Milwaukee 1-9/16" SDS Max Rotary Hammer

The Milwaukee 1-9/16" SDS Max Rotary Hammer, model 5517-21, stands out as a robust and reliable tool for heavy-duty concrete drilling and chipping tasks. Having had the opportunity to put this tool through its paces, I can confidently say that it delivers on many fronts, though it does have a few areas that could use improvement.

Performance and Power

The first thing that struck me about this rotary hammer is its sheer power. Equipped with a 14-amp motor, it churns out an impressive 5.6 ft-lbs of impact energy. This level of power makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from drilling anchor holes to breaking up concrete slabs. During my testing, the tool maintained consistent performance even under prolonged use, which speaks volumes about its build quality.

The tool operates at 488 RPM and 3,300 BPM, providing a good balance between speed and impact force. Whether you’re drilling into dense concrete or chipping away at a stubborn section, the rotary hammer handles the job with ease. The soft start feature is particularly useful, offering better control and reducing the chances of bit walking when initiating a hole.

Comfort and Usability

One of the standout features of this rotary hammer is its anti-vibration system. This significantly reduces handle vibration, making long periods of use much more comfortable. I found this especially beneficial during extended chipping sessions, where vibration fatigue can become a serious issue. The handle design itself is ergonomic, with a drop-type handle that provides a secure and comfortable grip.

The tool's weight, at 15.18 pounds, is on the heavier side, but this is to be expected given its power and capabilities. Despite the weight, the tool is well-balanced, which helps in maintaining control during use. The mechanical clutch is another thoughtful addition, providing protection against bit binding and reducing the risk of sudden torque reactions.

Versatility and Features

The Milwaukee rotary hammer offers two-mode operation: rotary hammer and hammer-only. This versatility allows you to switch between drilling and chipping tasks with ease. The 12-position chisel adjustment is another feature that adds to the tool's flexibility, enabling you to position the chisel at the optimal angle for the task at hand.

An LED light is integrated into the tool, which is a nice touch for working in dimly lit areas. While it’s not a feature you might use every day, it can be incredibly handy in situations where visibility is an issue.

Build Quality

In terms of build quality, the Milwaukee rotary hammer is constructed with durability in mind. The motor housing is made of metal, which not only adds to the tool's longevity but also helps in dissipating heat during extended use. I subjected the tool to some pretty demanding tasks, and it held up remarkably well, showing no signs of overheating or performance degradation.

Areas for Improvement

No tool is perfect, and the Milwaukee rotary hammer is no exception. One area where it could improve is in its chipping performance. While it excels in drilling, the chipping mode could use a bit more refinement. I noticed that it sometimes struggled with particularly tough concrete, requiring a bit more effort to get the job done.

Another point to consider is the corded nature of the tool. While this ensures a constant power supply, it does limit mobility. For those who need to work in areas without easy access to power outlets, this could be a drawback. However, for most job sites, this shouldn’t pose a significant issue.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee 1-9/16" SDS Max Rotary Hammer is a powerful and reliable tool that excels in heavy-duty concrete drilling and chipping tasks. Its robust motor, anti-vibration system, and versatile features make it a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. While it has a few areas that could be improved, such as its chipping performance and mobility, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. Its performance, build quality, and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable rotary hammer. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast tackling a big project, this tool is well worth considering.