Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE Impact Drill Tap

As a DIY enthusiast and professional handyman, I often find myself juggling multiple tools to achieve a single task. That’s where the Milwaukee Shockwave Impact Drill Tap, model 48-89-4872, has revolutionized my workflow. This handy tool is designed to drill and tap simultaneously, promising a seamless experience for those who frequently work with metal up to 1/4" thick.

Design and Features

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee Shockwave is its ability to combine drilling and tapping in one smooth operation. The bits come with 24 threads per inch, making them versatile for most machine screws. Each bit’s size is laser-etched on its shaft, providing easy identification—a small but significant convenience when you’re in the middle of a job.

The 1/4" quick change hex shank is another thoughtful feature. This design makes the tool compatible with both impact drivers and drill drivers, adding to its versatility. The set includes sizes 8-32, 10-24, 10-32, 12-24, and 1/4-20, covering the most common thread sizes used in various applications.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee Shockwave does not disappoint. The drill-tap combination works exceptionally well, particularly in softer metals like aluminum and mild steel. The tool drills through the material effortlessly and transitions to tapping smoothly. The countersink feature is a nice addition, allowing for a cleaner finish.

I first tested the tool on a 2-inch square tube with 3/16 sidewalls. After center punching and adding a drop of oil, I inserted the 1/4-20 drill/tap into my Milwaukee impact driver. The drilling process was straightforward, and the transition to tapping was seamless. The newly tapped hole accommodated an eyebolt perfectly, demonstrating the tool’s precision.

However, it’s essential to exercise caution during the tapping phase, especially when using a drill motor. The tap advances rapidly, and without careful control, the countersink can plunge too deeply into the material. This is less of an issue when using an impact driver, which provides incremental rotary motion, allowing for better control.

Durability and Build Quality

While the Milwaukee Shockwave generally performs well, durability is a mixed bag. The tool excels in softer metals but struggles with harder materials like 1/8" mild steel. I experienced several instances where the bits snapped, even when keeping the drill straight and using consistent pressure. This limitation is disappointing, particularly for a brand like Milwaukee that is known for its robust tools.

Another point of contention is the lack of a case or holder for the bits. Given the precision and cost of the tool, it would be reasonable to expect some form of storage solution. Additionally, the laser-etched sizes, although useful, can be challenging to read, especially for those with older eyes.

Practical Applications

The Milwaukee Shockwave is incredibly useful for tasks that involve multiple drilled and tapped holes. It’s a real time-saver for fabricating items that require threaded mounting hardware. For instance, I used it to repair doors on an ambulance, where the original fasteners were prone to coming loose. By drilling and tapping to a larger size, I was able to secure the doors effectively.

The tool also works well in vertical applications where lubrication is difficult. Even without oil, the bits functioned as advertised, making them suitable for quick fixes and on-the-go adjustments. However, using a cutting fluid can extend the life of the bits and make the process smoother, particularly for those who drill into metal frequently.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its impressive features, the Milwaukee Shockwave isn’t without its flaws. The absence of a 6-32 tap in the set is a notable oversight, given that this is one of the most commonly used sizes for mounting electrical devices. Including this size would make the set even more versatile for electricians and homeowners alike.

Moreover, the tool’s durability in harder metals needs improvement. While it performs admirably in softer materials, the tendency to snap in tougher applications is a significant drawback. Milwaukee could address this by enhancing the material hardness or providing better guidelines for use in more demanding scenarios.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee Shockwave Impact Drill Tap is a highly innovative tool that brings convenience and efficiency to various drilling and tapping tasks. It shines in softer metals and offers a seamless one-step process that can save considerable time and effort. The laser-etched sizes and quick-change hex shank add to its user-friendly design, making it accessible for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

However, its performance in harder metals and the lack of a common 6-32 tap are areas that need attention. The tool’s durability could be improved to match the robustness we’ve come to expect from Milwaukee products. Despite these shortcomings, the Milwaukee Shockwave remains a valuable addition to any toolkit, particularly for those who frequently work with softer metals.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Shockwave Impact Drill Tap? Yes, but with some reservations. It’s an excellent tool for softer materials and quick jobs, but if you’re planning to work extensively with harder metals, you may want to consider other options or be prepared for some trial and error. Overall, it’s a solid tool that offers significant advantages in the right applications.