The Milwaukee addiction thread! :)

[kctyphoon]

Probably a stupid question, but is there any way to tell WHERE (U.S., China, Taiwan etc) a Milwaukee tool was made, specifically those that don't say "Made in xxxx"?

My Sawzall says on the tag with the serial number "Made In USA", but so many used ones I see don't say anything on them.

Most if not all of the power tools are china now. They were USA made years ago. I’m sure it says it somewhere.. Milwaukee was bought out a long time ago.. I’m not up on every model offering, so i cant say for sure its ALL china now.. there might be some big stuff floating around thats made elsewhere - but most of whats bought today is cordless.

 

[Y00PER]

Most if not all of the power tools are china now. They were USA made years ago. I’m sure it says it somewhere.. Milwaukee was bought out years ago.

I have seen at the local consignment shop, lots of old (all metal housing, only color is the red "Milwaukee" ) Milwaukee tools that I'd be 99.9% positive are U.S. made, but say nothing on the tag other than "Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp" and the brookfield, wi USA.

I did find this, but it's from 2003 (or 1992, as it states on the bottom) and wonder if they have different plant codes for non-US tools. Although some of the abbreviations they use I wouldn't know what they stand for

http://documents.milwaukeetool.com/TIY404.pdf

 

[Mohawk Dave]

I too have the M18 and M12 rocket lights. They are both badass. So, the M18 lights UP the camp site.

The M12 was perfect when I was painting a truck frame on a lift and I was up under it in the dark. The M12 is also stolen by my lady when her and her friends drink wine and play cards out at the back table.

I will take the M12 to the cabin to go shooting...don't need 9 gabillion lumens at the shooting table, just some light to see what you're doing safely.

So..in short, buy both.

 

[slynchvt]

So..in short, buy both.

Or just **** it up and buy the m12 and one of the m18 models.. lol

To be honest, that was what I was thinking anyways. I already have a M18 rocket (with free 2361 flood light) that I need to pick up from HD. Just need to wait for the opportune time to buy the M12 one.

 

[suzook]

I don't get it...why don't yu get the regular Milwaukee tool only headge trimmer.. Plenty in Craigslist for around $100-120.and it is very comfortable easy usage without getting tired. .but it does not provide the long reach of powerhead plus addon hedge trimmer.

Unless yu need that powerhead and hedge trimmer add on for long reach trimming... But that's got to hurt for long time use..

Sometimes.. Ergonomics plays a major part in tool usage.. So maybe buy both and return one yu don't like.. Home depot will take returns.. It's not gas powered.

Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

Need the reach for tall hedges. I will only use it once a year, so maybe I will go cheap, ryobi 40volt expand it trimmer, and hedge attachment, about $240

 

[PelicanPines]

I like 9 gabillion lumens...

 

[a52-830]

I find the size and weight different between the M12 and M18 rocket lights to be significant. Do you have both? If so, which one do you grab more often. I think thats always the true test.

there have been a lot of other comments, but let me add my own.

I am big on "the right tool for the job". over the years, I have found that making due with something is not really saving me anything. as such, I tend to buy sets, rather than the one [wrench,socket,clamp,hammer] I need.

which lamp I grab is based on the job. in the basement, I grabbed the M12, since all the other tools I was using were M12, and I didn't need the increased light [or bulk] of the M18. other times I grab the M18 because I am working across a larger area, can set the lamp further back, and not have to adjust it every time I move a few feet.

I admit that as I get older light is becoming a bigger deal. I have a bunch of different lights, Milwaukee and other brands (although I have pretty much stopped buying other brands, since Milwaukee seems to offer the variety I want). I have found that having a variety leaves me with no particular favorite. they all get used for various jobs, because each provides a different balance between light provided, unit size, and adjustability.

 

[DFB]

I like 9 gabillion lumens...

Me too

Especially handy for those late night job overruns

 

[slynchvt]

there have been a lot of other comments, but let me add my own.

I am big on "the right tool for the job". over the years, I have found that making due with something is not really saving me anything. as such, I tend to buy sets, rather than the one [wrench,socket,clamp,hammer] I need.

which lamp I grab is based on the job. in the basement, I grabbed the M12, since all the other tools I was using were M12, and I didn't need the increased light [or bulk] of the M18. other times I grab the M18 because I am working across a larger area, can set the lamp further back, and not have to adjust it every time I move a few feet.

I admit that as I get older light is becoming a bigger deal. I have a bunch of different lights, Milwaukee and other brands (although I have pretty much stopped buying other brands, since Milwaukee seems to offer the variety I want). I have found that having a variety leaves me with no particular favorite. they all get used for various jobs, because each provides a different balance between light provided, unit size, and adjustability.

Gotcha. I agree.

 

[toddoky]

How do you like it? About to pull the trigger on one.

I just received it the other day and have not had the opportunity to check it out in depth yet. All I can say at this point is the charge time and start-up time are both good.

 

[dacan23]

Now I gotta sell Gen1 Wacker, not sure if I will get the articulating death cutter or keep my M18 non deadly model.

 

[2manytools]

Edit - and actually the newer version of the gen1 m18 is 2500 lumens, and dual powered also. (Mine are not).. so the gen2 m18 is 3000 lumen, dual powered also, but has the 3 sided head you can aim in all different directions.

There are 4 possible M18 rocket models I believe. The 3-headed charging model was separate than the standard model & has not received any revisions, and would still be considered Gen1.

Gen1 original
Gen1 revised w/ increased lumens
Gen2 - increased lumens + AC power
Rocket Light w/ charger & 3 panels

 

[kctyphoon]

there have been a lot of other comments, but let me add my own.

I am big on "the right tool for the job". over the years, I have found that making due with something is not really saving me anything. as such, I tend to buy sets, rather than the one [wrench,socket,clamp,hammer] I need.

which lamp I grab is based on the job. in the basement, I grabbed the M12, since all the other tools I was using were M12, and I didn't need the increased light [or bulk] of the M18. other times I grab the M18 because I am working across a larger area, can set the lamp further back, and not have to adjust it every time I move a few feet.

I admit that as I get older light is becoming a bigger deal. I have a bunch of different lights, Milwaukee and other brands (although I have pretty much stopped buying other brands, since Milwaukee seems to offer the variety I want). I have found that having a variety leaves me with no particular favorite. they all get used for various jobs, because each provides a different balance between light provided, unit size, and adjustability.

I know Im getting older and my body is falling apart - when things that arent really joints - like my breast plate and collar bones, start cracking like my knees, elbows, and back.

 

[dacan23]

There are 2 new M18 Fuel packout promo kits coming soon.

1-M18 Gen3 hammer drill & driver kit, 2 5.0s, charger, in the packout tool case. This is the case which comes with the foam, so I assume it has the foam in it precut to hold all that stuff just like the blow molded case. $399

2-M18 Gen3 hammer drill & driver, and fuel sawzall (not super), 2 unknown batteries (2 5.0s confirmed), charger, in the packout rolling case. $549

Dont know if they are just standalone prices or if it will be also buy the kit get X free.

Edit-Gee I guess I should of waited 15 mins till I searched for the new things lol.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...-2-Tool-with-PACKOUT-Case-2997-22PO/307940396

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...PACKOUT-Rolling-Tool-Box-2997-23SPO/307940640

 

[roguegts]

Now I gotta sell Gen1 Wacker, not sure if I will get the articulating death cutter or keep my M18 non deadly model.

Report back on how you like it! Finally considering selling my echo gas trimmer for this.

 

[MikeH]

I used a couple of a friend's Milwaukee tools last weekend, and am now seriously thinking of jumping into the Milwaukee waters. I know the major sales are usually at Christmas (which I can't wait for) and Father's Day (which maybe I can), but I'm wondering how much those sales discount stuff? I've never paid much attention before because I mistakenly thought I had pretty much what I needed in power tools (m12 impact driver opened my eyes to what I'm missing!), and so I don't know how much I'd save by waiting. If it isn't much, I'll likely just jump in. Or maybe go the ebay route and figure that Gen 1 is enough for me to get started with. Any advice on what I should expect? Or on other sales that might be sooner or better?
Thanks!

 

[dacan23]

There are some good promos for a step into the M18 or M12 platform depending on what you want to start. All their promos reset May 1 and while Christmas time can be very good, some of the best deals are at other times of the year. Depends on product life cycle, excess inventory, and seasonal holidays (Spring/Fathers day) do bring some good deals.

I used a couple of a friend's Milwaukee tools last weekend, and am now seriously thinking of jumping into the Milwaukee waters. I know the major sales are usually at Christmas (which I can't wait for) and Father's Day (which maybe I can), but I'm wondering how much those sales discount stuff? I've never paid much attention before because I mistakenly thought I had pretty much what I needed in power tools (m12 impact driver opened my eyes to what I'm missing!), and so I don't know how much I'd save by waiting. If it isn't much, I'll likely just jump in. Or maybe go the ebay route and figure that Gen 1 is enough for me to get started with. Any advice on what I should expect? Or on other sales that might be sooner or better?
Thanks!

 

[PelicanPines]

Holy ****... I got four 2.5 amp hour m12 batteries from Powerextra 13 months ago. Been running one hard in one of my hex impacts... noticed it in my charger blinking red green... pulled it out ... zero charge... put it back in the charger ... showed solid green. Opened it up... all three cells showed 3.9... put it back together... within minutes... the pack got hot... sitting in my fire pit now...

 

[slynchvt]

There are 4 possible M18 rocket models I believe. The 3-headed charging model was separate than the standard model & has not received any revisions, and would still be considered Gen1.

Gen1 original
Gen1 revised w/ increased lumens
Gen2 - increased lumens + AC power
Rocket Light w/ charger & 3 panels

Don't forget the 5,400 lumen, double battery pack beast - #2120!

https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Lighting/Task-Lighting/2120-20

 

[DFB]

Harbor Frieght move it on over...

There's a big dog movin in

https://toolcraze.net/milwaukee-40-...rVN_qKDTDBDizJbmEcBt5xy8NKRPuRGzcrbS4603BTrpc

 

[kctyphoon]

Harbor Frieght move it on over...

There's a big dog movin in

https://toolcraze.net/milwaukee-40-...rVN_qKDTDBDizJbmEcBt5xy8NKRPuRGzcrbS4603BTrpc

Now where’s the mechanic’s tool cart??

 

[02JeepTJ]

Nice looking cart but not sure about the $399 price tag.

 

[kctyphoon]

Nice looking cart but not sure about the $399 price tag.

For 1 real drawer? Yea, no thanks..

 

[Handyandy23]

Harbor Frieght move it on over...

There's a big dog movin in

https://toolcraze.net/milwaukee-40-...rVN_qKDTDBDizJbmEcBt5xy8NKRPuRGzcrbS4603BTrpc

Hmmm, under $200 for 5 drawers and choice of several colors or $400 for 1 drawer and 1 color. Decisions, decisions . . .

 

[kctyphoon]

Hmmm, under $200 for 5 drawers and choice of several colors or $400 for 1 drawer and 1 color. Decisions, decisions . . .

To be fair - this is obviously geared towards electricians. Not may good options (that ive seen) specifically designed for them. The adjustable wire dispenser and pipe groves in the cart might make daily life easier for a lot of people..

Surprised they didnt include a small vise somehow.

 

[DFB]

All Milwaukee storage is severely overpriced but ya definitely geared for an electrician,

(sure beats using two concrete blocks to support your wire spool conduit like we often do down at the greenhouse complex )

Sliding tray on the lower shelf is nice.

Wish my HF workcart had THAT


Still someone will buy it...

probably Dacan


That's the cooler and toolbag shown underneath, I have one I generally like it.

But that chrome clip on the side though supposed to hold your tape measure is also a bottle opener...

Trouble is you need to angle your bottle horizontally way too much to work it, and the dumb asses put tool holders right under there...

for your rootbeer to spill into

 

[dacan23]

Yup, when I can get it for $250.... Will sell my HF one for maybe a whopping $10 so why not LOLOL

But will not sell my nicer Sunex one converted to a Milwaukee with that nice genuine Milwaukee mat on top.

All Milwaukee storage is severely overpriced

Still someone will buy it...

probably Dancan

 

[dacan23]

Compared to Gen1 its not looking good just after un-boxing it.... lol

I had fondled a display model at the store last week, guess I didn't notice the safety mech because the handle was zip tied. There is an annoying cheap flimsy double safety lever & switch on the top of the handle with the power trigger underneath the handle. It seems horrible and awkward, likely will do something to neutralize it. I understand with the pole saw & death cutter perhaps a safety for the trigger is needed but I hated it instantly.

Second disappointment is they changed the spool head and bump feed mech. The Gen 1 had about a half golf ball sized center which was the bump feed, I liked this because you didnt have to whack the whole head. That is gone and the whole head is one movable cylinder for the bump feed.

Report back on how you like it! Finally considering selling my echo gas trimmer for this.

 

[roguegts]

Thanks for the feedback. I ended up ordering the string trimmer/edger/9.0 combo from HD for $329 yesterday. Should be delivered today. Ill scope it out and see how i like it before selling my Echo 225.

Safety switch will be gone immediately. Spool head hopefully isnt a huge deal, im guessing it can be changed out.

 

[dacan23]

Besides my thinking its better to whack a center nub vs the whole head to bump feed, I have a 2nd NIP spool head for Gen1 which is useless to me...

Thanks for the feedback. I ended up ordering the string trimmer/edger/9.0 combo from HD for $329 yesterday. Should be delivered today. Ill scope it out and see how i like it before selling my Echo 225.

Safety switch will be gone immediately. Spool head hopefully isnt a huge deal, im guessing it can be changed out.

 

[dacan23]

Why have I not see any complaints here that the dust port on the M12 3" cutter not being compatible with the Gen2 M18 wet dry vac hose!!!!

Also these Dremel wheels are compatible with it, be careful theres a bigger more expensive Dremel version which is not. The 7/16 arbor that comes with the cutter is for the Dremel blades.

 

[roguegts]

Besides my thinking its better to whack a center nub vs the whole head to bump feed, I have a 2nd NIP spool head for Gen1 which is useless to me...

Can you swap the whole head?

 

[2manytools]

Why have I not see any complaints here that the dust port on the M12 3" cutter not being compatible with the Gen2 M18 wet dry vac hose!!!!

Also these Dremel wheels are compatible with it, be careful theres a bigger more expensive Dremel version which is not. The 7/16 arbor that comes with the cutter is for the Dremel blades.

Haven't had the chance to actually use. Just bought 6 of them cause the deal was too good not to. Will see some decent use here shortly. I would have imagined it would have worked with maybe the most common cordless vac out that just so happens to be their brand as well. SMH.

About 5 seconds after picking up the string trimmer on display, a four letter word will magically come out of your mouth. "Who the bleep came up with this safety switch?" I wanted to take it apart right there and "fix" it. I agree that it's probably because of the pole saw, but my Ryobi pole saw doesn't haven't anything that bad, except maybe it's non-matching lime green color.

I too ended up with a spare Gen1 upgraded head. Actually got it after I saw Gen2 in store. Is it the same head as Gen2, or possibly better?

 

[RedSS454]

So may be a little off topic, but looking for opinions on corded vs cordless (Milwaukee is the only tools i buy). Anyway, i have an older sawzall that my dad used and then gave to me (removeable chord, steel box) and it needs to be replaced. The set screw won’t stay tight to hold the blade in.

I’m already bought into the M18 line with the drill and impact, but am debating the chordless super sawzall. Will the M18 Fuel stand the test of time as well as a chorded one? I don’t use it all too often, but would like to not have to replace it in 10 years if possible.

Thanks

 

[2manytools]

So may be a little off topic, but looking for opinions on corded vs cordless (Milwaukee is the only tools i buy). Anyway, i have an older sawzall that my dad used and then gave to me (removeable chord, steel box) and it needs to be replaced. The set screw won’t stay tight to hold the blade in.

I’m already bought into the M18 line with the drill and impact, but am debating the chordless super sawzall. Will the M18 Fuel stand the test of time as well as a chorded one? I don’t use it all too often, but would like to not have to replace it in 10 years if possible.

Thanks

I think it could easily last years, especially with in-frequent use. But as with anything, something can go bad. I've received one DOA tool, which could be blamed on the person who assembled, but otherwise I think if you don't treat like or store them in dirt they should last a long time. Should theoretically have battery problems before the tools breaks down.

 

[thomasmessi]

it's good if the cart can be covered up, I dont like everything showing up...

 

[2manytools]

New grinders available for pre-order from Acme. Shipping est. 5/1/19

just re-read the email from Milwaukee, and it says they are now available.

 

[dacan23]

Looks like from parts diagrams that on Gen2 it has the V2 head from Gen1. My extra spool is the V1 from Gen1. See I like the original original, guess will have to see what I think about the new head come spring.

Gen1 V1 Head - 49-16-2710
Gen1 V2 Head - 49-16-2714
Gen2 V2 Head - 49-16-2714

Haven't had the chance to actually use. Just bought 6 of them cause the deal was too good not to. Will see some decent use here shortly. I would have imagined it would have worked with maybe the most common cordless vac out that just so happens to be their brand as well. SMH.

About 5 seconds after picking up the string trimmer on display, a four letter word will magically come out of your mouth. "Who the bleep came up with this safety switch?" I wanted to take it apart right there and "fix" it. I agree that it's probably because of the pole saw, but my Ryobi pole saw doesn't haven't anything that bad, except maybe it's non-matching lime green color.

I too ended up with a spare Gen1 upgraded head. Actually got it after I saw Gen2 in store. Is it the same head as Gen2, or possibly better?

 

[Shaners256]

Looks like from parts diagrams that on Gen2 it has the V2 head from Gen1. My extra spool is the V1 from Gen1. See I like the original original, guess will have to see what I think about the new head come spring.

Gen1 V1 Head - 49-16-2710
Gen1 V2 Head - 49-16-2714
Gen2 V2 Head - 49-16-2714

Yep. You're right. The gen2 head is the easy load head.

If you don't like it, the original head will still fit on the new tool.

 

[danski0224]

Harbor Frieght move it on over...

There's a big dog movin in

Pretty slick, but I wouldn't buy one at that price.

The genuine Rubbermaid carts are as much or more, and probably hold up better.