Over the past two months, Milwaukee Electric Toolhas released several new M18™ Lithium-ion tools to replace a number of previous successful models. The new tools feature advanced electronics through Milwaukee’s REDLINK™ INTELLIGENCE. It provides more sophisticated overload protection in abusive situations, plus improved temperature management to help maximize the life of the tool. There are other model-specific improvements as well.
In October, Milwaukee launched the M18 1/2-in. Compact Drill/Driver (model 2606-22CT). It’s the only tool in its class, according to Milwaukee, that features an all-metal gear case and all-metal ratcheting chuck for impact resistance and maximum durability. The tool produces 500 in.-lbs. of peak torque and features two-speed ranges of 0 to 400 and 0 to 1,800 rpm. It weighs 3.8 lbs. with battery. The 2606-22CT replaces Milwaukee’s M18 model 2601-22 which, the company reports, is the most successful cordless drill in Milwaukee’s history.The new model 2606-22CT sells as a kit with two RED LITHIUM™ batteries, charger and carrying case for $179. Or, you can buy it as a bare tool (model 2606-20) and use it with M18 batteries you already own for $99.
New in November were two new 1/4-in. M18 Hex Impact Drivers: the 2657-22CT Two-Speed and 2656-20 Compact models. Both produce up to 1,500 in.-lbs. of fastening torque and feature a speed range of 0 to 2,750 rpm with up to 3,450 impacts per minute. They also share a 1/4-in. hex quick change chuck, measure 5-1/2-in. in overall length and weigh in at 3.1 lbs. with a compact battery installed. What sets them apart is that the 2657-22CT is two-speed: it has a second, lower fastening torque range of 0 to 600 in.-lbs., because it includes Milwaukee’s proprietary two-mode DRIVE CONTROL™ system. The combination enables users to select the better speed and control “mode” for their intended application, to help expand fastening versatility. The two-speed 2657-22CT tool comes in kit form with two RED LITHIUM batteries and carrying case for $179 or as a bare option (model 2657-20) for $99. Model 2656-20, without two-speed DRIVE CONTROL, sells for $99 as the bare tool, only.
Milwaukee reports that these three new M18 tools are the most compact tools in their respective classes, and they have best-in-class power to weight ratios, delivering more power under load, more output torque and increased speed for faster drilling and driving.
