Corded performance in cordless tools? That’s what Milwaukee is claiming as they expand their line of Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless tools. In this first introductory article of four that will take a closer look of each of these new offerings, I’ll dive into the details of the new Milwaukee M18 FUEL Grinder.
For starters, Milwaukee tells us that the design of the grinder provides up to ten times the life span of motor. That’s always a bonus in my book since replacing tools is both frustrating and costly. Backing up this claim is the Powerstate Motor that is designed, engineered, and built by Milwaukee. The Powerstate brushless motor is designed to increase power, extend life, and provide more efficient energy to power conversion.
By taking advantage of the RedLithium XC batteries that come with the kit, the user should expect to enjoy up to twice the run time over standard lithium-ion batteries. Creating a communication bridge between the tool and battery to maintain ideal performance conditions is Milwaukee’s RedLink Plus Intelligence system.
The gearing system and housing are engineered using metal to improve performance and durability. In addition, the grinder comes with a removable Job Site Armor screen designed to prevent debris contamination. Coming in a with an advertised speed of 8500 RPM, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Grinder weighs 5.8 pounds and is 15 inches long.
What I’m really excited about is what Group Project Manager, Andrew Plowman told us about the M18 Grinder. “The new Fuel Grinders effectively grind, cut and surface prep, while existing cordless tools are only effective as cut-off tools. Simply put, the M18 Fuel Grinder is the first true cordless grinder on the market that delivers on its promise.” Telling us to expect that kind of performance makes the guys pretty anxious for the chance to get their hands on one and try it out.
There are two models to choose from. Both are 4 – 1/2″/5″ grinders with the difference being that one is a paddle switch no lock kit (model 2780-22) and the other is a slide switch lock on kit (model 2781-22) So what specs can the user expect from the M18 FUEL Grinder and what comes in the box?
M18 FUEL 4-1/2″ / 5″ Grinder, Paddle Switch No-Lock Kit (2780-22)
- Switch Type: Paddle No-Lock
- Trigger Lock: No
- Speed: 8,500 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8”-11
- Length:15”
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
Kit includes M18 FUEL Grinder, two M18 REDLITHIUM XC 4.0 Extended Capacity Battery Packs, one M18 & M12 Multi-Voltage Charger, one Flange Nut, one Wheel Guard, and one Spanner Wrench & carrying case.
Also available with one battery (2780-21) or as a bare tool (2780-20)
M18 FUEL 4-1/2″ / 5″ Grinder, Slide Switch Lock-On Kit (2781-22)
- Switch Type: Slide with Lock-On
- Trigger Lock: Yes
- Speed: 8,500 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8”-11
- Length:15”
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
Kit includes the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Grinder, two M18 RedLithium XC 4.0 Extended Capacity Battery Packs, one M18 & M12 Multi-Voltage Charger, one Flange Nut, one Wheel Guard, and one Spanner Wrench & carrying case.
Also available with one battery (2781-21) or as a bare tool (2781-20)
Check out the M18 FUEL Grinder in action!
Both kits are available from any of Milwaukee Tools’ nationwide retailers. Online prices for the kit are around $399. The grinder is backed by Milwaukee’s 5 year limited warranty. For more information, visit Milwaukee’s website by clicking here.
