Milwaukee recently sent us a few tools from their expanding line of communication installation hand tools. In the next few weeks, we’ll take a closer look at the entire group. Today, we’re looking at one of the multi-use tools that covers a variety of tasks – the 4-in-1 Milwaukee Multipick.
There’s a big difference between what electricians need for multi-use tools and what VDV installers need. There’s enough crossover to group us together at times, but we really are in different sectors. So how does Milwaukee do with my first tool in their VDV line?
Milwaukee Multipick Highlights
General Design
One of the more helpful features with the Milwaukee Multipick revolves around the overall size of the instrument. At around 11″, it can clip onto any of your pockets. It’s longer and thicker than a Sharpie and it’s possible to break or bend the clip if you snag it.
Screwdrivers
The Milwaukee Multipick includes both a #0 Phillips head and a slotted head bit. Obviously, both these tips will find a fair amount of use in a variety of applications. You can swap out these tips for one another by pulling the double-sided bit out of the base and turning it over. Keep in mind that are sizes for precision fastening. If you try to really torque down on a screw, you can damage the plastic housing. I’ll question why you’re trying that hard with a #0 Phillips, but I’m rarely surprised by some of the things I see on site.
When it comes to troubleshooting or making changes to control panels, it’s very useful. The shop guys put a lot of torque on terminal block screws, so loosening them can be a pain and a precision tip isn’t the way to go with those.
Hook and Spudging Tool
On the other end of the tool, Milwaukee includes a hook and a spudging tool. Both these tools will find a fair amount if use in installation applications. The hook will help grab onto and pull small wires in, say, a CAT5 terminal. The antistatic, flat-headed, nylon spudger will help you hold, position, and pry at components without damaging them. The nylon construction ensures that you’ll avoid damage to sensitive electronic components – assuming you know what you’re doing, of course.
Parting Thoughts
While I definitely use all of the tools on this model, I actually turn to the screwdrivers most often for everything from my paid job to racing drone parts and working on phones. It ends up being my go-to tool since I live in an electronics world at home and work.
Ergonomically, it’s lightweight and comfortable to use, yet still big enough to get the job done. I have no complaints in that department.
The Milwaukee Multipick will run you about $12.49. If you’re spending a lot of time with electronics, installations, or communications work, this 4-in-1 tool will undoubtedly see plenty of use. Plus, having this lil’ guy in your pocket virtually eliminates the need for a small pouch full of separate tools that accomplish the same tasks. Realistically, the Milwaukee Multipick should save you some space in your tool bag and a few dollars over buying each tool separately.
Milwaukee Multipick Features
4-in-1 Design- #0 Phillips Head
- 1/8″ Slotted Head
- Hook
- Spudger
Milwaukee Multipick Specs
- Model Number: 48-22-2145
- Width: 2.9″
- Height: 1″
- Length: 11.1″
- Weight: 0.75 lbs
- MSRP: $20.76
