Milwaukee Penlight

Milwaukee's Penlight, model 2105, is a compact and practical tool that offers a blend of durability, functionality, and convenience, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit. As someone who frequently finds themselves in need of a reliable light source in various tight and dimly lit spaces, I found this penlight to be both a blessing and a bit of a mixed bag.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this penlight is its solid construction. The body is made of a durable aluminum material that feels both lightweight and sturdy. At just 5.39 inches long and weighing a mere 0.14 lbs, it fits comfortably in a pocket without being overly bulky. The IP67 rating, which ensures that the light is both waterproof and dustproof, adds a layer of assurance that this tool can withstand harsh environments. I’ve dropped it several times, and it has shown no signs of damage, which speaks volumes about its impact resistance.

Light Output and Performance

The penlight offers 100 lumens of TRUEVIEW™ High Definition output, which provides a natural and accurate color representation. This is particularly useful for tasks that require color differentiation, such as electrical work or automotive repairs. The beam distance is an impressive 43 meters, making it suitable for both close-up inspections and illuminating larger areas. The light is bright enough to be effective without being blinding, and the beam pattern is smooth and consistent, without any harsh edges or dark spots.

Usability and Comfort

One of the standout features of this penlight is the rubber bite zone, which allows for hands-free operation. This is a thoughtful addition for anyone who needs both hands free while working, such as during plumbing or electrical tasks. However, the rubber bite zone does have its drawbacks. Over time, it tends to wear down and can even disintegrate, which significantly impacts the usability of the light. If you rely heavily on the bite zone, this could become a frustrating issue.

The penlight also features a metal clip, which is robust enough to attach securely to a pocket or tool belt. I found this particularly useful for keeping the light accessible without having to dig through a toolbox. However, the clip is not removable, which means if it gets bent out of shape, it can be challenging to fix.

Battery Life and Power Source

The penlight is powered by two AAA batteries, which are included with the purchase. Milwaukee claims a three-hour runtime with fresh batteries, and in my experience, this seems fairly accurate. However, the battery compartment has its flaws. On one occasion, I found the batteries stuck inside the compartment, making it difficult to replace them. This issue can be a significant drawback, especially if you rely on the penlight for daily use.

Button and Switch Mechanism

The on/off button is located at the end of the penlight and requires a firm press to activate. While this ensures that the light doesn’t turn on accidentally, it can be a bit too stiff, making it difficult to operate, especially if you’re wearing gloves or have limited dexterity. Additionally, the rubber cap on the button tends to wear out over time, which can make it even more challenging to use. This is a design flaw that Milwaukee should address in future iterations of the product.

Durability and Longevity

In terms of durability, the penlight excels in most areas but falls short in others. The aluminum body and IP67 rating mean it can withstand drops, dust, and water exposure. However, the rubber components, particularly the bite zone and the button cap, are prone to wear and tear. Over time, these parts can deteriorate, impacting the overall functionality of the light. Given that replacement parts are almost as expensive as the penlight itself, this is a significant downside.

Practical Applications

I’ve used this penlight in various scenarios, from under-sink plumbing repairs to inspecting electrical panels and even for general household tasks. Its compact size and bright output make it incredibly versatile. The TRUEVIEW™ High Definition output is particularly valuable for tasks that require accurate color representation, and the rubber bite zone allows for hands-free operation, which is a huge plus in many situations. However, the durability issues with the rubber components mean that it may not be the best choice for heavy, daily use.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee Penlight, model 2105, is a well-constructed, versatile tool that offers a good balance of brightness and durability. Its compact size, robust aluminum body, and IP67 rating make it a reliable choice for a variety of tasks. However, the issues with the rubber components, particularly the bite zone and button cap, are significant drawbacks that can impact its long-term usability.

If you’re looking for a penlight that offers excellent light output, durability, and hands-free operation, this is a solid choice. However, if you rely heavily on the rubber components for daily use, you may want to consider other options or be prepared to replace the penlight more frequently. Overall, I would recommend the Milwaukee Penlight for its bright output, robust construction, and practical features, but with the caveat that its rubber components may not hold up to heavy, daily use.