The Milwaukee addiction thread! :)

[DerekV]

Yes I agree the specs and performance claims sound impressive, and if they are true than its what I hoped for. Your Ryobi and my Makita mower have the same shortcomings, which most if not all battery mowers have. I was also willing to sacrifice runtime for performance, just didn't expect so little from two 12.0s, real world runtime won't be what they claim but hopefully close. If I can't do my lawn with two 12.0s and two 8.0s I will be disappointed. I have three 12s and if I bought the kit would have five, but I already use one or two on a full wacker job (I have an insane amount of trimming), sometimes use an 8.0 after using a full 12.0, plus the blower, I will be going through sooooo many batteries for a complete lawn job.

My primary concern is if the mower is drawing that much juice from the 12s, I am concerned about it killing 12s. My two 12s that died perhaps were hurt from the 9" concrete saw which is my highest draw tool. I don't think it was other OPE or tools as none of my 8s or 6s have been hurt, unless the 12s are more susceptible. Also the 9" saw is also known to burn up. Could the mower be at risk too? The only other person I know who has lost 12s uses them a lot on the 9" saw, and he has cooked the saw also. He also uses them a lot in the Super Hawg which also burns up often.

I actually would of prefered an MX mower that I could do the whole lawn on 1 battery at a higher cost.

Mower kit was anticipated to be $900. $1000 with 12s is way overpriced, if it had 15s then were talking. 12s just ain't worth $250 retail anymore, luckily no 12 that has ever passed through my hands ever costed more than $125, the 12.0 is a $150-175 retail battery. What are they going to price the 15.0 at, $300, battery costs are supposed to be coming down.... at least thats what Tesla keeps promising.

Yeah I've been saying it forever now, Milwaukee's pricing in general is a obsessed-with-the-smell-of-your-own-farts kind of proud. I've been buying significantly less tools from them because of that, and frankly I don't let it bother me anymore. They love the Kool Aid they're makin, whatever.

This mower seems pretty legit though and the runtime doesn't surprise me at all. A pair of 12.0s is 432 watt hours of energy, which is the exact equivalent to one MX XC battery. It's also the equivalent to an ~8.5Ah "56v" (50.4v nominal) battery, so in between an Ego 7.5Ah and 10Ah battery. Ego's flagship mower with a 7.5Ah claims up to 60 minutes run time, which is the same as Milwaukee's claim. That said, I'd expect this to perform at least as good as the best Ego mower with their 7.5Ah pack, but possibly with a little boost in power since it's consuming more energy over the same amount of time. That is an excellent benchmark.

When you put it into perspective, it's very competitive. Then when you consider it can cut as low as 1" (that's a big deal!), its beefiness/metal construction, and that it's M18...I don't know man, the price doesn't slap you in the face that bad.

 

[dacan23]

Yeah I've been saying it forever now, Milwaukee's pricing in general is a obsessed-with-the-smell-of-your-own-farts kind of proud. I've been buying significantly less tools from them because of that, and frankly I don't let it bother me anymore. They love the Kool Aid they're makin, whatever.

This mower seems pretty legit though and the runtime doesn't surprise me at all. A pair of 12.0s is 432 watt hours of energy, which is the exact equivalent to one MX XC battery. It's also the equivalent to an ~8.5Ah "56v" (50.4v nominal) battery, so in between an Ego 7.5Ah and 10Ah battery. Ego's flagship mower with a 7.5Ah claims up to 60 minutes run time, which is the same as Milwaukee's claim. That said, I'd expect this to perform at least as good as the best Ego mower with their 7.5Ah pack, but possibly with a little boost in power since it's consuming more energy over the same amount of time. That is an excellent benchmark.

When you put it into perspective, it's very competitive. Then when you consider it can cut as low as 1" (that's a big deal!), its beefiness/metal construction, and that it's M18...I don't know man, the price doesn't slap you in the face that bad.

Or you've been buying less because like me you already have everything and dont need to get the latest Gen every release.

Yeah the 1" claim is interesting. I was trying to cut a section of my yard down to 1" where I was installing swing sets and sandbox. Even just going down 1 notch on the Makita mower each time, it really struggled after going to 3 notches from bottom and would die every pass. I got so fed up I broke out the wacker and just tore up the area.

 

[DerekV]

Or you've been buying less because like me you already have everything and dont need to get the latest Gen every release.

That too

 

[Newell33]

I tried the Craftsman V40 mower when it came out. Run time was not a problem for me, but my biggest complaint was the blade speed. It tended to push the grass over rather than cutting it. I saw an online review at ProToolReviews for the Milwaukee mower that mentioned near the end that "As far as the finished look goes, we had a few straggling blades popping up, but overall, the cut was very even." Otherwise, the review was pretty glowing. I sure hope that the higher blade speed option with Milwaukee is comparable to my Honda gas mower. If not, then I'll stick with my tried and true gas mower.

 

[dacan23]

Hadn't bought much in a long time, wanted the 3/8 high speed, got all this junk on an incredible deal. Good thing I didn't get an online coupon to buy the 3/8 high speed kit on special.

 

[Rusty67]

That looks like 2 buy more save more purchases to me =-)

In other news, I bought the M12 fuel vac the other day because it was at 100 instead of 130. It is back to 130 now but there is also this kit for 130 that comes with a 6.0 battery. Seems like I should return the tool only and get my 100 back and grab this kit which gets me a 6.0 for 30 bucks?

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt 1.6 Gal. Lithium-Ion Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit with 6.0 Ah Battery and Charger 0960-21 - The Home Depot

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1.6 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit is the first cordless 12-Volt wet/dry vacuum of its kind. It delivers up to 40% more suction than 18-Volt competitors, is the most compact, and is up

www.homedepot.com

What do you guys think?

 

[Odd-job]

That looks like 2 buy more save more purchases to me =-)

In other news, I bought the M12 fuel vac the other day because it was at 100 instead of 130. It is back to 130 now but there is also this kit for 130 that comes with a 6.0 battery. Seems like I should return the tool only and get my 100 back and grab this kit which gets me a 6.0 for 30 bucks?

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt 1.6 Gal. Lithium-Ion Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit with 6.0 Ah Battery and Charger 0960-21 - The Home Depot

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1.6 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit is the first cordless 12-Volt wet/dry vacuum of its kind. It delivers up to 40% more suction than 18-Volt competitors, is the most compact, and is up

www.homedepot.com

What do you guys think?

Nice. Please report on the performance of the m12 fuel vs m18 nonfuel vac. They both seem to have the same CFM rating.

To be honest I've had such good luck with the power extra counterfeit batteries off of Amazon. I'd buy two 6.0's for $36. Then I would be extra happy I didn't have yet another m12 charger laying around.

 

[javyLSU]

That looks like 2 buy more save more purchases to me =-)

In other news, I bought the M12 fuel vac the other day because it was at 100 instead of 130. It is back to 130 now but there is also this kit for 130 that comes with a 6.0 battery. Seems like I should return the tool only and get my 100 back and grab this kit which gets me a 6.0 for 30 bucks?

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt 1.6 Gal. Lithium-Ion Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit with 6.0 Ah Battery and Charger 0960-21 - The Home Depot

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1.6 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit is the first cordless 12-Volt wet/dry vacuum of its kind. It delivers up to 40% more suction than 18-Volt competitors, is the most compact, and is up

www.homedepot.com

What do you guys think?

$30 for a 6.0 is worth it to me. I consider the charger a throwaway, although I recently found a fantastic use for one of my M12 only chargers. I put it next to the closet that I keep my heated gear in, dedicated for charging the M12 batteries that they use. No more swapping batteries from the garage.

 

[Rusty67]

Maybe we could convert the M12 chargers into trickle chargers for our cars/motorcycles?

 

[dacan23]

That looks like 2 buy more save more purchases to me =-)

In other news, I bought the M12 fuel vac the other day because it was at 100 instead of 130. It is back to 130 now but there is also this kit for 130 that comes with a 6.0 battery. Seems like I should return the tool only and get my 100 back and grab this kit which gets me a 6.0 for 30 bucks?

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt 1.6 Gal. Lithium-Ion Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit with 6.0 Ah Battery and Charger 0960-21 - The Home Depot

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1.6 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit is the first cordless 12-Volt wet/dry vacuum of its kind. It delivers up to 40% more suction than 18-Volt competitors, is the most compact, and is up

www.homedepot.com

What do you guys think?

Yeah but with double discounts. I tried to get a good double including the M12 Fuel vac but wasnt happy with how it worked, I already have one but a cheap second would be nice. Will have to keep that one with the 6.0 in memory in case I get a coupon.

 

[dacan23]

Ratchets, we don't need any ratchets... If they come out with an ultra torque super speed extra extended flex head ratchet I am not buying it. Interested to test original vs fuel v1 vs fuel high speed. The high speed screams.

 

[Odd-job]

Ratchets, we don't need any ratchets... If they come out with an ultra torque super speed extra extended flex head ratchet I am not buying it. Interested to test original vs fuel v1 vs fuel high speed. The high speed screams.

I think you are missing the fuel 1/4 extended!

Your addiction is probably cheaper than a Snap on ratchet addiction. Except for maybe the torque wrench.

 

[Odd-job]

Maybe we could convert the M12 chargers into trickle chargers for our cars/motorcycles?

At one point was thinking of cutting them down to make a battery wall holder.

 

[Rusty67]

What is the double discount deal?

 

[mikeinri]

What is the double discount deal?

Ditto....

Mike

 

[Odd-job]

Ditto....

Mike

Apparently there was pricing glitch on HD's website where you could get the circular saw for $120.

 

[Bighead38]

Ratchets, we don't need any ratchets... If they come out with an ultra torque super speed extra extended flex head ratchet I am not buying it. Interested to test original vs fuel v1 vs fuel high speed. The high speed screams.

That’s a lot. Probably too much for one guy to handle. If you find yourself overwhelmed I suppose I could help out and watch a ratchet or two for you. I’ll make sure it stays clean and gets it’s daily diet of 2.0 ah per day along with its exercise routine of 2,500 rpm per day.

 

[dacan23]

What is the double discount deal?

I think you are missing the fuel 1/4 extended!

Your addiction is probably cheaper than a Snap on ratchet addiction. Except for maybe the torque wrench.

There was an old and new BMSM promo active at the same time, but not all the items overlapped. In my two orders of 3 items each, I got 150+150 and 150+80 discounts. The HS 3/8, MT 1/2, and Compact M18 3/8 only was $347 pre tax.

Yeah I only said I would get one extended and choose the 3/8, isnt there a 1/2 version also. Was only going to get the 3/8 HS until the double deal I couldnt say no to the 1/4.

 

[Rusty67]

Wow, that is a monster deal, well done.

 

[dacan23]

The denied warranty on my 12.0, called to find out why and said its out of warranty. I said I sent in a receipt, which they apparently ignored, its being reprocessed. Whats the point of sending in the paperwork if they dont look at it....

 

[Vercingetorix]

Maybe we could convert the M12 chargers into trickle chargers for our cars/motorcycles?

Yes we can, and did. Or do you mean the Milwaukee M12 chargers themselves? Wasn’t cheap but I needed a charger that could charge a lithium battery, and this setup will work with anything. Can probably be done for cheaper, but the replacement cost of the lithium battery I have is extreme, so I am taking no chances. This setup can also charge the M12 battery in the car. Around the M12 light is a Nite Ize LED usb charged light that can also be charged from the Milwaukee battery.

 

[Rusty67]

I was talking about the 12v Milwaukee battery charger itself but that is a cool way to do it.

And Dacan, don't get started on the last time I RMA'd something with them..... but yes I agree. Look at the paperwork damnit, that is why it is on the web form.

 

[Odd-job]

Yes we can, and did. Or do you mean the Milwaukee M12 chargers themselves? Wasn’t cheap but I needed a charger that could charge a lithium battery, and this setup will work with anything. Can probably be done for cheaper, but the replacement cost of the lithium battery I have is extreme, so I am taking no chances. This setup can also charge the M12 battery in the car. Around the M12 light is a Nite Ize LED usb charged light that can also be charged from the Milwaukee battery.

Very nice. I was gung ho on copying this setup until I realized the Optimate is $105. Also looking for something that can desulfate the battery.

 

[Odd-job]

There was an old and new BMSM promo active at the same time, but not all the items overlapped. In my two orders of 3 items each, I got 150+150 and 150+80 discounts. The HS 3/8, MT 1/2, and Compact M18 3/8 only was $347 pre tax.

Yeah I only said I would get one extended and choose the 3/8, isnt there a 1/2 version also. Was only going to get the 3/8 HS until the double deal I couldnt say no to the 1/4.

Glad someone on GJ was able to take advantage of that. You can almost have 10-19mm each on a different ratchet at the rate you are going.

 

[JimDon]

V, can you tell us which Nite Ize that is? And how do you like it? Cheers, Jim

 

[Vercingetorix]

V, can you tell us which Nite Ize that is? And how do you like it? Cheers, Jim

Radiant® 170 Rechargeable Task Light

This rechargeable 170-lumen task light features an adjustable tilt, dual-color LEDs, four modes, and two versatile attachment options for hands-free illumination that simplifies projects, big or small.

niteize.com

It is really nothing special, but if a small floodlight is needed in an emergency, this will be a life saver. Got mine at REI.

 

[JimDon]

Radiant® 170 Rechargeable Task Light

This rechargeable 170-lumen task light features an adjustable tilt, dual-color LEDs, four modes, and two versatile attachment options for hands-free illumination that simplifies projects, big or small.

niteize.com

It is really nothing special, but if a small floodlight is needed in an emergency, this will be a life saver. Got mine at REI.

Thank you

 

[Odd-job]

Finally picked up my order



And added another charger to the orphan draw. On top of this have 6 chargers in use and have gifted at least a as well. Am sure others here are worse.

 

[RAS61]

I want to get the M12 Surge Impact Driver kit (2551-22), but would like to get it on sale instead of paying the current $179 going rate. Have been looking for a few weeks, have seen the regular 1/4 M12 impact (2553) discounted but not the Surge version. Is it a matter of just being patient, or does a "premium" model like this rarely get marked down? Is there a secret to finding or being alerted to Milwaukee deals? Thanks!

 

[Odd-job]

I want to get the M12 Surge Impact Driver kit (2551-22), but would like to get it on sale instead of paying the current $179 going rate. Have been looking for a few weeks, have seen the regular 1/4 M12 impact (2553) discounted but not the Surge version. Is it a matter of just being patient, or does a "premium" model like this rarely get marked down? Is there a secret to finding or being alerted to Milwaukee deals? Thanks!

The M12 surge kit I just picked up one post above yours was $125 out the door using the buy more save more strategy at Home Depot mentioned in the deals thread. Almost as good as it gets after I missed out the Blaine's Farm and Fleet with free 6.0 deal.

 

[Bighead38]

Finally picked up my order



And added another charger to the orphan draw. On top of this have 6 chargers in use and have gifted at least a as well. Am sure others here are worse.

I wish I had friends that just had rapid chargers laying around lol.

 

[Odd-job]

I wish I had friends that just had rapid chargers laying around lol.

If shipping weren't so jacked up these days, I would hook you up.

 

[mikeinri]

Just don't send it on a train. I think they stopped jacking the trucks, or the news media got tired of covering that...

Mike

 

[M635_Guy]

I want to get the M12 Surge Impact Driver kit (2551-22), but would like to get it on sale instead of paying the current $179 going rate. Have been looking for a few weeks, have seen the regular 1/4 M12 impact (2553) discounted but not the Surge version. Is it a matter of just being patient, or does a "premium" model like this rarely get marked down? Is there a secret to finding or being alerted to Milwaukee deals? Thanks!

Probably there will be a Memorial Day or Father's day sale. You might get lucky.

 

[RAS61]

The M12 surge kit I just picked up one post above yours was $125 out the door using the buy more save more strategy at Home Depot mentioned in the deals thread. Almost as good as it gets after I missed out the Blaine's Farm and Fleet with free 6.0 deal.

Except I don't want $330 of additional tools to get the 30% off.

Probably there will be a Memorial Day or Father's day sale. You might get lucky.

That's a long time to wait, will need it before then. I guess I'll hold off until needed and if a sale doesn't pop up will just have to pay full retail

I've also seen folks selling new un-opened tools on Facebook and Ebay for a lot less than retail, what's the story there? How do they get all these new tools, are they real or imported fakes? Seems risky

 

[mikeinri]

My assumption is that they're stolen. Never realized it was as widespread until talking to some HD workers, at several different stores, in fairly affluent suburbs, telling me about watching stuff walk right out the door. They used this as the reason for their online inventory not matching what was actually available when you're in the store.

There have been numerous news reports about the problem (including security footage), and it's nationwide. Apparently, pawn shops have "shopping lists" for lower level thieves to fulfill.

I was firmly in denial, even after hearing the news reports, until I started seeing Milwaukee and other power tools getting fences / cages installed on the front of their shelves.

Of course, at least some of those items that you're seeing online are things people bought and never used, were gifts, or maybe they bought them to get a better discount...

Mike

 

[Odd-job]

Except I don't want $330 of additional tools to get the 30% off

You can cancel the other $330 of stuff by splitting the order between online and store pickup. If that doesn't work due to some website snafu you can do store pickup and return the items you don't want on the spot for credit while still retaining the 30% discount.

Milwaukee and other power tools getting fences / cages installed

Noticed that today at my local HD. Very sad. I guess it also mitigates the smash and grab trend, although those folks tend to target Apple and higher end clothing stores.

 

[RAS61]

My assumption is that they're stolen. Never realized it was as widespread until talking to some HD workers, at several different stores, in fairly affluent suburbs, telling me about watching stuff walk right out the door. They used this as the reason for their online inventory not matching what was actually available when you're in the store.

There have been numerous news reports about the problem (including security footage), and it's nationwide. Apparently, pawn shops have "shopping lists" for lower level thieves to fulfill.

I was firmly in denial, even after hearing the news reports, until I started seeing Milwaukee and other power tools getting fences / cages installed on the front of their shelves.

Of course, at least some of those items that you're seeing online are things people bought and never used, were gifts, or maybe they bought them to get a better discount...

Mike

Explains why at HD and Lowes all the display tools are bolted down. Wanted to check out the different impacts for size, weight, feel, you can't even grip the handle since that's where they clamp them down

 

[PelicanPines]

Very nice. I was gung ho on copying this setup until I realized the Optimate is $105. Also looking for something that can desulfate the battery.

Noco Genius...

 

[mikeinri]

Explains why at HD and Lowes all the display tools are bolted down. Wanted to check out the different impacts for size, weight, feel, you can't even grip the handle since that's where they clamp them down

Not too many years ago, I recall being surprised / annoyed at seeing display tools with their power cords cut off, labels stating that they were non-functional display models, etc. Again, I live in constant denial about how many bad people walk amongst us.

Mike