Milwaukee M12 Compact Cordless Tool Predictions

Thinking about the many compact cordless tools out there, I just realized that Mikwaukee’s M12 screwdriver is getting a bit long in the tooth. It’s still a highly successful tool that earned itself a very solid reputation, but spec-wise its age is starting to show.

Bosch just released revitalized most of their compact cordless line with new drills and drivers. Dewalt’s preparing for the fall launch of their own compact cordless lineup. Even Ridgid recently launched their own lineup of compact cordless [and modular] tools. Let’s not forget that Dremel is getting into the fray with a new battery system for their cordless rotary tool lineup and a new cordless Multi-Max oscillating tool. Who knows what else is up their sleeves!

Without a doubt, Milwaukee’s engineers are hard at work on new tool additions and upgrades to their vast and reputable M12 lineup. Here are our predictions:

M12 Sub-Compact Cordless Screwdriver

As mentioned, Milwaukee’s cordless M12 driver is starting to show its age when compared to other brands’ offerings. I would expect for its upgrade or replacement to be more compact, most notably with a shorter nose length, and with at least double the power (currently 100 in-lbs). Perhaps a second speed range setting will be included as well.

M12 Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool

Almost everyone has one of these handy Fein-styled tools: Craftsman, Bosch, Rockwell, Dremel, & Ridgid. With the largest selection of compact cordless tools amongst their competitors, Milwaukee is definitely expected to release an oscillating tool of their own.

M12 Right Angle Driver

We reviewed Milwaukee’s M12 right angle drill a few months ago, and thought very highly of it. It seems to me that it shouldn’t be too difficult for Milwaukee to adapt a 1/4″ hex chuck into their right angle tool design to result in a RA screwdriver. But please, don’t discontinue the RA drill, it’s a heck of a useful tool.

M12 3/8″ Driver Ratchet Tool

There aren’t too many cordless square driver ratchets around, perhaps Milwaukee hopes to be the one to make it mainstream.

If you guys have predictions of your own, please feel free to share them! I wonder how many of our predictions will come true within the next year.