Air may not be dead yet, but Milwaukee Tool just gave it a quick stab in a major artery. The new Milwaukee M12 FUEL Die Grinder fits the build to replace many like-kind air tools in the mechanic’s toolbox. Specifically, this is the model 2485 and it is a 1/4″ right angle die grinder. The M12 specifies that it’s part of their 12V lineup and the FUEL signifies it includes the brushless motor.
Complete Video Review of the M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder.
M12 Die Grinder Specifications
M12 FUEL™ 1/4″ Right Angle Die Grinder Kit (2485-22) $259- RPM: 0 – 24,500
- 4-Mode RPM Control
- Power Output: 0.3 HP
- Collet Size: 1/4″
- Length: 4.5”
- Weight w/ battery: 1.7 lbs
- 5-year tool warranty, 2-year battery warranty
- Includes M12 FUEL™ 1/4” Right Angle Die Grinder, (2) M12™ REDLITHIUM™ CP2.0 Battery Packs, M12 Charger, (2) Wrenches, and Contractor Bag.
- Release Date: October 2019
- *Also available as bare tool (2485-20) $169
Milwaukee M12 FUEL Die Grinder Features
A 0.3 HP motor is said to deliver more power than the pneumatic counterpart, yet it’s still small enough to fit into tight places. 4 Modes enable RPM control for the mechanic, allowing you to dial down or speed up, depending on the process and accessory. Many accessories are not approved or designed for spinning 25,000 RPM. Mode 1 thru 4 is 10K, 15K, 20K, and 25K RPM respectively. A rubber overmould grip surrounds the handle, allowing you to easily maneuver the M12 tool. A simple paddle and plunger switch operates the variable speed throttle giving you near-infinite control of the RPM, from 0 to 25,000 RPM.
Other Great Milwaukee Reviews: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Die Grinder
Our Thoughts
You don’t have to work around an auto-shop, being a mechanic or not, very long to understand the many benefits of a die grinder. From cutting to polishing to grinding, sanding, and removing gaskets, the die grinder many times is used every day. The downside to the die grinder (of old) is that you have to pull a hose around everywhere, and you need a compressor to supply the air. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL die grinder should be a huge hit for the mechanic.
After playing with the M12 die grinder at the Milwaukee NPS event, I can easily attest that it has the speed and power to get jobs done. The question remains on the runtime of the M12 batteries. If it lasts the entire job, then it will be successful. If you have to change batteries (re-charge) after removing the gasket from 1/2 an oil pan, that could be a problem. However, with the addition of the 6.0 M12 batteries, I doubt runtime will be an issue.
We look forward to getting the Milwaukee M12 FUEL right-angle die grinder in-house for a full review. Furthermore, we also look forward to seeing this as a straight die grinder as well. You can get the M12 Die Grinder for $259 for the kit and $169 for the bare tool. Expect to see them hitting shelves in October of 2019.
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