Milwaukee Cordless Rotary Hammer 2717-20 Review Powerful Portable Demolition Tool

Description

Positive Features of the Cordless Rotary Hammer

The cordless rotary hammer I tested impressed me with its powerful 18-volt lithium-ion battery system, which allowed me to handle heavy-duty drilling without being tethered to a cord. The brushless motor technology is a standout feature that enhances efficiency and durability, and I noticed it runs cooler and quieter compared to traditional brushed motors. With a maximum impact energy of 5.0 ft-lb and blows per minute reaching up to 3000, it tackled concrete and masonry with impressive force. I appreciated the SDS Max chuck type, which made bit changes quick and secure, reducing downtime on the job.

The D-handle design provided a comfortable grip and excellent control during extended use. Despite its weight of about 12.2 pounds, the tool felt balanced and manageable, even during overhead drilling. The variable speed control from 0 to 450 RPM gave me precision for delicate tasks and full power for demolition work. I also liked how it handled larger bits up to 1 9/16 inches in solid concrete and even core bits up to 4 inches, which expanded its versatility.

• Brushless motor for efficiency and durability
• Powerful impact energy suitable for concrete drilling
• Comfortable D-handle grip for control
• SDS Max chuck for easy bit changes

Limitations to Consider

Although this rotary hammer offers many advantages, I found some areas where it could improve. The absence of a battery and charger in the package means an added upfront investment if you don’t already have compatible Milwaukee 18V batteries. This might be inconvenient for someone looking for an all-in-one solution. I also noticed the tool lacks a rotation stop feature, which some competitors offer for chiseling applications, limiting its usefulness in demolition tasks that require such capability.

The weight, while balanced, could be a drawback for users who prefer lighter tools for extended overhead work. Additionally, the noise level, though quieter than some corded models, still requires ear protection during prolonged use. The price point, while justified by the build quality and features, might feel steep for casual DIYers or those on a tight budget.

• Battery and charger not included
• No rotation stop for chiseling
• Heavier than some competitors
• Requires hearing protection due to noise

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The rotary hammer’s construction using glass-filled nylon gives it a rugged feel without making it overly bulky. Milwaukee’s reputation for durability shines through, as the tool stood up well to rough handling on job sites. The red color scheme is classic Milwaukee and easy to spot in a cluttered toolbox, which I found surprisingly helpful.

Ergonomically, the D-handle design is excellent for stability and reduces wrist strain, especially when drilling into tough materials. I tested it on concrete walls and brick, and the grip allowed me to maintain control even when the tool was vibrating intensely. The length of 18 3/4 inches is compact enough for use in tighter spaces, but still offers enough leverage for heavy-duty work.

Performance Across Different Tasks

This cordless rotary hammer excels in drilling through concrete, masonry, and stone, thanks to its 800-watt motor power and high impact rate. I put it to work with various bit sizes, and the tool consistently delivered smooth and efficient drilling. The variable speed dial helped me adjust for different materials, which avoided overheating or stalling.

However, for light-duty tasks or wood drilling, this hammer drill felt a bit overkill, and I often switched to a standard drill for those purposes. The no-load RPM of up to 450 is on the lower side compared to some rotary hammers, but it’s a trade-off for the high impact energy designed for demolition and heavy-duty drilling.

Value Proposition

Considering the features packed into this cordless rotary hammer and its robust build, I found it to offer solid value for money. Its portability, thanks to the cordless design, means fewer restrictions on job sites without easy access to power outlets. The tool’s power and battery compatibility with Milwaukee’s ecosystem justify the investment for professionals or serious DIYers who frequently work with concrete and masonry.

If you already own Milwaukee M18 batteries, this can be a cost-effective addition to your tool collection. For those starting fresh, the need to purchase batteries separately might impact the overall value, but the tool’s performance and durability might still make it worth every penny.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other cordless rotary hammers from brands like DeWalt and Bosch, this model holds its own with a slightly better impact energy and robust build quality. The SDS Max chuck system is more common on higher-end tools, and I appreciated its reliability over the SDS Plus system found in some competitors. However, some DeWalt models include a rotation stop for chiseling, which adds versatility that this model lacks.

Bosch’s options sometimes offer higher RPMs but with less impact energy, which may suit different types of users. Milwaukee’s tool feels more oriented toward heavy demolition work rather than general purpose, and its weight and noise levels are comparable with similar high-power models. In terms of ergonomics, this rotary hammer’s handle design and overall balance arguably provide better control during prolonged use.

Features and Settings Overview

This rotary hammer features a brushless motor, which translates to longer tool life and less maintenance. The variable speed control is essential for adapting to different drilling conditions, and the impact energy setting is fixed, focusing on powerful blows per minute. The SDS Max chuck supports various bit sizes, including large core bits, which makes it versatile for demolition and construction tasks.

The tool does not include a rotation lock, so it’s not ideal for chiseling jobs that require that function. It comes with an instruction guide but no batteries or charger. The tool length and weight strike a balance between power and usability, though it’s heavier than some lightweight models designed for overhead work.

User Experience and Practical Insights

My coworkers and I put this rotary hammer through demanding tasks on-site, and it didn’t disappoint. Even my nephew, who’s just starting in construction, found the tool manageable with some guidance. The power delivery was consistent, and bit changes were hassle-free, thanks to the SDS Max system. The only gripe from the team was the lack of a rotation stop, which meant we had to switch tools for chiseling tasks.

Handling the tool without a battery was initially a challenge, but using Milwaukee’s M18 battery system made it much easier to swap batteries mid-job. The tool’s noise level and vibration required gloves and ear protection, which is standard for tools of this nature. Overall, it proved reliable, efficient, and durable, making it a solid choice for serious work in concrete and masonry demolition.

The Milwaukee cordless rotary hammer 2717-20 blends power, portability, and durability into a reliable package, although it demands some trade-offs like the absence of a rotation stop and no included battery. For professionals and regular users who value brushless motor technology, SDS Max chuck versatility, and strong impact energy, this tool performs admirably, especially in heavy-duty applications.

Additional information