Milwaukee M18 Fuel Super Hawg Right Angle Drill Review Power and Precision Redefined

Description

Power and Performance That Impress

Testing the Milwaukee 2811-20 M18 FUEL 18-Volt Brushless Cordless GEN 2 SUPER HAWG felt like upgrading to a beast of a tool. This right angle drill packs a serious punch with its POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence, delivering corded drill power without the cord. I managed to drill clean, precise holes up to 6-1/4 inches in metal and nearly 3 inches in wood, which blew me away considering its cordless design. The drill spins at a respectable 1550 RPM, and I noticed how it maintained consistent torque even under heavy loads, something not every cordless drill can boast. The ability to make up to 100 holes through 6-inch beams on a single 6.0Ah battery charge is a massive win for anyone tackling rough-in work or framing.

Ergonomic Design and Handling

Holding this tool felt solid and balanced. The all-metal QUIK-LOK chuck not only screams durability but also makes swapping attachments incredibly easy — I could do it one-handed without fumbling around. The all-metal side handle gave me extra control for those tougher drilling angles, which helped especially in tight spots. The integrated LED light is a neat feature, illuminating dark corners and improving visibility on the job. I even passed the tool around to a few coworkers, and they all commented on how well it fits in hand and how stable it feels during use, which is a big deal when you’re drilling overhead or in awkward positions.

Key Benefits of the Milwaukee SUPER HAWG

• Powerful brushless motor ensures long life and efficient energy use.
• QUIK-LOK chuck system for quick, secure bit changes without hassle.
• REDLINK PLUS electronics provide overload protection and optimize performance.
• Long battery life with compatibility across all M18 REDLITHIUM batteries.
• Robust build quality with steel components that handle job site abuse.

Drawbacks Worth Considering

• The tool’s weight, tipping the scale at nearly 14 pounds, can become tiring during prolonged use, especially if you’re working overhead.
• It doesn’t come with batteries or a charger in the “tool-only” version, so that’s an additional investment if you don’t already own compatible Milwaukee batteries.
• While the QUIK-LOK system is handy, some users might find it less versatile with certain aftermarket attachments compared to traditional chucks.
• The price point is on the higher end, which could be a deterrent for hobbyists or casual users who don’t need such a specialized drill.

Rival Brands and How This Drill Stacks Up

I’ve tried other right angle drills from brands like DeWalt and Makita, which are popular choices in the cordless drill market. DeWalt’s models tend to be lighter and sometimes come with more battery options out of the box. However, the Milwaukee stands out with its superior torque and run-time, especially on tougher materials like metal beams. Makita offers solid ergonomics and good balance but falls a bit short in raw power compared to this model. The SUPER HAWG’s REDLINK PLUS system also provides better protection against overheating and overloads, extending tool life. On the downside, some competitors offer kits that include batteries and chargers, adding value for newcomers to the brand, while this drill’s “tool-only” package means extra upfront costs.

Features and Settings Explored

The mechanical clutch in low speed mode adds precision and prevents stripping screws or overdriving bolts, which I found useful on delicate jobs. The drill offers a smooth variable speed trigger that gives fine control over drilling speed, helping with different materials and hole sizes. Though it’s primarily a hammer drill, the right angle design makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces where a traditional drill just won’t reach. I experimented with all settings, and the tool responded consistently, never overheating or bogging down, which is impressive given the high power output. The REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT batteries (not included with this tool-only version) are crucial to unlocking the full potential, as lower capacity batteries noticeably reduced performance and runtime.

Price Worthiness and Value Proposition

For the price point, this drill offers professional-grade performance that justifies the investment if you’re a tradesman or serious DIYer. The ability to deliver corded drill power on a cordless platform is a game changer, especially when safety and mobility are crucial on the job site. The long-lasting brushless motor combined with smart electronics means fewer tool replacements and less downtime, saving money over time. However, if you only need a drill for light tasks, this might be overkill. The durability and advanced features put it in a league above budget options, but that comes at a cost. It’s definitely worth every penny for users who demand high power, reliability, and versatility.

What Makes This Drill Stand Out

The Milwaukee right angle drill is built to handle tough construction environments, with a robust steel body and a design that minimizes fatigue despite its weight. Its brushless motor technology provides not only power but also better efficiency, extending battery life compared to brushed motors. The QUIK-LOK chuck system adds a modern convenience, and the LED light is a thoughtful inclusion that enhances usability in dim conditions. Though heavy, the tool’s balance and grip make it manageable, and the included side handle is not just an afterthought but an essential control feature. It’s a tool that clearly understands the demands of professionals, and that reflects in every aspect of its design and performance.

This tool isn’t just another cordless drill; it’s a specialized powerhouse tailored for electricians, plumbers, and framers who need to drill large holes in confined spaces without sacrificing power or durability. The combination of Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM battery technology, REDLINK PLUS intelligence, and the brushless motor makes it a reliable companion on any job site. I found myself reaching for this drill over my standard cordless options simply because it could tackle jobs others struggled with, and that’s a strong endorsement from someone who’s picky about their toolkit.

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