Milwaukee M18 Fuel Rotary Hammer 2718-22HD review the ultimate cordless power tool

Description

Power and Performance: A Heavy-Duty Beast

I’ve had my hands on quite a few rotary hammers in my time, but the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-3/4 in. SDS Max Rotary Hammer with One-Key blew me away with its sheer power. This tool delivers an impressive 8.1 ft-lbs of impact energy, making it a true workhorse for demanding tasks. Whether I was chipping through concrete or drilling into masonry, the 380 RPM and 2,900 BPM ensured smooth, efficient operation. I couldn’t help but notice how it rivaled corded models in terms of strength—something you don’t often see in cordless tools.

The 15-amp equivalent power is no joke, and I tested this on some of the toughest materials. Even with prolonged use, the motor didn’t falter, maintaining a consistent performance. I also appreciated the 18-volt battery system, which offered ample juice to get through larger projects without frequent recharges. However, I did find the weight of the tool—43.7 pounds—to be a bit taxing for overhead tasks, but that’s a trade-off for the durability and performance it brings to the table.

Design and Build: Rugged Yet Functional

The design of this rotary hammer screams durability. Its housing is constructed from glass-filled nylon, which not only gives it a robust feel but also helps it withstand drops and rough handling on the job site. The red and grey color scheme is classic Milwaukee, and it’s easy to spot among other tools.

What stood out to me was how balanced the tool felt in my hands despite its hefty size. The ergonomic grip reduced fatigue during prolonged use, and the placement of controls was intuitive. I also liked the 1.75-inch maximum chuck size, which allowed me to tackle a variety of bit sizes without needing additional tools. That said, the overall size—21.02″ L x 6.4″ W x 16.4″ H—means you’ll need a decent amount of storage space when it’s not in use.

Key Benefits

• Cordless convenience with the power of a corded rotary hammer.
• Delivers 8.1 ft-lbs of impact energy for tackling heavy-duty jobs.
• One-Key technology for personalized settings and tool tracking.
• Durable glass-filled nylon construction for job site resilience.
• Works seamlessly with two 12.0 Ah lithium-ion batteries, included in the kit.

Areas for Improvement

• The 43.7-pound weight can make extended use physically demanding.
• It’s a single-speed tool with 380 RPM, which might feel limiting for those used to multi-speed drills.
• The price point is on the higher side compared to some competitors.

Battery Life and Charging: Efficient Yet Demanding

The inclusion of two 12.0 Ah batteries was a lifesaver for me. These batteries provided enough runtime to get through a day of moderate to heavy use. However, charging them did take some time, which could be a minor inconvenience if you don’t have spares on hand. The tool’s power source being battery-powered enhances its portability, but it’s worth noting that the lithium-ion batteries add to the tool’s overall weight.

That said, the One-Key technology allowed me to monitor battery performance and plan my tasks better. It’s a small but impactful feature that ensures you’re never caught off guard in the middle of a job.

Safety Features: Thoughtfully Designed

Safety is a big deal for me, and this tool didn’t disappoint. The built-in clutch mechanism prevented the tool from jerking uncontrollably if the bit got stuck, which is a common issue with rotary hammers. The One-Key system also adds a layer of security by letting you lock the tool or track it if it’s misplaced—a feature I think many contractors and professionals will find invaluable.

Competing Products

When comparing this rotary hammer to others in its class, such as the DeWalt DCH481X2 or the Bosch GBH18V-26DK15, a few key differences stand out. The Milwaukee model delivers unmatched impact energy at 8.1 ft-lbs, while the DeWalt offers 6.1 ft-lbs and Bosch provides 5.8 ft-lbs. This makes the Milwaukee a better choice for heavy-duty applications.

However, the Milwaukee is bulkier and heavier than its competitors, which could be a deal-breaker for those prioritizing portability. The DeWalt, for instance, is lighter at around 27 pounds, making it more user-friendly for extended use. On the tech front, Milwaukee’s One-Key system outshines others by offering superior customization and tracking features, whereas competitors stick to more basic functionalities.

True Value

For anyone considering investing in a professional-grade rotary hammer, this tool offers significant bang for the buck. While it’s priced higher than some competitors, the combination of cordless power, superior impact energy, and advanced One-Key technology justifies the cost. It’s an excellent choice for contractors, masons, and anyone tackling demanding construction or demolition tasks.

In my experience, the Milwaukee model is worth every penny for its reliability and performance. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes a lightweight design or multi-speed functionality, you might want to explore other options.

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