Milwaukee 1/2" Drill Driver

As someone who spends a significant amount of time tinkering with various tools, the Milwaukee 1/2" Drill Driver, model 2606-20, quickly became a focal point in my workshop. This compact yet powerful tool is part of Milwaukee's renowned M18 line and boasts a combination of features designed to enhance both performance and durability. After putting it through its paces, I have gathered a well-rounded perspective on what it brings to the table.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this drill driver is its compact design. Measuring just 7.8 inches in length and weighing a mere 3.32 pounds, it is notably lightweight and easy to handle. This is particularly advantageous when working in tight spaces or overhead, where a bulkier tool would be cumbersome.

The all-metal gear case and chuck add a layer of durability that gives confidence in its longevity. In my experience, the robust construction ensures that the tool can withstand the rigors of daily use without showing significant wear and tear. The all-metal ratcheting chuck, while generally reliable, did present some challenges with smaller drill bits. At times, it struggled to maintain a firm grip, especially when drilling into harder materials.

Performance

Equipped with a 4-pole frameless motor, the drill driver delivers an impressive performance. It offers a maximum RPM of 1800 and a peak torque of 500 ft/lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from driving screws to drilling holes in various materials. The variable speed settings—0-400 RPM and 0-1800 RPM—provide excellent control, allowing for precision work when needed.

I found the REDLINK Intelligence system to be particularly beneficial. This feature provides overload protection, which helps preserve both the tool and the battery, ensuring a longer lifespan. The 18V power source, part of Milwaukee's M18 battery system, is another highlight. The batteries are compact yet powerful, and I rarely found myself needing to recharge them in the middle of a project.

Battery and Charger

One of the more contentious aspects of this tool is the battery and charger system. The kit includes a standard charger, which is functional but not as efficient as Milwaukee's Rapid Charger. While the standard charger gets the job done, it does so at a slower pace, which can be a minor inconvenience during extended work sessions.

On the positive side, the batteries feature a built-in power gauge, allowing me to monitor their charge levels easily. This is a handy feature that helps avoid unexpected power depletion. However, I did encounter some issues with battery reliability. In a few instances, the batteries either arrived dead or failed to charge properly, which was frustrating. This seems to be a sporadic issue but one worth noting.

Usability

Ergonomically, the drill driver excels. The rubber handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. The tool also includes an LED light positioned near the base, which illuminates the work area. While the light is helpful, its placement could be improved for better visibility in darker spots.

The tool bag that comes with the kit is functional but not exceptional. It lacks internal organization, which means everything gets jumbled together. For someone like me who prefers a more organized setup, this was a slight drawback. The bag's oversized nature also seems counterintuitive for a compact tool, though it does allow for carrying additional items if needed.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, the Milwaukee 1/2" Drill Driver is not without flaws. The chuck, as mentioned earlier, can be problematic with smaller bits. Additionally, the LED light, while useful, could benefit from a better placement for optimal illumination.

The most significant issue I encountered was with the batteries and charger. The inconsistency in battery performance and the slower charging speed of the standard charger were notable drawbacks. For a tool of this caliber, these issues were somewhat disappointing and could be a dealbreaker for some users.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee 1/2" Drill Driver, model 2606-20, is a well-built, high-performing tool that excels in many areas. Its compact design, robust construction, and powerful motor make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. The ergonomic design and built-in features like the REDLINK Intelligence system further enhance its appeal.

However, the tool is not without its shortcomings. The issues with the chuck and the battery system are areas where Milwaukee could make improvements. Despite these drawbacks, I would still recommend this drill driver to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and with careful handling of the battery system, it can serve as a reliable and efficient tool for a wide range of tasks.

Ultimately, the Milwaukee 1/2" Drill Driver stands out as a solid investment, particularly for those who value compactness and power in their tools. If Milwaukee can address the battery issues in future iterations, this tool could easily become an industry leader in its category.