, art, and decor. The D-Handle Drill's capacity in steel makes it ideal for producing high-quality metalwork.


Handmade Garden Products

Launch a business specializing in handmade garden products such as planters, trellises, and birdhouses. Market these unique, handcrafted items to gardening enthusiasts.


Upcycled Home Decor

Create a niche business focused on upcycled home decor items. Use the drill to assemble parts from various recycled materials, offering unique pieces that appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Creative

Customized Wooden Furniture

Use the D-Handle Drill to create bespoke wooden furniture pieces such as tables, chairs, and shelves. The drill's powerful motor and control features allow for precise drilling and assembly.


Metal Art Sculptures

Craft intricate metal art sculptures by drilling and piecing together various metal components. The drill's capacity in steel and heavy-duty chuck make it suitable for working with different metal thicknesses.


DIY Home Improvement Projects

Engage in various DIY home improvement projects like building cabinets, installing shelves, or creating custom storage solutions. The drill's versatility with multiple materials ensures it can handle different tasks around the house.


Garden Structures

Construct garden structures such as trellises, planters, or birdhouses. The D-Handle Drill's ability to work with wood and other materials makes it perfect for outdoor projects.


Upcycled Craft Projects

Create unique upcycled items by drilling and assembling parts from old furniture, metal scraps, and other materials. This promotes sustainability and creativity in crafting.