Milwaukee Rotary Tool

Rotary tools have always been a staple in any serious DIYer's toolkit, and Milwaukee's M12 Rotary Tool (model 2460-20) is no exception. This compact, cordless tool is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from cutting and grinding to sanding and polishing. Milwaukee's offering in the rotary tool market comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses, which I discovered firsthand through extensive use.

Design and Build Quality

Milwaukee has a reputation for well-built tools, and the M12 Rotary Tool is no different, at least at first glance. The tool is lightweight, weighing just 0.9 lbs, and measures 9 inches in length. This compact design makes it incredibly easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The ergonomic design ensures that it feels comfortable in hand, even during extended use.

However, upon closer inspection, there are some concerns regarding the build quality. The front arbor/shaft is not as robust as one would expect from Milwaukee. It lacks front ball bearings and instead relies on the plastic housing, which can wear out quickly and cause excessive vibration. This is a significant drawback, especially for those who plan to use the tool frequently.

Performance and Power

One of the standout features of the M12 Rotary Tool is its variable-speed dial, which ranges from 5,000 to 32,000 RPM. This wide range of speeds makes the tool versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks. Whether you're grinding metal, cutting through plastic, or polishing a surface, the tool's power is more than sufficient.

During my usage, I found the motor to be quite powerful. It handled heavy-duty tasks with ease, and the battery life was impressive. The 12V battery charged quickly, within 30 minutes, and lasted long enough to complete most tasks without needing a recharge. The grinder-style exhaust ports also contributed to its overall performance by improving airflow and keeping the motor cool.

Ease of Use

The tool is straightforward to use. The speed selector is easily accessible and provides a good range of speeds for different tasks. Changing attachments is a breeze thanks to the 1/8” collet, which is compatible with various shank accessories. The tool comes with a small wrench for tightening the collet, making the process quick and hassle-free.

However, I did encounter some issues with the collet and chuck. Despite tightening the collar as much as possible, the tool occasionally released the attachments, which could be dangerous. This was particularly problematic with carbide bits and cutoff wheels, which would bend or fly off during use. Finding replacement parts for the collet was also a challenge, adding to the frustration.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is where the M12 Rotary Tool falls short. While the tool performed admirably initially, it began to show signs of wear relatively quickly. The front bearing protection didn't seem to hold up, leading to a lot of play in the shaft and excessive vibration. This made the tool almost unusable at certain speeds.

Additionally, the on/off switch and speed control started to fail after a few months of use. The tool would sometimes jump to maximum speed on its own or fail to maintain the set speed. In one instance, the tool stopped working altogether, displaying blinking lights and emitting a burning smell. These issues are concerning, especially for a tool that carries a premium price tag.

Versatility

Despite its shortcomings, the M12 Rotary Tool is incredibly versatile. It works with all standard 1/8" shank rotary tool bits and attachments, including those from other brands like Dremel. This makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit, especially if you already own Milwaukee's M12 or M18 tools. The tool's compact size and cordless design make it perfect for small job applications and hard-to-reach areas.

Recommendations

Would I recommend the Milwaukee M12 Rotary Tool? It's a mixed bag. On the one hand, the tool offers excellent power, versatility, and ease of use. The cordless design and long battery life are significant advantages, making it a convenient choice for various tasks.

However, the durability and reliability issues can't be ignored. The lack of front ball bearings, problems with the collet and chuck, and the failure of essential components like the on/off switch and speed control are significant drawbacks. If you're a professional who relies on your tools day in and day out, these issues could be deal-breakers.

For casual DIYers who need a rotary tool for occasional use, the Milwaukee M12 Rotary Tool could still be a worthwhile investment, mainly if you already own other M12 or M18 tools and want to stay within the same ecosystem. Just be prepared for the possibility of encountering some of the issues mentioned above.

In conclusion, while the Milwaukee M12 Rotary Tool has its merits, its durability and reliability issues make it hard to wholeheartedly recommend. If Milwaukee addresses these problems in future iterations, this tool has the potential to be a top contender in the rotary tool market. Until then, it may be worth considering other options, especially if you need a tool that can withstand heavy, frequent use.