Milwaukee M12 drivers?

[MushCreek]

I'm in the market for something with more feel that my M18 1/4" driver. I've been using it to drive screws in electrical work lately, but it's a bit cumbersome, and far too powerful. In looking at a display, I really like the 2553. It's very short, and has 4 different settings for speed and torque. It is spendy, though, at $170. You can get a lesser one for around $100. I'm wondering if its worth the extra money? I'd like to get into M12 for the smaller, lighter tools, and certain tools they don't offer in M18. Anyone have any experience with the 2553, or other M18 drivers?

https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Fastening/Impact-Drivers/2553-22

 

[MuhThugga]

The M12 Fuel is a good driver. It is light, compact, and will surprise you on what it can handle.
The Milwaukee Fuel tools are a heavier duty than the standard line, hence the price difference.

 

[Blstr88]

The m12 surge will be available soon. Guys have said it'll be available for $199 plus a free battery...so I'm guessing you can return the "free" battery afterwards and get the Surge for somewhere around $150?

If that's the case I plan to upgrade. I've been using the Fuel driver for years now, but it's the previous model...I think the 2453 is the model. It's been awesome but would like to try the Surge.

 

[MushCreek]

The Surge is available now. HD has them in stock, as well as a number of online retailers. Full kit runs $199. I need a full kit, as I don't have any other M12 tools yet.

 

[exmaxima1]

The Surge is available now. HD has them in stock,.......

Not currently in stock at HD as a bare tool

 

[M6erfan]

What advantage is the "Surge"?

 

[exmaxima1]

What advantage is the "Surge"?

Quieter and supposedly less user fatigue

 

[sparky 1971]

I have the M18 and M12. I rarely get the 18 out. The M12 will do 99% of the tasks you run across doing electrical work. I will recommend getting the XC batteries though. Not only do they last a lot longer, but they do provide a noticeable difference in power, and the larger size gives a nice base to set the driver down sitting upright.

The haters are going to jump in and say that there is no power difference because the specs say so. I am here to say there is. I have at least six M12 tools on my truck. The only thing tool that doesn't have a noticeable difference is the ratchet. The biggest difference is with the hackzall, but I rarely use it.

 

[dscheidt]

I have the M18 and M12. I rarely get the 18 out. The M12 will do 99% of the tasks you run across doing electrical work. I will recommend getting the XC batteries though. Not only do they last a lot longer, but they do provide a noticeable difference in power, and the larger size gives a nice base to set the driver down sitting upright.

The haters are going to jump in and say that there is no power difference because the specs say so. I am here to say there is. I have at least six M12 tools on my truck. The only thing tool that doesn't have a noticeable difference is the ratchet. The biggest difference is with the hackzall, but I rarely use it.

The hackzall and oscillating multi tool are useless with a regular battery. They're okay with an XC battery. The XC batteries have two sets of cells in parallel, so they can provide twice the current output, which makes a big difference to tools that can take advantage of it.

I bought an m12 screwdriver at christmas, and it's great for electrical work. It has a clutch, so you can limit torque, and it's fast enough to be useful. Not much good at driving screws into wood, but for assembly, it's nice.

I have a bunch of m12 and m18 stuff; I don't use the m18 stuff (besides the saws) much, the m12 stuff is good enough and it's lighter.

 

[sparky 1971]

The hackzall and oscillating multi tool are useless with a regular battery. They're okay with an XC battery. The XC batteries have two sets of cells in parallel, so they can provide twice the current output, which makes a big difference to tools that can take advantage of it.

I bought an m12 screwdriver at christmas, and it's great for electrical work. It has a clutch, so you can limit torque, and it's fast enough to be useful. Not much good at driving screws into wood, but for assembly, it's nice.

I have a bunch of m12 and m18 stuff; I don't use the m18 stuff (besides the saws) much, the m12 stuff is good enough and it's lighter.

The M12 oscillating multi is just plain worthless no matter the battery. The hackzall was better than a hacksaw for emt, but then I got the M12 bandsaw and haven't looked back.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I wish someone made a REAL battery screwdriver like the old Black and Decker !

Cheap, non-impacting (but good torque from being gear down). Get for screws on electrical cabinets !

 

[MikeF2316]

I have the 2453, which I would call a lesser driver than the 2553. It handles 99% of what I do in a small light package. However, I probably would have bought the 2553 instead if it had been available back when I bought it.

 

[Firefighter1406]

I wish someone made a REAL battery screwdriver like the old Black and Decker !

Cheap, non-impacting (but good torque from being gear down). Get for screws on electrical cabinets !

I have the DeWalt 8V Max screwdriver/pistol grip screwdriver. Works great. All you have to do is twist your hand, no trigger. Check it out.

 

[PugetDude]

Since I got my first M12 drill (GJ Secret Santa) in 2017, I've almost quit using my 18V tools. I'm now heavily invested in the M12 platform, have purchased quite a few of them. The only one I have been disappointed in was the Hackzall, returned it immediately. Just ordered the Fuel version to see if was any better.

 

[MushCreek]

The M12 oscillating multi is just plain worthless no matter the battery. The hackzall was better than a hacksaw for emt, but then I got the M12 bandsaw and haven't looked back.

That's too bad. I was kind of thinking about getting the oscillating multi, as I just blew up my Makita corded. I guess I'll get as new head for the Makita instead. I'm surprised how much I use that thing.

As for the other M12 tools, I'm not sure what else I want/need. Most of the work I do is heavy enough to justify the M18 tools. I have 7 M18 batteries, too.

 

[GTO]

I still use my Gen 1 M12 driver,works well for me.

 

[Handyandy23]

I bought an m12 screwdriver at christmas, and it's great for electrical work. It has a clutch, so you can limit torque, and it's fast enough to be useful. Not much good at driving screws into wood, but for assembly, it's nice.

+1 on the M12 screwdriver (2401 is the one I have). If OPer is asking specifically about electrical work and panels, I think that's a pretty perfect tool and what it's really meant for. It doesn't hammer and has several clutch settings so you can get the right torque range for your application.

It's also a good complement to the M18 1/4" impact OP already has since that is better suited for heavier jobs like driving screws into wood.

 

[sparky 1971]

+1 on the M12 screwdriver (2401 is the one I have). If OPer is asking specifically about electrical work and panels, I think that's a pretty perfect tool and what it's really meant for. It doesn't hammer and has several clutch settings so you can get the right torque range for your application.

It's also a good complement to the M18 1/4" impact OP already has since that is better suited for heavier jobs like driving screws into wood.

I had the two speed version of the 2401 that is no longer on Milwaukees website but didn't use very often at all. It was stolen off my van with a bunch of other stuff and I didn't bother replacing it. For trim out, I have a m4 screwdriver. It's pretty slow and gutless, but it gets the job done. I have the Makita 7.2 volt impact stick driver, it was fantastic, but its about 12 years old and the batteries are shot.

I don't know what model my m12 fuel impact is, but I use it for everything from 1/2 pan heads into steel studs to #12 tek screws to 3" long #10 screws into wood. I have used it for trim out, but don't make a habit of it. About the only time I get out the M18 is when I have to install lag bolts (the M12 would probably run them in too) or those times when there are two different types of screw head. It's easier than changing bits back and forth on one driver.

 

[sparky 1971]

That's too bad. I was kind of thinking about getting the oscillating multi, as I just blew up my Makita corded. I guess I'll get as new head for the Makita instead. I'm surprised how much I use that thing.

As for the other M12 tools, I'm not sure what else I want/need. Most of the work I do is heavy enough to justify the M18 tools. I have 7 M18 batteries, too.

I have heard good things about the M18 tool. I have no experience with it though. I bought a corded Rockwell Sonicrafter and am happy enough with it.

 

[Luked]

I have the DeWalt 8V Max screwdriver/pistol grip screwdriver. Works great. All you have to do is twist your hand, no trigger. Check it out.

Totally this, I have the straight version and it’s amazing. The Milwaukee m12 installation driver is also due out later this year

 

[sparky 1971]

I'm in the market for something with more feel that my M18 1/4" driver. I've been using it to drive screws in electrical work lately, but it's a bit cumbersome, and far too powerful. In looking at a display, I really like the 2553. It's very short, and has 4 different settings for speed and torque. It is spendy, though, at $170. You can get a lesser one for around $100. I'm wondering if its worth the extra money? I'd like to get into M12 for the smaller, lighter tools, and certain tools they don't offer in M18. Anyone have any experience with the 2553, or other M18 drivers?

https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Fastening/Impact-Drivers/2553-22

One thing that I either missed or you didn't state. Are you wanting this for rough in, trim out, or both? I was assuming rough in, but after reading some of the suggestions, I am starting to wonder if I was wrong...again. I wouldn't use the impact for trim out on a regular basis, just like I wouldn't use a stick driver for rough in.

 

[MushCreek]

Mostly things that you would use a regular screwdriver for. I've been doing electrical work in my barn, and running those fine thread screws in for devices is a lot quicker with a power tool. The M18 is a bit heavy-handed (and heavy).

 

[MikeF2316]

Since I got my first M12 drill (GJ Secret Santa) in 2017, I've almost quit using my 18V tools. I'm now heavily invested in the M12 platform, have purchased quite a few of them. The only one I have been disappointed in was the Hackzall, returned it immediately. Just ordered the Fuel version to see if was any better.

Just like from a drug dealer - first hit is free.

 

[sparky 1971]

Mostly things that you would use a regular screwdriver for. I've been doing electrical work in my barn, and running those fine thread screws in for devices is a lot quicker with a power tool. The M18 is a bit heavy-handed (and heavy).

You would probably be better off with a power screwdriver then. The only real advantage the M12 impact has over the M18 is weight, and it isn't a whole lot lighter. The M12 doesn't have quite as much power, but it can still break devices in a hurry if you aren't paying attention.It would be a different story if you were carrying these things around with you all day, every day.

Maybe you are just looking for an excuse to buy a new tool, in which case, go for it. I have an embarrassingly large collection of Milwaukee tools with duplicates and triplicates. It seems like every time I went into Acme tools to get something as simple as sawzall blades, Milwaukee was running a promotion that was too good to pass up. I just hope my wife never takes inventory in the shop.

 

[ClappedOutBport]

The M12 Fuel is a good driver. It is light, compact, and will surprise you on what it can handle.
The Milwaukee Fuel tools are a heavier duty than the standard line, hence the price difference.

I have the M18 and M12. I rarely get the 18 out. The M12 will do 99% of the tasks you run across doing electrical work. I will recommend getting the XC batteries though. Not only do they last a lot longer, but they do provide a noticeable difference in power, and the larger size gives a nice base to set the driver down sitting upright.

The haters are going to jump in and say that there is no power difference because the specs say so. I am here to say there is. I have at least six M12 tools on my truck. The only thing tool that doesn't have a noticeable difference is the ratchet. The biggest difference is with the hackzall, but I rarely use it.

WTH? OP is complaining about having too much power and then you guys go and recommend the heaviest duty of the 12v line with the strongest batteries. If he is over driving stuff already, why would he want the biggest and baddest?

Personally I get plenty of feel out of an entry level dewalt brushless 20v 1/4". But I wouldn't go and get a big heavy battery for lightweight electrical screws. I'd get the smallest, lightest thing available.

 

[sparky 1971]

WTH? OP is complaining about having too much power and then you guys go and recommend the heaviest duty of the 12v line with the strongest batteries. If he is over driving stuff already, why would he want the biggest and baddest?

Personally I get plenty of feel out of an entry level dewalt brushless 20v 1/4". But I wouldn't go and get a big heavy battery for lightweight electrical screws. I'd get the smallest, lightest thing available.

The OP is the one that asked about the 12v. He did not one time say he was over driving the screws. He said the M18 has too much power and is cumbersome. If he had complained about over driving the screws with the M18, I am sure the response would have been to turn the power down. I have had people say they don't want to use mine for the very same reason. I just tell them to turn the power down to the Dewalt (#2) setting. He also did not say anything about lightweight electrical screws either. There are a helluva lot more screws involved in electrical work than just the 6/32 X 3/4 machine screws that are factory installed in devices. Anywhere from #8 self piercing pan heads up to 1/2" lags and probably even bigger. If you were to continue reading the thread, you would see that he was eventually asked (by me) what type of screws he was dealing with most of the time. He said it was the type of screw that you would normally use a screw driver for. I then recommended a power screw driver.

It makes no sense to tell him to get a 20v Dewalt with the small battery when he already has an 18v Milwaukee. Why not suggest a compact battery for the Milwaukee?

 

[MushCreek]

I think I need to consider a cordless screwdriver. As I said, I have an M18 driver, and use that for everything from drywall screws and up. I'm not a professional, just a very active DIY'er. I tend to buy good stuff so I don't have to replace it, or get frustrated with it. I built my entire house using mostly M18 tools. I like the look of the M4 screwdriver, but they're pretty proud of it.

 

[sparky 1971]

I think I need to consider a cordless screwdriver. As I said, I have an M18 driver, and use that for everything from drywall screws and up. I'm not a professional, just a very active DIY'er. I tend to buy good stuff so I don't have to replace it, or get frustrated with it. I built my entire house using mostly M18 tools. I like the look of the M4 screwdriver, but they're pretty proud of it.

As stated before, I have the m4. I wouldn't recommend it because of the price. I use mine all the time, but I don't think it will do anything that the $50.00 Hitachi or other similar brands wont.

 

[macs_rock]

Does the M12 FUEL have clutch settings as light as the non-FUEL? I'd like to stick in the M12 line rather than getting something else that'll require yet another charger and batteries to keep track of, but I don't want it to be overpowered. Thoughts?

 

[sparky 1971]

Does the M12 FUEL have clutch settings as light as the non-FUEL? I'd like to stick in the M12 line rather than getting something else that'll require yet another charger and batteries to keep track of, but I don't want it to be overpowered. Thoughts?

Not sure which tool you mean. I have an older model m12 fuel impact. It has two torque settings. I have two different styles of non fuel impacts and neither has a clutch. I also have m12 fuel and non fuel drills. If the clutch settings on those aren't the same, they are pretty close except on drill mode where the fuel blows the other away. I had a non fuel m12 two speed screwdriver, and as near as I could tell, it was the same as the drill except for the 1/4 quick lock vs. a chuck

 

[ptgarcia]

Does the M12 FUEL have clutch settings as light as the non-FUEL? I'd like to stick in the M12 line rather than getting something else that'll require yet another charger and batteries to keep track of, but I don't want it to be overpowered. Thoughts?

M12 screwdriver? Yes, it does. But I wouldn't spend more on the fuel version. I have the 2401 M12 screwdriver and use it quite often and love it. Often it sells for less than $50 on Amazon (tool only).

 

[macs_rock]

Not sure which tool you mean. I have an older model m12 fuel impact. It has two torque settings. I have two different styles of non fuel impacts and neither has a clutch. I also have m12 fuel and non fuel drills. If the clutch settings on those aren't the same, they are pretty close except on drill mode where the fuel blows the other away. I had a non fuel m12 two speed screwdriver, and as near as I could tell, it was the same as the drill except for the 1/4 quick lock vs. a chuck

I'm looking at the 2401 vs 2402 M12 screw drivers.

 

[sparky 1971]

I had the non fuel version of the 2402.. It was not the 2401. The 2401 is 500 rpm and the one I had was two speed. I don't see it on Milwaukee's website anymore. I bought a 2401 for my mom a few years ago. I used it a couple of times, but have to say, I thought it was too slow. That's why I bought the two speed for myself but I hardly ever used it. I think the clutch settings on mine were pretty close to the drill. I also think that the clutch settings on the fuel vs. non fuel drills are pretty close to the same. I would say the settings on the screwdrivers are probably about the same. If I were in the market for a pistol grip screwdriver, I would get the two speed fuel, only because it appears the non fuel is no longer made.

 

[ClappedOutBport]

The OP is the one that asked about the 12v. He did not one time say he was over driving the screws. He said the M18 has too much power and is cumbersome. If he had complained about over driving the screws with the M18, I am sure the response would have been to turn the power down. I have had people say they don't want to use mine for the very same reason. I just tell them to turn the power down to the Dewalt (#2) setting. He also did not say anything about lightweight electrical screws either. There are a helluva lot more screws involved in electrical work than just the 6/32 X 3/4 machine screws that are factory installed in devices. Anywhere from #8 self piercing pan heads up to 1/2" lags and probably even bigger. If you were to continue reading the thread, you would see that he was eventually asked (by me) what type of screws he was dealing with most of the time. He said it was the type of screw that you would normally use a screw driver for. I then recommended a power screw driver.

It makes no sense to tell him to get a 20v Dewalt with the small battery when he already has an 18v Milwaukee. Why not suggest a compact battery for the Milwaukee?

You are correct. I did read things into his post that aren't there.

However, you appear to be just as guilty as nowhere did I recommend he go out and buy a dewalt. That would be at best a sidegrade. I would never recommend that.

I actually didn't recommend anything, because my knowledge of the red tools is limited. I was merely attempting to question the need for the strongest of the 12v tools, which judging from Mush's later posts, he doesn't need, as he'll be using his m18 for all the heavy work. (At least, that's how I read it.) The closest think you could get out of my post as a recommendation, would be the smallest battery on the lightest impact.

 

[PugetDude]

Just like from a drug dealer - first hit is free.

No ****.

I've since purchased
1/4" impact
1/4" screwdriver
Right angle drill
Sander Polisher
Oscillating multi-tool
Rotary Tool
Jigsaw
3/8 Ratchet
Hackzall
1/2" Fuel Drill
Flashlight
Work Light
Jobsite Radio
3 chargers
At least a dozen batteries.
Prior to "discovering" the M12 line, I was heavily invested in Ryobi 18V stuff.
Anymore, I really only use the blower, 1/2" Brushless drill and the impact driver; the M12 handles 90% of what I need.

 

[swampdog1950]

I have the fuel 2402 2 speed driver 450 / 1700 rpm. dial it to the setting you need works great.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I've since purchased (M12) ...
1/4" impact
1/4" screwdriver
.
.
.

I am way behind you, but I think the new M12 angle grinder will be be on my Christmas list !

I keep fighting the urge to buy an M18 vacuum. I can't afford 2 sets of batteries. The M12 vacuum just looks "gimmicky" !