Milwaukee 13 Amp 5" Small Angle Grinder Paddle, No-Lock

The Milwaukee 13 Amp 5" Small Angle Grinder with Paddle, No-Lock (model 6117-31) is a robust addition to any tool arsenal, promising a blend of power, efficiency, and user-friendly features. With a 13 Amp motor that runs at 11,000 RPM, this grinder is designed to tackle heavy-duty tasks with ease. Over the past few months, I had the opportunity to put this tool through its paces in various demanding environments, and here’s my take on its performance and usability.

First off, the power of this grinder is undeniable. The 13 Amp motor is a workhorse, effortlessly maintaining constant speed even under significant load. Whether I was grinding down metal welds or cutting through rusted bolts, the grinder never felt like it was struggling. This consistent performance is partly due to the electronic clutch, which prevents tool bind-up, a feature that proved invaluable during intense grinding sessions.

One of the standout features of this grinder is the tool-free accessory change mechanism. This design choice eliminates the hassle of fumbling with additional tools when swapping discs or adjusting the guard. The adjustable guard itself is another plus, allowing for quick changes in position to direct sparks and debris away from the workspace. This feature enhanced my workflow, particularly in tight spots where precision and safety are paramount.

Comfort during prolonged use is critical, and Milwaukee has addressed this with an anti-vibration side handle. While grinding for extended periods, I found the handle significantly reduced the strain on my hands and arms, making the tool more manageable. Additionally, the soft start feature ensures a smooth ramp-up to full speed, giving better control and reducing the initial torque kick that can be jarring with high-powered tools.

However, the grinder's design is not without its faults. The body is somewhat bulky, and despite having XL hands, I found it challenging to maintain a firm, comfortable grip during extended use. The paddle switch, which is meant to enhance safety, can be tricky to operate. It requires a firm press to engage and disengage, which, while intended to prevent accidental starts, can be cumbersome and even dangerous if not handled correctly.

Durability is another area where this grinder shines and falters. While the motor and overall construction feel sturdy and capable of withstanding tough conditions, the gearbox tends to heat up quickly during intense use. This rapid heating can be concerning, especially during extended grinding sessions. In my case, the grinder performed admirably in various conditions, but it's clear that the tool's longevity could be impacted by frequent, heavy use due to this heat buildup.

Customer service experiences with Milwaukee can be hit or miss. While I didn’t personally need to contact customer support, it's worth noting that some users have reported less than satisfactory interactions. This is something to keep in mind if you encounter issues with the tool and need to rely on warranty repairs or replacements.

Despite some design and usability drawbacks, the performance of this grinder is impressive. It excels at removing large amounts of material quickly and efficiently. Whether working on construction sites, in metal fabrication shops, or handling DIY projects at home, the grinder's power and reliability are hard to beat at its price point.

For those who prioritize power and efficiency over ergonomic perfection, this grinder is a solid choice. Its features, such as the electronic clutch and tool-free accessory changes, make it a versatile and practical tool for various applications. However, if you have smaller hands or anticipate needing to use the grinder for extended periods, the bulk and switch mechanism may pose challenges.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Milwaukee 13 Amp 5" Small Angle Grinder with Paddle, No-Lock to professionals and serious DIYers who need a powerful and reliable tool for demanding tasks. Its robust motor, user-friendly features, and overall performance make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. However, if comfort and ease of handling are your primary concerns, you may want to explore other options or try this grinder in-store to see if it suits your needs.