Customer Reviews

Milwaukee 0612-22 14.4-Volt Ni-Cad 1/2-Inch Cordless Driver/Drill Kit

5 star:		(21)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

After getting the Milwaukee the other day I shopped all the other 14V cordless drills at a couple stores (something I actually should have done before just buying one over the internet sight unseen, but everything turned out great). I wasn't too worried about getting a bad product since Milwaukee is a very quality brand when it comes to power tools. I also wanted a 14V drill for its portability over the 18V (less weight).

I used to always consider DeWalt first since I have a fairly good selection of corded DeWalt products, but after reading some negative feedback on their 14V drill I opted to give the Milwaukee a shot.

One thing I noticed upon first inspection is the battery can be attached running in either direction, a feature that is not available on any other major brand drill that I could find. Also included in this kit is a belt clip that is just plain genious, the quick release mechinism should be copied by a few cel phone manufacturers it is so good. Every feature on the drill gives me the impression that Milwaukee listened to the feedback from a lot of consumers that knew what they were talking about: 20 position variable clutch on the keyless chuck with an additional low and high torque setting, 2 quick storage bit slots on the back, quick release belt clip, reversable battery.

After owning lots of the "Yellow" tools, I think I've been converted to Milwaukee. Plus red is much easier to keep clean than yellow! This drill kit is superb and comes with everything you need (minus bits) to get started: Drill, 2 batteries, charger, belt clip, philips bit.

I've used many cordless drills over the years, but none compare to this jewel from Milwaukee. This has got to be the most incredible cordless drill on the market.....easily outperforms many 18V drills including DeWalt (quickly becoming a "consumer" line of tools) and Makita. The motor is strong and full of torque, chuck is easy to use in changing out bits. The selectable load range is a nice feature. The battery will connect from the front or rear of the grip to accomodate the space on your job. The carry case is handy and helps protect the drill in the truck or during transport. Batteries charge quickly with the included charger. Don't spend the extra money for an 18V drill...you don't need to with this 14.4V gem. I can't say enough about the superb performance of this cordless drill. I don't loan it out, because I'm afraid I won't get it back!!

I don't know who cordless tool manufacturers are talking to that would possess them to continue to make bulky, heavy 18v and even 28v drills. I just purchased this compact 14.4v drill after doing only a few dumb-bell curls in a tool store aisle with several of its competitors. You see, I really don't care about torque ratings or power when I purchase cordless drills. I'm a professional remodeler specializing in finish work, and I use these things all day long. What I care about is the weight, the size, and the gripping power of the keyless chuck. Battery life ratings, as far as I can tell from my experience, is a bunch of meaningless marketing jargon. Batteries for cordless tools will always be cursed because they happen to die when you need them most...that is, when ever you're using them. With that said, so far, this drill has been outstanding in every way at the job site. It's got plenty of torque, it's relatively light compared to 18v models, and its chuck seems to have plenty of grip. What I love most is that the battery swivels, so-to-speak, to make it a little easier to get into tight spots. It's already compact in size compared to other models which is a significant plus. Most builders and remodelers I know tend to prize weight over torque as well. If you ever need the kind of torque to drill through a foundation, steel beam, or into a concrete floor, do yourself a favor and invest in a heavy duty, plug-in hammer drill.

This drill is wonderful for a 14.4V. Well designed and functions as well as every Milwaukee tool I own. Five year warranty is very nice as well. All my tools are Milwaukee and I'll continue to keep it that way.

Nothing but oustanding. With out a doubt the best 14.4 drill I have used. The power is unreal. Milwaukee really knows how to build quality tools.

I can't say enough good things about this drill - it really is above and beyond everything I've expereinced (Mikita, Bosch, Dewalt, PC, etc.) and is a significant improvement on their previous design. I was sold on a Bosch (also my previous drill) and was tempted by the Mikita, then I saw the Miwaukee and was saved. You will not regret this purchase for a second.

Everything about this drill screams performance and ease of use: the ballance is perfect plus the battery can be turned around; the one handed chuck is amazing - no more slipping bits when drilling through steel; the charger is very fast; the clutch, speed and reverse switches are very positive; the low speed (0-400 rpm) is ideal for driving screws, yet the high speed (0-2,000 rpm) setting really screams; the belt clip is very unique and the case even has a locking compartment for keeping bits secure; the case has real steel clasps and the handle is made up of both case halves so you can't dump the contents if you pick it up and it's not locked. I also love that the grade of plastic on the drill is super durable and doesn't show scuffs. The little rubber inserts keep it from sliding on inclined surfaces.

I've recently been working on boats in addition to the usuall house stuff and have had to drive many #14 x 2" wood screws into kiln dried white oak. The wood so tough that I had to over ride the clutch by switching to "drill" yet there is no shortage of torque to do the job - you just have to be careful that it doesn't snap your wrist off. ;-)

Milwaukee has truly created a monster.

This is by far the best 14.4v drill on the market. It is quite heavy duty, compared to any other in it's class. The power is impressive. I also own a Hitachi 18v, Bosch Brute 18v, Porter Cable 19v and a 15.6 Panasonic. The new Milwaukee is my new favorite. Highly reccommend.

Everyone should know that I knew basically nothing about drills, so if you're buying your first drill let me tell you: buy this one. I decided to purchase this one based on every single other person giving it 5 stars, and I am not disappointed. I've used the comparable DeWalt quite a bit, but I do prefer this one. The fact that you can reverse the battery is sweet. Excellent balance. Nice case. Plenty of power. Only comes with one screw driver bit, (Which might be obvious to some, but I was eager to put holes in things right out of the box. ... Note: actually you should charge the battery before use.) Good manual. Red. Easy to understand and use. If you're looking for a first drill this will definitely satisfy.

I wrote this several months ago: "This was a great drill as long as the batteries could be recharged. The first battery went out after one year, the second, after two years. Moderate household use, and I followed the manual's recharging instructions. A new 14.4v battery from Amazon costs $59. I have other cordless power tools, including another Milwaukee, and the batteries have been able to be recharged indefinitely. Something is wrong with the batteries that come with this tool." I gave the drill one-star.

Since writing that review in July, 2007, I contacted Milwaukee's tech service online, and the problem with one battery was corrected; I was sent a newer battery that seems to be working fine. I also bought another new-type battery from Amazon ($49). The drill has always worked well, with good power, weight, and strength. I change my review to 4 stars because Milwaukee has proved to be a conscientious company that responds to its customers complaints. Purchasers should read the "recharging batteries" instructions very carefully.

I was wavering between this drill and the Dewalt 14.4 XRT. I chose this one because of the weight, the Dewalt was almost a full pound heavier!! That is a big difference when you are hanging drywall on the ceiling (which was my current project). Sofar it is performing perfectly. I love the fact that you can reverse the battery and the belt clip is great. The case is a little larger and cumbersome than I expected but no huge deal otherwise I am completely satisfied.