2 New Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinders Generate Power of 13amp…
New Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinders Generate Power of 13amp Corded 2980-22 2981-22
Milwaukee announced a new brushless M18 Fuel 4-1/2″ – 6″ braking grinder that is said to be as powerful as a corded 13 amp grinder. It will come in two flavors 2980-22 with no-lock paddle switch and 2981-22 model with slide lock-on switch.
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These braking grinders allow for 4-1/2″ wheels and up to 6 inch wheels to be used and offer quick electronic brakes that stop wheels in under 3 seconds. Both models are available as baretools or kits with the new HD high demand 6.0ah batteries which help each grinder to provide it’s claimed 13amp corded like power. Just like the original M18 Fuel braking grinder, these new braking grinders also come bundled with their Fixtec nuts for tool free wheel changes.
Both models will be available in March 2019 and are priced at 219 as a baretool and 449 as a kit with one 6ah High Output HD battery, Rapid charger, and tool bag.
Specifications
M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinder Kit, Paddle Switch, No-Lock (2980-22)-449
- Switch Type: Paddle
- Trigger Lock: No
- Speed: 9000 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8”-11
- Length: 11.41”
- Weight: 7.08lbs
- Includes: M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinder, (2) M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery Packs, (1) M18 M12 Rapid Charger, (1) FIXTEC Nut, (1) T27 Wheel Guard, contractor bag.
- Also available as a bare tool (2980-20) or in a one-battery kit (2980-21) – 219 349, respectively
M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinder Kit, Slide Switch, Lock-On (2981-22)- 449
- Switch Type: Slide Switch
- Trigger Lock: Yes
- Speed: 9,000 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8”-11
- Length: 11.41”
- Weight:7.08lbs
- Includes: M18 FUEL 4-1/2” – 6” Braking Grinder, (2) M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery Packs, (1) M18 M12 Rapid Charger, (1) FIXTEC Nut, (1) T27 Wheel Guard, contractor bag.
- Also available as a bare tool (2981-20) or in a one-battery kit (2981-21) – 219 349, respectively
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Best Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Angle Grinders Compared
Having compared all of the best angle grinders on the market, we’ve used more than our share of these metalworking tools. While corded models ruled the roost for years, new cordless angle grinders—like those from Milwaukee Tool—finally provide the runtime and power to replace their corded counterparts. Below we compare all of the current Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless angle grinders so you can understand the benefits and features of each model.
We also provide handy Buy Now buttons in case you want to go ahead and pull the trigger on a new tool. We also link to our existing reviews so you can check out more in-depth information on some of these key products.
Finally, we wrap it all up with some select charts that compare the specs and features of each type of Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless angle grinder so you can get a birds-eye view of how each model differs.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 4.5″ – 5″ Angle Grinders
2889-20 M18 FUEL Variable Speed Braking Grinder, Slide Switch
This M18 FUEL 4-1/2 – 5″ Variable Speed Braking Angle Grinder marks Milwaukee’s top-of-the-line for variable-speed small angle grinders. The 2889-20 grinder features a slide switch with lock-on and has a 5-speed dial at the base of the tool. That lets you vary the speed between 3,500 and 8,500 RPM.
You get the RapidStop braking system as well as tool-free accessory and guard adjustments. This variable speed grinder runs about 219 for the bare tool.
2888-20 M18 FUEL Variable Speed Braking Grinder, Paddle Switch
The flagship Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2 – 5″ Variable Speed Braking Angle Grinders add variable speed to an already great line of tools. As a small angle grinder, the 2888-20 features a paddle switch and has the same 5-speed dial located just above the battery. Using the variable speed dial, you can set the speed in several increments between 3,500 and 8,500 RPM.
This angle grinder also includes Milwaukee’s RapidStop braking system. It also uses a tool-free accessory and guard adjustment system. You can pick up the 2888-20 variable speed grinder for 219 (bare tool).
2883-20 M18 FUEL Braking Grinder w/ONE-KEY, Slide Switch
As one of two small angle grinders to feature Milwaukee ONE-KEY, the 2883-20 M18 FUEL Braking Grinder powers on with a slide switch so you can use it for extended periods of time. The brake on this 8500 RPM grinder brings the wheel to a stop in under two seconds. You get the same 11-amp grinding and cutting power and ONE-KEY gives you tool tracking and inventory management features built right in.
Milwaukee Tool priced this grinder around 219 for the bare tool or you can grab a kit with two XC6.0 batteries for 469.
2882-20 M18 FUEL Braking Grinder w/ONE-KEY, Paddle Switch
The Milwaukee 2882-20 ONE-KEY small angle grinders include a paddle switch for safer usage. The RapidStop brake on this 8500 RPM grinder brings the wheel to a halt in about two seconds or less. It also features 11-amp grinding and cutting power—enhanced when using XC6.0 RedLithium batteries. This Milwaukee ONE-KEY braking grinder enables tool tracking and inventory management features if you connect it and use the desktop software or app.
Milwaukee Tool priced the 2882-20 grinder at 219 and you can find the kit with a pair of XC6.0 batteries for 469.
2881-20 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Angle Grinders, Slide Switch
For a more straightforward, simplified grinder, Milwaukee 2881-20 M18 FUEL angle grinders feature a slide switch with a lock-on. Milwaukee claims up to 135 cuts of 1/2-inch rebar per charge using an XC6.0 battery pack. The brushless motor delivers 11-amp power at 8,500 RPM. You get an electronic clutch for kickback protection, as well as overload protection to maximize motor life.
Tool-free accessory and guard adjustments make these Milwaukee cordless angle grinders easy to adapt, and you can pick it up for just 199 as a bare tool.
2880-20 M18 FUEL Grinder, Paddle Switch
The Milwaukee 2880-20 M18 FUEL paddle switch angle grinders give you a safer system for shorter grinding and cutting tasks. According to Milwaukee, you can make up to 135 cuts in 1/2-inch rebar using a single XC6.0 battery pack. That’s run-time we can get behind! The brushless motor delivers 11-amp power at 8,500 RPM. You also get an electronic clutch to protect against kickbacks. Overload protection also helps maximize the life of the motor.
Finally, you get tool-free accessory and guard adjustments so you can quickly adapt these Milwaukee cordless angle grinders to your needs. Pricing is around 199 for the bare tool.
2783-20 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Braking Angle Grinders, Paddle Switch
Similar to the 2883 Milwaukee ONE-KEY model above, but without ONE-KEY, the 2783-20 M18 FUEL Braking Angle Grinders power on with a paddle switch. The brake on this 8500 RPM grinder brings a cutting wheel to a stop in 0.9 seconds, a flap disc in 1.3 seconds, and a grinding disc in 1.5 seconds. With plenty of power, this tool makes sense to buy as tool-only and then add your own advanced RedLithium battery.
Milwaukee Tool seems to be closing out this grinder, so if you find one for less than 200 for the bare tool, grab it! The kits include two 5.0 batteries for 469.
2781-20 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Braking Angle Grinders, Slide Switch
Similar to the 2883 Milwaukee ONE-KEY model above, but without ONE-KEY, the 2783-20 M18 FUEL Braking Angle Grinders power on with a paddle switch. The brake on this 8500 RPM grinder brings a cutting wheel to a stop in 0.9 seconds, a flap disc in 1.3 seconds, and a grinding disc in 1.5 seconds. With plenty of power, this tool makes sense to buy as tool-only and then add your own advanced RedLithium battery.
Milwaukee Tool seems to be closing out this grinder, so if you find one for less than 200 for the bare tool, grab it! The kits include two 5.0 batteries for 469.
2780-20 M18 FUEL Grinder, Paddle Switch
Replaced by the 2880-20 Milwaukee FUEL angle grinder above, the 2780-20 M18 FUEL paddle switch grinders offer a great deal if you can still find them. The wheel on this tool spins up to 8500 RPM thanks to the brushless motor and plenty of power. If you can find this as a tool-only purchase, you can add your own advanced RedLithium battery and add a very capable tool to your arsenal.
Milwaukee Showed Us 2 NEW Grinders — M18 Fuel 4-1/2″ – 5″ Braking Grinder
You may not find this grinder from Milwaukee Tool much longer, so if you find one for 179 or less for the bare tool, grab it! The kits typically include a pair of 5.0 batteries for around 429.
2680-20 M18 Cut-Off Grinder, Paddle Switch
As the only remaining brushed grinder in the Milwaukee Tool lineup, you can still find the 2680-20 for less than 120. That may make it the best bargain for those looking for a cut-off grinder that primarily cuts. As a grinding tool, you want to stick with one of the more recent models that use a brushless motor to better manage power delivery and runtime. With 8500 RPM of speed, you can make quick cuts in metal using this tool.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4.5” / 5” Grinders
Milwaukee seems to keep selling this paddle switch model as an entry-level tool option. It lacks the isolating handle found on recent models. You can find it for under 120. In fact, we’ve seen the bare tool for less than 100 at authorized retailers.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 4.5″ – 5″ Angle Grinders Compared
| 2680-20 | X | |||
| 2780-20 | X | X | ||
| 2781-20 | X | X | X | |
| 2783-20 | X | X | X | |
| 2880-20 | X | X | ||
| 2881-20 | X | X | ||
| 2882-20 | X | X | X | X |
| 2883-20 | X | X | X | X |
| 2886-20 | X | X | X | |
| 2887-20 | X | X | X | |
| 2888-20 | X | X | X | X |
| 2889-20 | X | X | X | X |
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 5″ Flathead Braking Grinders
2887-20 M18 FUEL 5″ Flathead Braking Grinder, Slide Switch
The Milwaukee 2887-20 M18 FUEL 5″ Flathead Braking Angle Grinders feature a slide switch that lets you lock on the grinder when working for longer periods of time. This has the added benefit of letting you alter your grip on the tool for better positioning when needed.
Milwaukee claims these cordless angle grinders generate the equivalent power of an 11A corded grinder. Its low-profile design also means you can access tighter corners when grinding down welds or making cuts. This cordless angle grinder features the company’s RapidStop brake that stops the disc in just a couple of seconds when you disengage the switch.
The brushless motor spins the 5-inch grinder or flap disc at up to 8,500 RPM. Milwaukee recommends using their M18 RedLithium High Output XC6.0 batteries which run cooler, offer more power, and last longer than standard XC batteries. This tool runs about 279 as a bare tool with a contractor bag.
2886-20 M18 FUEL 5″ Flathead Braking Grinder, Paddle Switch
Identical to the above, but with a paddle switch, the Milwaukee 2886-20 M18 FUEL 5″ Flathead Braking Angle Grinder lacks the lock-on feature. It does, however, stop automatically when you release the paddle trigger.
Milwaukee claims this tool, like the slide-switch model, generates power equivalent to an 11A corded angle grinder. It has the same low-profile design so you can get tighter into corners when grinding or cutting. You also get the same RapidStop brake that stops the disc in just a couple of seconds when you release the paddle switch.
The brushless motor spins the 5-inch grinder or flap disc at up to 8,500 RPM. Milwaukee recommends using their M18 RedLithium High Output XC6.0 batteries which run cooler, offer more power, and last longer than standard XC batteries. This tool runs about 279 as a bare tool with a contractor bag.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 6″ Braking Grinders
2980-20 M18 FUEL 6″ Braking Grinder, Paddle Switch
At one point, the Milwaukee 2980-20 M18 FUEL 6″ cordless braking angle grinders were their highest-performing small angle grinder. This grinder operates with the power of a 13-amp corded grinder. It also brakes all types of accessories (from flap discs to cutting wheels and grinding discs) in less than 3 seconds.
As the name implies, these angle grinders can support up to 6-inch discs (and go down to 4.5-inch discs when you don’t need that extra capacity). The brushless motor drives this grinder at up to 9,000 RPM. This tool excels at grinding, surface preparation, and cutting applications. Kit versions of this tool include either one or two RedLithium High Output XC6.0 batteries. Lastly, you get tool-free accessory changes using the FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard.
This tool runs about 229 as a bare tool and 479 with a pair of XC6.0 batteries, charger, and soft bag.
2981-20 M18 FUEL 6″ Braking Grinder, Slide Switch
The Milwaukee 2981-20 M18 FUEL 6-inch braking grinder pouts out the power of a corded 13-amp tool. It will stop flap discs, cutting wheels, and grinding discs in less than 3 seconds—making it extremely safe to use. The slide switch atop the tool lets you work for longer periods of time while adjusting your grip.
This angle grinder supports discs from 4-1/2 to 6 inches in diameter. The brushless motor spins discs at up to 9,000 RPM. Use this tool for grinding, surface prep, and cutting steel, rebar, and more. Kit versions of this tool include either one or two RedLithium High Output XC6.0 batteries. Milwaukee Tool also bakes in tool-free accessory changes with their FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard.
The 2981-20 6″ braking grinder runs about 229 as a bare tool and 479 with a pair of XC6.0 batteries, charger, and soft bag.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 7″ – 9″ Large Angle Cordless Grinder
2785 M18 FUEL Large Angle Grinder
When Milwaukee Tool released the 2785-20 M18 FUEL cordless large angle grinder it was the world’s first 18V tool in its category. The 2785-20 puts out enough power to match 15-amp corded tools while shaving up to 2 pounds off the weight. With up to 9 inches of grinding capacity, it provides significantly more access and capability when grinding, doing surface preparation, or cutting larger diameter pipe and/or steel. You can use this tool with any 7- to 9-inch grinding or cutting accessories.
The brushless motor generates 6,600 RPM speed on the wheel (or higher) under load. Pairing this tool with the Milwaukee M18 High Output HD12.0 battery gets you the most amount of run-time possible across all applications. Lastly, you get quick accessory changes using the Milwaukee FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard adjustments.
Final Thoughts
When Milwaukee tool put out its first cordless angle grinder we found it lacking in both power and runtime. It freed you up from the cord but didn’t match the power of even mid-tier corded grinders. Now, however, the story appears much different. Between the M18 FUEL brushless models and newer Milwaukee Tool Redliythium Battery technology, their current crop of angle grinders offers plenty of power and runtime. Provided you have access to a pair of High Output batteries, you can get significant runtime for grinding, cutting, and surface prep tasks.
These tools have come a long way, and we hope the above list of products helps you understand the differences between the models so you can decide which makes sense for your needs.
Clint DeBoer
When he’s not playing with the latest power tool, Clint DeBoer enjoys life as a husband, father, and avid reader—especially the Bible. He loves Jesus, has a degree in recording engineering, and has been involved in multimedia and/or online publishing in one form or another since 1992.
Clint’s career has covered nearly the entire realm of audio and video production. After graduating at the top of his class with an Associates Degree in Recording Engineering, he began working for the famed Soundelux studios in 1994, one of the largest post-production companies specializing in audio for feature films television. Working on a myriad of feature films, Clint honed his skills as a dialogue editor, foley editor, and sound designer. Years later, he moved into the expanding area of video editing, where he served as the company’s senior AVID video editor for three years.
Working for such clients as Universal Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Paramount Home Entertainment, NASA, Universal Studios, Planet Hollywood, SEGA, NASCAR, and others, Clint DeBoer dealt extensively with client management as well as film video editing, color correction, and digital video MPEG compression. He also carries several THX certifications (Technician I and II, THX Video), and is ISF Level II Certified.
After founding the CD Media, Inc. publishing company in 1996, he went on to help start or grow several successful online publications, including Audioholics (as Editor-in-Chief for 12 years), Audiogurus, and AV Gadgets. In 2008, Clint founded Pro Tool Reviews followed by the landscape and outdoor power equipment-focused OPE Reviews in 2017. He also heads up the Pro Tool Innovation Awards, an annual awards program honoring innovative tools and accessories across the trades.
Crediting God and his excellent staff for the success of what is now the largest power tool review publication in the industry, Clint DeBoer hopes to see continued growth for the company as it rapidly expands its reach. Pro Tool Reviews critically reviews hundreds of hand tools, power tools, and accessories each year to help inform users about the best and newest products in the industry. Reaching everyone from the construction industry professional and tradesman to the serious DIYer, Pro Tool Reviews helps tool consumers shop better, work smarter, and stay aware of what tools and products can help put them at the top of their game.
New Milwaukee M18 Brushless Angle Grinder
Milwaukee is launching a new M18 cordless angle grinder, model 2686.
Described as a cut-off grinder, the new tool features a brushless motor, 4-1/2″ and 5″ wheel compatibility, electronic clutch for kickback protection, and tool-free adjustable guard.
The M18 brushless grinder has a paddle switch and operates at 11,000 RPM.
The angle grinder is described as being fully compatible with the most common grinder accessories in the market. It has a 5/8-11 spindle and works with 4-1/2″ wheels out of the box.
Milwaukee ships the grinder with a Type 27 guard, and clip-on Type 1 guard attachment. They say this eliminates the need for an additional guard swap.
Type 27 guards are standard, and I have found it nearly impossible to find Type 1 guards for grinders if they’re not already included with the tool.
Having both Type 27 and Type 1 guards is best, and I don’t mind the changeout, which should be done when you’re changing from a grinding wheel to a cut-off disc.
A clip-on Type 1 guard that modifies a Type 27 guard for added protection seems like an acceptable budget-minded option.
The grinder also has a 2-position side handle and built-in dust screen.
It measures 12.25″ long and weighs 4.6 lbs (tool-only).
Milwaukee says the grinder can make up to 80 cuts in 1/2″ rebar when paired with an M18 XC 5Ah battery.
The grinder is compatible with Milwaukee’s 5″ cordless angle grinder guards and dust shrouds, which are not included.
- Brushless motor
- 4-1/2″/5″ accessory compatible
- 4-1/2″ Guard included, 5″ sold separately
- 5/8-11 arbor
- 11,000 RPM
- 2-position auxiliary handle
- Paddle switch
- Tool-free guard adjustment
- 12.25″ length
- Weighs 4.6 lbs
At this time, there is only a tool-only option (2686-20).
Price: 149 (tool-only)ETA: April 2023
Compared to Milwaukee M18 Fuel Grinders
You might have noticed that the new cordless “cut-off grinder” is an M18 brushless tool.
Around 10 years ago, in the age of brushed motors and lower capacity batteries, cordless angle grinders were described as cut-off tools. When I asked a brand manager about this, they plainly said this was because power and runtime were not yet up to snuff yet.
Milwaukee recommends the new M18 brushless tool, 2686, for cutting and light grinding applications.
The M18 Fuel grinder, 2880, is recommended for cutting and heavy grinding applications. Compared to the new 2686, the 2880 and others in its family features a removable dust screen, anti-vibration handle, and RapidStop wheel brake.
Note: The M18 Fuel braking grinder is available in several styles – 2880 has a paddle switch, 2881 has a slide switch, 2882 has a paddle switch and One-Key, and 2883 has a slide switch and One-Key.
The M18 Fuel variable speed braking grinder, 2888, is recommended for cutting, grinding, and heavy material removal.
Basically, the 2686 seems to be the new “good” grinder, where 2880 and its family are “better,” and 2888 is “best.”
The anti-vibration handle and wheel brake might be reasons to step up from the new 2686 to one of the M18 Fuel models.
The M18 Fuel 2880 is 199 at Acme Tools, and the M18 Fuel 2888 is 249 at Acme Tools. This puts the “good, better, and best” tool-only options at 149, 199, and 249 respectively.
The 2686 is an upgrade compared to the M18 2680 brushed motor model (129 at Home Depot), with respect to speed (11K RPM vs 9K RPM), weight (4.6 lbs vs 5.9 lbs), and undoubtedly efficiency (due to brushless vs brushed).
24 Комментарии и мнения владельцев
Here’s to hoping it’s not a total performance disappointment like virtually every single cordless angle grinder I’ve tried. Same with the die grinders.
I haven’t been involved with professional use of grinders for some time. Ten to 12 years ago we were still using corded angle grinders in out remodeling business as were our tile sub-contractors and masons. In our metal fabrication business – it was mostly pneumatics like Dotco. I recall the field guys disparaging the cordless Makita angle grinders that we tried – even for touch-up jobs – but that was before brushless. Like with production sanding – industrial-scale grinding may still not be the best application for cordless tools – brushless or otherwise. But for the applications shown – a few cuts of rebar or tile – cordless may be convenient.
Oh for sure it is useful in niche applications. Roofing for example cutting in for step flashing on a chimney or brick wall would be useful for example to avoid dragging an extension cord onto a roof and having a new snag/trip/fall hazard to deal with.
Have you tried a DeWALT Flexvolt grinder? With over 2300 unit watts out, those shouldn’t disappoint in the power department. 2300 watts out is more than what any 15 amp 120 volt grinder can provide. Now, as far as other factors like runtime, then I’m sure that any cordless will disappoint with regard to corded.
The only way this could read more like an advertisement is if you included the part number. Jokes aside, motor and battery tech has been improving year after year. Even if you’re disappointed with the performance now, it can only get better.
15A 120V grinders will peak over 2300W easily. And deliver the work of 10 flexvolt 9AH batteries an hour. For stuff like heavy pipe grinding or concrete floor grinding, corded is still the best choice. I definitely use my M18 for rebar cutting all day though. A couple batteries would do a whole house foundation for me.
DeWALT 60v 6 or 7 inch grinders /20v grinders and with 9 amph batteries along with multiple fast chargers can do plenty of work with plenty of power. Milwaukee m18 requires more management of heat on the batteries… and stay away from the 9 inch grinder by Milwaukee. Sometimes a corded one is required. It depends on what are unique requirements are.
For more than 30 minutes of grinding you will still want the cord. I had to grind down pipe fence to remove the top layer of smutz and used my flexvolt grinder which has plenty of power, but I had to have five 6-9ah batteries in constant charging rotation to keep working.
The seem decent – especially since M18 tool discount deals (in the 10 to 15% off) range are common. I recently gifted two Metabo specialty tools based on their cordless grinder – and both were in the 400 range as bare tools. The Metabo cordless grinder upon which these tools are base sells for about 230 on Amazon https://bakersgas.com/products/Metabo-600192850 https://bakersgas.com/products/Metabo-600154850
Christmas time, I had been thinking of getting a cordless grinder to complement my corded Hitachi (well made – cost 40 with case 7 years ago). I couldn’t rationalize 200 for a grinder and I didn’t want to buy the brushed one, even though it would probably be fine. Don’t want buyers regret. There was a 199 sale for 2 batteries and charger and get free tool. And on the receipt it says ” can return either the battery kit or the free tool and get 99 back. Returned the unopened battery kit and got the 2880-20 for 100. I probably would have bought this new one if it was available at the 149 price. By the way, please don’t tell my girlfriend, but I think I’m in love with my m18 track saw. Set it up yesterday for the first time. Sprang for the Milwaukee tracks (rather than the more affordable powertec) because it locks into the base when doing bevel cuts. I’d probably have been happy with the Makita or Festool, but being on the red battery platform I got this, and it is better than expected. I’m weather dependant, not having a shop, and I can’t wait for it to clear up (and my back to ease up) so I can practise with it. I don’t know why, but this tool makes me want to build things because of the pleasure of handling such a well made, balanced (to me) tool. Plus, it is so much safer than most other cutting tools.
Seems like a great price. As for the utility, a cordless angle grinder (for me) is probably one of the handiest cordless options as it seems like more than half the stuff I need to cut or grind isn’t within reach of an outlet. I’ve had the 2880 for a couple of years and it’s one of those that doesn’t get used often, but it’s a life-saver when you need it.
11,000 RPM on a 4.5/5″ grinder is super high. Most 4.5/5″ grinders are in the 7000 to 9000 rpm range. I can’t help but wonder if 11k rpm on this bad boy just means it’s severely lacking in torque.
11k rpm is standard for corded/air 4 1/2″ angle grinders. It’s also what 4 1/2″ discs are rated for. I’m a fabricator so I haven’t used cordless ones which might be slower.
Yep, cordless 4.5/5″ grinders are nearly all slower. I remember when the cordless Flex 5″ grinder came out and I was amazed at its claimed 10,000 RPM. I was too used to seeing numbers like 8500 RPM for the size class.
“Cut off tool” feels like a retro term. Like before we had “cordless angle grinders” we had to make do with angle-grinder-shaped “cut off tools” – so designated because they were too wimpy for real use as grinders. In that context, applying that name to this new tool immediately made me think it must be kind of weak (e.g. they named it a cut-off tool so I wouldn’t expect too much). That seems like it might be unfair, however. My old brushed Porter Cable cordless “angle grinder” is very wimpy and only spins at 8500rpm. While RPM doesn’t seem like enough data to evaluate how the tools would compare, I bet the new brushless M18 would stomp my PC and do a fairly decent impression of a budget corded model. I suppose Milwaukee is using that name to temper expectations and differentiate it from the “FUEL” model, but it just seems weird to me.
I can’t imagine a world where a welding fab shop ,nor floor finisher grinding concrete all day will be fully cordless. The batteries would be to heavy for nearly constant use. But for the other 60% of small jobs cordless is definitely worth it. But I would wait for the fuel to go on sale if you want m18. Grinders and circular saws,and other rotating tools with blades contacting a large surface area…….in a production environment, use a lot of power. I am a huge fan of m12….however batteries didn’t have enough capacity for lighting, nor the power to run even the small 5 3/8 circular saw.
My frustration with M18 batteries paired with their OPE – is that they seem to quickly overheat and cut out. The auto cut out is a good thing in that it saves you from other potentially worse consequences. But I think Milwaukee has to work harder on this issue. Otherwise, their steadfast position to not move up in voltage may ultimately do them in.
I’m curious what Milwaukee’s 10 year plan is, exactly, as Milwaukee, despite the best efforts of their marketing department, can’t rewrite the laws of physics. Like you said, 18 volts is a little low, especially with higher voltage, single battery, handheld power tools platforms available from nearly every tool brand apart from Milwaukee. volts = fewer amps for equivalent wattage. Fewer amps = less heat. Period. How exactly Milwaukee plans to stay relevant in high demand handheld tools like lawn mowers is an open question, to me. MX Fuel looks like the eventual “solution”, I guess. M18x2 also looks to be something of a “solution”, too. I guess lithium pouch cells will also buy M18 more time, as pouch cells can generally discharge more amps than cylindrical calls without heating up as much. All that being said, I do wonder what the 10-15 year outlook on M18 will be. Not that it really matters, practically, but it is an interesting question, at least to me.
They might argue that the MX battery would work for mowers and maybe earth augers as some tools might even benefit from some extra weight. But it is too heavy IMO for a string trimmer, leaf blower or hedge trimmer.
Milwaukee is far from being backed into a corner. 18V is still the sweet spot for most handheld cordless power tools. Tools outpaced battery tech, and battery tech is now catching up with Li-ion pouch cells. And, as you mentioned, M18 x2 is always an option for more power-hungry tools.
Been a certified welder and a fabricator for the past 7 years and I absolutely love my Milwaukee cordless grinders. I have two of the 4 1/2”/5” FUEL braking angle grinders. One of them is recent, and the other I’ve had for 5 years now. Definitely will outrun your charger if you’re grinding non stop but I seldom find myself needing to do that much grinding. I keep my 50 Makita angle grinder I got for welding school around for those rare cases. It’s much handier to be able to ditch the extension cord working on the large parts I do. The m12 die grinder is pretty awesome as well, but it stalls way too easy with anything larger than a 2” disc.
CUTTING tools like those wicked little air grinders are 11k. Grinders are 7-9k. You would have wear and plugging problems with grinding wheels never mind wire brushes at 11k. As an example in Dewalts corded lineup the cheapest “grinder” on the shelf has a higher speed and it’s light but seriously underpowered. I would easily put it up against any cordless M18 Milwaukee grinder for any grinding task. It might win a cutting speed contest after stalling several times. The much bigger/heavier “grinders” for beveling steel and flattening welds easily put the M18s to shame both in torque and run time if you have the time to set up a cord, bench, etc. When I bought my first M18 grinder I was skeptical at first but hopeful because I had just retired tge compressor tge year before and I was down to just 3 corded tools left.That was 5 or 6 years ago. Do NOT just grab your 20k little screaming banshee metal cutting air tool and expect identical performance. Also don’t take a high torque corded grinder and exodus f similar torque, never mind run time. It is close enough. Cordless grinders are for small jobs and going places the corded stuff can’t or would take much longer setting up. If your idea of a work site is dropping your tow behind Bobcat diesel welder and air compressor and spending an hour setting up your welding work site, cordless grinders are not for you. If as someone mentioned you’re trimming flashing on a roof or in some dark hole in some industrial plant where you need it for 10 minutes such as cutting out an opening in sheet metal or working off a pier doing rebar, the fact that it’s not the most powerful grinder won’t matter I bought it and simply tried using it on the job. The more I used it the more I liked it. I have a corded grinder. If the job calls for it I’ll dig it out. Im Not a construction welder though so I don’t often dig it out. That’s with the “heavy duty grinding” grinders. I suspect this one is going to be more specialized (cutting rebar only).
