Milwaukee 1-1/2" Lineman Magnetic Drill Kit

The Milwaukee 1-1/2" Lineman Magnetic Drill Kit has quickly become a staple in my toolkit. As someone who frequently works with structural steel, having a robust, reliable, and cordless magnetic drill is a game-changer. This drill kit, model number 2788-22HD, is designed to deliver precision and power without the constraints of a power cord, and it does so with impressive results.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the first thing that stands out about this drill is its build quality. Milwaukee has a reputation for producing durable tools, and this magnetic drill is no exception. The drill feels solid and well-constructed, weighing in at about 30.9 lbs. While it’s not the lightest tool on the market, the weight is a testament to its sturdy construction and powerful components.

The drill features a self-powered magnetic base, which is a significant advantage. This permanent magnet ensures a strong hold on steel surfaces, providing stability and safety during operation. The automatic lift-off detection is a thoughtful addition, preventing accidental disengagement, which could be catastrophic when working on overhead or vertical surfaces.

Versatility and Usability

One of the standout features of this drill is its versatility. The removable handle can be mounted on either side of the tool, making it adaptable for left or right-handed users. This feature, coupled with the ability to use a ratchet for additional leverage, enhances the drill’s usability in various scenarios.

The sliding dovetail mechanism works seamlessly, allowing for the accommodation of longer bits without compromising on stability. The magnetic coolant tank is another practical feature, easily attachable on either side of the drill, ensuring that the cutting area is always well-lubricated.

A separate switch for illuminating the cutter area is a small but highly appreciated feature. It ensures that you can always see what you’re working on, even in poorly lit environments. The manual magnet adjustment allows for slight clamping pressure before achieving maximum hold, making it easier to adjust the drill’s position precisely.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Milwaukee magnetic drill doesn’t disappoint. Its brushless motor delivers a maximum RPM of 690, which is more than sufficient for most drilling tasks. I’ve used this drill to cut through 3/8” steel with ease, and it handled a 2” annular cutter without any signs of strain. The drill’s power source is cordless, relying on Milwaukee’s M18 battery system. The kit comes with two 9.0Ah batteries, which provide ample runtime for extended tasks.

However, I did encounter a couple of issues. The quick chuck is excellent for annular cutters 1” or larger, but it falls short when using the included drill chuck adapter. There’s noticeable play, causing the drill bit to wobble, which can be frustrating when precision is required. A Morse taper would have been a better choice, offering more versatility and eliminating the play issue entirely.

Battery Life and Portability

Battery life is generally good, with a single 9.0Ah battery capable of lasting through an entire workday of intermittent drilling. However, I did experience an issue with one of the batteries overheating and deforming, rendering it unusable. This is a known issue with Milwaukee’s 9.0Ah batteries, and it’s disappointing that it hasn’t been addressed. Fortunately, the tool comes with two batteries, but the reliability of these batteries remains a concern.

Portability is one of the drill’s strongest points. Not being tethered to a power cord makes it incredibly convenient, especially for fieldwork where power sources might be limited or non-existent. The hard case provided is of high quality, though it lacks a dedicated slot for the second battery, which seems like an oversight. Carrying the drill and its accessories can be cumbersome due to the weight, and adding dolly wheels to the case would have been a smart addition.

Value for Money

The Milwaukee magnetic drill is priced at a premium, and it’s clear that you’re paying for a high-quality, feature-rich tool. For professionals who need a reliable, powerful, and portable magnetic drill, this tool is worth the investment. The build quality, performance, and thoughtful design features justify the cost, especially when considering the convenience of a cordless setup.

Improvements and Recommendations

While the drill is impressive, there are areas where Milwaukee could improve. Introducing a Morse taper instead of a permanent quick chuck would significantly enhance the tool’s versatility and precision. Additionally, implementing a variable speed feature would provide better control for different applications, as the current low speed is still too fast for some tasks.

Addressing the battery reliability issue is crucial. Milwaukee’s 9.0Ah batteries have a reputation for overheating, and this needs to be resolved to maintain user confidence in the tool’s long-term reliability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 1-1/2" Lineman Magnetic Drill Kit is a powerful, versatile, and well-designed tool that excels in demanding environments. Its cordless nature, strong magnetic base, and thoughtful features make it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit. Despite some minor issues with the quick chuck and battery reliability, the overall performance and convenience of this drill are hard to beat.

I highly recommend this drill for professionals who require a robust and portable solution for drilling in steel. Its performance, build quality, and innovative features make it a tool that can significantly enhance productivity and efficiency on the job site.