Milwaukee M18 Rotary Hammer Review Powerful Cordless SDS Plus Demolition Drill

Description

Highlights of the Milwaukee M18 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1 in. SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

Testing the Milwaukee M18 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1 in. SDS-Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer (Tool-Only) revealed some impressive features that really stand out in the crowded world of power tools. The first thing I noticed was how quickly it drills through 3/8 in. x 2 in. holes—faster than many corded 1 in. D-handle rotary hammers I’ve used before. The brushless motor was a pleasant surprise, delivering over 50% longer run time compared to traditional brushed motors, which means less downtime swapping batteries or waiting for a recharge.

The AVS Anti-Vibration System deserves a special shoutout. It really minimizes vibration, making extended use far more comfortable. I could feel the difference especially when drilling into tougher materials, and this feature definitely keeps user fatigue at bay. Speaking of fatigue, the tool’s lightweight design at just 5.3 pounds (tool-only) made a difference during prolonged use, especially when working overhead or in tight spaces.

Here are some key perks that impressed me:

• Up to 100 holes per charge with the M18 XC5.0 battery, which is quite a feat for cordless rotary hammers.
• REDLINK Intelligence that monitors and optimizes power delivery, ensuring consistent performance.
• Three versatile modes: rotary hammer, hammer only, and rotary only.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite the many good points, the tool isn’t without its quirks. One downside I encountered was the single-speed setting. While 1270 RPM is powerful, having more speed options would provide better control for different materials and applications. Some of my coworkers found this limiting, especially when transitioning from delicate work to heavy-duty drilling.

Another limitation: the product is tool-only, so you need to invest in the battery and charger separately, which adds to the overall cost. Also, the maximum torque of 1.95 foot-pounds is decent for most jobs but might fall short for extremely dense materials or large-scale demolition work.

A couple of other points worth mentioning:

• Battery and charger not included in the package.
• The hammer impact energy of 1.95 ft./lbs., while solid, doesn’t match some corded rotary hammers designed for industrial use.

Versatility and Performance in Everyday Use

The three operating modes provide flexibility, but I found myself mostly switching between rotary hammer and hammer only modes. The rotary-only mode is great for regular drilling tasks, but it’s the hammer action that really makes this rotary hammer shine. It handles concrete, brick, and metal quite well, although drilling into very hard concrete can slow it down a bit.

I appreciated the cordless convenience during a recent home renovation project. Not having to manage a power cord allowed me to move freely around the site, which is a huge advantage compared to corded rotary hammers. The 18V lithium-ion battery system is also compatible with other M18 tools, so if you already have Milwaukee batteries, it integrates seamlessly into your toolkit.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

Milwaukee’s reputation for durable, metal-bodied tools really shows here. This rotary hammer feels solid in hand, and the D-handle design offers excellent grip and control. I noticed the compact dimensions (3″ L x 10″ W x 6″ H) make it manageable even in tighter spaces where larger models would be cumbersome.

The tool’s red color isn’t just for show—it’s easily visible on busy job sites, reducing the chance of misplacing it. While the tool weighs 5.3 pounds, the lightweight design makes it feel less heavy during extended tasks. The anti-vibration system adds to overall comfort, reducing hand strain and making it easier to maintain precision.

Alternative Offerings and How This One Stacks Up

Comparing this cordless rotary hammer to some popular competitors like the DeWalt DCH273B or Bosch GBH18V-26K, there are a few notable points. The Milwaukee model shines in battery efficiency and run time, especially with the M18 XC5.0 battery offering up to 100 holes per charge. That’s a significant edge over many rivals that tend to drain faster under heavy use.

However, some competitors offer multi-speed options and slightly higher impact energy, which could be a better fit for professionals needing maximum versatility and power. The cordless design is a common feature across these brands now, but Milwaukee’s REDLINK Intelligence adds a smart layer of performance management that some others lack.

Overall, the rotary hammer holds its own in safety and comfort features but doesn’t quite beat all competitors in sheer torque or multi-speed flexibility.

Price Worthiness

Considering the price to quality ratio, this rotary hammer offers solid value for those who prioritize portability and battery life. It’s definitely more of a smart spending choice for contractors and DIYers who need reliable cordless performance without investing in heavy-duty industrial tools.

Some may find the need to purchase batteries and charger separately a bit frustrating, but if you’re already invested in the Milwaukee M18 system, it’s a sensible addition. The brushless motor technology and anti-vibration system justify the investment, especially if comfort during long drilling sessions matters to you.

User Experience: From My Crew to Family Projects

My experience with this rotary hammer extends beyond personal use. A few of my colleagues borrowed it for their own projects and consistently praised its ability to tackle metal and wood drilling up to 1 inch and 0.38 inches respectively. Even my kids got curious watching me use it and found the cordless aspect user-friendly compared to older corded models.

One buddy commented on how the tool’s lightweight and balanced design made it easier to use for extended periods without the usual arm fatigue. On the flip side, some noted the lack of variable speed control as a mild annoyance, especially for precision drilling tasks.

Accessories and Features Worth Highlighting

This rotary hammer comes with a drill attachment, which is handy, but I found myself wanting more accessory options for different SDS-plus bits. The hammer-only mode is particularly useful for chiseling or light demolition, which adds to the tool’s versatility. The maximum rotational speed of 1270 RPM feels sufficient for most applications, though it might not be the fastest on the market.

The REDLINK Intelligence system impressed me with how it constantly monitors and adjusts power delivery, preventing overheating and extending tool and battery lifespan. This feature is a big win for anyone who relies on consistent performance during demanding jobs.

This review reflects my hands-on use and feedback gathered from other users, painting a balanced picture of the Milwaukee cordless rotary hammer’s strengths and areas to consider before making a purchase.

Additional information