Milwaukee's 1/2" Cordless Router
Posted by Katy | Toolstop on 3rd Aug 2023
Find out everything you need to know about the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Cordless Router, the world's 2nd cordless 1/2" inch router.
Introducing the world's 2nd cordless 1/2" router
Introducing the world's 2nd cordless 1/2" router
Introducing the world's 2nd cordless 1/2" router
Introducing the world's 2nd cordless 1/2" router
Milwaukee has just announced their new 1/2" cordless M18 FUEL router, and it's already making waves in the woodworking community.
Only the second manufacturer to release this after HiKOKI, Milwaukee has once again raised the bar for the industry. In this blog post, we'll delve into the incredible features and benefits of the M18 FUEL Router while also addressing some of its downsides, particularly for UK users.
Milwaukee's Revolutionary M18 FUEL Router
Milwaukee's M18 FUEL line is renowned for its superior cordless technology, and the router is no exception. It delivers exceptional power and performance, making it a game-changer for woodworkers who crave freedom from cords without compromising on precision.
It is powered by a brushless motor that delivers up to 2.25 peak horsepower to deliver clean cuts in hardwood. The router also features a variable speed dial that ranges from 25,000 to 12,000 RPM, so you can customise the speed to the specific application.
Ergonomic design
It features a comfortable grip and a lightweight design, making it easy to use for extended periods of time. The router also has a built-in LED light that illuminates the work surface, so you can see what you're doing in low-light conditions.
Please note, this router is not available to purchase in the UK yet.
Features
Powerful Performance: With a robust 2.25 peak horsepower, this tool effortlessly delivers clean cuts in even the toughest hardwood materials.
Unmatched Cordless Excellence: Enjoy the best-in-class cordless performance that sets this tool apart from the rest.
Enhanced Performance & Protection: Thanks to the advanced REDLINK PLUS technology, you can count on maximum performance and reliable protection while using the tool.
Efficient POWERSTATE Brushless Motor: The tool is equipped with a highly efficient brushless motor, ensuring top-notch performance and extended lifespan.
Easy and Accurate Depth Adjustments: The 6-step depth turret allows for quick and precise adjustments at increments of 1/8", while the micro-adjust knob enables even more precise tuning at 1/64" increments.
Customisable Speed Settings: You have complete control over the RPM, as the variable speed dial offers adjustments from 25,000 to 12,000, catering to your specific project requirements.
Impressive Battery Life: Enjoy over 225 linear feet of runtime per charge, ensuring you can work for extended periods without interruptions.
Convenient Bit Changes: Say goodbye to hassle, as the tool-free spindle lock makes bit changes a breeze.
Illuminate Your Workspace: The dual-LED lights brilliantly illuminate your workpiece, providing clear visibility and precision during your woodworking projects.
The Downsides
Metric collets
While the M18 FUEL Router shines in many aspects, it does pose a challenge for UK users due to the utilisation of metric collets. In the UK, the woodworking industry predominantly employs imperial measurement standards, and standard router bit shank sizes are 1/2" and 1/4". However, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL router uses metric collets, which are 12mm and 8mm.
Adapting to metric collets might require additional conversions or accessories should you wish to use imperial router bits with this router.
There are a few reasons why Milwaukee chose to use metric collets on this router. First, metric collets are more common in Europe, where Milwaukee is a major player in the woodworking market. Second, metric collets are more precise than imperial collets, which can be important for some woodworking applications.
Limitation in Plunge Depth
Due to using metric collets, this cordless router has a plunge depth of only 38mm which is not deep enough for some applications, such as routing worktops, a common use for routers in the UK.
Specification
- Voltage: 18V (Milwaukee M18)
- Kit includes: 1 x 12mm and 1 x 8mm collet
- Horsepower: 2.25 hp
- RPM: 12,000 - 25,000
- Base diameter: 6"
- Fixed base travel: 2"
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Product Weight: 2.8kg (approx)
- Router Base Type: Plunge Base
Overall, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Cordless Router is a powerful and versatile tool that's perfect for a variety of woodworking applications. However, the metric collets and shallow plunge depth may be a drawback for some users.