Full Review ⭐ Milwaukee MILM18BIW120: Impact Wrenches-Cordless

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 120Nm 1/2" Impact Wrench (model MILM18BIW120) is a powerful cordless impact wrench that runs on Milwaukee's 18V lithium-ion battery system. Part of Milwaukee's high-performance Fuel line, this impact wrench combines brushless motor technology with RedLithium batteries to deliver outstanding power, runtime, and durability on the jobsite.

With 120Nm of maximum fastening torque, a compact and lightweight design, and variable speed trigger, this impact wrench can tackle a wide range of automotive, construction, and industrial fastening applications. It's designed to deliver the power of an air impact wrench in a cordless platform that offers unmatched mobility and convenience.

In this review, we'll take a close look at the key features and performance of the M18 Fuel 120Nm impact wrench, including its power, speed, torque settings, battery life, accessories, durability, and overall value as a professional-grade cordless tool. We'll highlight the pros and cons of this model to help determine if it's the right choice for your fastening needs.

Power and Performance

The Milwaukee MILM18BIW120 impact wrench delivers impressive power and performance thanks to its POWERSTATE brushless motor that provides 1,200 in-lbs of nut-busting torque and 2,000 IPM. This high torque motor allows you to easily loosen even the most stubborn bolts and lug nuts.

The 4-mode DRIVE CONTROL allows you to switch between four different speed and torque settings to match your fastening needs. There's a self-tapping screw mode, a reduced power mode for hand-held use or smaller fasteners, a max power mode for the heaviest duty applications, and a bolt removal mode that increases impacts per minute for stubborn bolts. This versatility makes the tool suitable for a wide range of automotive and industrial fastening tasks.

With a compact and lightweight design, the MILM18BIW120 delivers power comparable to much larger pneumatic impact wrenches while being easier to maneuver and transport between jobs. It's an excellent cordless alternative to air tools for field service, maintenance, and repair applications where mobility is key.

For those looking for a more compact 12V cordless impact wrench, the Milwaukee M12 FIW38-622X: FuelTM Impact Wrench Kit 12V 1 x 2.0Ah & 1 x 6.0Ah Li-ion is an excellent option. The M12 FIW38-622X features a POWERSTATE brushless motor that provides 300 ft-lbs of max fastening torque, which is more than enough for most automotive and light industrial fastening tasks. Its compact size makes it easy to use in tight spaces, while the included 2.0Ah and 6.0Ah REDLITHIUM-ION batteries provide extended runtime. Like the M18, it has multiple speed/torque settings. If you need a high-powered compact impact wrench, the M12 FIW38-622X is hard to beat.

As a 12V tool, the M12 FIW38 won't match the raw power of the heavier duty M18 impact wrench. But it excels in mobility and accessing tight spaces that the larger M18 would struggle with. Many mechanics keep both an M18 high torque impact wrench and a M12 compact impact wrench in their toolbox to cover the full range of fastening needs. The M12 FIW38-622X comes as a kit with two battery sizes to give you flexibility in runtime vs weight during use. It's a versatile compact impact wrench suitable for automotive work, light industrial tasks, and any applications where space is tight.

In summary, the Milwaukee M18 BIW120 is a heavyweight cordless impact wrench designed for demanding heavy fastening jobs, while the M12 FIW38-622X is a more compact and portable option better suited for mobility and tight access points. Both deliver impressive power and performance thanks to POWERSTATE brushless motors and multiple speed/torque settings. Choosing between them comes down to the requirements of your specific fastening tasks and work environment.

Design and Ergonomics

The Milwaukee MILM18BIW120 impact wrench is designed to be compact and lightweight for improved maneuverability and less user fatigue. The tool measures just 5.9 inches front to back and weighs only 2.8 pounds with the battery installed. This makes the MILM18BIW120 easy to handle in tight spaces where a full-size impact wrench won't fit. The streamlined grip contour also promotes a natural wrist position that reduces strain during prolonged use.

Despite its compact size, the tool still delivers impressive torque and fastening power. Much of this comes down to Milwaukee's proprietary POWERSTATE brushless motor which delivers more power while running cooler and more efficiently than standard motors. This innovative motor technology allows Milwaukee to pack serious performance in a smaller package without overheating.

The slim grip diameter also allows users with smaller hands to securely hold the tool, unlike bulkier impact wrench models. The overmolded rubber grip improves comfort and control as well. Overall, the compact and ergonomic design make the MILM18BIW120 ideal for automotive, construction, and industrial fastening tasks where workspace is limited. Users report less hand and arm fatigue after extended use thanks to the tool's light weight and well-balanced feel.

Another popular Milwaukee impact wrench that emphasizes compact ergonomics is the Milwaukee M18 ONEIWF12-0: FuelTM ONE-KeyTM 1/2in FR Impact Wrench 18V Bare Unit. Like the MILM18BIW120, the M18 ONEIWF12-0 features an extremely compact and lightweight design that improves maneuverability in tight spaces. It measures only 5.6 inches front to back and weighs just 2.8 pounds with a battery installed.

The streamlined grip on the M18 ONEIWF12-0 allows users to get closer to workpieces in confined areas. It also reduces fatigue during all day use. An integrated LED light provides illumination in dark spaces. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers up to 900 ft-lbs of fastening torque in a small package. This makes it ideal for automotive and general fastening applications where power and portability are equally important.

Both the MILM18BIW120 and M18 ONEIWF12-0 demonstrate Milwaukee's commitment to ergonomic design. They pack serious torque and runtime into compact bodies that are comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. For professionals working in tight quarters, the reduced size and weight of these tools translate to less fatigue over a long workday. And innovative features like the streamlined grip and LED light enhance the user experience as well.

Battery Life

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 120 MPH 1/2 in. Impact Wrench comes with two M18 Red Lithium XC high capacity 5.0Ah battery packs. These provide plenty of runtime for most applications. With the high output batteries, you can expect up to 2 hours of continuous runtime depending on workload. This gives you enough juice to complete most automotive or construction jobs without having to stop to recharge frequently.

The batteries use RedLithium technology which provides longer life, more work per charge, and better performance even in extreme temperatures. It's designed to deliver constant power output without fading as the battery drains. The batteries also feature an LED fuel gauge so you can check remaining runtime at a glance. Overall, the large capacity 5.0Ah batteries ensure you get reliable cordless power when using this high torque impact wrench.

Accessories

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 120 Impact Wrench Kit comes with a few handy accessories to get you started. In the box, you'll find the impact wrench itself along with two M18 Red Lithium XC 5.0Ah battery packs. These high capacity battery packs deliver fade-free power and superior run times compared to standard lithium-ion batteries.

Also included is an M18 and M12 charger which can charge one M18 battery and one M12 battery simultaneously. The charger features an LED display which shows the individual battery charge levels. For fast charging, it can fully recharge an M18 battery in under an hour.

To help keep the impact wrench and batteries organized for transport and storage, the kit includes a contractor bag. This heavy-duty bag has dedicated storage pockets for the tool, batteries, accessories, and charger. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry the loaded bag around the job site.

Finally, the kit includes basic documentation - a warranty card, operator's manual, and product registration information. So everything you need to start using the tool comes neatly packed in the included contractor bag. The key accessories that come standard are the two high capacity batteries, rapid charger, and pro-grade carrying bag.

Applications

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel impact wrench is ideal for automotive repair shops, construction sites, manufacturing facilities, and anywhere high torque fastening is required. Its compact size makes it easy to access tight spaces when working under a vehicle or in a mechanical room. The wrench can generate up to 700 ft-lbs of nut busting torque and 1,200 ft-lbs of bolt removal torque, providing more than enough power for lug nuts, suspension components, drivetrain mounts, and equipment installation. Construction workers find the tool indispensable for driving lag bolts into wood, setting anchors in concrete, and assembling scaffolding and structures. The variable speed trigger allows precise control when running down bolts to a specified torque. With the pin detent system, sockets can be quickly changed to suit the fastener. Durability and battery life make the M18 fuel impact wrench a versatile and reliable addition to any pro toolkit.

Durability

The Milwaukee M18 BIW120 impact wrench is known for its exceptional durability that allows it to withstand tough jobsite conditions day after day.

The high-performance motor and reinforced housing are designed for demanding professional use. The motor brushes and impact mechanism are made of heavy-duty components that resist wear. This allows the tool to deliver consistent torque and runtime even after extended use.

The impact wrench has a robust metal gearbox and all-metal transmission that provide the durability to handle high torque applications. It can withstand accidental drops and impacts that are common at construction sites.

The tool is protected from dust and debris with sealed switches and a protected battery connection area. This allows the impact wrench to operate in dirty job site environments while avoiding dust ingestion that can deteriorate the tool over time.

Overall, the durable construction ensures a long service life for the Milwaukee M18 BIW120 impact wrench. Contractors can rely on its sustained performance for the many years of rough treatment and challenging conditions that come with commercial jobsites.

Value

When looking at the value of the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 120 Impact Wrench, you need to consider a few key factors.

First, this is a professional-grade power tool, so it is priced accordingly. At around £200, it is more expensive than a basic DIY impact wrench. However, you get what you pay for in terms of power and performance. With its brushless motor, the M18 delivers up to 120 ft-lbs of fastening torque, which is far beyond what a casual user would need.

Second, the M18 Fuel comes as a bare tool only, so you need to factor in the cost of batteries and a charger if you don't already have compatible Milwaukee tools. High output batteries like the M18 XC 6.0Ah cost around £150 each.

However, when you look at the potential time and effort savings from being able to drive large fasteners quickly and efficiently, the M18 Fuel 120 starts to look like a worthwhile investment for professionals. The performance and reliability help maximize productivity on the job site.

For those who regularly work with large fasteners like lug nuts, bolts, and lag screws, the M18 Fuel 120 provides excellent value considering its power and durability. It's built for daily professional use and will likely outlast cheaper alternatives. So while the upfront cost is significant, the long-term value makes it worth the price.

Pros

• Powerful high torque motor provides up to 700 ft-lbs of fastening torque, allowing it to complete demanding automotive and construction applications

• Compact and lightweight at only 7.2 lbs with battery, reducing user fatigue during prolonged use

• Variable speed trigger gives user precise control, with 0-1900 RPM speed range to match task and avoid overtightening

• 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL provides versatility, with four torque settings for optimal fastening control

• Onboard fuel gauge and LED light help maximize runtime by indicating battery life and illuminating work area

• Includes protective bumper to prevent marring work surfaces, increasing durability

• Backed by Milwaukee's strong reputation for performance, reliability, and service

Cons

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel impact wrench has a few drawbacks to consider:

• The tool is heavy and large, which can cause fatigue during prolonged use. At 7.6 pounds with a battery, it's not ideal for tight spaces or overhead work.

• Battery life could be better. Expect around 100-150 screws per charge depending on the task. For all day use, you'll need multiple batteries.

• There's no battery fuel gauge, so you can't tell how much charge is left. You'll need to keep track of usage time.

• While powerful, it's not quite as fast at driving bolts as comparable pneumatic impact wrenches. Speed tops out around 2,000 RPM.

• It's an expensive tool, over £200 for just the bare tool. You'll need to factor in the cost of batteries and charger.