Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit

As a dedicated DIY enthusiast and someone who frequently tackles home improvement projects, I always look for tools that combine power, versatility, and convenience. The Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit, model 2694-22, seemed like it could be the perfect addition to my toolkit. This combo kit includes a 1/2" hammer drill/driver and a reciprocating saw, both powered by Milwaukee's RED LITHIUM™ batteries. After using this kit extensively, I can confidently share my experience and insights.

Unpacking and First Impressions

The combo kit comes neatly packed in a sturdy carrying bag, which is both durable and practical. The bag has multiple pockets inside and out for additional accessories, making it easy to keep everything organized. Upon holding the tools, the first thing I noticed was their build quality. Both the drill/driver and the reciprocating saw feature a robust all-metal gear case and chuck, which immediately gave me confidence in their durability.

Hammer Drill/Driver Performance

The 1/2" hammer drill/driver is compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 4.5 lbs. This makes it particularly easy to handle, even during extended use. The drill fits comfortably in my hand, thanks to its ergonomic design and rubberized grip, which provides a secure and non-slip hold.

In terms of performance, this drill does not disappoint. It offers a peak torque of 500 in-lbs and a maximum RPM of 1,800, making it capable of tackling a variety of tasks, from drilling into wood and metal to driving screws. The hammer function, with a BPM of up to 28,800, adds another layer of versatility, allowing me to drill into masonry with ease.

One of the standout features is the LED light above the trigger. It illuminates the work area effectively, and the light stays on for about 15 seconds after releasing the trigger, which is a thoughtful touch. The drill also has a fuel gauge that indicates the remaining battery power, ensuring I'm never caught off guard by a dead battery.

Reciprocating Saw Performance

The reciprocating saw in this combo kit is equally impressive. It features a stroke length of 1-1/8" and a variable speed trigger that allows for up to 3,000 SPM (strokes per minute). This range of motion and speed makes it ideal for cutting through various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

I used the saw to cut through some old wooden beams and metal pipes during a recent renovation project, and it performed flawlessly. The keyless blade clamp makes changing blades quick and hassle-free, although the tight battery compartment can make swapping batteries a bit cumbersome. Despite this minor inconvenience, the saw's overall performance and ease of use are top-notch.

Battery Life and Charging

The RED LITHIUM™ batteries are one of the highlights of this combo kit. Each tool comes with its own battery, and the kit includes a charger that can fully recharge a battery in about 57 minutes. For those who need even faster charging, the rapid charger option cuts this time down to 34 minutes.

In terms of battery life, I found that each battery lasted long enough for most of my projects. The drill/driver's battery life was particularly impressive, often lasting several hours of intermittent use. The reciprocating saw, which tends to be more power-hungry, still managed to provide a solid hour of continuous use before needing a recharge.

User Experience

Both tools are designed with user comfort and convenience in mind. The lightweight and compact design of the drill/driver make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the reciprocating saw's balanced weight distribution reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The advanced overload protection and temperature management features are also worth mentioning, as they help prolong the lifespan of the tools and batteries.

However, there are a few areas where the tools could be improved. The tight battery compartment on the reciprocating saw can be frustrating, especially when trying to swap batteries quickly. Additionally, the multi-tool's design requires an Allen wrench for changing accessories, which can be a bit inconvenient compared to tool-less systems.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion 2-Tool Combo Kit is an excellent addition to any toolkit. Both the hammer drill/driver and the reciprocating saw deliver impressive power and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. The build quality is exceptional, and the ergonomic design ensures that both tools are comfortable to use, even for extended periods.

The battery life and quick charging capabilities are particularly noteworthy, as they minimize downtime and keep the tools running smoothly. While there are a few minor inconveniences, such as the tight battery compartment and the need for an Allen wrench to change accessories, these do not significantly detract from the overall user experience.

I would highly recommend this combo kit to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The combination of power, versatility, and convenience makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit, and the durability of Milwaukee's tools ensures that they will stand the test of time. Whether you're drilling into wood, cutting through metal, or tackling other home improvement projects, this combo kit is up to the task.