Milwaukee 1/2″ D-Handle Right Angle Drill Kit 3002-1 Review

1/2″ D-Handle Right Angle Drill Kit 3002-1

Over the last few months I’ve been testing a new right angle drill while wiring my new workshop. The folks at Milwaukee sent me their 1/2″ D-Handle Right Angle Drill Kit 3002-1 to test and evaluate. Right angle drills are a staple for both plumbers and electricians. Without these specialty drills rough-in electrical and plumbing would be a nightmare!

Model 3002-1 Out Of The Box

The Milwaukee 3oo2-1 comes with a really nice plastic case that features metal latches (serious pet peeve of mine lately are plastic latches). The kit includes the drill, chuck key, side handle, extension and ring clamp. These drills are very versatile because you can remove the right-angle drive unit and convert the drill to a standard drill configuration. So basically you get two drills in one!

Features

  • 1/2 in. capacity in steel, handles up to a 2-9/16 in. selfeed bit
  • Trigger speed control in two ranges: 0-400/0-900 rpm, reversing
  • Powerful 7 amp motor
  • Head and handle swivel 360°

Power…Power and more Power

This drill has tons of power! Seriously if you don’t hold on tight you’re likely to get hurt. I’ve been drilling holes for my electrical rough-in and it powers my self-feeding bits through framing lumber like a hot knife through butter. I even drilled through some engineered lumber with ease. This drill will handle a wide range of bits and materials for small and medium sized holes. I’m sure it could handle an occasional 6″ diameter hole but those type of holes are better suited for the bigger drills if you do them all day.

Features and Comfort

The Milwaukee 3002-1 right angle drill is very well balanced and comfortable to use. The D-Handle grip is perfect for these large size drills and makes the drill much easier to control. This drill is also reversible which is a must on these large drills with some of the large boring bits.

If I had to change one thing on this drill it would be the location of the reverse switch. You can see it on the bottom of the handle. I would prefer having it up on the top of the handle where you can reach it with your thumb or index finger.

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee makes some really good quality tools. This right angle drill is seriously rugged and built to take the abuse and rigors of tough job site conditions. Honestly I can’t really find anything to change worth pointing out except for my slight change on the reverse switch. I give this right angle drill two thumbs up and a very high recommendation. If you’re in the market for a tough, powerful, versatile D-Handle Right Angle Drill then I suggest you consider the Milwaukee 3002-1 Kit.

You can buy this drill at the following link for around $260.

About the author

Todd Fratzel

Todd Fratzel is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz, and the President of Front Steps Media, LLC, a web based media company focused on the Home Improvement and Construction Industry.He is also the Principal Engineer for United Construction Corp., located in Newport, NH. In his capacity at United he oversees the Residential and Commercial Building Division along with all Design-Build projects.He is also the editor of Home Construction & Improvement.

@tfratzelTodd Fratzel

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6 Comments

  1. Hey Todd. I think you are right on the spot with your review of the Milwaukee 3002-1 right angle drill. I’ve found it to be about as rugged a drill as a guy can get and a down right handy tool. I’m a big believer in choosing the right tool for the right job. This drill is definitely the right tool for a lot of jobs.

    At $260 bucks a guy can’t go wrong with the Milwaukee 3002-1 kit.

    Best, Joe.

  2. carlos Slores

    Sir: I have a similar drill but different model Milwaukee 3002-1 1/2 in. D-Handle Right Angle Drill Kit [ handle is installed in the body].
    I can’t find the manual for it and the Milwaukee site doesn’t show it. I need to know if I can use this drill with a straight chuck and where can I get the extra chuck or is there a conversion kit???,,what’s your experience with it?
    I would appreciate any information ..thank you sir.

    carlos

    1. Todd Fratzel

      Carlos – I’m asking Milwaukee….I’ll let you know what they say.

    2. Todd Fratzel

      I just emailed you directions from Milwaukee.

  3. Karl

    Hello
    Is there anybody can tell me how to change speed setting “on the fly” on this Milwaukee drill. There’s no speed switch button anywhere and not mentioned in manual.The Home Depot guy could not answer it
    Thanks

    1. Todd Fratzel

      Karl – I believe it’s only a variable speed trigger.

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