Milwaukee Rotary Hammer 5268-21 Review Powerful Performance for Demanding Jobs

Description

Exceptional Performance with the Milwaukee 1-1/8″ SDS Plus Corded Rotary Hammer Kit (5268-21)

I recently got my hands on the Milwaukee 1-1/8″ SDS Plus Corded Rotary Hammer Kit (5268-21), and I’ve been putting it through its paces during various projects. This power tool, with its robust 8-amp motor delivering up to 1,500 RPM and 5,500 BPM, claims to be a workhorse. After extensive use, I can confidently say it lives up to most of the hype, but there are a few things that deserve attention before you invest.

Design and Durability

The first thing I noticed about this rotary hammer was its compact yet sturdy build. At just 12-1/2 inches long and weighing 7-1/2 pounds, it’s surprisingly manageable for a tool in this category. Don’t let its size fool you, though; the all-metal gear case exudes durability and feels like it can handle a fair amount of abuse on demanding job sites.

The black and red color scheme is classic Milwaukee, and the ergonomic side handle makes gripping it secure and comfortable. It even includes a depth rod, which I found pretty useful for precise drilling. That said, the carrying case is a nice touch, but it feels slightly bulkier than necessary. I’ve had to awkwardly maneuver it around tight spaces in the back of my truck.

Key Benefits

Here’s what stood out during my testing:

• Powerful Impact Energy: With 3.6 ft-lbs of impact energy, drilling into concrete and brick felt effortless. This rotary hammer didn’t flinch even when tackling harder materials.
• Anti-Vibration System: The AVS Anti-Vibration System is a lifesaver for extended use, reducing vibration to just 10.6 m/s². My arms didn’t feel like jelly after prolonged drilling sessions!
• Variable Position Chisel Stop: This feature allows you to adjust the material orientation with ease. It’s especially handy for chiseling tasks at awkward angles.
• Mechanical Clutch: I appreciated how the mechanical clutch protected the motor when the bit got stuck, ensuring the tool didn’t overheat or get damaged.

Performance and Versatility

This tool has an impressive three-mode operation: rotary hammer, hammer only, and rotation only. I tested all three modes, and each performed as advertised. The rotary hammer mode made quick work of drilling holes in concrete for anchor bolts, while the hammer-only mode was a beast at chiseling away old tiles. The rotation-only mode, while adequate for wood and metal, felt slightly underwhelming compared to a traditional drill.

One area where this tool shines is its speed variability. With a range of 0-1,500 RPM and 0-5,500 BPM, it adapts effortlessly to jobs requiring precision or brute force. I tested this on both dense concrete and softer wood, and the results were consistently reliable.

Areas for Improvement

While I’ve been mostly satisfied, a few flaws are worth mentioning:

• Weight Distribution: Although lightweight compared to competitors, the 13.1-pound overall weight (including accessories) can feel unbalanced during overhead tasks.
• Corded Limitation: Being corded means you’ll need a power source nearby, which isn’t always convenient on remote job sites. I found myself wishing for a cordless variant at times.
• No Included Drill Bits: For a premium product, it’s disappointing that drill bits aren’t included in the kit. You’ll need to purchase those separately, which adds to the cost.

Competing Brands

When comparing this rotary hammer to Bosch’s Bulldog Xtreme and DeWalt’s D25263K, a few things stand out. The Milwaukee’s anti-vibration system is better than the Bosch, which can cause more fatigue during prolonged use. However, Bosch’s rotary hammer is lighter, making it slightly easier to maneuver.

DeWalt’s model offers similar impact energy and shares the same three-mode operation, but its build quality felt less robust during testing. On the other hand, DeWalt includes drill bits in their package, which is a thoughtful addition Milwaukee could learn from.

True Value

Considering its durability, power, and features, this rotary hammer offers excellent value for money. While it might feel slightly pricier than some competitors, the 5-year tool warranty adds a layer of reassurance. It’s an investment that pays off, especially for professionals needing a reliable tool for daily use. If your work involves heavy-duty drilling or chiseling, this product delivers on its promises.

Positive Features

• Robust all-metal construction ensures longevity.
• High impact energy tackles tough materials with ease.
• Ergonomic design minimizes fatigue during extended use.

Negative Attributes

• Corded design limits mobility on larger sites.
• Lack of included drill bits adds extra expense.
• Weight distribution could be better for overhead tasks.

This tool is a solid performer with minor shortcomings. If you’re in construction, remodeling, or any field requiring heavy-duty drilling tools, this rotary hammer is definitely worth considering.

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