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If you have used a high-torque drill before, you know the fear. You are drilling a 3-inch hole saw through a stud. The bit catches a nail. The drill spins violently out of your hand, and your wrist snaps.
For years, this was just “part of the job.”
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Gen 4 (2904-20) changes that. While it is arguably the most powerful drill on the market, the reason to buy it isn’t the power—it’s the computer inside that stops it from breaking your wrist.
Here is our breakdown of the new King of Red.
The “One Thing” (The Hook)
AutoStop Control Mode. This is the standout feature. Milwaukee put a gyroscope inside the foot of the tool. If the drill rotates more than 45 degrees in a split second (a “bind-up” event), the motor cuts power instantly. A red light flashes on the foot to tell you, “I just saved your wrist.”
For plumbers and electricians drilling overhead on ladders, this feature alone is worth the $199 price tag.
The Good
- Compact Size: It is only 6.9 inches long. That is significantly shorter than the DeWalt DCD999. It fits between joists that other heavy-duty drills simply can’t reach.
- Raw Power: In independent testing, it consistently drills 2-9/16″ self-feed holes through pressure-treated lumber in “High Speed” (Speed 2). Most competitors stall and have to drop to Low Speed.
- The Chuck: Milwaukee finally fixed it. Previous generations had chucks that fell apart. The Gen 4 uses an all-metal ratcheting chuck with carbide teeth that grip bits aggressively.
The Bad (The #1 Complaint)
It runs hot. Because Milwaukee squeezed so much power into such a tiny metal casing, the head of the drill gets noticeably hot after heavy use. If you are drilling 50 massive holes in a row, you will need to wear gloves. It won’t burn the motor up, but it becomes uncomfortable to touch the metal casing.
The Verdict
Who is this for?
- Buy it if: You are a Pro (Plumber/Electrician) who drills large holes all day. The AutoStop safety feature is a career-saver.
- Skip it if: You are a casual homeowner. This tool is overkill. It is heavy, expensive, and powerful enough to hurt you if you disable the safety. Get the M12 FUEL instead.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Milwaukee Gen 4 (2904-20) |
| Torque | 1,400 in-lbs |
| Length | 6.9 inches |
| Weight (Bare) | 3.3 lbs |
| RPM | 0-2,100 |
| Warranty | 5 Years (Tool) |
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