Milwaukee 5380-21 1/2" Hammerdrill - Tool Review

According to Milwaukee Tool Corporation, they introduced the first cam-action hammerdrill back in 1935. It was a lightweight, 1/4" cam-action model and it revolutionized the way we drilled into and through masonry and concrete. Fast-forward to 2012, and the grandchild of that first tool is still hammering its way through those same materials. The Milwaukee 5380-21 1/2" Hammerdrill is a hoss of a machine.

Weighing in at just over 7 pounds, without a bit, it has the heft and guts to get most medium to large-sized jobs done with ease. We used it in several situations, including brick and masonry, and concrete. We also used it for the menial task of mixing some expanding mortar. It didn't disappoint, with the exception of a bit that wouldn't stay chucked. I'm pinning that one on the bit not being up to par, actually. And as we all know, a tool is only as good as the accessories we use with them. The best drill in the world will appear to suck air when paired with a dull bit.

Some of the key features that make this drill stand out are the 12-foot power cord and the sturdy, all-metal depth gauge. The cheaper, plastic depth gauges seem to get broken or bent rather quickly. It was nice to see that Milwaukee put the extra thought and expense into the little touches like that. The easily-adjustable and removable side-handle also comes in pretty handy, especially in situations where the bit could catch on aggregate or rebar.

That being said, I also had an issue with this drill that turned out to be something others have experienced, as well. We cover that and more in our video review of the Milwaukee 5380-21 1/2" Hammerdrill:

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