Milwaukee 6' Toilet Auger

When you find yourself staring at a clogged toilet, frustration is usually the first emotion that hits. After trying a plunger and seeing no results, it’s time to bring out the big guns. Enter the Milwaukee 6' Toilet Auger, a tool specifically designed to tackle those stubborn clogs that refuse to budge.

I recently had the opportunity to put this auger to the test, and I have to say, it’s a mixed bag of impressive features and a few quirks that you need to be aware of.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Milwaukee auger doesn't disappoint in this department. The tool boasts a sturdy construction that feels durable and well-built. The rubber boot is a particularly thoughtful touch, aimed at protecting your porcelain from scratches and damage. Its weight of 7 pounds gives it a substantial feel without being overly cumbersome.

However, its length can be both a blessing and a curse. At 49.5 inches, it’s not the most discreet tool to store. You’ll need to find a good hiding spot for it, as it doesn’t tuck away as easily as a plunger.

Ease of Use

Using the auger manually isn’t overly challenging, but it does come with a learning curve. The integrated locking mechanism for cable extension is one of those features that sounds great on paper but can be finicky in practice. Extending the cable to its full 6-foot length requires pushing a button and extending the pole until it locks into place. This can be tricky, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a clogged toilet.

During my first attempt, I struggled a bit with getting the button to lock properly. The cable retraction also posed some challenges. I found myself having to manually guide the cable back, which was not as smooth as I had hoped.

Performance

Once you get past the initial hurdles of using the tool, its performance is where it truly shines. The 6-foot cable provides ample reach to tackle deep-seated clogs, and the auger did a commendable job of clearing the blockage. In less than two minutes, my toilet was functioning like new again.

The option to use the auger with the M12™ TRAPSNAKE™ Driver is a game-changer. While I initially used the hand crank, switching to the powered driver made the process significantly easier and quicker. If you’re planning to use this tool frequently, investing in the powered driver is worth considering.

Durability

One of the standout features is the replaceable cables. This not only extends the life of the tool but also makes it more cost-effective in the long run. However, I did encounter an issue where the cable detached from the unit when extended to its full length. This required some disassembly to reattach, which is not ideal when you’re in the middle of a job.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the auger is relatively straightforward. The rubber boot and the cable can be wiped down easily, and the tool doesn’t trap grime as much as some other models I’ve used. However, retracting the cable smoothly is crucial to prevent any mess, especially if you’ve dealt with a particularly nasty clog.

Value for Money

At first glance, the Milwaukee auger might seem a bit pricey, especially if you’re comparing it to more basic models. However, the build quality and performance justify the cost. The added features like the replaceable cables and compatibility with a power driver make it a valuable investment for anyone who frequently deals with clogs.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 6' Toilet Auger is a robust and capable tool that excels in performance once you get the hang of using it. Its sturdy build and thoughtful features like the rubber boot and replaceable cables make it a reliable addition to any household or professional toolkit.

However, it’s not without its quirks. The integrated locking mechanism can be tricky, and the cable retraction isn’t as smooth as it should be. These issues are minor in the grand scheme of things but can be frustrating when you’re dealing with a clogged toilet.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, especially if you plan to use it in conjunction with the M12™ TRAPSNAKE™ Driver. The combination of manual and powered operation offers flexibility and ease of use that can make quick work of even the toughest clogs. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve and ensure you have a good storage solution in place.

In summary, the Milwaukee 6' Toilet Auger is a solid investment for anyone looking to tackle toilet clogs with efficiency and minimal fuss. Its blend of durability, performance, and thoughtful features make it a standout option in a market flooded with less capable tools.