Milwaukee 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with Dust Extractor Kit

When I first got my hands on the Milwaukee 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with Dust Extractor Kit, I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world applications. Milwaukee has a solid reputation for producing reliable, high-performance tools, and this rotary hammer certainly lives up to that legacy.

Design and Build Quality

The moment you lift the tool, you can feel its robust build. Weighing in at 13.3 lbs, it’s not the lightest tool in its class, but the weight contributes to its sturdy feel. The construction is solid, and the materials used are clearly high quality. The tool is housed in a large, hard plastic case, which is a welcome change from the soft bags that often accompany power tools. This case makes storage and transportation much easier and safer.

Performance

The Milwaukee rotary hammer boasts a maximum RPM of 1330, which translates to fast drilling performance. I had the opportunity to test it on various materials, from concrete floors to rocky outdoor soil. In each scenario, the tool performed admirably, drilling through tough surfaces with ease. Switching between the three modes—hammer, drill, and rotary hammer—was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive dial.

One of the standout features is the AUTOSTOP™ Kickback Control. During one of my tests, the bit got stuck in a particularly tough section of concrete. Instead of twisting my wrist painfully, the tool’s AUTOSTOP™ feature kicked in, preventing over-rotation and potential injury. This safety feature is a game-changer, particularly for those who use rotary hammers frequently.

Dust Extraction

The integrated dust extractor is another highlight. Dust management is crucial, especially when working indoors. The dust extractor, which includes a HEPA filter, effectively captures dust, leaving a cleaner workspace. The adjustable depth gauge on the vacuum mechanism is a thoughtful addition, allowing for precise drilling depths.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the dust extractor. The small removable vacuum brush end has a limited field of view, making it difficult to see the exact drilling point. Swapping to the larger diameter brush improved visibility significantly. Despite this minor inconvenience, the dust extractor performs its primary function exceptionally well, keeping the workspace virtually dust-free.

Battery Life and ONE-KEY™ Integration

This rotary hammer is part of Milwaukee's M18 battery system, which is known for its reliability and long battery life. The kit includes two 6.0Ah batteries, ensuring you have plenty of power for extended projects. I appreciate the rapid charger included in the kit, which minimizes downtime between battery swaps.

Another impressive feature is the ONE-KEY™ integration. This tool tracking system allows you to monitor the tool’s location and even disable it remotely via a smart device. For those who invest heavily in their tools, this feature adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

User Experience

Using the Milwaukee rotary hammer is a pleasant experience, despite its weight. The tool is well-balanced, even with the dust extractor attached. The handle is ergonomic, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The LED light on the tool and the front of the vacuum is handy, especially in low-light conditions.

One of the things I noticed is the minimal vibration transferred to the operator. By collapsing the bellows halfway, the tool’s design effectively reduces vibration, making it more comfortable to use over long periods.

Versatility

This rotary hammer is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re drilling small holes in a concrete slab or tackling larger outdoor projects, this tool handles it all with ease. The ability to remove the dust extractor for outdoor work is a nice touch, giving you the best of both worlds.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with Dust Extractor Kit is a well-thought-out tool that delivers on its promises. Its powerful performance, combined with features like AUTOSTOP™ Kickback Control and ONE-KEY™ integration, makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. The integrated dust extractor is particularly useful for indoor projects, ensuring a clean and safe work environment.

While the visibility issue with the small vacuum brush end is a minor drawback, it’s not a deal-breaker. The overall performance and features far outweigh this small inconvenience.

Recommendation

I highly recommend the Milwaukee 1" SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with Dust Extractor Kit for both professional and serious DIY users. Its combination of power, safety features, and user-friendly design make it a standout tool in its category. The investment is well worth it, given the tool’s durability, performance, and the added security of the ONE-KEY™ system. Whether you’re working on indoor projects or tackling tough outdoor jobs, this rotary hammer is up to the task.