The Milwaukee M12 Cordless Rotary Tool Receives A Brushless Motor Upgrade
Rotary tools have a long-standing history amongst serious hobbyists and DIYers for their versatility and precision. With advances in modern battery technology, many manufacturers are cutting the cord and taking a more Pro-focused approach. We’re doing a deep dive on the latest Milwaukee M12 Cordless Rotary Tool so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your tool arsenal.
Pros:
- Brushless motor
- Improved speed controls
- Ergonomic grip
- Lightweight design
- Tool free collet
Cons:
- No-Load Speed: 5000-27500 RPM
- Collet: 1/8 in.
- Motor: Brushless
- Max Accessory Diameter: 2 in.
This brushless rotary tool has a total of 12 speed settings ranging from 5,000 RPMs all the way up to 27,500 RPMs. That kind of speed is right in line with what we expect from a pro-grade tool.
Setting the speed is easy, but there is a slight learning curve. To set the speed, just press the +/- to cycle through the settings. Each of the LEDs represents two speed settings. Odd speeds display initially as a solid light, while even speeds display initially as a blinking light and then go solid.
| Speed Setting | RPM | Speed Setting | RPM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5,000 | 7 | 17,250 |
| 2 | 7,050 | 8 | 19,300 |
| 3 | 9,100 | 9 | 21,350 |
| 4 | 11,100 | 10 | 23,400 |
| 5 | 13,200 | 11 | 25,450 |
| 6 | 15,200 | 12 | 27,500 |
The 1/8-inch collet doesn’t stray too far from the norm, but there are some things to know before you get started. Although not included, Milwaukee’s collet is compatible with 1/32-inch, 1/16-inch, and 3/32-inch shanks. Additionally, the nose collar pulls double duty as a collet wrench, allowing for quick accessory changes.
So when is the best time to put this tool into action? Well, Milwaukee recommends this rotary tool for light sanding and grinding tasks, polishing, wire brushing, and even light cutting tasks. Its small, lightweight profile allows you to work with precision.
Milwaukee Cordless Rotary Tool Design Notes
- Model: Milwaukee 2525
- Power Source: Milwaukee M12 battery
- Length: 9.25 in.
- Weight: 0.8 lbs (bare), 1.25 lbs (with 2.5Ah battery)
The Milwaukee 2525 weighs in at 13 ounces as a bare tool and 1.25 pounds with an M12 High Output CP2.5Ah battery. It measures 9.25 inches in length, and the tapered barrel grip design is 2.25 inches at its widest point.
Just like the previous model, the Milwaukee 2460, the tool body features a textured rubber overmold for added safety and comfort.
As we mentioned before, the housing tapers down in a way that offers several grip options. Hold it around the middle for the best control for applications such as bolt cutting, or grip it pencil-style when precision is the name of the game.
Additional Features
- Compatible with all Milwaukee M12 batteries
- LED fuel gauge
- LED work light
You can get this cordless rotary too for $99 as a bare too and $199 as a kit. The kit includes an M12 2.0Ah battery and charger. Milwaukee backs this tool with a 5-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
From light grinding and sanding to cutting and etching, rotary tools have a ton of great uses. Designed with Professionals in mind, the Milwaukee M12 Cordless Rotary Tool offers increased power and precision for intricate tasks or when space is limited. Not to mention, with the improved battery technology available today, it’s easier than ever to cut the cord.
