Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. to 6 in. Braking Grinder, Paddle Switch, No-Lock 2 battery kit. It generates the power of a 13 Amp corded grinder, has 6 in. grinding capacity and brakes all accessories under 3 seconds. REDLINK PLUS intelligence protects the grinder from overloading, overheating and over discharge. The M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery delivers more material removed per charge and exceptional run time. FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard adjustments mean less downtime as you work. The grinding wheel is sold separately.
- POWERSTATE brushless motor: purposely built for the M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. to 6 in. braking grinder to provide the power and performance of a 13 Amp corded grinder
- REDLINK PLUS intelligence ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications
- REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 battery pack provides 50% more power and runs cooler versus M18 REDLITHIUM XC battery packs
- Rapid stop braking feature stops all accessories in 3-seconds or less
- Metal housing and Gearing system provides legendary durability
- 100% tool free: make all accessory changes and guard adjustments without a wrench for increased productivity
- Compatible with all M18 batteries
- Includes: 2980-20 M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. to 6 in. grinder, paddle switch, no-lock, two M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 batteries type 27, 6 in. guard, side handle, FIXTEC nut, backing flange, wrench
- Superior pack construction provides the industry’s best protection against jobsite conditions
Clint Crooks (verified owner) –
Best grinder I ever had. Worth the money.
Derrick Schumm (verified owner) –
Simply put. For a battery powered item, this things a beast.
Kayla Graham (verified owner) –
Amazing tool. Very powerful and tuff. Just what I’ve learned to expect from Mikwaukee.
Lora Hoppe (verified owner) –
The M18 FUEL line is the best out there in my opinion. I am a diesel mechanic and work on fuel trailers as well. I’m hard on my tools and I have a lot of this line in my tool box for the last 3 years and they take a beating everyday and keep taking a beating.
Antonetta Boyle (verified owner) –
M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-1/2 in./6 in. Grinder with Paddle Switch Kit and (1) 6.0 Ah Batteryby MilwaukeePackaging Contents: Grinder, side handle, guard, wrench, battery, battery charger, contractor’s bagFirst Impressions: Big and beefyDescription: The Model 2980-21 is a complete kit, save for the grinding wheel or wire wheel. The grinder is claimed to be equivalent to the power of a 13A corded grinder. It has a built-in brake which brakes all accessories under 3 seconds, and it has a 6” grinding capacity.It has a brushless motor and is supposed to provide users with maximum performance, while protecting from overload, overheating and over discharge.The tool is built around the power of an 18 volt battery system for all-day performance in commercial settings for the busy contractor. The tool is also designed for tool-free adjustments and attachment exchanges.Tool-free accessory changes using the FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard adjustments mean users will experience less downtime as they work. The cordless angle grinder’s grinding wheel is sold separately. The kit includes one M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery.Usage: Well, I did find this tool to be strong. Indeed, it has a no-nonsense battery power that will handle the most demanding jobs, making going cordless a real joy.Ergonomically, I find it to be very good, and I particularly liked the way the guard and wheels attach with tool-free methods. The user must become familiar with the business end of the grinder because the instructions are not clear and detailed enough to show the proper usage. Luckily, it is pretty much self-evident for any user.Because the guard goes on only one way, once in place, the built-in lever allows it to spin around to various detents to keep debris from the user. A very nice touch indeed.I did not like the safety lock-out for the paddle switch. These safety devices are often poorly thought out, and this is no exception. Having to move one’s hand back to engage it and bring it forward is an annoying and unnecessary step. It would have been far better to put in place a switch with a neutral position, as many drills and drivers have.One can use just about any shape of grinding, cut-off, or sanding disc, as well as various brush wheels within the 4.5-6 inch range. This makes the tool very utilitarian and able to handle a wide range of jobs; no need to buy separate tools. That’s a money-saver.When looking for the correct attachment, keep in mind the tool’s rated 9000 rpm, the size of 4.5-6 inch diameter and the spindle shaft which is threaded at 5/8–11.The tool set comes in a very large bag; larger than necessary. However, since it is listed as a contractor’s bag, it is likely assumed the worker will place other things in it, as well as in the exterior tool slots. The bag and zipper closure are certainly strong enough.The tool only has a five year warranty and three year on the battery. I would have expected a lifetime warranty for the price.They have now come out with even a larger battery for this system of tools, but even this one and its charger will fit dozens of tools.You should see how fast it cuts steel with a cutoff disc. Did I mention “fast”? You’ll like that it is definitely up for the task. I even tried it out of the box with the battery only showing the first charge light, and it didn’t even slow down. Pretty impressive.Overall Thoughts:This is a big, powerful tool and it will do what you need done.
Billie Pollich (verified owner) –
What an awesome grinder. I almost can’t believe that such a powerful tool can run off of a battery. My favorite feature of the grinder is the brushless design. It stays amazingly cool while my old grinder would start burning my hand and burning itself out. I also like the ability to use up to 6″ discs. This kit comes with everything you need. Another neat feature is the foldable d-ring on the flange nut, so you can tighten and remove it without using the spanner.
Tad Haley (verified owner) –
Plentyof power. Definitely eats batteries quick when geinding though.
Lon Yost (verified owner) –
This is by far much larger grinder in the standard 4 1/2 inch fuel grinder I was using before. They make both versions one with paddle which I prefer and the other being the standard switch. I prefer the pedal switch for safety reasons I’ve seen enough people have accidents with leaving the switch on and put the grinder down and not realizing it. I was a little skeptical about the breaking feature on this grinder whether not it would actually stop the grinder from spin Inc. within three seconds and I have a video attached to this review that shows his lesson three seconds every time it’s pretty impressive. The Innovation from Milwaukee is always impressive especially the breaking feature. The grinder itself comes with a 6 inch guard if you wanted a smaller car for 4 1/2 or 5 inch desks you would have to order that separately. This grinder is available is tool only, with one battery, or with two batteries kits. This Kit features the new 6 AM hi output batteries that give you maximum performance for these brushless fuel tools. If your homeowner and do lotta metal work or your welding shop meeting a decent grinder without the cord this is definitely the way to go.
Edison Kemmer (verified owner) –
Powerful wonderful for the quick little jobs where you just have to cut this little piece or grind this little spot. You can just do the job and move on without having to pull out extension cords then go through the hassle of having to put it all away. Not used to the brake don’t know how much power it takes and if it is worth it to save the time.
Destin Treutel (verified owner) –
Great grinder good power, had a little trouble with the guard, it keep falling off the 1st few time I used it.
Trinity Klocko (verified owner) –
So much power. Blows all 60 volt competitors out of the water. The only cordless grinder I would trust to cut, bevel, and prep pipe
Foster Frami (verified owner) –
This is by far one of the best angle grinders I’ve owned. My primary grinder was a 4-1/2″, 11 amp corded unit, but this one is much easier to use and outperforms it. It’s slightly longer, but it is much more comfortable to use since the grip isn’t as thick and the lack of a power cord automatically makes it easier to handle. The paddle switch is also very easy to use and the safety feels solid.Performance: it easily cuts through metal, especially if using a diamond blade. Cutting and grinding concrete is pretty effortless. Battery life: I really put it to the test one day cutting up old scrap metal before using it to working on concrete. Was able to do everything on one battery charge.I’m extremely satisfied with this grinder and highly recommend it if you’re looking to replace a corded unit.
Clementine Hackett (verified owner) –
Best small grinder by far. Works like a 9” grinder.
Adeline Osinski (verified owner) –
SUMMARY: A GREAT ADDITION TO THE M18 TOOL LINEBACKGROUND: I prefer to switch grinders instead of wheels when working metal. The Milwaukee 2890-21 4 ½ to 6 inch angle grinder looked like a great addition to my grinder collection for large area flap-wheel sanding.FIT AND FINISH: I love my Milwaukee tools. Like all the Milwaukee tools I own, this had that same rugged “use me” feel. Advertised as the same power as a 15 amp angle grinder, it was noticeably larger than my Milwaukee 11 amp angle grinder. AT roughly 5 pounds it is definitely a hefty tool. The kit comes with the grinder, handle, charger, 6 amphour battery, 12v / 18v charger, and a carry bag.FEATURES: Although advertised as a 4 ½ to 6” grinder there is only a 6” blade guard included. The packaging indicates the 4 1/2” guard is an optional accessory. Once installed the included 6” blade guard allow a fairly wide angle adjustment. The design of the guard will not let you put the guard in a position that exposes the body of the grinder to the blade.The included side handle is beefy and screws onto either side of the head with equal ease. It is bulky, put I believe that is due to the vibration injury abatement requirements. It was not to large for me to hold and felt quite comfortable when using the grinder. The FIXTEC retaining nut was a new feature for me and I like its flip-up handle that allows tool-less removal of the nut when changing wheels. I hope I can get these for my other grinders.The power brake is also a very nice feature. The ability to lay the grinder down within a few seconds without any worry of a spinning attachment makes for a quicker, less worried workflow. The paddle-lock power switch is a slight con point for me. There is no way to lock the power on so one hand has to hold the switch to keep the grinder running. I you were going to need a grinder in a tight space or awkward position this grinder might not meet your needs. The grinder uses the Milwaukee REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ XC6.0 Battery Pack. I have several of the older Milwaukee batteries and have always been pleased with there performance. This is the largest amp hour battery I own from Milwaukee and am expecting great things from it.OPERATION: Simple to use. Attach the appropriate guard and cutting/ grinding/ sanding wheel (if available.) Plug in the battery. Don your PPE and start working. Release the power switch and the Rapid Stop feature stops the attachment within 3 seconds. PROS: Rugged. Easy to use. Cordless. Brushless.CONS: There is no support information on the Milwaukee web site yet. A search for any manuals for “2980-21” resulted in: “Your search for ‘2980-20’ returned 0 results.” I have contacted product / parts support to see if they can provide the owner’s manual and parts list in soft format.I spent about 15 minutes trying to find the “optional” 4 1/2” blade guard with no luck. Since the product is new it may take a while for it to show online. I don’t expect to see it in stock at any Home Depot.Which brings the 3rd issue. I have a ton of 4 1/2” discs, wheels, and cups. The only thing in stock at my local Home Depot is a 6” cutting wheel. I had hoped to get a 6” flap-wheel sander, but may have to go to a third-party vendor.SUMMARY: Another welcome addition to my tool collection and my Milwaukee stable!
Rhoda Hartmann (verified owner) –
Great buy. Fast delivery.
Kraig Hammes (verified owner) –
Tool is great. Runs strong and lasts a good while. Only issues I have is the guard rattles while running and the carry bag isn’t big enough for the tool once the battery and wheel are on
Alexandrine Johnston (verified owner) –
Awesome
Adonis Welch (verified owner) –
The problem with corded grinders for me is I have to have AC power wherever I go. In most cases power is not close by and when it is I have to use an extension cord. Then you have to deal with a cord being pulled around the site and hope no one damages it. So I figured it’s time to get a battery powered grinder. I like the fact I can use 4.5” to 6” grinding wheels. My next job is re-tucking parts of a block foundation and brick chimney. I purchased a new diamond tuck point blade, Sku # 133817, I also purchased a masonry blade, 130238 and a metal cutting blade, 1000010438 for other uses. Several reasons I purchased Milwaukee, almost every battery tool I now have is Milwaukee and powered by the M18 fuel , so I have lots of backup batteries I can use. Milwaukee has a great reputation for quality tools. With a brushless motor it should last a long long time. The handle is padded for comfort. You have to push the lock-off button forward then squeeze the handle to start, this is a No-Lock trigger, which I like. It has a controlled start so you don’t get a “jerk” when you first pull the trigger. Rapid stop braking system, stops in less than 3 seconds. It has what they call a FIXTEC nut that has a tightening tab as a part of it so you don’t need a wrench to tighten, but a wrench is included in the kit. The 6” guard can easily be adjusted to 5 positions. On page 5 of the Operator’s Manual it says to only use the 6” guard with a 6” grinding wheel. You have to purchase a 4.5” guard separately for the 4.5” wheels. So I E-mailed Milwaukee on their web-site looking for a parts manual and the part number for the 4.5” guard, after the first day passed I decided to research myself. Found that a 6142-30, 4.5” corded grinder has a 4.5” guard. In the parts manual it looked like the guard was the correct one. So I went to the local Home Depot, because they had one in stock. Everything with the mounting is the same. So the Part # for that guard is 43-54-1200. I would think they would have included it in the kit. I ordered one from a local power tool company. After 3 days I received an email back from support that confirmed the number I ordered was correct. Haven’t received anything on the parts manual yet.
Julio Wisozk (verified owner) –
I love it, works great!!!
Okey Zemlak (verified owner) –
You can cut all day long with this tool!