Milwaukee, an American manufacturer of construction tools and equipment, is not so popular in Russia compared to Bosch, Makita or Hitachi brands. Nevertheless, in certain segments he offers very attractive products, which are highly regarded for their performance. This also applies to screwdrivers supplied with company branded battery packs. Designers carefully work out the technical device of each model, focusing on maintaining a high degree of reliability with optimal ergonomics. It is also worth emphasizing the multifunctionality of Milwaukee tools - a screwdriver, depending on the modification, can perform the tasks of a drill and even a hammer drill. Different versions differ in terms of performance, optional filling and other operational properties.
Tool Features
The basis of the line is formed by models with a power potential of 12 V, as well as instruments operating under voltages of 14.4 and 18 V. The peak power indicator in the general segment reaches 36 V, but similar versions are absent in the Milwaukee family. The most powerful screwdriver of this company is the 28-volt HD28 PD. According to users, this battery version in terms of performance corresponds to network analogues that usually benefit in power traction.
Of fundamental importance in terms of ensuring autonomy is the battery capacity. The manufacturer offers models with blocks of 1.5-3 Ah. As a rule, this value depends on the power, so a high volume does not guarantee long-term maintenance of health on a single charge. As for the torque, the frequency of a standard Milwaukee drill / driver is in the range of 0-2500 rpm. This is an average spectrum, but it is important to keep in mind the possibility of transient speed modes, for example, in the range of 0-400 rpm. It is for the function of a screwdriver that a variety of frequency adjustments is especially useful.
Varieties of screwdriver models
Among the main signs of classification, one can distinguish the type of battery pack, design features, and the presence of a shock function. The company mainly uses lithium-ion cells, as they are characterized by high reliability, compactness and stability of energy supply. Nickel-cadmium batteries, as well as magnesium analogues are less common in the Milwaukee assortment - a screwdriver with such a tool is environmentally unsafe and demanding in terms of maintenance.
According to the design, a standard form factor in the form of a gun with a plastic case and corner modifications can be distinguished. The latter are distinguished by their small size and design configuration, reminiscent of small grinders. Such a tool is convenient to carry out work operations in hard-to-reach places. Special attention is also given to the Milwaukee impact screwdriver , which, in particular, represents the 18 W version of the C18. What is the difference between such models? The shock function translates an additional charge of energy to the working nozzle, which can be expressed in oscillations. A kind of loosening effect is provided.
Model C12 DD
An entry-level device with a 12 V battery with a capacity of 1.4 Ah. The high-speed frequency range varies from 0 to 1500 rpm, so this tool is hardly suitable for solving professional problems. But in the household, it can be used in typical installation and repair operations - for example, when installing equipment or decorative lining. But, despite the external simplicity, this model is provided with modern optional additions from Milwaukee. A screwdriver, in particular, received a backlight for the working area, automatic spindle lock and a reverse stroke. The cost of the model is 9 thousand rubles. For the household version, this is a lot, but given the decent functionality - acceptable.
Model M18 CPD-32C
A mid-range tool that can be used for a wide range of operations. It is worth noting that the modification is included in a special class within the Milwaukee family - FUEL. This marking emphasizes the high performance of the device, endurance and reliability. And the technical stuffing, which is powered by an 18 V battery with an energy potential of 3 Ah, confirms this. Innovative design solutions include the Brushless POWERSTATE motor. Thanks to this solution, the operating life of the Milwaukee M18 screwdriver was increased 10 times and amounts to 500 hours. Moreover, this relates to the operating time without major maintenance. Among the functional features, it is possible to distinguish the possibility of mechanical speed adjustment in several stages and electronic speed control.
Model HD28 PD
This version of the screwdriver has already been mentioned as the most powerful in the Milwaukee family of manufacturers. There are several 28 V models in the assortment, but the modification of the HD28 PD is also distinguished by a four-pole open-frame motor, which increases productivity. If we talk about other differences, the drill function in this case is the most profitable - the operator can make holes in the metal 16 mm thick, and in the stone - up to 20 mm. The tool drills wood with a maximum diameter of 65 mm. It is worth noting a decent set of Milwaukee screwdriver modifications HD28 PD. In basic equipment, the user receives a case, a charger and two battery packs. By the way, the time of replenishment of energy takes only 1 hour, so it will be possible to count on the organization of a continuous working process.
Positive product reviews
Owners of the Milwaukee tool put the strength of the structure, the wear resistance of consumable components, the high resource of parts and functional equipment in the first positions in the lists of its advantages. Moreover, the application of new technologies makes a considerable contribution to improving the technical and physical qualities of models. Experts point out that brushless cordless screwdrivers of this company are not only convenient to use, as they save the user from regular replacement of coal elements, but also have a higher performance. The users are also impressed by the equipment. Large manufacturers in recent years have minimized the basic supply kits of power tools, while not reducing the price tags. In turn, Milwaukee is mainly trying to fully cover the needs of the owner when buying screwdrivers, initially offering everything necessary for the first operation.
Negative reviews
Separate complaints cause minor structural and operational nuances. Users criticize some models for the handle that is too short or too weak, others for the large mass, and still others point out the inconvenience of the gear shift system. Also, many indicate the high cost of a Milwaukee screwdriver. Reviews emphasize that for 15-20 thousand rubles. You can purchase a completely professional model from manufacturers of the same level. In this assortment, it will be a solid middle-class tool. But, again, the durability of the product, its versatility and minimal maintenance costs can justify such an investment.
How to choose the right tool?
The nomenclature range of Milwaukee drill drivers is not so extensive compared to the offers of the same competitors in the form of Bosch and Makita. Nevertheless, the assortment allows you to choose the right model for the household and for work in the professional field. Consideration should be made in the choice of power and the availability of suitable functions that will expand the possibilities of using the equipment and increase the level of safety. Also, do not forget about additional equipment. Initially, you should determine what consumables are needed. Typical bits for a Milwaukee screwdriver are elements 25-50 mm long. The cost of one hardware varies on average from 40 to 70 rubles. Do not forget about personal protective equipment. Even non-waste operations, such as screwdriving, are recommended to be carried out with construction glasses, gloves and an apron.
Conclusion
In the market of building power tools, it often happens that little-known companies offer a successful model wedge themselves into the established backbone of advanced manufacturers. It is hardly possible to say the same about Milwaukee cordless screwdrivers - in the sense that the manufacturer has a rich and long history of development of this segment. Many technological developments that are used today by all the major market participants were created precisely by the specialists of this company.
As of today, Milwaukee engineers successfully support the base reserve of the technical and structural quality of models, as well as improve batteries. Therefore, in principle, it is worth giving preference to products of this brand in those cases when the requirements for durability and high productivity of the tool come to the fore. On the other hand, it will be necessary to sacrifice excessive financial means, in some cases a lack of ergonomics, as well as a lack of an optimal combination of different operational qualities. For example, when compactness and high power are needed.