Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3670-20 Braking Grinder Review Top Cordless Performance Tool

Description

Introduction to the MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL Braking Grinder

I recently got my hands on the MILWAUKEE – M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-1/2 in./6 in. Braking Grinder with Paddle Switch (Tool-Only) – 3670-20, and it’s been an eye-opener. This cordless grinder comes packed with features that promise to deliver 13A corded power in a battery-powered format, and I was eager to put it to the test. Whether you’re tackling heavy-duty grinding or precise cutting, this tool claims to handle it all. But does it live up to the hype? Let me share my experience.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this grinder immediately caught my attention. Built with a combination of plastic and metal, it feels robust yet not overly heavy. Weighing 6.45 pounds, it’s light enough to maneuver comfortably while still being sturdy. The angled style and red finish give it a professional and sleek look. What really stood out to me, though, was how the paddle switch was perfectly placed for ergonomic use.

I appreciated the compactness of its 16.77 x 7.44 x 4.09-inch dimensions, making it easy to store and transport. During use, the tool felt balanced in my hand, even when tackling tougher materials like metal. The build quality is clearly designed for durability, and it doesn’t feel flimsy in any way.

Performance and Brushless Motor

Performance-wise, I can’t stress enough how powerful this grinder is. With a brushless motor that delivers up to 9,000 RPM, cutting and grinding tasks became ridiculously efficient. I tested it on metal sheets, concrete edges, and even some wooden surfaces, and it performed flawlessly every time.

One of the most useful features is the electronic clutch for kickback protection, which saved me from a few potential mishaps, especially when working with harder surfaces. Additionally, the overload protection is a game-changer, ensuring the motor doesn’t overheat during prolonged use. It feels like Milwaukee really thought about safety and longevity here.

Key Benefits

• Cordless Convenience: The freedom to work anywhere without being tethered to an outlet is a huge plus.
• Fast Braking System: The brake stops the abrasive disc in under two seconds, making transitions between tasks quicker and safer.
• Compatibility: Works seamlessly with other tools in the Milwaukee M18 lineup, which I already own.
• Powerful Performance: Matches the strength of corded grinders with the portability of a cordless one.
• Safety Features: Kickback protection and overload safeguards enhance user confidence.

Areas for Improvement

Not everything about this grinder is perfect, though. There are a few shortcomings that stood out during my time using it.

• Battery Not Included: It’s frustrating that this tool doesn’t come with a battery or charger, especially given its price range.
• Noise Levels: While not unbearable, the grinder is louder than some other models I’ve used.
• Weight with Battery: Adding a fully charged XC8.0 battery pack makes the grinder a bit heavy for extended use.

Battery Life and Compatibility

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, and I was pleased with the XC8.0 battery pack’s compatibility. Using this pack, I managed to squeeze out a solid runtime, cutting through about 135 pieces of material on a single charge. That’s impressive and aligns with Milwaukee’s claims. However, if you don’t already own a compatible battery, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing one.

The HD12.0 battery option is also worth considering for even longer runtime, but its size and weight might not be ideal for everyone. The versatility in battery choices makes this grinder adaptable to different workloads.

Competitive Options

To get a better sense of how this product stacks up, I compared it to a couple of other cordless grinders, including the DeWalt 20V MAX XR Grinder and the Makita XAG04Z.

• DeWalt 20V MAX XR Grinder: While DeWalt offers a similar level of portability and power, its braking system isn’t as quick as Milwaukee’s. However, DeWalt includes a battery and charger in most bundles, which is more user-friendly.
• Makita XAG04Z: Makita’s grinder is slightly quieter and lighter, but it doesn’t deliver the same cutting speed or runtime as Milwaukee’s option. The 9,000 RPM on this tool is a clear advantage.

The MILWAUKEE M18 Grinder excels in safety features and runtime, but it slightly lags in pricing and bundled accessories compared to its competitors.

Price Performance

Discussing the price to quality ratio, I would say this grinder is worth every bit of its cost for professionals or serious DIYers. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the high performance, durability, and safety features more than justify the investment. For someone who already owns Milwaukee M18 batteries, it’s a no-brainer. If you’re starting from scratch, though, the additional cost of batteries and a charger might feel steep.

Final Thoughts

Using the MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL Braking Grinder has been an overall excellent experience. Its combination of power, portability, and safety features makes it a standout option for both professionals and hobbyists. While there are a few areas for improvement, they don’t overshadow the tool’s impressive capabilities. Whether you’re cutting through metal, grinding down surfaces, or simply looking for a reliable cordless grinder, this tool delivers.

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