The 2603-22CT is Milwaukee’s 18v cordless compact M18 FUEL™ 1/2″ Drill/Driver. The M18 FUEL lineup of cordless tools feature all of Milwaukee’s latest innovations for heavy duty contractor use, including the related 2603-22 cordless drill which is the high performance version. We are very impressed with this model and gave it a 9.3 overall rating.
This unit features the Powerstate brushless motor, RedLink Plus intelligence, and RedLithium battery pack. So what do those trademarked terms mean to you? Well for starters the brushless motor provides more power, reduces noise, runs cooler, and requires less maintenance. More importantly it provides up to 10x longer motor life and up to 50% longer run time per charge. The RedLink Plus intelligence uses hardware and software to communicate between tool, battery, and charger. It keeps the tool running at peak performance and will automatically shut it off if it overheats – providing you with protection against ruining your drill. The RedLithium battery is Milwaukee’s most advanced Lithium-Ion technology. They are designed to perform in extreme jobsite conditions, even in 0°F weather. The two batteries that come in this kit are the compact version which feature 1.5Ah of charge rating and also have an onboard fuel gauge so you know how much power you have left.
The 2603-22CT is listed as a compact version, although at 4.4 pounds it is about 1 pound heavier than other brand’s compact 18v models. It also has 650 in-lbs of torque which rates higher than many other brands high performance drills and much more that their compact tools. Therefore we almost don’t rate this one as a compact drill, but more of a hybrid between a true compact and a bigger high performance model.
The price point is very attractive at $229.00 for its performance. It is lower than high performance models, but higher than other compact 18v units.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2603-22CT is a great compromise of power and weight, although keep in mind there are other models that are lighter if weight is a factor for you and other models that feature better power and battery life if performance is a more important factor. Overall we highly recommend this model for professionals and DIYers.
| Specs | 18v Class Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.3 | |
| Manufacturer | Milwaukee | |
| Model | 2603-22CT | |
| Style | Compact Cordless Drill | |
| Voltage | 18 | |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs | 4.5 lbs |
| Max Torque | 650 in-lbs | 490 in-lbs |
| Max Speed | 1850 | 1600 RPM |
| Variable Speed | 2-SPEED | |
| Reversable | Yes | |
| Chuck Size | 1/2″ | |
| Chuck Type | Keyless, Ratcheting | |
| Battery Type | Compact REDLITHIUM Li-Ion | |
| Charge Rating | 1.5Ah | 1.8 Ah |
| Charge Time | 30 min | 45 min |
| Batteries Included | 2 | |
| Work Light | LED | |
| Extra Handle | No | |
| Fuel Guage | Yes | |
| Warranty | 5 years tool, 2 year battery | 2 years |
| Price | Check Price | $212.99 |
