I've been using Milwaukee tools for a while and wanted to get some opinions on whether their quality has changed since 2020. I have a great 2018 M18 Brushless drill and a 2024 M12 Fuel Drill that's been fantastic. However, I also have an M18 drill and driver set from 2019 that were solid, but the 2024 versions of the same set have really disappointed me. The build quality seems to be poor, the torque feels weak, and the drill even shakes when I use it. Plus, the braking technology makes it spark every time I release the trigger. I'm curious if anyone else has noticed similar issues with other recent models. For reference, here are the model numbers: Great drill: 3404-20, Great drill: 2801-20, Decent Drill: 2606-20, and Horrible Drill: 2606-20. I'm also unsure if the purchase dates align with when they were manufactured. Anyone else experience this?
5 Answers
It's a common complaint across many brands—"They just don't make them like they used to." But there’s some truth in that, especially when companies try to cut costs.
I've noticed a big change with the chucks on these drills. The first-gen fuel drills had solid Jacobs chucks, but now they use a special thread that makes replacements cost a lot and leaves much to be desired on quality. There's chatter online about the runout issues, even in new drills.
I've had similar experiences; the newer gen tools don’t compare. I switched to Dewalt's 860 model after my Milwaukee impact kept failing. Dewalt's quality seems to be improving while Milwaukee's appears to be slipping.
Some fans might not want to hear this, but yeah, the quality control has definitely dropped. Their warranty also seems less reliable now. It feels hit or miss if they'll fix your tool based on its condition or age.
It feels like Milwaukee is sacrificing durability for power lately. I want powerful tools too, but other brands are stepping up their game with higher voltage options.
It sounds like you might be dealing with a brushed motor if you're seeing sparks, but if you're certain yours is brushless, there could be some debris in there affecting performance. Tool technology has really advanced recently, so it's possible you picked up an older model on clearance. Double-check the model numbers for clarity!
Both my good and bad drills are the 2606-20, which is pretty wild!
My issue is with the brushed drill as well. It sparked from the start; way worse than the older models.
True, brands build a reputation for quality, then start skimping to boost profits.