The Milwaukee addiction thread! :)

[Tatsuya]

Hey, guys, I need your advice. Huge Makita fan here, but I'm not a loyalist to anything. Here's the backstory from the Home Depot Clearance Thread:

M12 fuel dropped to $199 and you get one of 3 items, one being the ratchet they sell for $120. That makes the fuel set $200 * (200/320) = $ 125 on your receipt for the Fuel set. Keep or return the ratchet, up to you. $80 is a fair price for it right now (went for a little less priorbto the markup to $119). You can also get a free 6ah battery, but doesn't make the fuel set as cheap, if you intend to return the 2nd item. $25 is worth the upgrade in batteries alone. I refuse to use a 1.5ah in anything

Ugh, why did you tell me that? I didn't even want to spend the $100 today....

My 18V platform is Makita and I'm plenty happy with it. The real reason I'm interested in the M12 platform is the PVC shear and the ProPEX expander. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with 12V tools. The small drill and impact could be nifty though.

I think I might have to mosey on over to the Milwaukee addiction thread for advice.

If I were to drop $200 on this, would you guys recommend the right angle drill, the ratchet, or the 6.0 batt? I really want a PVC shear so I'm thinking maybe the 6.0 batt is the way to go? I don't have any kind of right angle drill (except the 1/4" shank impact driver attachment) or power ratchet (neither cordless or air tool). Only thing I really do with an air compressor is die grinding and kicking up dust.

I'm not a skilled tradesman so I've gotten away without needing a right angle drill or cordless ratchet for the last four years. I get by with a traditional hammer drill and impact driver just fine for the most part. My job requires me to do a little bit of a number of different things, but plumbing is a large part of that, hence the PVC shear and maybe ProPEX expander someday.

If I were an electrician that right angle drill would be awesome. If I were a mechanic or something the ratchet would be awesome. But I'm neither of those. Can anyone make a case for either of these two tools over the batt? Thanks.

 

[Tatsuya]

Also, can anyone comment on the M12 mini portaband? I'd be very interested in hearing how well that handles shallow and deep strut channel.

 

[WunTon]

I have no Milwaukee experience, but according to people on here they are very helpful and accommodating. Might be easiest just to call them up directly and give them the PN and let them know what you need. Save time from running around trying to find it online somewhere.

Ironically that's exactly what I did this afternoon and they were great to deal with. I gave the lady the PN and she said "yup I can order that for you but it won't be in stock until 7/17." No worries he just finished his home project so he doesn't need it anytime soon and if he does I'll just let him borrow mine since we both have the same saw. Thanks again for pointing out the kit option!

 

[PretendMechanic]

M12 Fuel Drill Driver vs Hammer Drill (2503 vs 2504)? :S

Hello fellow addicts,

Need a drill, looking to add to my M12 setup. These two models look almost identical (2503 vs 2504, see below). They both have the same length, weight, and all other dimensions according to Milwaukee's website, however accurate that may be.

I like the added option of having the versatility of a hammer drill if necessary, however not at the expense of accuracy and run out. I don't really think I'll ever need the hammer option much, will be using this drill for automotive use (repair, fabrication, customization).

Older posts I've found in regards to older Milwaukee hammer capable drill models indicated the hammer capable versions have more run out. Is this still the case?

Interesting to note that I have been able to consistently find the hammer capable version for quite a bit cheaper than the regular version on ebay.

 

[rustyjames]

Also, can anyone comment on the M12 mini portaband? I'd be very interested in hearing how well that handles shallow and deep strut channel.

I have one and very impressed with it. Defiantly a good tool investment.

 

[kctyphoon]

You know how I know that some new stuff is on the way from Milwaukee? Cause this thread has been on the same page for like a week now. We're due..

Dibs on the new diagonals...

 

[kctyphoon]

AND SPEAK OF THE DEVIL..

they're out. Available on HD website.. and they screwed them up again...

2 grip options.. the textured, and regular dipped handles - like Channellock,..
AND BOTH - have angled heads...

WTF MILWAUKEE.. how does someone create 3 completely different generations of diagonals, and find a way to **** up EVERY SINGLE TIME?????? stop trying to reinvent the wheel...

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...p1oo9oROG2FcN8JaN_FxwJDvdhe4gJdoaAoDXEALw_wcB

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...g-Plier-with-Angled-Head-48-22-6528/305759970

And new grips on the old style straight version , maybe upgraded cutting jaws..same old ****** design..
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk..._-rv_mobileweb_rr-_-305760159-_-305554256-_-N

 

[2manytools]

M12 Fuel Drill Driver vs Hammer Drill (2503 vs 2504)? :S

Hello fellow addicts,

Need a drill, looking to add to my M12 setup. These two models look almost identical (2503 vs 2504, see below). They both have the same length, weight, and all other dimensions according to Milwaukee's website, however accurate that may be.

I like the added option of having the versatility of a hammer drill if necessary, however not at the expense of accuracy and run out. I don't really think I'll ever need the hammer option much, will be using this drill for automotive use (repair, fabrication, customization).

Older posts I've found in regards to older Milwaukee hammer capable drill models indicated the hammer capable versions have more run out. Is this still the case?

Interesting to note that I have been able to consistently find the hammer capable version for quite a bit cheaper than the regular version on ebay.

The non-hammer M12 is made in super low volumes compared to the hammer, so its going to cost more due to low after market availability. No one is breaking kits up that contain that model. Same applies to m18 fuel.

 

[a52-830]

The non-hammer M12 is made in super low volumes compared to the hammer, so its going to cost more due to low after market availability. No one is breaking kits up that contain that model. Same applies to m18 fuel.

it never would have occurred to me that they make substantially less non-hammer drills.

I would have also assumed that hammer drills, do to the additional parts, would have been more expensive to make. . . . . .

 

[MessMaker]

I've never considered purchasing batteries from HD but they have a two pack of the new compact HO 3.0 batteries for $99. Anyone know of a better deal?

 

[starquestMM]

rural king has the same deal. I was tempted but passed... my will might be fading though

 

[2manytools]

it never would have occurred to me that they make substantially less non-hammer drills.

I would have also assumed that hammer drills, do to the additional parts, would have been more expensive to make. . . . . .

I think it has to do with the Fuel line being more of a 'pro' tool, and someone buying it is more likely to want that feature than not. It seems more often than not, the non-fuel drills do not have a hammer function, maybe being more geared to a homeowner.

I have to think they cost more too, but Milwaukee passes that on, and it is in volume, so probably not as much as we think it would be.


While it is only the blower being advertised as free with the Gen2 string trimmer purchase in-store at HD, if you do find the 1 pole saw attachment they sent to each store it seems, that too is also ringing up as "free." Got another trimmer & pole saw for $280 -11% giftcard today.

Then arrived home to my see my two 3' extensions. I was then pleasantly surprised to find the shoulder strap in the box with it! One less thing to wait for a deal on. What I did not find, was any info for the extension. There was a fold-up sheet for attaching the strap, but nothing on the extension. I was specifically looking for a limit on the extensions. One Q&A on the HD product page, has an answer of "not recommended to use more than 1 extension." I think Dacan mentioned the warranty possibly being voided, but I haven't seen any info from Milwaukee.
I don't plan on using 6' of extension that much, but we have enough trees that it seems safer than other alternatives.

 

[Utahtrapper]

Got My String Trimmer and Pole Saw Attachment the other day and put them to use.
Very Happy with both.

 

[NKlamerus]

Tool sale weekend

 

[BroncoAZ]

Tool sale weekend

Is that the M12 Rocket light for $79 in the third picture? How much are those Fuel sawzalls? Where is this store?

 

[NKlamerus]

Is that the M12 Rocket light for $79 in the third picture? How much are those Fuel sawzalls? Where is this store?

Yes it is, and the SawZall's are 99$

Jerry's Home Improvement in Eugene, OR
Only 2 locations

 

[Bighead38]

You could probably buy stuff there and resell to make money.

I still haven’t seen any packout stuff in person. I’ve been to 6 Home Depot’s and none of them have it.

 

[soloz2]

You could probably buy stuff there and resell to make money.

I still haven’t seen any packout stuff in person. I’ve been to 6 Home Depot’s and none of them have it.

I haven't seen pwckout cases in a home Depot, but I have seen displays and boxes at local lumbar yards and at Runnings. I got my m18 brushless set with packout box and it's super nice!

 

[BroncoAZ]

You could probably buy stuff there and resell to make money.

Certainly in a state without sales tax. Those prices are cheaper than Ebay for the M12 Rocket light and fuel sawzall.

 

[2manytools]

Just ordered the 6-bay M12/M18 Rapid charger. Getting sick of hearing that high pitch whine on the current rapid charger, and I've been charging more batteries lately while in the vicinity of the charger. Seems like a more worthy investment than the Super Charger. Also hoping I will need to charge more batteries if they come out with a 'power supply packout.'

International Tool has it for $139.88, and I had HD price match it, hoping to also get an extra 11% from them matching Menards rebate offer this week with in-store pickup. Decided to spring for it while in my local Meijer, as they had 10% off all gift cards today. Picked up $1000 in HD (well a visa GC good there, so I am still able to return without hassle). Also spent some on some new 3.0 HO batteries that I got for $90 a pair before rebate/gift card savings.

 

[dsimatt]

Picked up the M18 2 gallon vacuum at HD, we put in vinyl flooring and needed a cordless vacuum for going around and picking stuff up. Quality wise it's a little flimsy but has good power and not nearly as loud as YouTube reviews were complaining about.

 

[suzook]

Just ordered the 6-bay M12/M18 Rapid charger. Getting sick of hearing that high pitch whine on the current rapid charger, and I've been charging more batteries lately while in the vicinity of the charger. Seems like a more worthy investment than the Super Charger. Also hoping I will need to charge more batteries if they come out with a 'power supply packout.'

International Tool has it for $139.88, and I had HD price match it, hoping to also get an extra 11% from them matching Menards rebate offer this week with in-store pickup. Decided to spring for it while in my local Meijer, as they had 10% off all gift cards today. Picked up $1000 in HD (well a visa GC good there, so I am still able to return without hassle). Also spent some on some new 3.0 HO batteries that I got for $90 a pair before rebate/gift card savings.

I thought mine was defective. So that whine is normal?

 

[dsimatt]

I thought mine was defective. So that whine is normal?

Only with the 5amp and bigger batteries I've found but yes yours isn't defective.

 

[2manytools]

Only with the 5amp and bigger batteries I've found but yes yours isn't defective.

only when it is rapidly charging does it *****/whine usually goes away when it is towards the end of the charge cycle on the larger batteries.

interestingly, i just read in a review of the rapid charger (from a couple years ago), saying the only batteries that charge faster are ones that have a lighting symbol near the terminals. thats the first time ive heard that.

 

[dsimatt]

only when it is rapidly charging does it *****/whine usually goes away when it is towards the end of the charge cycle on the larger batteries.

interestingly, i just read in a review of the rapid charger (from a couple years ago), saying the only batteries that charge faster are ones that have a lighting symbol near the terminals. thats the first time ive heard that.

All my batteries have the lightening bolts so I guess the chargers are in rapid mode all the time.ive also noticed it takes a bit before starting to whine.

 

[racin72charger]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

 

[kctyphoon]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

Well I BOUGHT one.. lol. Still haven’t used it.. i can tell ya it looks and feels nice..

 

[ncsuagr]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

I bought one a while back. I’ve played with it, but not truly for anything other than making sure it shot staples. It shot staples, and was reasonably comfortable in my bear paws. My test piece was some scrap treated 4x6. Sunk them in no problem.

 

[sands2500]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

Using the staples on seat cushions on 3/4" ply and 3/4" flake board was very easy on the hands (repaired about a dozen chairs for a motel). I was even using either 5/16" or 1/2" staples and sank everyone right after getting the depth setting set right. I hope this will help you out a little bit.

 

[techieman33]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

It's ok, gets the job done. Power wise it's pretty similar to a good manual stapler. Don't expect it to drive the crown below the surface on most materials. Bump firing can be nice, but you have to keep your strikes firm or you'll start to get light hits and end up having to finish the staples with a hammer.

 

[Tduby]

Has anyone tried the M12 stapler? I do a ton of school bus seat covers and not having to use a manual stapler will save my hands. TIA.

Steve

I have one it works pretty decent bump fire seems to result in misfired staples but it saves wear and tear on my hands. If I was working in a fixed location I would look at an air stapler instead.

 

[racin72charger]

I have one it works pretty decent bump fire seems to result in misfired staples but it saves wear and tear on my hands. If I was working in a fixed location I would look at an air stapler instead.

Thanks for the replies. I’m putting it on my list of wants. Air isn’t an option in because I have to do a lot of repairs in the field and don’t have a compressor.

 

[purplezr2]

Really like mine, have used it only to hang vapor barrier plastic on my garage ceiling and some walls but it has worked well. No jamming and drives 9/16 inch staples with no issue

 

[mobiledynamics]

pffft...not that I ever compared as I have like 4 yellow cordless tools, but the warranty on the yellow batteries is 2 years, vs. the 5 on big red.

 

[Robertel1]

pffft...not that I ever compared as I have like 4 yellow cordless tools, but the warranty on the yellow batteries is 2 years, vs. the 5 on big red.

Lifetime Warranty on RIDGID Batteries If Registered within 90 days of purchase

 

[DerekV]

pffft...not that I ever compared as I have like 4 yellow cordless tools, but the warranty on the yellow batteries is 2 years, vs. the 5 on big red.

Milwaukee's M12 and M18 battery warranty is 2 years for compact batteries and 3 years for XC and HD batteries.

 

[2manytools]

pffft...not that I ever compared as I have like 4 yellow cordless tools, but the warranty on the yellow batteries is 2 years, vs. the 5 on big red.

Only cordless tools are 5 yeara, and outdoor equipment is only 3.

 

[PretendMechanic]

M12 Fuel Drill Driver vs Hammer Drill (2503 vs 2504)? :S

Hello fellow addicts,

Need a drill, looking to add to my M12 setup. These two models look almost identical (2503 vs 2504, see below). They both have the same length, weight, and all other dimensions according to Milwaukee's website, however accurate that may be.

I like the added option of having the versatility of a hammer drill if necessary, however not at the expense of accuracy and run out. I don't really think I'll ever need the hammer option much, will be using this drill for automotive use (repair, fabrication, customization).

Older posts I've found in regards to older Milwaukee hammer capable drill models indicated the hammer capable versions have more run out. Is this still the case?

Interesting to note that I have been able to consistently find the hammer capable version for quite a bit cheaper than the regular version on ebay.

Sorry to bump but anyone have any experience with how the run-outs on these two compare?

Trying to take advantage of an ebay bucks promotion before it ends!

 

[mobiledynamics]

Thx Derek. Whew. Just checked. Should be G2G within 3 years on a red battery too I need to send back. It's fine on charge but the charge indicator reports it as zero (no charge).

 

[DerekV]

Thx Derek. Whew. Just checked. Should be G2G within 3 years on a red battery too I need to send back. It's fine on charge but the charge indicator reports it as zero (no charge).

Bummer - fortunately Milwaukee will take care of you. Aside from a coupla goons at their MA service center (that was a while ago though), I've had nothing but positive customer service experiences with them.