Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Right Angle Drill Kit

Navigating tight spaces during drilling tasks has always been a challenge for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Enter the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Right Angle Drill Kit (model 0721-21), a tool that promises to turn those challenges into a breeze. Over the past few weeks, I've been putting this drill through its paces, using it for various tasks from plumbing to some heavy-duty work on a sailboat. Here’s my detailed take on this power tool.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Milwaukee right angle drill is its robust build. As soon as you hold it, you can tell that this tool is designed to withstand the rigors of job site use. Milwaukee has a reputation for creating durable and reliable tools, and this right-angle drill is no exception. The 360° swiveling head is a standout feature, offering incredible versatility. You can lock the head in any position, making it easy to access those hard-to-reach places between studs or joists.

One aspect of the design that I found particularly impressive is the 1/2" keyed chuck. It’s a small detail, but the keyed chuck prevents rusting and ensures that your drill bits stay secure. The forward/reverse lever is conveniently positioned, allowing for quick and easy directional changes. The drill also comes with a side handle, increasing user control and stability during operation.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee right angle drill does not disappoint. This tool is powered by a 28V battery, part of Milwaukee’s M28 battery system, which delivers substantial torque and power. I’ve used it for both light and heavy-duty tasks and found that the drill performs exceptionally well across the board. Whether I was drilling through multiple studs with a 1" auger or raising sails on my boat, the drill never faltered.

For electricians and plumbers, this tool is a game-changer. Drilling through tough materials, including wood and metal, is seamless. The power behind the drill is evident, and I’ve yet to encounter a task that it couldn’t handle. The real test for me was using it as an electric winch handle on my sailboat. The drill effortlessly hoisted a 33m² main sail and an 80kg helper up a 14m mast. It’s impressive how a tool primarily designed for drilling can double as a powerful winch handle.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a critical factor for cordless tools. The Milwaukee right angle drill comes with a single M28 battery, which has proven to provide substantial power and decent runtime. During my use, I found that the battery lasted long enough to complete most tasks without needing a recharge. However, for more extended use, especially in demanding applications like hoisting sails repeatedly, a spare battery would be beneficial. I did notice that aftermarket batteries do not perform as well, so sticking with genuine Milwaukee batteries is advisable.

Handling and Usability

In terms of handling, the Milwaukee right angle drill is a bit on the heavier side. This is a double-edged sword; on one hand, the weight adds to the tool's robustness and stability, but on the other, it can lead to fatigue during prolonged use. Despite this, the tool’s design allows for excellent control. The variable speed feature is another plus, enabling precise control over the drilling speed, which is particularly useful for delicate tasks.

The size of the tool is another factor to consider. While it is compact enough to fit into tight spaces, it is still larger than standard drills, which might be an issue for some users. However, the advantages of the swiveling head and the tool’s overall versatility far outweigh any drawbacks related to its size.

Durability

Durability is where Milwaukee shines, and this right angle drill is no exception. The tool is built to last, with high-quality materials and a design that can withstand heavy use. I haven’t encountered any significant issues regarding the tool’s durability, although I did come across some minor concerns. The screw that holds the chuck has a reverse thread, and under certain conditions, it can break. This seems to be a common issue, but it’s relatively easy to fix. Having a backup screw on hand is a good idea to avoid downtime.

Value for Money

The Milwaukee right angle drill is an investment. It is priced higher than some other models on the market, but the performance and durability it offers justify the cost. The tool's versatility, whether used for drilling or as an electric winch, makes it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit. For homeowners, it might be overkill unless you have specific needs that require such a powerful tool.

Conclusion

After extensive use, I can confidently say that the Milwaukee Cordless Lithium-Ion Right Angle Drill Kit is a top-tier tool that delivers on its promises. It offers exceptional power, versatility, and durability, making it a fantastic choice for professionals, especially electricians and plumbers. Its ability to double as an electric winch handle is a huge bonus for marine enthusiasts like myself.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. While it might be a bit pricey, the performance and reliability you get with Milwaukee tools are well worth the investment. Whether you're tackling tough drilling jobs or looking for a powerful winch handle, this right-angle drill is up to the task. Just make sure to have a spare battery and an extra chuck screw on hand, and you’ll be set for years of reliable service.