Corded performance in cordless tools? Thatโs what Milwaukee is claiming as it expands its line of Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless tools. In this first introductory article of four, Iโll take a closer look at each of these new offerings, diving into the details of the new Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2780 and 2781 angle grinders.
Build Quality and Features
For starters, Milwaukee tells us that the design of the grinder provides up to ten times the life span of the motor. Thatโs 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 power.
By utilizing theย RedLithium XC batteriesย included with the kit, users can expect to enjoy up to twice the runtime compared to standard lithium-ion batteries. Milwaukeeโs RedLink Plus Intelligence system creates a communication bridge between the tool and battery to maintain ideal performance conditions.
The gearing system and housing are engineered using metal to improve performance and durability. Additionally, the grinder features a removable Job Site Armor screen, designed to prevent debris contamination. Featuring an advertised speed of 8,500 RPM, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Grinder weighs 5.8 pounds and measures 15 inches in length.
Power and Performance Expectations
What Iโm really excited about is what Group Project Manager, Andrew Plowman, told us about the M18 Grinder.ย โThe 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.โ Telling us to expect that kind of performance makes the guys pretty anxious to get their hands on one and try it out.
There are two models to choose from. Both are 4 โ 1/2โณ/5โณ 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 4-1/2โณ / 5โณ Grinder, Paddle Switch No-Lock Kit (2780-22)
- Switch Type: Paddle No-Lock
- Trigger Lock: No
- Speed: 8,500 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8โ-11
- Length:15โ
- 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 4-1/2โณ / 5โณ Grinder, Slide Switch Lock-On Kit (2781-22)
- Switch Type: Slide with Lock-On
- Trigger Lock: Yes
- Speed: 8,500 RPM
- Arbor Size: 5/8โ-11
- Length:15โ
- Weight: 5.8 lbs
The 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, along with a 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 Toolsโ nationwide retailers. Online prices for the kit are around $399. The grinder is backed by Milwaukeeโs 5-year limited warranty.
