Late last year at Milwaukeeโs annual Pipeline event, we got our first look at the brand new M18 Fuel 10-gauge Nibbler (3476). Our initial video amassed quite a lot of attention across our social media platforms, but we were eager to get some hands-on time with this tool. Today, Iโm taking a closer look at Milwaukeeโs first cordless nibbler on the M18 system, and more accurately, the worlds first 10-gauge cordless nibbler. Iโm eager to see what it has to offer and how it compares to other models in the lineup.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Nibbler Performance
- Max No-Load Speed: 1200 SPM
- Mild Steel Capacity: 10 ga.
- Stainless Steel Capacity: 12 ga.
- Aluminum Capacity: 9 ga.
- Minimum Cutting Radius: 2 in.
At its heart, the M18 Fuel Nibbler is powered by a brushless motor with four speed modes ranging from 850 SPM up to 1,200 SPM. This is a big improvement over Milwaukeeโs corded model (6880) that works at a constant rate of 1,000 SPM. Having a variable SPM allows you to dial in the speed to match the level of control you want or adapt to the material youโre working with.
Milwaukee also equipped this nibbler with a variable speed trigger, allowing you to feather the trigger as you work. Itโs not nearly as finessed as a standard drill, but it does give you a little more control than a single-speed nibbler.
| Mode 1 | Mode 2 | Mode 3 | Mode 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 850 SPM | 950 SPM | 1050 SPM | 1200 SPM |
As for cut capacity, this nibbler can confidently chew through 10-gauge mild steel, 12-gauge stainless steel, and even 9-gauge aluminum, and has a minimum cut radius of 2 inches. This is also an improvement over the corded model with its slightly larger radius of 2.5 inches.
Milwaukee claims that this nibbler produces cleaner cuts than comparable tools, and from our experience, this is the case. Itโs worth nothing that you should still exercise caution as the edges may still be quite sharp.
The tighter cutting radius gives this tool an advantage over similar models by offering improved handling and control as you work. This also means that tasks requiring more detailed cutting are well within reach, at least more than before.
Quick Model Comparison: M18 Fuel 3476 VS Corded 6880 VS M12 Fuel 2476
Hereโs a quick look at Milwaukeeโs three nibblers and how they compare.
| M18 Fuel 3476 | Corded 6880 | M12 Fuel 2476 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| No-Load Speed | 1200 SPM | 1000 SPM | 2200 SPM |
| Cut Capacity | 10-gauge mild steel 12-gauge stainless 9-gauge aluminum | 10-gauge mild steel 12-gauge stainless | 16-gauge mild steel 18-gauge stainless 12-gauge aluminum |
| Power Source | M18 battery | 4-amp corded | M12 battery |
| Miniumum Cut Radius | 2 in. | 2.5 in. | 3.2 in. |
| Tool Length | 16.25 in. | 12.25 in. | 10.75 in. |
| Bare Weight | 7.7 lbs | 7.8 lbs | 2.7 lbs |
| Price | $799 (bare tool) | $999 | $279 (bare tool) $378 (kit) |
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Nibbler Design Notes
- Model: Milwaukee 3476
- Power Source: Milwaukee M18 battery
- Weight: 7.7 lbs (bare tool), 11.75 lbs (with XC12.0Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 16.25 in.
Size and Weight
The Milwaukee 3476 weighs in at 7.7 pounds as a bare tool, 11.75 pounds with a 12.0Ah battery, and measures 16.25 inches from tip to tail.
As expected, this is a bit heavier and longer than its corded counterpart, the 6880, but thatโs typically the price you pay for cordless freedom.
Ergonomics
Looking at the overall profile, the grip has a slight downward curve that contours nicely to your hand. The overall form factor is actually very similar to the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 9-inch Angle Grinder (2785), another large tool that can be hard to maneuver.
Towards the front you have a two-position side handle that features a vibration dampening zone to give your hands a little relief.
360ยฐ Rotating Die
One of the more unique features on this nibbler is that you can rotate the die 360 degrees. This gives you an incredible advantage if youโre working at an odd angle or with limited space.
To adjust the die, simple loosen the set screw on the side of the motor housing and turn it to your desired angle. Then, tighten it down and youโre good to go.
Removable Collection Bag
One downside to traditional nibblers is that they tend to make a mess, leaving metal chips all over your work area. Milwaukee solved this by designing this tool with a removable collection bag so you can maintain a cleaner work space and reduce the time spent sweeping at the end of the day.
Additional Features
- LED work light
- One-Key compatible
- Two-position belt hook
- Compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Nibbler Price
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3476 retails for $799 as a bare tool and comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
At the time of writing this, there are no kit options available, so be sure to pick up a battery and charger if youโre not already established on the M18 battery platform.
The Bottom Line
After getting some hands-on time with the M18 Fuel Nibbler, itโs clear that Milwaukee put some genuine thought into the design of this tool. Itโs very well balanced in spite of its size, and the sound ergonomics make it easy to maneuver through intricate designs. On top of that, it performed well, easily sailing through the materials I cut.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 10-Gauge Nibbler is a top-tier cordless nibbling tool that brings serious cutting capability to the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem. Itโs especially strong for metalworkers who need precise, controlled cuts in thicker sheet metal without lugging cords or dealing with hoses and compressors. On top of that, as the first cordless 10-gauge nibbler, Milwaukee is once again paving the way for Pros.
Considering this model has both the greatest capacity and smallest cutting radius, itโs the best overall among Milwaukeeโs lineup. However, the M12 Fuel model is still valuable to have on hand when you need to work in tighter spaces or want the advantage of lower weight when youโre cutting thinner materials.
