Milwaukee M18 18V Brushless Impact Driver Kit Review Compact and Powerful

Description

Compact Design and Portability

I’ve used many impact drivers over time, and the Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/4 in. Impact Driver Kit (model 3650-21P) immediately stood out for its compactness and portability. It measures a mere 4.4 inches in length and 2.1 inches in width, making it one of the smallest tools I’ve worked with. Navigating tight corners or working in cramped spaces was significantly easier, and its lightweight build meant I didn’t feel like I was hauling a brick around the job site. The contractor bag included also made transporting the tool and its accessories straightforward and hassle-free.

Performance and Speed

The first thing I noticed during use was how fast and efficient this impact driver is. With a brushless motor delivering up to 1700 in-lbs of torque and 3600 RPM, it made jobs like driving screws into dense wood feel effortless. I tested it on some stubborn, older screws that other drivers struggled with, and this tool powered through like a champ. Milwaukee’s REDLINK Intelligence also caught my attention because it optimizes the tool’s performance, ensuring the M18 REDLITHIUM battery works efficiently without overheating or draining too quickly. This feature really lets the tool maintain its productivity even under continuous use.

Durability

Durability is something I always scrutinize in tools, and this impact driver didn’t disappoint. The all-metal gear case is a feature that gives it a sturdy feel, making me confident it can handle the inevitable drops and rough handling during projects. I lent it to a coworker who tends to be, let’s say, “unintentionally rough” with tools, and it took the abuse without a hitch. The premium components used in its construction are evident, and honestly, they make it a product I’d trust for long-term use.

Battery Life

Battery life is often a pain point with cordless tools, but the 2.0 Ah REDLITHIUM battery included in this kit exceeded my expectations. I was able to complete multiple jobs without needing a recharge, and the M12/M18 multi-volt charger ensures quick charging when necessary. Whether I was working on a big project or tackling small fixes, I didn’t feel the frustration of a dying battery mid-task. This reliability is a big deal for me, especially when working on time-sensitive projects.

Positives

This impact driver offers several winning points that make it a valuable addition to anyone’s toolkit:

• Compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for tight spaces.
• Powerful motor with 1700 in-lbs of torque and 3600 RPM ensures fast and efficient performance.
• Durable all-metal gear case provides reliability and longevity.
• Excellent battery life with a quick-charging system.

Critiques

No tool is without its shortcomings, and there are a few areas where this product could be improved:

• The 2.0 Ah battery is sufficient for most tasks, but for extended jobs, a higher-capacity battery might be necessary.
• While the contractor bag is convenient, it doesn’t offer much in terms of organization for bits and accessories.
• The lack of onboard bit storage is a minor inconvenience.

Competitive Options

When comparing this compact impact driver to others on the market, a few alternatives come to mind. DeWalt’s 20V MAX XR series offers similar power and torque, but its larger size makes it less maneuverable in tight spaces. On the other hand, the Makita XDT131 is another strong contender with comparable performance, yet its battery life isn’t as impressive as Milwaukee’s. What sets this tool apart is its combination of compact design and high performance, which many competitors struggle to balance effectively.

Cost-Effectiveness

For a tool that delivers premium performance and durability, I believe this product offers excellent value for money. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, its robust features and reliability make it worth the investment. Personally, I’ve found that spending a bit more upfront on tools like this pays off in the long run, especially when you consider the time saved on projects and the reduced likelihood of needing replacements or repairs.

Overall, this impact driver brings a lot to the table, combining compactness, power, and durability in a single package. It has its quirks, but for anyone in need of a reliable tool for professional or DIY projects, this one is well worth considering.

Additional information