Milwaukee Tools
Milwaukee Tools for Professional Trades and Jobsite Work
Tool Academy offers an extended lineup of Milwaukee tools, including drills, impact drivers, saws, grinders, nailers, and storage systems to keep a work truck organized. This brand name is highly recognizable among pipe cutters, wire runners, drywall hangers, and wrench owners. We have stocked Milwaukee products for decades and know exactly what trades call for.
M12, M18, and MX FUEL Battery Platforms
Milwaukee offers three voltage platforms for its cordless products - the platform you select will affect the batteries and chargers you'll need in the future. M12 is for compact tools that fit in small areas and require one-handed operation. M18 is the most commonly used platform for framing, demounting, and daily jobsite applications. MX FUEL is mounted on top of both platforms and uses 72-volt lithium packs designed for gas-powered equipment such as mixers, cut-off saws, and jobsite generators.
Note that batteries cannot be interchanged between these platforms. An M12 pack will not operate an M18 tool, and it is not compatible with MX FUEL equipment, so check your tools before buying new batteries.
Drills, Drivers, Saws, Grinders, Nailers, and Combo Kits
Most contractors build their kit around a small number of essential tools, and Milwaukee offers a variety of tools within each category. For instance, the M12 Subcompact Brushless 3/8" Drill/Driver Kit (3401-22) is used for finish work. The M18 FUEL 4-1/2"-6" Braking Grinder (3670-20) is suitable for cutting and grinding. The M18 FUEL 6-1/2" Circular Saw (2833-20) is for lug nuts and structural bolts.
Roofers and framers pick up the M18 FUEL 30 Degree Framing Nailer or the M18 FUEL Coil Roofing Nailer (2909-20). Electricians who are running conduit use the M12 Cable Stapler (2448-20) or the M18 Cut Out Tool (2627-20). Combos, such as the M18 FUEL 7-Tool Combo Kit (3697-27), bundle multiple tools with batteries and a charger for a lower per-tool price.
Milwaukee Accessories, Batteries, Chargers and PACKOUT Storage
A cordless tool is only as good as the battery behind it. The REDLITHIUM and FORGE battery lines are used for light trim work and all-day demolition jobs. Chargers such as the M18 Six Bay Rapid Charger (48-59-1809) keep the crew running without downtime between packs.
For storage, Milwaukee features PACKOUT - a modular system of stackable boxes, organizers, and totes that lock together and can be attached to a truck or trailer. You can use them individually in the PACKOUT 2-Drawer Tool Box (48-22-8442) or as part of a larger stack in the PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box (48-22-8427). Smaller components are sorted by trade or task in the PACKOUT Compact Organizer (48-22-8435).
How to Select the Right Milwaukee Tool Platform
Start with the work you do most. Typically, electricians and plumbers who work in confined areas prefer M12 due to its size and because it's easy to control with one hand. M18 is more useful for framers, roofers, and general contractors, as it supports higher-torque tools and larger batteries suitable for a long day. For those who work with concrete cutting equipment, or equipment that normally operates on gas, it might be worth a look at MX FUEL.
If deciding between a bare tool or a complete kit: buy bare tools when you already have batteries and a charger on that platform, as it reduces the cost per tool. It is recommended to get a complete kit if it's the first platform tool you are buying. Our team responsible for the Milwaukee tool shop counter can discuss your trade and your battery requirements with you and advise on the right combination.
A Proud Supplier of Milwaukee Products
Tool Academy’s team has years of experience using Milwaukee tools and we are happy to answer questions about battery compatibility and tool selection. Browse our Milwaukee online store to set up a toolkit that covers a full jobsite.
