Just my two cents. brushless m18 Your wrong there, li-ion can deliver more power, its just a matter of the discharge rate of the cells. but I also am picking up the fuel screwdriver so the added weight shouldn't be an issue as I can just use the screwdriver where needed. I was also thinking of opting out of the drill but it might be useful and with the free bare tool and 4.0 battery think it might be worth it. Old-style steel cases offered both protection and extra some extra storage space but added to the cost of the package. None of those numbers are bad, it just means youll see a little slower drilling and driving speed with smaller bits and fasteners. Turn it one more click to get to the hammer mode setting. For me it was weight and size.
Required fields are marked *. 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 14 product ratings. Plus, she's a hell of a cook! Get one. you will not regret it.Read full review. Just waiting for in-store availability and Ill buy. M18 Sawzalls 2620, 2621, and 2720 dont fit in each others case. This version sacrifices a little speed for the additional muscle, though. Off the clock, his faith and love for his family are his top priorities, and you'll typically find him in the kitchen, on his bike (he's an Ironman), or taking folks out for a day of fishing on Tampa Bay. The original Milwaukee M12 Fuel hammer drill was an excellent tool, so much so that its second-generation update was primarily about shrinking the size. amzn_assoc_linkid = "690d3822ba26ba35be418a9852db408f"; On the clock, Kenny dives deep to discover the practical limits and comparative differences for all kinds of tools. One of the big deals about this update is a big increase in torque. Hammer drills are often a little bit longer than drill/drivers. Pasted as rich text. NSFW content will get you banned. https://www.boschtools.com/us/en/boschtools-ocs/cordless-drills-26618-01-34705-p/.
I did an experiment on the original (gen1) m12 impact vs a replacement set I just bought(still gen 1). Nice to sew they improved these. I have the DCD985 hammer drill now used it on occasionbut I was curious willthe M12 Hammer be useful or not work the extra money (think it's only like $10-$20 more)? About 5-10% of the time an impact would be nice. I love it. You might be able to pick up a blow mold hard case on eBay or craigslist. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Dual Battery Leaf Blower is the response and were diving deeper to see if its been [], Metabo HPT MultiVolt Triple Hammer Impact Driver Enters Second Generation Out of dozens of the cordless impact drivers weve tested, the Metabo HPT MultiVolt 36V Triple Hammer Impact Driver is one of the most unique with its 3-hammer design. Apparently Bosch has made an 18V switchable impact for years. The hammer drill is a bit hefty for a handy little drill but when paired with a nice battery (i.e. Those things scare the hell out of the little ones. I Wish! The differences are in the drills sizes and in some of their components. Pricing: $129 for the bare tool, $179 for the kit, $229 for the compact kit with impact driver. The trigger control is delicate enough to not strip a brass screw head while the torque is enough to spin a 5" hole saw through 3/4" solid oak floor planking glued down to 3/4" plywood without bogging down. This is one of the reasons likely they could shave off the length plus no more grinding sound when reaching the clutch setting. I have around 15 M12 tools and have just bought into Makitas CXT 12v line as I think they are the ones that are expanding their line the fastest at the moment and I feel they will continue to do so . The new electronic clutches do not work well, and I would even go so far as to say they dont work at all. Hand my Gen1s to my brother, and I get the upgrade. These are powerful and have great batteries but you should measure the runout tolerances. If you want an independent adjustable torque clutch and drill/driving mode selector switch, and you dont need a smaller tool, you might actually be better served by the first generation model, especially if or when its available at special buy pricing. M12 are 1 front 2 back. Unlikely, I have not found any models that fit in another model case, with exception of latest M18 Fuel model and corresponding One Key. My drill was stolen but someone left the impact on a job so I still had that. Ill prob finally bite the bullet and get into the m12 lineup. The weight doesnt change a whole lot, but there is a slight 0.1-pound reduction as the Milwaukee 3404 is just 2.2 pounds bare and 2.6 pounds with the smaller 2.0Ah battery. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; I just scored an old-gen Fuel impact in one of the half-size Packout cases for $99 from HD a couple weeks ago not sure if theyre still doing the deal, but Im actually really impressed with both the driver and the case (repurposed for some less-used plumbing tools), though I was hoping for a more significant weight reduction from the 18v version and Im still not sure I love the Hey look I have expensive tools, smash my Jeep window and take them please! bright red plastic cases for the Packout system, Looks like theyre still doing the deal for the old stuff, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Cordless-Brushless-1-2-in-Hammer-Drill-Kit-With-Free-PACKOUT-Case-2404-21P/301999123.
Wish it came with a hard case though. I would gladly take a slightly longer drill with a mechanical clutch over a shorter drill with an electronic clutch. I also needed a small hammer drill to fly with. Could have used this today while trying to reach a fastener in my basement. I like the tools but for drivers and impacts I still use my bosch 18 and 21v most. The hammer drill is heavier and an M12 hammer drill won't be hitting on much, I promise you. I'm in the market for a M12 fuel drill.
Milwaukee Releases M12 Fuel Compact Hedge Trimmer for Detail Applications When it comes to shaping smaller hedges or intricate topiaries, most hedge trimmers are simply too large for such detailed work. The product condition is NOT brand new (since there're a lot of places with dirt and scratch on it), it's more like "80-90% new" or "new but second-hand". With the drill driver kit at $169 and the hammer drill kit at $179, the increase of just $30 makes them solid in the value department. I do have a nice collection of Milwaukee tools already and know their commitment to quality and durability. So for anyone that would like to buy: don't imagine that the product is 100% new with plastic folded like you buy in the official store. On the new M12 Fuel hammer drill, you rotate the chuck until you get the drill setting. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For me short overall length is a big issue , plus the sheetmetal mode in the impact is a big bonus . As the user manual (PDF) says, the number selected on the torque selector collar has noeffect on operation of the drill indrilling mode. Because though you don't see a need for it now, eventually you will.
she said YES, I was so proud almost shed a tear . Home Depot currently has the Hammer Drill combos on sale with either a free ratchet, M12 Multi Tool or battery. The comment form collects your name, email and content to allow us keep track of the comments placed on the website. You can post now and register later. I don't do much drilling into concrete but moving into new house and I can see some drilling. You'll see some me M12 Fuel kit that'll be new to the arena for some serious cashola and "BLAMO!!!!!! i think that its worth having the function IF it doesn't add too much weight and length to the tool. If you run out of shit to do you can come to my house. Then I can get more tools that I "need"!!! Buy Now(Drill/Driver via Acme Tool) I use my m12 screwdriver everyday at work because most of what i do is light duty and I would break a lot more stuff or take longer switching to a manual screwdriver to finish if I only used my impact. 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 336 product ratings, 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 179 product ratings, 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 137 product ratings, 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 116 product ratings, 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 291 product ratings, 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 303 product ratings, 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 78 product ratings. 4 amp hour) it will drill into and mostly through most materials. The question is what are you using it for? Fortunately, the snow made for some hazardous roads or I likely would have driven to the store to buy it. Drill/Driver Pricing: $119 bare tool, $169 for the kit, $229 for the combo. Now were seeing the third generation and theres a lot to talk about. While the new smaller slick design is cool, no need to replace my Fuel Gen1s yet. Gaining 50 in-lbs, the Milwaukee 3404 now has 400 in-lbs and exceeds what you can find on some compact 18V/20V Max drills.
(how many men have been betrayed by their stomachs? There are some interesting items in it, but actual needs outpace the wants. Worth noting, I tend to use screws like GRK and Timberlock which drive faster with a regular driver rather than an impact. We welcome posts about "new tool day", estate sale/car boot sale finds, "what is this" tool, advice about the best tool for a job, homemade tools, 3D printed accessories, toolbox/shop tours. Theres one key thing to note about Pro Tool Reviews: Were all about the professional tool user and tradesman! Marketing strategy. Also wonder why Bosch doesnt have a Brushless version of this hammer drill. PS do your ears ring when someone posts? I find theyre more consistent and the immediate drill stop feature they have is a life sent especially on small electronics work where I use them. I bought one back in March 2007 from Amazon. April 3, 2014 in Milwaukee. On my one Milwaukee bag at least, there is no way to lock the zipper closed, and anyway, a utility knife could slice it open. Is there any disadvantages in purchasing the M12 FUEL Hammer Drill over the normal FUEL drill?
Theres now a second-generation version, the WH36DCM, and were seeing how it compares to its predecessor. Nylon bags offer less protection but they can be stuffed with accessories.
Everyone should just buy knipex immediately. Great value for the price. Going back to this image, I wanted to show you the adjustable clutch and application selector feature. She takes pretty good care of me, and more importantly, tolerates me. I went through seven of these m12 hammer drills. I just have to buy her new shoes once in a while Oh BK.you'll pay! Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. The blow-molded cases offer no extra storage space and take up more room than needed but they do offer some protection. 18v systems that put all the cells in a slide pack usually have skinnier grips than the 12v and for me theyre more comfortable. Looking forward to this line up, there are many other tools I'll "need" for project around the house. Im very tempted to get the drill. So the difference is in the size and in how theyre used. I am thinking it's better to have than not, but also thinking save my money as I don't really need it..hate tool purchase dilemma's. For economy and efficiency it makes more sense for me to have a single brand. I have the brushed M12 Hammer, it is just as light as the Drill/Driver. The difference is 6.6, compared to 7.75, and so Milwaukee engineers managed to shave more than 1 inch off the length. Guess again. Im guessing this more of an abnormally considering how good of a deal they are but it wouldnt hurt to check if you were wanting to get one of these kits. Sections: Cordless, Drills & Drivers, New Tools Tags: Milwaukee 2504, Milwaukee FUEL, Milwaukee M12More from: Milwaukee. Instead of capturing your belt between the hook and the tool as in the first model, the hook on the new one will hug your belt from both sides. They probably will fit in the old case fine. I have a lot of m12 stuff, but chose to go with bosch for my drill and impact. Normally this is true but Milwaukee gives the exact same length and weight specs on their website for the hammer and non-hammer versions. With a chuck opening of 1/2" it will easily spin any larger bit that has a 1/2" tapered shank. If a Gen 2 1/4 inch hex driver is released (non-impact, basically the drill with a 1/4 inch hex chuck) I will likely buy it. Shown here is the new hammer drill and older drill/driver/ The difference in height between new and previous hammer drills should be slightly less more pronounced. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Li-Ion-Brushless-Cordless-Hammer-Drill-and-Impact-Driver-Combo-Kit-2-Tool-w-Free-M12-3-8-in-Ratchet-2598-22-2457-20/305883849?MERCH=REC-_-pipsem-_-303101201-_-305883849-_-N, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Brushless-Cordless-Drill-and-Impact-Driver-Combo-Kit-2-Tool-W-Charger-Tool-Bag-2596-22/303688986. Also of note is theyre still bundling the 2Ah and 4Ah batteries with the kits according to Acmes description, I was hoping to see the kits start coming with 3Ah and 6Ah, but I guess those batteries are still too new and expensive to include in the kits. Damn, Milwaukee keeps hitting home runs and Im not even a fanboi of them. If you are looking just based off it being a hammer drill, it doesnt have enough torque to require a 2ndary handle, so lower in that reguard. think you could use this? I dont even own an m18 impact driver, which is the smallest, lightest 18v driver. I personally think it is worth getting the hammer drill version because like you said its only a little more money but you will always have that function to fall back on. Example M18 Fuel Gen1 & Gen2 dont fit in each others case.
I think its mechanically do-able since Rockwell made a drill that does that. Upload or insert images from URL. It's awesome and is probably the most used power tool I own. I love em. There are other minor differences, such as vent placement and the exact shape and feel of the speed selector. Home Depot and Acme Tool had crazy-good pricing on Special Buy M12 Fuel kits during the holiday season. I'm confident you will be pleased with your purchase. Buy Now(Combo Kit via Acme Tool). I do have the 1st gen M12 FUEL regular drill driver and I've noticed it to be a touch quieter than my current 2nd gen hammer drill. Interestingly there was absolutely no difference in speed on a 3 #14 screw into hard wood(after three rounds the screw sheared off) however there was a noticeable difference depending on what battery pack you were running. The new drill/driver, 2503, is $10 less, except for the combo kit. My ears and especially the children of my clients are better off for the lack of impact drivers. I anticipate the hammer drill function will bore a 3/8" hole in poured concrete basement walls like a hot poker through butter. The part where I say hammer drills are shorter was a simple mistake/reversal. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "protoorev-20"; Who knew? Original Fuel Drill/Driver, The Wait is Over New Milwaukee M12 Fuel Cordless Right Angle Impact Wrenches, New Milwaukee Cordless Power Tools for 2020 Pipeline Rundown 1. Just because its NiCad doesnt mean its weak the DeWalt 18V products are just about as powerful as their current 20V lineup. And if you can't avoid, I would think the weight of the 985 would be a small cost of minimising the pain of masonry work with a regular drill. On paper, Milwaukees newest M12 Fuel brushless drills are every bit as fast and powerful as the first generation models. The 1st gen m12s were powerful for sure, but it was also bigger than some compact 18v stuff. DR99 we're on the same page on that one, I was thinking of getting it because it was lighter so I can drill those smaller holes with more control. Having already dropped more than an inch in size from Gen 1 to Gen 2, Gen 3 couldnt be that much smaller, right? I miss that little m12 screwdriver. The difference in height between new and previous hammer drills should be slightly less pronounced. I think there is a lot of demand. Actually, I wonder how this stacks up compared to the Bosch 12v hammer drill in size and weight. Last-Gen M12 Fuel was about an inch too long. But when you have longer screws, say like in door hinges or long screws used to assemble carcass work the drill gets going to fast and instead of the clutch slipping like in a traditional clutch the drill cant stop fast enough and time after time, in fact every time, the bit will come out of the head of the fastener and mar either the work or the hardware, or strip the threads. I don't need a hammer drill and would probably never use that feature. No hard cases = more Packout sales, Im not bothered by it much, I actually like the soft cases because I use them for other things. Ive always thought the M12 were just pointless. Im wondering the same thing. But ended up spending $279 since it came with the stubby 3/8th inch impact wrench with 250 ft/lbs of torque. Size and shape of the handle is an issue with these cordless drills that take a battery pack that puts cells inside the grip. Something like a Packout box or L-Boxx would be neat but they too would add to the cost and might not be everyones cup of tea. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; Its almost as large, and is actually a bit longer than my full size 18V Makita drill. Andwe'll even send you our "Best Tools for Your Hard-earned Dollars" white paper!
Required fields are marked *. 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 14 product ratings. Plus, she's a hell of a cook! Get one. you will not regret it.Read full review. Just waiting for in-store availability and Ill buy. M18 Sawzalls 2620, 2621, and 2720 dont fit in each others case. This version sacrifices a little speed for the additional muscle, though. Off the clock, his faith and love for his family are his top priorities, and you'll typically find him in the kitchen, on his bike (he's an Ironman), or taking folks out for a day of fishing on Tampa Bay. The original Milwaukee M12 Fuel hammer drill was an excellent tool, so much so that its second-generation update was primarily about shrinking the size. amzn_assoc_linkid = "690d3822ba26ba35be418a9852db408f"; On the clock, Kenny dives deep to discover the practical limits and comparative differences for all kinds of tools. One of the big deals about this update is a big increase in torque. Hammer drills are often a little bit longer than drill/drivers. Pasted as rich text. NSFW content will get you banned. https://www.boschtools.com/us/en/boschtools-ocs/cordless-drills-26618-01-34705-p/.
I did an experiment on the original (gen1) m12 impact vs a replacement set I just bought(still gen 1). Nice to sew they improved these. I have the DCD985 hammer drill now used it on occasionbut I was curious willthe M12 Hammer be useful or not work the extra money (think it's only like $10-$20 more)? About 5-10% of the time an impact would be nice. I love it. You might be able to pick up a blow mold hard case on eBay or craigslist. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Dual Battery Leaf Blower is the response and were diving deeper to see if its been [], Metabo HPT MultiVolt Triple Hammer Impact Driver Enters Second Generation Out of dozens of the cordless impact drivers weve tested, the Metabo HPT MultiVolt 36V Triple Hammer Impact Driver is one of the most unique with its 3-hammer design. Apparently Bosch has made an 18V switchable impact for years. The hammer drill is a bit hefty for a handy little drill but when paired with a nice battery (i.e. Those things scare the hell out of the little ones. I Wish! The differences are in the drills sizes and in some of their components. Pricing: $129 for the bare tool, $179 for the kit, $229 for the compact kit with impact driver. The trigger control is delicate enough to not strip a brass screw head while the torque is enough to spin a 5" hole saw through 3/4" solid oak floor planking glued down to 3/4" plywood without bogging down. This is one of the reasons likely they could shave off the length plus no more grinding sound when reaching the clutch setting. I have around 15 M12 tools and have just bought into Makitas CXT 12v line as I think they are the ones that are expanding their line the fastest at the moment and I feel they will continue to do so . The new electronic clutches do not work well, and I would even go so far as to say they dont work at all. Hand my Gen1s to my brother, and I get the upgrade. These are powerful and have great batteries but you should measure the runout tolerances. If you want an independent adjustable torque clutch and drill/driving mode selector switch, and you dont need a smaller tool, you might actually be better served by the first generation model, especially if or when its available at special buy pricing. M12 are 1 front 2 back. Unlikely, I have not found any models that fit in another model case, with exception of latest M18 Fuel model and corresponding One Key. My drill was stolen but someone left the impact on a job so I still had that. Ill prob finally bite the bullet and get into the m12 lineup. The weight doesnt change a whole lot, but there is a slight 0.1-pound reduction as the Milwaukee 3404 is just 2.2 pounds bare and 2.6 pounds with the smaller 2.0Ah battery. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; I just scored an old-gen Fuel impact in one of the half-size Packout cases for $99 from HD a couple weeks ago not sure if theyre still doing the deal, but Im actually really impressed with both the driver and the case (repurposed for some less-used plumbing tools), though I was hoping for a more significant weight reduction from the 18v version and Im still not sure I love the Hey look I have expensive tools, smash my Jeep window and take them please! bright red plastic cases for the Packout system, Looks like theyre still doing the deal for the old stuff, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Cordless-Brushless-1-2-in-Hammer-Drill-Kit-With-Free-PACKOUT-Case-2404-21P/301999123.
Wish it came with a hard case though. I would gladly take a slightly longer drill with a mechanical clutch over a shorter drill with an electronic clutch. I also needed a small hammer drill to fly with. Could have used this today while trying to reach a fastener in my basement. I like the tools but for drivers and impacts I still use my bosch 18 and 21v most. The hammer drill is heavier and an M12 hammer drill won't be hitting on much, I promise you. I'm in the market for a M12 fuel drill.
Milwaukee Releases M12 Fuel Compact Hedge Trimmer for Detail Applications When it comes to shaping smaller hedges or intricate topiaries, most hedge trimmers are simply too large for such detailed work. The product condition is NOT brand new (since there're a lot of places with dirt and scratch on it), it's more like "80-90% new" or "new but second-hand". With the drill driver kit at $169 and the hammer drill kit at $179, the increase of just $30 makes them solid in the value department. I do have a nice collection of Milwaukee tools already and know their commitment to quality and durability. So for anyone that would like to buy: don't imagine that the product is 100% new with plastic folded like you buy in the official store. On the new M12 Fuel hammer drill, you rotate the chuck until you get the drill setting. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For me short overall length is a big issue , plus the sheetmetal mode in the impact is a big bonus . As the user manual (PDF) says, the number selected on the torque selector collar has noeffect on operation of the drill indrilling mode. Because though you don't see a need for it now, eventually you will.

(how many men have been betrayed by their stomachs? There are some interesting items in it, but actual needs outpace the wants. Worth noting, I tend to use screws like GRK and Timberlock which drive faster with a regular driver rather than an impact. We welcome posts about "new tool day", estate sale/car boot sale finds, "what is this" tool, advice about the best tool for a job, homemade tools, 3D printed accessories, toolbox/shop tours. Theres one key thing to note about Pro Tool Reviews: Were all about the professional tool user and tradesman! Marketing strategy. Also wonder why Bosch doesnt have a Brushless version of this hammer drill. PS do your ears ring when someone posts? I find theyre more consistent and the immediate drill stop feature they have is a life sent especially on small electronics work where I use them. I bought one back in March 2007 from Amazon. April 3, 2014 in Milwaukee. On my one Milwaukee bag at least, there is no way to lock the zipper closed, and anyway, a utility knife could slice it open. Is there any disadvantages in purchasing the M12 FUEL Hammer Drill over the normal FUEL drill?
Theres now a second-generation version, the WH36DCM, and were seeing how it compares to its predecessor. Nylon bags offer less protection but they can be stuffed with accessories.
Everyone should just buy knipex immediately. Great value for the price. Going back to this image, I wanted to show you the adjustable clutch and application selector feature. She takes pretty good care of me, and more importantly, tolerates me. I went through seven of these m12 hammer drills. I just have to buy her new shoes once in a while Oh BK.you'll pay! Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. The blow-molded cases offer no extra storage space and take up more room than needed but they do offer some protection. 18v systems that put all the cells in a slide pack usually have skinnier grips than the 12v and for me theyre more comfortable. Looking forward to this line up, there are many other tools I'll "need" for project around the house. Im very tempted to get the drill. So the difference is in the size and in how theyre used. I am thinking it's better to have than not, but also thinking save my money as I don't really need it..hate tool purchase dilemma's. For economy and efficiency it makes more sense for me to have a single brand. I have the brushed M12 Hammer, it is just as light as the Drill/Driver. The difference is 6.6, compared to 7.75, and so Milwaukee engineers managed to shave more than 1 inch off the length. Guess again. Im guessing this more of an abnormally considering how good of a deal they are but it wouldnt hurt to check if you were wanting to get one of these kits. Sections: Cordless, Drills & Drivers, New Tools Tags: Milwaukee 2504, Milwaukee FUEL, Milwaukee M12More from: Milwaukee. Instead of capturing your belt between the hook and the tool as in the first model, the hook on the new one will hug your belt from both sides. They probably will fit in the old case fine. I have a lot of m12 stuff, but chose to go with bosch for my drill and impact. Normally this is true but Milwaukee gives the exact same length and weight specs on their website for the hammer and non-hammer versions. With a chuck opening of 1/2" it will easily spin any larger bit that has a 1/2" tapered shank. If a Gen 2 1/4 inch hex driver is released (non-impact, basically the drill with a 1/4 inch hex chuck) I will likely buy it. Shown here is the new hammer drill and older drill/driver/ The difference in height between new and previous hammer drills should be slightly less more pronounced. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Li-Ion-Brushless-Cordless-Hammer-Drill-and-Impact-Driver-Combo-Kit-2-Tool-w-Free-M12-3-8-in-Ratchet-2598-22-2457-20/305883849?MERCH=REC-_-pipsem-_-303101201-_-305883849-_-N, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-FUEL-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Brushless-Cordless-Drill-and-Impact-Driver-Combo-Kit-2-Tool-W-Charger-Tool-Bag-2596-22/303688986. Also of note is theyre still bundling the 2Ah and 4Ah batteries with the kits according to Acmes description, I was hoping to see the kits start coming with 3Ah and 6Ah, but I guess those batteries are still too new and expensive to include in the kits. Damn, Milwaukee keeps hitting home runs and Im not even a fanboi of them. If you are looking just based off it being a hammer drill, it doesnt have enough torque to require a 2ndary handle, so lower in that reguard. think you could use this? I dont even own an m18 impact driver, which is the smallest, lightest 18v driver. I personally think it is worth getting the hammer drill version because like you said its only a little more money but you will always have that function to fall back on. Example M18 Fuel Gen1 & Gen2 dont fit in each others case.
I think its mechanically do-able since Rockwell made a drill that does that. Upload or insert images from URL. It's awesome and is probably the most used power tool I own. I love em. There are other minor differences, such as vent placement and the exact shape and feel of the speed selector. Home Depot and Acme Tool had crazy-good pricing on Special Buy M12 Fuel kits during the holiday season. I'm confident you will be pleased with your purchase. Buy Now(Combo Kit via Acme Tool). I do have the 1st gen M12 FUEL regular drill driver and I've noticed it to be a touch quieter than my current 2nd gen hammer drill. Interestingly there was absolutely no difference in speed on a 3 #14 screw into hard wood(after three rounds the screw sheared off) however there was a noticeable difference depending on what battery pack you were running. The new drill/driver, 2503, is $10 less, except for the combo kit. My ears and especially the children of my clients are better off for the lack of impact drivers. I anticipate the hammer drill function will bore a 3/8" hole in poured concrete basement walls like a hot poker through butter. The part where I say hammer drills are shorter was a simple mistake/reversal. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "protoorev-20"; Who knew? Original Fuel Drill/Driver, The Wait is Over New Milwaukee M12 Fuel Cordless Right Angle Impact Wrenches, New Milwaukee Cordless Power Tools for 2020 Pipeline Rundown 1. Just because its NiCad doesnt mean its weak the DeWalt 18V products are just about as powerful as their current 20V lineup. And if you can't avoid, I would think the weight of the 985 would be a small cost of minimising the pain of masonry work with a regular drill. On paper, Milwaukees newest M12 Fuel brushless drills are every bit as fast and powerful as the first generation models. The 1st gen m12s were powerful for sure, but it was also bigger than some compact 18v stuff. DR99 we're on the same page on that one, I was thinking of getting it because it was lighter so I can drill those smaller holes with more control. Having already dropped more than an inch in size from Gen 1 to Gen 2, Gen 3 couldnt be that much smaller, right? I miss that little m12 screwdriver. The difference in height between new and previous hammer drills should be slightly less pronounced. I think there is a lot of demand. Actually, I wonder how this stacks up compared to the Bosch 12v hammer drill in size and weight. Last-Gen M12 Fuel was about an inch too long. But when you have longer screws, say like in door hinges or long screws used to assemble carcass work the drill gets going to fast and instead of the clutch slipping like in a traditional clutch the drill cant stop fast enough and time after time, in fact every time, the bit will come out of the head of the fastener and mar either the work or the hardware, or strip the threads. I don't need a hammer drill and would probably never use that feature. No hard cases = more Packout sales, Im not bothered by it much, I actually like the soft cases because I use them for other things. Ive always thought the M12 were just pointless. Im wondering the same thing. But ended up spending $279 since it came with the stubby 3/8th inch impact wrench with 250 ft/lbs of torque. Size and shape of the handle is an issue with these cordless drills that take a battery pack that puts cells inside the grip. Something like a Packout box or L-Boxx would be neat but they too would add to the cost and might not be everyones cup of tea. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; Its almost as large, and is actually a bit longer than my full size 18V Makita drill. Andwe'll even send you our "Best Tools for Your Hard-earned Dollars" white paper!