TekPicks

Over the last few months, Milwaukee has introduced a ton of new tools to its M12 Lith-Ion lines establishing itself as the defacto leader in the segment. Highlights include the M-Spector, a cordless camera kit; a 3/8″ Right Angle Driver; the Sub Scanner Detection Tool (location and depth finder that works in concrete, gypsum, PVC and even marble); a PVC Shear Kit and a weather proof radio as well upgrades to their drill/impact drivers. Prices are averaging about $150 per piece on the internet with 2 batteries or less then $100 for a bare tool configuration. We can’t wait to see what the company has in store for us next!

Source: Milwaukee M12 Tools

For the last several years, Milwaukee has produced my favorite bit sets which now includes the new Shockwave line. Shockwave bits are specifically designed to handle high stress and torque applications where an impact driver is needed. By taking the standard drill bit and juicing it up with custom engineered steel that is heat treated and then compression forge, Milwaukee has improved fit, flexibility and shock resistance which means we get a safer more durable bit. Pretty nice.

Link: Milwaukee 48-32-4401 Shockwave Driver Bit Set, 29-Piece

My love of multi-tasking tools is well documented, with the reciprocating saw right at the top of the list. Several months ago, I featured the Milwaukee Heavy Duty Sawzall as TekPicks choice for an electric saw. Not to say that I can influence the choices of the Popular Mechanics editors, but in the September issue, they agree with my choice. From price to power the saw impressed testers, leaving no complaints. Highlights include a spring loaded chuck that makes blade changes a snap. If you are in the market for a new saw, this is the guy to get.

Link: Milwaukee 6538-21 15.0 Amp Super Sawzall Recip Saw

Source: Popular Mechanics

We are big fans of the relatively new lines of 12v “micro” power tools out there by both Bosch and Milwaukee. Not only are they incredibly versatile and powerful considering their small size but the choice of tools is also expanding darn near every day. One of the latest entries into the genre is the Milwaukee M12 Power Port.

Its a dead simple (and cheap) solution to a pesky problem, the dead cellphone battery. The Power Port can charge 2 devices simultaneously via with a DC car charger or a USB cable. Plus a single Milwaukee 12v battery can power up to 5 small devices like cellphones, iPods, etc on a single charge.

Link: Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Power Port

Milwaukee has just released 2 new tools for their M18 Lithium Ion line up. First is the Cut Off Grinder. Improvements include Overload Protection which prevents damage to the tool and battery in abusive situations; Debris Baffles – L-shape vents keep debris from entering the tool and damaging internal components; Paddle Switch Design – the only cordless cut-off /grinder in the market with a paddle switch design and up to 35% faster cutting speed. Up to 50% more cuts on a single charge.

Grab It: Milwaukee Elec. Tool 268022 M18 18V Lithium Ion cut Off Grinder

The company is also launching an M18 Jigsaw. The specs on this model include Milwaukee’s proprietary Quik-Lok blade clamp allows you to quickly and easily change the blade without the need of a key; a tool free shoe bevel incorporates positive stops that allow for quick and accurate shoe adjustment; 5-Position orbital cutting feature variable speed trigger allows for optimal control while cutting a variety of materials and a non-marring shoe helps protect your work surfaces from damage.

Both tools come with a charger and 2 batteries so the price is right but if you don’t need the extra power packs tool only configurations are available as well.

Grab It: Milwaukee 2645-22 M18 Jig Saw Kit

Not that we would ever consider our Sawzall a uni-tasker, but there are definitely some chores that are best left to other tools. Until now, one of the chores was miter cuts. The Mighty-Miter is a slick attachments that replaces the original shoe with an adjustable vise that secures the material to be cut with a quick clamping system.

You can cut just about anything from 3/16″ to 2″ wide. Vise & clamping assembly swings up towards the reciprocating blade which cuts your material perfectly square. Need to use the saw for a more “standard” job? Just pop off the Mighty-Miter and replace it with the saw’s original shoe.

Available for Milwaukee, Bosch and Dewalt saws. [via]

Grab It: MM-175BH MIGHTY-MITER for Bosch RS10, RS15, & RS20

Set to be released November 1, the Hackzall is a versatile power hand saw that will be added to Milwaukee’s M12 ultra compact line-up. The crew at Tool Snob has posted a full review well worth checking out.  You can pick up the Hackzall by itself for $179.00 or as part of the 2 combos.  For 249.00 it is paired with the popular M12 Drill Driver and for 349.00 you get both the those plus a Work Light and Pipe Cutter.  Expect the combos to go quick since they are a nice saving over the individually priced tools so get your pre-order in now.

Grab It: Milwaukee 2490-24 12-Volt Compact Drill, Hackzall Saw, Pipe Cutter, and Worklight Combo Kit

The saying goes that cleanliness is next to godliness but we think a good pair of work gloves might be the better bet, especially around the shop or yard. The Milwaukee Contractor gloves are among our favorite. The Clarino palm with exclusive Suregrip synthetic patches and padded knuckle panel are extremely durability and the neoprene cuff with with wrist closure makes securing them easy. The breathable spandex is great touch to keep the sweat down along witherry cloth thumb panel. Plus they are machine washable.

Grab It: Milwaukee 49-17-0132 Contractor Work Gloves Large

We just added this handy bit set to our toolbox and we think you should too. What sets this kit apart from the the crowd is its compatibility with the ultra-compact line of power tools that has become so popular. Most of the those tools use a hex chuck making fitting standard bits a little tricky. This Quick-Lok set is compatible with all 3/8- and 1/2-inch drill chucks and carry’s Milwaukee’s lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. What’s not to like?

Grab It: Milwaukee 48-32-1500 Quik-Lok 38 Piece Hex Shank Drilling and Driving Bit Set

Even the new ultra-compact line of drills and drivers have size limitations and some job simply require a right angle drill. The problem we had was our travel kit didn’t have room from multiple power tools. We needed a multi-tasker. This 1/4 -inch hex RAD attachment by Milwaukee was the solution. In fact, we like it a bit better than a stand alone unit for light duty jobs because its so small, giving us access to darn near anywhere. Specs include all-metal housing, steel gears and ball bearing construction, the ability to handle up to 235 pounds of torque plus the standard Milwaukee 5 year warranty.

Grab It: Milwaukee 49-22-8510 Right Angle Drill Attachment Kit