I'm thinking of treating myself to a new Milwaukee tool but I'm not sure what's worth getting. Any recommendations for must-have M12 or M18 tools?
3 Answers
You really can’t go wrong with the M12 installation drill/driver. It’s perfect for tight spaces and DIY projects. Plus, it handles delicate tasks without over-tightening, which is crucial.
Just watch out for the reverse switch; it's a bit unreliable. There are better tools for this type of work.
If you're looking for a solid choice, definitely grab the M18 Hackzall. It's super powerful and I love how easy it is to use one-handed. There's even an M12 version if you're into that battery line. Also, give a shout-out to the M18 oscillating multi-tool; it's versatile and a top pick in its category!
The Hackzall is amazing! I've got the regular Sawzall too, but when I’m up high on a ladder, having that one-handed design makes all the difference.
I wasn't blown away by the M12 version, though. It seems underpowered compared to what I'm used to with bigger tools.
You gotta try the 1/4" fuel impact. It's surprisingly compact but packs a punch. As an industrial electrician, I carry it everywhere; it's way lighter than the M18 and works like a charm for most tasks! Just make sure to go for the gen 3 model, as the gen 4 has had its share of issues.
Totally agree! The gen 3 is super reliable. I tried a Makita impact and I felt like Milwaukee was just way better in terms of comfort and ease of use.
So true, I made the mistake of going gen 4 before realizing my error. Stick with gen 3!

Absolutely! It’s powerful enough for my needs, but not a beast—great for furniture and cabinets.