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Milwaukee Scores a Bulleye

At annual launch event, Milwaukee aims new tools squarely for its target contractors.


The battle for the hearts, minds, and tool color preferences of professional contractors just made a major shift into the red. On June 12, Milwaukee Electric Tool hosted its annual new tool press day with a full slate of product announcements and demonstrations at the company’s headquarters facility in Brookfield, WI. Several dozen journalists and bloggers were given hands-on first looks at a load of new tools, with an emphasis on new cordless products. It was a red-letter day.

Steve Richman, Milwaukee's president, kicked off the event with a few comments about new markets the company is opening in Brazil and Columbia. He then outlined “the three things that make Milwaukee different — out-thinking, out-performing and out-pacing our competition.”

One key to outthinking competitors is Milwaukee’s commitment to understanding both the needs and desires of its users as well as those of its distributors, Richman stated.

Richman defined outpacing competitors as Milwaukee’s process of disruptive innovation, “delivering more innovation, faster than our competitors.” Then he handed over the day to his product managers, who filled it with news of cordless products, accessories, hand tools and apparel.

Product manager Paul Fry took some time to dispel a few myths about lithium-ion technology, notably the idea that all Li-ion batteries are made the same, stressing that Milwaukee is the only major power tool manufacturer that designs and builds its own power packs.

Fry turned the floor over to Tom Simeone and Derek Erickson, who went into detail on some 15 new FUEL system tools -- we will release more details on these as the embargos are lifted.

New 18-Volt FUEL for contractors

A centerpiece of Milwaukee's M18 FUEL cordless line is the model 2653-22 ¼-inch Hex Impact Driver.Milwaukee’s new FUEL line of cordless power tools stand apart from its existing M18 Lineup in one key way: FUEL tools feature Milwaukee’s new POWERSTATE brushless motor. They also incorporate Milwaukee’s two other leading edge technologies; REDLINK PLUS Electronic Intelligence and the REDLITHIUM battery pack.

Launched officially two months ago, one of the centerpiece tools of the line is the model 2653-22 ¼-inch Hex Impact Driver. Part of the fastest growing 18-volt platform in the industry, the new 1/4" Hex Impact Driver features Milwaukee’s exclusive combination of the POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM Battery Pack and REDLINK PLUS Electronic Intelligence to deliver up to 3X longer motor life, up to 50% more runtime, and a proprietary 3-Mode DRIVE CONTROL feature.

“The 3-Mode DRIVE CONTROL feature gives users better control over the power and speed required for specific applications,” said Tom Simeone, senior product manager. “With the touch of a button, they can go from a precise application such as fastening small machine screws to an application that requires maximum performance such as driving lag screws.”

Mode #1 is for precision work (0-850 RPM, 200 in-lbs of torque); Mode # 2 helps prevent damage to fasteners and material (0-2,100 RPM, 700 in-lbs of torque); and Mode #3 delivers maximum performance for the toughest applications (0-2,900 RPM, 1600 in-lbs of torque).

The POWERSTATE motor is completely designed, engineered and built by Milwaukee Tool, providing up to 1600 in-lbs of torque and 0-2900 RPM to make the M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver the most powerful tool in its class. The POWERSTATE motor also reduces noise and cools more rapidly, delivering years of maintenance-free performance.

With Milwaukee durability built into each pack, the REDLITHIUM Battery operates cooler and performs in climates as low as 0°F/-18°C with fade-free power. A battery fuel gauge also displays remaining charge for less down time on the job.

In addition, all M18 FUEL products include the new multi-voltage charger to allow users to charge all M12 and M18 batteries with one charger. The M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver is available now.

M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver (2653-22)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Peak Torque: 1600 in-lbs
  • Max RPM: 0-2900
  • Max IPM: 0-3600
  • Tool Length: 5-1/2”
  • Tool Weight (w/ battery): 3.6 lbs
  • Includes 2653-20 M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver, Belt Clip, (2) M18 High Capacity REDLITHIUM Battery Packs, Multi-Voltage Charger and Carrying Case

M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver (2653-22CT)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Peak Torque: 1600 in-lbs
  • Max RPM: 0-2900
  • Max IPM: 0-3600
  • Tool Length: 5-1/2”
  • Tool Weight (w/ battery): 3.0 lbs
  • Includes 2653-20 M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver, Belt Clip, (2) M18 Compact REDLITHIUM Battery Packs, Multi-Voltage Charger and Carrying Case

M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver (2653-20)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Peak Torque: 1600 in-lbs
  • Max RPM: 0-2900
  • Max IPM: 0-3600
  • Tool Length: 5-1/2”
  • Tool Weight: 2.1 lbs
  • Includes 2653-20 M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver and Belt Clip

All together, Milwaukee is releasing nine new M18 tools and six new M12 tools, with six new impact drivers due yet this year. Currently, Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 lines boast more than 100 tools (including more than 40 in the M12 line), an impressive display indeed.

M18 FUEL Drill Drivers

Milwaukee's M18 FUEL ½” Drill/Driver (2603-20/22), shown here, and M18 FUEL ½” Hammer Drill/Driver (2604-20/22) are strong indicators of things to yet to come.Also released earlier this year, the M18 FUEL ½” Drill/Driver (2603-20/22) and M18 FUEL ½” Hammer Drill/Driver (2604-20/22) are strong indicators of things to yet to come. In addition to the above mentioned FUEL tool attributes, they come with an all-metal ratcheting locking chuck for maximum grip, bit retention and durability, as well as a new contoured soft grip that gives users the ultimate comfort during prolonged use.

The 2603-22 delivers 725 inch-pounds of torque with a High Capacity battery and 650 with a Compact REDLITHIUM pack.

M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver Kit (2603-22)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Torque: 725 in-lbs
  • Speed: 2 Speed
  • RPM: 0-550 / 0-1,850 RPM
  • Chuck Type: 1/2" Metal Single Sleeve - Ratcheting Lock
  • Tool Length: 7.9”
  • Tool Weight (w/ XC battery):4.9 lbs
  • 2603 M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver, (2) M18 High Capacity REDLITHIUM Battery Packs and Multi-Voltage Charger

M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver (2603-22CT)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Torque: 650 in-lbs
  • Speed: 2 Speed
  • RPM: 0-550 / 0-1,850 RPM
  • Chuck Type: 1/2" Metal Single Sleeve - Ratcheting Lock
  • Tool Length: 7.9”
  • Tool Weight (w/ compact battery):4.4 lbs
  • 2603 M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver, (2) M18 Compact REDLITHIUM Battery Packs and Multi-Voltage Charger

M18 FUEL 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver Kit (2604-22)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Torque: 725 in-lbs
  • Speed: 2 Speed
  • RPM: 0-550 / 0-1,850 RPM
  • BPM: 31,450 BPM
  • Chuck Type: 1/2" Metal Single Sleeve - Ratcheting Lock
  • Tool Length: 8.1”
  • Tool Weight (w/ XC battery): 5.0 lbs
  • Includes 2604 M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver, (2) M18 High Capacity REDLITHIUM Battery Packs and Multi-Voltage Charger

M18 FUEL 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver (2604-22CT)

  • Volts: 18V
  • Torque: 650 in-lbs
  • Speed: 2 Speed
  • RPM: 0-550 / 0-1,850 RPM
  • BPM: 31,450 BPM
  • Chuck Type: 1/2" Metal Single Sleeve - Ratcheting Lock
  • Tool Length: 8.1”
  • Tool Weight (w/ compact battery): 4.5 lbs
  • Includes 2604 M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver, (2) M18 Compact REDLITHIUM Battery Packs and Multi-Voltage Charger

Core to the core

One key to Milwaukee’s new product launches, as it has been in the last few years, is that you will not find any miter saws, planers or other woodshop-type tools in the lineup. Milwaukee continues to focus on designated core user groups of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC and MRO contractors (with some application drift into builders and remodelers) with virtually all of its new offerings. Yes, some new products have crossover applications, but Milwaukee’s top targets are clearly bullseyed for all to see. We have to applaud this strategy; it makes solid sense, especially in light of those market segments that have best weathered the recession.

Shane Moll, Milwaukee’s senior vice president of marketing and general manager, Tools, reinforced this focus, stating that for the next three years at least, new product development will continue to focus exclusively on those core contractor groups. He also noted that while corded tools remain the largest segment of the power tool family globally, cordless tools have now taken over the number one slot in the United States market.

M12 system tools

Next, let’s look at a few stars of the M12 lineup. Milwaukee’s new ForceLogic Press Tools, available in M12 and M18 versions, offer a one-handed, in-line design for getting into tight spaces and the highest level of press accuracy and reliability available on the market.

The Milwuakee M18 model 2673-22 ForceLogic Pro Press Tool makes fast, highly-accurate work of pro press pipe connections even in extremely tight spaces.  Utilizing Milwaukee Redlink Electronics, ForceLogic Press Tools monitor the force output to ensure quality connections and provide the user peace of mind by visually indicating both a secure connection and when the tool needs calibration. These new tools only require service every 40,000 crimps. This allows users up to 4X more connections between services, keeping the tool on the jobsite (making money) up to 4X longer than competitive units.

“Utilizing the M12 Copper Tubing Cutter and the M12 ForceLogic Press Tool, a plumber now has the ability to swap out a water heater faster than his competitors can even drain the system for solder connections,” said Corey Dickert, Senoir product manager.

The jaws for the 2673-22 and 2473-22 are designed to work with press fittings provided by Elkhart, Viega, Tyco and Nibco. The 2673-22XL provides more force for heavier press applications and is designed to work with Grinnell Mechanical’s G-Press stainless steel press system.

M12 2473-22 ForceLogic Press Tool

  • Capacity: ½” – 1 ¼” CU
  • Press Force: 5400 lbs
  • Cycle Time: Approx. 5 seconds
  • Tool Weight With Battery: 3.8 lbs
  • Length: 12.6”
  • Width: 2.75”
  • Jaw Sizes: ½”, ¾”, 1", 1 ¼”
  • Launch Date: August 2012
  • Includes 2473-20 M12 ForceLogic Press Tool, (2) RED LITHIUM M12 Batteries, ½” Jaw, ¾” Jaw, 1” Jaw, 30-Minute Charger & Hard Carrying Case

M18 2673-22 ForceLogic Press Tool

  • Capacity: ½” - 4” CU, ½” – 1” SS
  • Press Force: 7200 lbs
  • Cycle Time: Approx. 5 seconds
  • Tool Weight With Battery: 8.0 lbs
  • Length: 16.8”
  • Width: 4.8”
  • Jaw Sizes: ½”, ¾”, 1", 1 ¼”, 1 ½”, 2”
  • Ring Sizes: 2 ½”, 3”, 4”, Ring Jaw
  • Launch Date: August 2012
  • Includes 2673-20 M18 ForceLogic Press Tool, (2) RED LITHIUM M18 batteries, ½” Jaw, ¾” Jaw, 1” Jaw, 1 ¼” Jaw, 1 ½” Jaw, 2” Jaw, Multi-Voltage Charger & Hard Carrying Case

M18 2673-22XL ForceLogic Press Tool

  • Capacity: ½” – 4” CU, ½” – 2” SS
  • Tool Weight With Battery: 8.6 lbs
  • Jaw Sizes: ½”, ¾”, 1"
  • Ring Sizes: 1 ½”, 2”, Ring Jaw 2
  • Launch Date: October 2012; additional specifications available at launch
  • Includes 2673-20XL M18 ForceLogic XL Press Tool, (2) RED LITHIUM M18 Batteries, Multi-Voltage Charger, Hard Carrying Case and Jaws

M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Band Saw

At only 6.75 pounds and 12 inches in length, the new M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Band Saw is the lightest and most compact cordless band saw on the market.At only 6.75 pounds and 12 inches in length, the new M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Band Saw is the lightest and most compact cordless band saw on the market, with less than half the size and weight of deep-cut band saws.

“The M12 Band Saw is not only ideal for one-handed cutting applications because of its size, it is the ONLY band saw on the market with a fully integrated lower guard that covers the blade outside the active cutting area,” says David Lincoln, Product Manager, Cordless for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. “This addresses OSHA guarding requirements to make the tool suitable for one-handed use.”

The saw can cut through 3/4” EMT in only 3 seconds, and will deliver over 150 cuts per charge with the included M12 REDLITHIUM XC High Capacity battery. With a 1-5/8” x 1-5/8” cut capacity and low vibration, the M12 Band Saw delivers clean cuts on the most common small diameter metal cutting applications such as 3/4” EMT, 3/8” threaded rod and 1-5/8” x 1-5/8” Unistrut. Complete with a variable speed trigger and LED light, the new tool is easy to use and provides fast, clean cuts.

M12 Cordless Caulk and Adhesive Gun

Production type caulking and adhesive applications like subflooring work just got immensely easier thanks to Milwaukee’s M12 Cordless Caulk and Adhesive Gun. With 40% less weight than competitive cordless caulk guns, the new tool is the most compact and lightest weight professional battery powered caulk gun on the market.

This new tool is optimized for use with common construction sealants and adhesives. It features Constant Flow Technology for steady dispensing and a 360-degree rotating collar design for easy use around turns. A variable speed trigger and six-setting maximum speed dial also optimize the tool’s 0-28 IPM (inches per minute) flow rate. With 400 pounds of pushing force, the M12 Cordless Caulk and Adhesive gun easily dispenses common construction sealants and hot-applied glazing urethanes.

In addition, a Reversing Anti-Drip feature automatically backs up the plunger to relieve pressure from the tube. It will be sold as a 10-ounce bare tool and in kits with the options of 10-ounce, sausage and quart style material containers.

2441-21 M12 Cordless Caulk and Adhesive Gun Kit

  • Up to 400 lbs of Force
  • Variable Speed Trigger and Max Speed Dial
  • 0-28 IPM Dispensing Rate
  • For Use with 10oz Cartridge Material
  • Includes 2441-20 M12 10oz Caulk and Adhesive Gun, (1) M12 RED LITHIUM Battery Pack, and 30 Min Charger

2441-20 M12 Cordless 10oz Caulk and Adhesive Gun Bare Tool

  • Up to 400 lbs of Force
  • Variable Speed Trigger and Max Speed Dial
  • 0-28 IPM Dispensing Rate
  • For Use with 10oz Cartridge Material
  • Includes 2441-20 M12 10oz Caulk and Adhesive Gun

2442-21 M12 Cordless 20oz Sausage Style Caulk and Adhesive Gun Kit

  • Up to 400 lbs of Force
  • Variable Speed Trigger and Max Speed Dial
  • 0-28 IPM Dispensing Rate
  • For Use with 20oz Sausage Pack Material
  • Includes 2442-20 M12 20oz Sausage Style Caulk and Adhesive Gun, (1) M12 RED LITHIUM Battery Pack, and 30 Min Charger

2444-21 M12 Cordless Quart Caulk and Adhesive Gun Kit

  • Up to 400 lbs of Force
  • Variable Speed Trigger and Max Speed Dial
  • 0-28 IPM Dispensing Rate
  • For Use with Quart Pack Material
  • Includes 2444-20 M12 Quart Caulk and Adhesive Gun, (1) M12 RED LITHIUM Battery Pack, and 30 Min Charger

Available Accessories:

  • 48-08-0900 M12 10oz Carriage Conversion Kit
  • 48-08-0905 M12 20oz (600ml) Aluminum Sausage Barrel Conversion Kit
  • 48-08-0910 M12 Quart Caulk and Adhesive Conversion Kit
  • 48-08-1091 20 oz (600ml) Aluminum Sausage Barrel Kit
  • 48-08-1096 20 oz (600ml) Clear Sausage Barrel Kit
  • 31-12-0700 Black Nozzle

Milwaukee’s compact new M12 600 MCM Cable Cutter generates a massive 5,000 pounds of force for cutting large-diameter cable even in tight spaces.A small cutter for big cable

Lastly, in the “How did they do that?” category, Milwaukee’s compact new M12 600 MCM Cable Cutter generates a massive 5,000 pounds of force for cutting large-diameter cable even in tight spaces.

With a 2-speed gear case, the M12 600 MCM Cable Cutter can handle up to 600 MCM copper and 750 MCM aluminum, but with a flip of a switch can slice quickly through more frequent wires that are approximately 4/0 and lower. The M12 600 MCM Cable Cutter will also include the new Milwaukee 48-44-0410 Cable Cutter Blade.

M12 2472-21XC Cable Cutter

  • Cut Capacity: 600 MCM Copper, 750 MC Aluminum, 1-3/16 Communication Cable
  • Jaw Opening: 1 - 7/16”
  • Tool Weight With Battery: 6.90 lbs.
  • Length:10 ½”
  • Jaw Height: 4”
  • 2 Speed: Yes
  • LED Light: Yes
  • Includes 2472-20 M12 Cable Cutter, (1) RED LITHIUM M12 XC Battery, 30-Minute Charger & Hard Carrying Case

M12 2472-20 Cable Cutter

  • Cut Capacity: 600 MCM Copper, 750 MCM Aluminum, 1-3/16 Communication Cable
  • Jaw Opening: 1 - 7/16”
  • Tool Weight: 6.00 lbs.
  • Length:10 ½”
  • Jaw Height: 4”
  • 2 Speed: Yes
  • LED Light: Yes
  • Includes 2472-20 M12 Cable Cutter

Jackets: Is it getting warm in here?

Milwaukee managers admit they were surprised by the success of the M12 platform heated jacket line, but they are wasting no time in expanding it now with new warming features, accessories and jacket colors. Coming this fall, Milwaukee will offer the M12 Heated Jacket in Red (2340 & 2341), Realtree AP Camouflage (2342 & 2343) and Black (2344 & 2345) in sizes S- 3XL.

Perhaps the most obvious choice for many outdoor contractors — and certainly for road workers — the jacket will also be offered in a High Visibility (ANSI Class 3) version (the model 2346 Bare Jacket and model 2347 Jacket Kit) in sizes M-4X. It will also be available in Canadian (friendlier) and European (snootier) versions.

The jackets have a new fleece inner liner and durable heating elements in not only the chest and upper back, but now in lower pockets that are controlled independently of the core heating elements to provide extra warmth to the hands. Each durable heating element is composed of sewn in carbon fiber heating zones that can be set to high, medium, or low with a simple touch of a button on the lapel.

In addition, the M12™ High Visibility Heated Jacket features extra storage pockets on the chest and left arm to provide storage for the user’s cell phone, pens, badges, etc. All M12 Heated Jackets are also water and wind resistant to provide comfort and durability in harsh environments.

An upgraded battery holder now includes a battery fuel gauge and a powered USB port for charging portable electronic devices. The M12 REDLITHIUM battery delivers up to six hours of continuous heat on a single battery charge.

And because you can never be plugged in enough, Milwaukee will also introduce the Heated Jacket 12v DC Plug Adapter (49-24-2301) this fall, too. Compatible with all Milwaukee Heated Jackets, the adapter utilizes a 7-foot coil cord to connect to “cigarette lighter” style outlets on machinery or in vehicles.

Also coming is the M18 Power Source (49-24-2371). Compatible with both M18 XC (High Capacity) and Compact battery packs, this accessory will provide up to 18 hours of run-time on a single charge. Equipped with a Powered USB Port that will charge portable electronic devices, the M18 Power Source will fit into any Milwaukee Heated Jacket with the expanded battery pocket (Season II and Season III jackets).

Finally, the jackets will also allow private-label branding to be printed on the back.

Testing, testing

Test and measurement tools have become a serious category for Milwaukee, in fitting with their focus on electrical and maintenance contractors. Announced last year, the truly nifty , the Milwaukee Fluorescent Lighting Tester is now online and it promises to pay for itself within about 15 minutes — or about three trips up a stepladder — on the job.

Electricians and MRO techs can use it to test fluorescent gas, check pin connections and test ballasts without having to climb a ladder in many instances, dramatically cutting troubleshooting time and effort. Complete with a 2-1/2 foot, fully retractable antenna, users can easily reach all lighting fixtures.

And since they will only change the lamps and ballasts that need replacing, users will save invaluable time and money by adding this easy-to-use tool to their arsenal.

Additional features include a removable antenna adaptor to increase “flicker” response, audible and visual indicators for easy readings, a built in LED work light to illuminate dark work spaces, and a rugged over-mold grip for increased durability.

2210-20 Fluorescent Lighting Tester

  • Tests all T5, T8, T12 fluorescent lamps
  • Optimized for T8 electronic ballasts
  • Checks pin connections on all T5, T8, T12 lamps
  • Includes 2210-20 Fluorescent Lighting Tester, Adapter, 4 AA Batteries, Manual and Carrying Case

Corded Power Tools

Released earlier this year, the 5317-21 1-9/16” SDS Max Rotary Hammer and 5316-21 1-9/16” Spline Rotary Hammer have a 10.5-amp motor and 5.5 foot-pounds of impact energy for solid performance. The new 1-9/16” Rotary Hammers feature 2-mode operation (rotary hammer/hammer only) for maximum versatility and a mechanical clutch to help protect the tool when the bit binds. They also feature Constant Power Technology (CPT) to deliver consistent performance during tough applications.

5317-21 1-9/16” SDS Max Rotary Hammer

  • 10.5 Amps, 5.5 ft-lbs Impact Energy, 450 RPM, 3,000 BPM, 1-9/16” Max Capacity, 15.0 lbs
  • Includes 5317-20 1-9/16” SDS Max Rotary Hammer, Side Handle and Carrying Case

5316-21 1-9/16” Spline Rotary Hammer

  • 10.5 Amps, 5.5 ft-lbs Impact Energy, 450 RPM, 3,000 BPM, 1-9/16” Max Capacity, 15.0 lbs
  • Includes 5316-20 1-9/16” Spline Rotary Hammer, Side Handle and Carrying Case

More to come

Naturally, Milwaukee’s product managers could not resist giving the press sneak peaks of a number of new products on the horizon, but which we are not allowed to mention as of yet. So we will button our lips and wait until the right time to show you what is on the way.

For more information on the full line of Milwaukee power tools and accessories, please call 1-800-SAWDUST or visit www.milwaukeetool.com.

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