Milwaukee M18 Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit Review Unveils Ultimate DIY Performance

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Highlights of the Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit

Testing the Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 18V Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit felt like having a versatile workshop at my fingertips. This kit comes with a hammer drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and a work light, all powered by two robust lithium-ion batteries. The tool case included keeps everything organized and portable, which I appreciated during quick job site moves. The hammer drill impressed me with its three drill settings and 18 torque options, letting me switch smoothly between drilling through softwood, hardwood, and even masonry. The keyless chuck and clutch made adjustments quick, so I didn’t waste time fumbling with tools.

Good Points About Performance and Usability

This combo kit shines in its ease of use and flexibility. The impact driver felt powerful enough to handle lag bolts in thick lumber, and the variable speed trigger gave me precise control over fasteners of all sizes. I liked the onboard LED lights that illuminated dark corners without needing an extra flashlight. The reciprocating saw, with its Quik Lok blade changing system, was a breeze to swap out blades, which saved me a lot of hassle. Its lightweight and one-handed design made reaching overhead spaces surprisingly easy, which my coworker, who often works on scaffolding, especially liked.

• The extended capacity 3 Ah batteries lasted through heavy use without a drop in power.
• The Redlink Intelligence technology smartly prevented overheating by communicating between the battery, charger, and tools.
• The adjustable work light had a sealed aluminum head that handled outdoor use well.
• The entire set felt balanced and ergonomic, reducing fatigue during longer projects.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite the many strengths, some things could be better. The tool case, while sturdy, felt a bit bulky to carry around for extended periods. The hammer drill’s clutch, although versatile, sometimes required a few attempts to find the perfect torque setting, which slowed me down a bit. The reciprocating saw’s blade, while easy to change, didn’t feel quite as durable after cutting through tougher materials like thick PVC and dense branches. Also, the work light, though handy, didn’t have a super wide beam angle, so I found myself adjusting it frequently to cover the entire workspace.

• The tool case size made it less convenient for quick transport.
• The torque clutch adjustments could be more intuitive.
• Blade durability on the reciprocating saw was somewhat limited with heavy use.
• The work light’s beam coverage required constant repositioning.

Features Explored: What I Tried and Tested

Each tool in the kit has its own personality, and I tested every feature I could find. The hammer drill’s top-mounted switch allowed me to toggle between drilling, hammer drilling, and driving with ease. The 18 torque settings were handy for delicate tasks like assembling furniture or driving screws into drywall without damage. The impact driver’s 1/4 inch hex chuck held bits firmly, and the variable speed trigger made driving fasteners smooth and controlled. I also tested the reciprocating saw’s weight and grip during pruning and demolition tasks; its compact profile really helped in tight spaces. The work light’s flat standing base was perfect for hands-free illumination on uneven surfaces.

Competitive Options in the Market

Looking at other combos like the DeWalt 20V MAX or Bosch 18V kits, this Milwaukee set stands out for its battery technology and tool integration. The Redlink Intelligence system is a step ahead of many competitors that lack smart communication between tools and batteries, which translates to less downtime and longer battery life. However, some rivals offer lighter cases and slightly better blade life on their reciprocating saws. The DeWalt combo, for example, provides a broader range of tools and sometimes more compact designs, but the Milwaukee kit’s overall power delivery and build quality hold up well in heavy-duty scenarios.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

Compared to other 18V cordless power tool kits, this combo offers solid bang for the buck. The inclusion of two extended capacity batteries and a charger adds significant value by reducing the need for frequent charging breaks. The tools themselves cover a wide range of tasks, from drilling and driving to sawing and lighting, making this kit versatile for DIYers and professionals alike. While it may not be the cheapest option on the shelf, the durability, power, and smart battery features justify the investment. If you’re looking for a reliable, all-in-one solution without needing extra accessories, this set delivers.

Versatility in Different Work Environments

I’ve tested this kit indoors and outdoors, and the sealed aluminum head on the work light really held up against dust and occasional splashes. The hammer drill and impact driver managed both woodworking and light masonry jobs without breaking a sweat. The reciprocating saw’s one-handed design was a lifesaver for pruning branches and cutting PVC pipes on the fly. My kids even got curious and tried out the work light for their nighttime reading, which shows how user-friendly the tools can be. The kit’s overall weight and handling made it practical for various environments, from tight indoor spaces to rugged outdoor sites.

Downsides in Practical Use

Handling this combo kit over longer projects revealed a few niggles. Even though the batteries have good capacity, I found myself juggling between two packs more than I expected, especially with high-drain tools like the hammer drill and reciprocating saw. The weight distribution in the drill felt a bit front-heavy, leading to some wrist strain after extended use. Also, the reciprocating saw’s blade system, while quick, could benefit from sturdier blade options for more demanding cutting tasks. Lastly, the work light’s brightness wasn’t adjustable, which might limit its usefulness in scenarios requiring different illumination levels.

• Battery life, though decent, needs careful management for marathon jobs.
• Front-heavy drill design could cause wrist fatigue.
• Blade options for the saw are somewhat limited in durability.
• Work light lacks adjustable brightness settings.

Testing the Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 combo kit gave me a clear picture: it’s a powerful, versatile set that fits well in many toolboxes but isn’t without a few quirks. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional, this kit offers solid performance with some room for improvement.

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