Milwaukee 3/8" Drill

The Milwaukee 3/8" Drill (Model: 0240-20) has been a staple in my toolbox for quite some time now. As someone who regularly engages in both DIY projects and professional tasks, I've had ample opportunity to put this drill through its paces. It's a corded drill, which means you're tethered to an outlet, but the eight-foot cord provides a decent range of motion. Let me walk you through my experience with this tool, breaking down its features, performance, and overall utility.

Build Quality and Design

Milwaukee tools are often praised for their robust build quality, and this drill is no exception. The 3/8" Drill feels solid in hand, with a weight of 4.25 lbs that strikes a nice balance between heft and manageability. The soft grip handle is a thoughtful addition, offering comfort during prolonged use. The length of the tool is just over 10 inches, making it compact enough to navigate tight spaces but still substantial enough to feel sturdy.

One of the standout features is the heavy-duty keyless chuck. It simplifies bit changes and holds bits securely, which is a boon when switching between tasks. However, I did notice some issues with the chuck's durability over extended use. On one occasion, the chuck started adjusting crookedly, which was frustrating. While this might be an isolated issue, it's worth noting if you plan to use the drill intensively.

Performance

The drill's 8.0-amp motor provides plenty of power for a wide range of applications. Whether you're drilling into wood, metal, or even masonry, this drill handles it all with aplomb. The variable-speed trigger is responsive, allowing for precise control over the drilling process. It offers a no-load speed range of 0-2,800 RPM, which is more than sufficient for most tasks.

One of the most impressive aspects of this drill is its torque. It has enough power to drive screws into dense materials without bogging down. I used it for an automotive fabrication project, and it performed admirably, handling metal shavings and rough treatment without missing a beat. The reverse functionality is also a handy feature, making it easy to back out screws or remove bits that get stuck.

Usability

The Milwaukee 3/8" Drill is designed with user convenience in mind. The soft grip handle reduces fatigue, especially during extended use. The drill's weight distribution is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and maneuver. However, it would have been nice if the tool could stand on its own, which would make it easier to set down between tasks.

The cord length is adequate for most indoor projects, but if you're working in a larger space, you might need an extension cord. The lack of a spindle lock and trigger lock are minor drawbacks, but they don't significantly impact the overall usability of the drill.

Durability

Durability is where this drill truly shines. I've put it through some rigorous testing, including running it continuously for prolonged periods and subjecting it to harsh conditions. It has consistently performed well, with only minor issues cropping up after years of use. Even when a bolt for the chuck broke off during a long session, the drill continued to function, albeit with some improvisation.

That said, I did encounter a couple of instances where the drill faltered. In one case, the drill stopped working after just a few minutes of use, which was disappointing. However, Milwaukee's five-year warranty provides some peace of mind, even if the customer service experience can be hit or miss.

Battery Life

While this review primarily focuses on the corded version, it's worth mentioning that Milwaukee also offers cordless options. Based on my experience with other Milwaukee cordless tools, the battery life is generally impressive. The M12 batteries, for instance, offer a long lifespan and quick recharge times. However, some users have reported issues with battery performance, so it's something to keep in mind if you opt for a cordless model.

Overall Impression

The Milwaukee 3/8" Drill is a versatile and powerful tool that excels in a variety of applications. Its robust build quality, impressive torque, and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While there are minor issues with the chuck and occasional durability concerns, these are outweighed by the drill's overall performance and reliability.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 3/8" Drill? Absolutely. It's a dependable tool that offers excellent value for its price. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this drill is likely to meet your needs. The combination of power, durability, and ease of use makes it a standout choice in its category.

If you're looking for a drill that can handle a wide range of tasks and withstand rigorous use, the Milwaukee 3/8" Drill is well worth considering. Just be aware of the potential for minor issues and make sure to take advantage of the warranty if needed. Overall, it's a tool that has served me well and continues to be a go-to option for many of my projects.