Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver

As someone who spends a significant amount of time working with various tools, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver, model 2796-26. This tool promises a lot with its impressive feature list, including a brushless motor for improved efficiency and longevity, up to 10X longer motor life, 2X more runtime, and 25% more power. However, my experience with this tool has been a mix of highs and lows, and I’d like to share that with you.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing, the drill immediately feels robust and well-built. The all-metal ratcheting locking chuck is a reassuring feature, suggesting durability and reliability. The onboard fuel gauge is a nice touch, allowing you to monitor the battery life without any guesswork. The tool is compact, measuring just 8.1 inches in length, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces.

The grip is comfortable, thanks to the rubberized handle, and the balance of the tool is excellent. It feels sturdy in hand, and the weight distribution is such that it doesn’t cause undue strain during prolonged use. However, as I started using the drill, several issues began to surface.

Performance and Power

The Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver boasts a peak torque of 725 in-lbs and operates at two speeds—0-550 RPM and 0-1,850 RPM. In terms of power, this tool does not disappoint. It handled drilling through wood, metal, and even concrete with relative ease. The hammer function, in particular, was effective in drilling into masonry, a task that many cordless drills struggle with.

However, the tool’s power also appears to be its Achilles' heel. During extended use, the drill tends to heat up significantly. In one instance, after drilling a series of holes in a concrete pad, the tool became so hot that it was uncomfortable to hold. This overheating issue not only affects user comfort but also raises concerns about the tool’s long-term durability.

Chuck and Trigger Issues

One of the most frustrating aspects of this drill is the chuck. Despite being an all-metal ratcheting locking chuck, it tends to loosen its grip on bits during use. This issue is particularly problematic when working on tasks that require frequent bit changes or when precision is crucial. The bits often come loose, which disrupts workflow and can lead to mistakes.

Additionally, the trigger mechanism is not as reliable as I had hoped. There were instances where the trigger became intermittent, and the drill would shut off under load. This inconsistency is unacceptable, especially for a tool in this price range. It detracts from the overall reliability and can be a significant hindrance during demanding tasks.

Battery Life and Efficiency

The M18 battery system is one of Milwaukee’s strong points. The batteries are long-lasting and provide ample power for most tasks. The tool’s efficiency is commendable, thanks to the brushless motor, which indeed seems to offer longer runtime compared to brushed motor counterparts. However, the overheating issue does affect battery performance. When the tool heats up, the battery goes into overheating protection mode, which can be frustrating during extended projects.

Durability and Warranty Concerns

While the tool feels solid and well-constructed, the issues with the chuck and trigger raise questions about its long-term durability. Furthermore, the 5-year limited warranty is a positive aspect, but the warranty process itself seems to be cumbersome and not as customer-friendly as one would expect from a brand like Milwaukee. This can be a deterrent for users who rely heavily on their tools and need quick and efficient service when issues arise.

User Experience

On the positive side, the drill is lightweight and easy to use. The design comfort and balance make it suitable for various tasks without causing fatigue. The compact size is a significant advantage, especially when working in confined spaces. The LED light positioned at the base is helpful, though I found it less focused compared to other models, which could be improved.

However, the overall user experience is marred by the chuck and trigger issues, as well as the overheating problem. These issues overshadow the tool’s powerful performance and efficient battery system.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver model 2796-26 is a tool with great potential but several critical flaws. Its power, compact design, and efficient battery system are commendable. However, the overheating issue, unreliable chuck, and intermittent trigger significantly detract from its overall performance and reliability.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends. For light to moderate tasks and occasional use, this drill can be a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its power and efficiency are impressive, and for DIY enthusiasts or homeowners, it could serve well for various projects. However, for professional use or heavy-duty tasks, the reliability issues and overheating problem are significant drawbacks. In such cases, it might be worth considering other options that offer better durability and consistent performance.

Ultimately, while the Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver has its strengths, the critical shortcomings make it a tool that requires careful consideration before purchase.