Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder

Navigating through the world of digital multimeters, hands-free operation can be a game-changer, especially when you're juggling test leads and taking measurements simultaneously. The Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder, model number 49-77-3001, aims to make this task easier by allowing your multimeter to be mounted on any ferrous surface. To see how well it performs, I gave it a thorough test run.

First Impressions and Features

The Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder is a compact piece of equipment, measuring only 1.75 inches in length. It's designed specifically to fit the Milwaukee 2216-20 and 2217-20 Digital Multimeters. Out of the box, the holder feels sturdy and well-built, which is what I've come to expect from Milwaukee.

The magnet itself is designed to provide a strong hold, allowing the meter to stay in place on any metal surface. This feature is incredibly useful when you need both hands free to manage test leads and record measurements. While the magnet does add some bulk to the multimeter, the added convenience and safety of a hands-free operation can be a valuable trade-off.

Ease of Use

Attaching the Magnetic Meter Holder to the multimeter is straightforward. It slides onto the back of the compatible multimeters and stays securely in place. However, I did find that the fit is quite tight. While this ensures that the holder doesn't easily slip off, it might be a challenge to remove it once it's attached. Personally, I prefer a secure fit to a loose one, but it's worth noting for those who might need to switch between different holders frequently.

The magnet's strength is adequate for most standard uses. It held the multimeter securely in place on flat metal surfaces like electrical panels and toolboxes. However, I did notice that the magnet struggled a bit on smaller or uneven surfaces. In those cases, a bit of repositioning was necessary to ensure a stable hold.

Performance and Practicality

When it comes to real-world application, the Magnetic Meter Holder performed admirably in keeping the multimeter steady while I worked. The hands-free convenience allowed me to focus more on the task at hand rather than worrying about the placement of my multimeter.

One thing that stood out to me was the design aspect. The magnet's color is slightly different from Milwaukee’s usual red, which might seem like a minor detail but could be a bit of an eyesore for those who prefer a uniform look in their tools. While this doesn’t affect the performance, aesthetics can be important in a professional setting.

Over time, I did notice that the magnet's strength seemed to diminish slightly, especially when frequently attaching and detaching it from various surfaces. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep an eye on if you plan to use the holder extensively. Regular inspection and perhaps a bit of maintenance could prolong its effectiveness.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of the Magnetic Meter Holder is generally good, but it’s not without its shortcomings. The plastic casing feels durable, and it’s unlikely to crack or break under normal usage. However, the magnet itself could benefit from a bit more reinforcement. In one instance, I accidentally dropped the multimeter with the holder attached, and while the multimeter survived unscathed, the magnet showed signs of stress. This indicates that while the holder is built well, it might not be the most rugged option available.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder is a solid addition to any toolkit if you frequently use a compatible Milwaukee multimeter. It offers the convenience of hands-free operation and generally performs well in most standard scenarios. Its tight fit ensures that the holder stays in place, and the build quality stands up to regular use.

However, the magnet could be stronger, and the slight color mismatch might be an aesthetic issue for some users. Additionally, the tight fit, while secure, might make it challenging to remove the holder if needed. I also feel that Milwaukee could enhance the durability of the magnet itself to prevent performance degradation over time.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder? If you’re a professional or an avid DIYer who already uses a Milwaukee 2216-20 or 2217-20 Digital Multimeter, this holder can be a valuable tool that simplifies your work and enhances safety. The convenience of hands-free operation outweighs the minor drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment.

However, if you’re looking for a holder with a stronger magnet or one that is easier to attach and detach frequently, you might want to explore other options, possibly from brands like Fluke, which offer different designs and potentially stronger magnets.

In summary, the Milwaukee Magnetic Meter Holder is a good tool with room for improvement. It meets the basic needs and offers added convenience, making it a beneficial addition to your toolkit if you can manage its few quirks.