13 Niche Milwaukee Tools (And What They're Used For)

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When it comes to power tools, few names carry the weight Milwaukee does. Known for its trademark red coloring and relentless innovation and invention, Milwaukee has earned its place alongside industry giants like DeWalt and Ryobi. The brand built its reputation on delivering rugged and practical solutions for tradespeople and also managed to attract dedicated DIYers looking for quality tools at a cheaper price point than some high-end competitors.

Part of Milwaukee's rise comes from its M18 and M12 cordless platforms, which power hundreds of tools and can share batteries, making it easier and more cost-effective to expand a kit. Its fuel brushless lineup pushes runtime and power to levels that rival corded tools, while innovations like One-Key smart tracking have brought digital tech into the tool world.

Beyond its well-known staples like the M18 Fuel Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill, Milwaukee also produces a surprising range of niche tools built for specific jobs. From press tools for plumbing to orbital polishers for auto detailing, these are the tools most homeowners have never heard of, yet may be indispensable to professionals. We're breaking down 13 of Milwaukee's most niche offerings — the hidden gems that show just how deep the brand's catalog really goes.

Milwaukee's M18 Short-Throw Press Tool Kit is one of those specialty tools that tradespeople swear by, but the average user may not know of. It's built for PEX installations, short for cross-linked polyethylene, a type of flexible plastic tubing used for water supply lines. It's designed to replace traditional copper or PVC piping with a faster and often more affordable option. The tool itself takes the hassle out of crimping and pressing by delivering a watertight connection in about three seconds flat. That works out to roughly 40% faster cycle times than traditional methods. That's a big deal for plumbers tackling dozens of connections in a single job. 

The short-throw design also allows for one-handed use in tight corners, while spring-loaded jaws grip the ring securely so alignment is never in question. Additionally, there's an auto cycle mode that guarantees every press is finished properly, eliminating the risk of partial crimps. Weighing under 5 lbs and running on Milwaukee's proven M18 battery system, it's light enough for long workdays and is compatible with a lineup of other tools. The kit typically retails for around $799.

Milwaukee's M18 Force Logic Press Tool with One-Key is the kind of gear that most casual users won't recognize. It's mostly built for professional plumbers and contractors tackling large-scale jobs. While most people are familiar with soldering copper pipes or gluing PVC, the concept of "pressing" connections is still niche outside of the trades. Press tools use immense force to create watertight joints without flames, glue, or threading, making them faster, safer, and more consistent than traditional methods. The Force Logic model takes that a step further with an in-line, brushless motor design that fits into tight spaces and delivers reliable presses with one hand.

What makes the One-Key version stand out is Milwaukee's digital tracking system, which logs every press, generates reports, and even allows remote tool management. These are features that matter in commercial projects. For the average DIYer, this tool probably feels like overkill, but for pros running plumbing systems in apartment buildings, hospitals, or new residential developments, it's a game-changer. With pricing at around $2,982 on Amazon, it's an investment most homeowners will never have cause to make. This is exactly why many have never come across it.

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 16-Gauge Variable Speed Nibbler is one of those specialty tools you won't find in the average garage, but pros in metalworking or HVAC will likely swear by it. A nibbler doesn't saw or grind: it quite literally "nibbles" small sections of sheet metal out with each cut, which means you can carve precise curves, slots, and seams without distorting the material. That makes it invaluable for clean cuts in ductwork, roofing panels, or light fabrication. 

This model handles 16-gauge mild steel, 22-gauge spiral duct seams, and lighter stainless or aluminum with ease, while remaining compact thanks to Milwaukee's 12-volt platform. Despite its smaller size, it delivers the same cutting capacity you'd expect from bulkier 18-volt tools, and the variable speed dial lets users match the cut to the material.

At about $249 (tool-only) from Home Depot, it's not exactly a casual purchase, which explains why it's not common among the average tinkerer. Most homeowners would reach for tin snips or an angle grinder, but those approaches can leave jagged edges or warped material. It's a niche tool, but in its element, it's unbeatable.

The Milwaukee M18 Cordless Cut-Out Tool is another great example of a niche device that most casual users probably won't consider but certainly serves a niche. While your average homeowner might reach for a utility knife or oscillating multi-tool when cutting into drywall, professionals rely on cut-out tools like this to make the process faster, cleaner, and more precise. Think of it as the power-tool version of a drywall saw. It uses a rotating bit to carve openings for outlets, switches, and lighting without tearing or overcutting surrounding material. That speed and accuracy really matters when you're running dozens of cutouts across an entire house.

The M18 version ditches cords in favor of Milwaukee's 18-volt battery platform, giving contractors the freedom to work anywhere on a jobsite. It weighs in light, is compact enough to handle overhead cuts, and includes a 4-pole motor designed to spin at 28,000 RPM, so it makes quick work of sheetrock, plywood, and cement board with the right bit. An adjustable depth guide helps prevent cutting too far as well. At around $149 (tool-only), it's an affordable entry into Milwaukee's pro ecosystem. It's very trade-specific but incredibly useful.

Up next on our list is the Milwaukee M12 Cordless Rivet Tool. It's one of those unique devices that makes you wonder how tradespeople ever lived without it. Riveting isn't something most casual users deal with, so this tool is pretty niche. But for fabricators, mechanics working on a project car, and HVAC techs who need to fasten sheet metal, aluminum, or stainless panels together, a cordless rivet tool saves both time and hand strain. Instead of pumping a manual gun for every rivet, this tool pulls up to 3/16-inch stainless or 1/4-inch aluminum rivets with a single squeeze, completing each in just a few seconds.

Built on Milwaukee's compact M12 platform, it weighs under 5 lbs, is balanced for one-handed use, and can set over 450 1/8" rivets per charge with a 1.5Ah battery. A retention nose also keeps spent mandrels from scattering across the floor, and multiple interchangeable nose pieces mean it can handle different rivet sizes without extra fuss.

At about $249 (tool only), it's priced higher than a manual tool but pays for itself in productivity. It can easily eliminate fatigue, boost speed, and deliver consistent results for professionals.

The Milwaukee M18 Brushless Threaded Rod Cutter is popular with electricians, plumbers, and HVAC installers. A threaded rod is a steel bar with continuous threads, often seen suspending pipes, ductwork, or electrical conduit from ceilings. Cutting it traditionally means dragging out a saw or grinder, creating sparks, burrs, and uneven ends that require cleanup before a nut can be threaded on. Milwaukee's cordless cutter solves all of that by delivering clean, burr-free cuts in seconds. There are virtually no sparks, no noise, and no extra finishing required. Pretty cool.

Powered by the M18 battery platform, the brushless motor is engineered to cut 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" mild steel threaded rods with minimal effort. The tool's design captures chips to keep job sites cleaner and includes a reverse function in case of jams. It's very compact and balanced, designed for one-handed use, making overhead work safer. Contractors can set hangers or supports faster, knowing every cut will be consistent.

At around $369 (tool-only), it's priced firmly for trade professionals, explaining the lack of awareness among homeowners or casual tinkerers. But to those who know, the cutter is a huge upgrade.

The Milwaukee M18 Precision Blower fills a very specific and valuable niche. Unlike the large, high-CFM blowers you see for yard cleanup, this model is designed for detail work where precision airflow matters. Think of clearing dust and debris from HVAC components, control panels, or tight jobsite corners where brooms and vacuums can't really reach. With variable speed control and a compact design, it lets users dial in the exact amount of air they need. This means blasting out sawdust from a cut line or carefully cleaning electronics and mechanical parts without overdoing it.

Running on Milwaukee's M18 platform, it benefits from the same battery ecosystem that powers drills, saws, and other heavy-duty tools. The lightweight body and ergonomic trigger make it easy to maneuver, and it can deliver focused airspeed in the range of 570 mph, depending on the application. It's also quieter and more portable compared to a shop vacuum.

At about $179, it's not aimed at homeowners who might just grab a leaf blower from the garage. It's truly an underrated gem.

The Milwaukee M18 2-Speed Cordless Grease Gun is a specialty tool that almost no casual DIYer would ever think to own, but in heavy equipment maintenance, it's a total must-have. Grease guns are used to lubricate machinery, vehicles, and equipment very precisely. They can do this for tractors, skid steers, excavators, or even industrial machines that require constant upkeep to avoid breakdowns. Many people might picture a hand-pump grease gun that takes time and effort to use, but Milwaukee's cordless version replaces that with battery power and variable speed control, delivering up to 10,000 PSI of pressure with just the pull of a trigger. That kind of force means the most stubborn fittings get greased without much fight.

Built on the M18 platform, it features a two-speed design for either max pressure or max flow, so operators can choose speed for quick jobs or raw power for clogged fittings. A 48-inch flexible hose makes it easier to reach awkward spots, and the onboard LED light helps when working in dim areas like under equipment. Per charge, it can dispense up to 10 cartridges of grease, giving serious runtime.

At around $279, the average homeowner has no reason to invest unless they maintain heavy equipment or multiple vehicles. But for mechanics, farmers, or construction crews, the M18 Grease Gun eliminates frustration and ensures machinery runs smoothly.

The Milwaukee M12 Force Logic Press Tool Kit is a powerhouse in the plumbing world. Again, many homeowners still think of soldering copper or gluing PVC when it comes to plumbing, but press tools have become the pro standard for creating fast, flame-free, leak-proof connections. The M12 version takes the technology of Milwaukee's larger M18 press tools and shrinks it into a lighter, more portable 12-volt form factor that can still handle 1/2-inch to 1-inch fittings with ease. For tight spaces like under sinks or behind walls, that portability makes all the difference.

What makes it so effective is the tool's Auto-Cycle feature, which ensures every press is completed fully, eliminating the guesswork that comes with hand tools. With up to 5,400 pounds of force, it locks fittings into place fast. The kit typically includes interchangeable jaws, batteries, and a hard case, making it jobsite-ready right out of the box.

At about $2,399 for the full kit, it's priced firmly for trade professionals. That explains why the average homeowner has never seen one. Unless you're replumbing an entire home or working as a licensed plumber, you'll never need a press tool of this caliber.

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 15mm Random Orbital Polisher is one of those tools that flies completely under the radar for the average DIYer, yet it's an essential for auto detailers and serious enthusiasts. At first glance, it looks like just another power tool in Milwaukee's lineup, but its job is highly specific. It's used for polishing and correcting paint finishes on cars, trucks, and boats. Unlike a standard buffer, the 15mm random orbital action reduces heat buildup and swirl marks, making it safer to use on clear coat and delicate finishes. That precision matters when you're restoring a faded paint job, applying wax, or removing light scratches without damaging the surface underneath.

Running on the M18 battery system, the tool ditches cords altogether, giving users freedom to work around a vehicle without dragging an extension cable across the floor. Its brushless motor provides consistent power, while the variable speed dial lets you adjust from gentle finishing to aggressive polishing. Ergonomics even plays a role here, too, with balanced weight and low vibration keeping it comfortable for extended sessions.

At around $329, it's not something the average homeowner will ever pick up because most people don't polish cars beyond an occasional hand wax. But for professional auto shops and detailing businesses, it's a pro-grade upgrade.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Plunge Track Saw is a tool for carpenters and woodworkers, not the average DIY crowd. Many homeowners are likely familiar with circular saws or table saws, but track saws are still a niche category in the United States. They're designed for ultra-precise, straight cuts with minimal tear-out, and the "plunge" design lets users start a cut anywhere on a sheet of plywood or panel without needing an exposed edge. That means you can drop the blade directly into the material and get a clean, controlled cut every time. That's perfect for cabinet-making and furniture building.

Milwaukee's M18 Fuel version takes the accuracy of corded track saws and gives it cordless freedom on the brand's 18-volt platform. It spins a 6-1/2-inch blade with enough muscle to cut through hardwoods, melamine, or MDF while leaving smooth edges that often don't even require sanding. Pair it with Milwaukee's guide rail system, and you've got a portable alternative to a table saw that excels on jobsites or in smaller workshops.

At around $399, it's priced for professionals and serious hobbyists as a precision instrument that brings corded-level performance to a cordless setup.

Second-to-last on our list is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hole Hawg Right-Angle Drill. It's a tool that most casual users have probably never heard of, but electricians know it well. Its unique right-angle design makes it perfect for drilling holes between wall studs, ceiling joists, and other tight spaces where a standard drill simply won't fit. The "Hole Hawg" name has been around for decades in the trades, and Milwaukee's cordless Fuel version modernizes that legacy with brushless power and the freedom of the M18 battery system.

Where a homeowner might reach for a spade bit and a cordless drill to make the occasional hole, electricians often need to drill dozens of large holes for running conduit, plumbing, or HVAC lines. The Hole Hawg is built for that kind of repetitive, high-demand work, spinning self-feed or auger bits up to 2-9/16 inches with ease. The Quik-Lok chuck makes bit changes faster, while the brushless motor delivers more runtime and less maintenance than older corded models.

At about $299, it's priced for trade professionals and can be a productivity booster that's built to handle rough-in work with speed, consistency, and cordless convenience.

Last up is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Surge 1/4" Hex Hydraulic Driver. It is one of those tools that looks like a standard impact driver at first glance, but it hides a major difference. Instead of using a hammer-and-anvil mechanism like traditional impacts, the Surge uses Milwaukee's hydraulic drive technology to deliver fastening power with dramatically less noise and vibration. That means fewer stripped screws, smoother operation, and a much quieter experience overall. For professionals working indoors, in finished spaces, or on long shifts, that's a huge upgrade.

While a casual DIYer might be content with a basic drill/driver, pros in construction, carpentry, and electrical work need the speed and torque of an impact-style tool without the constant chatter and fatigue. The Surge produces up to 450 in-lbs of torque and maintains consistent drive speeds, making it ideal for repetitive fastening, installing cabinetry, or working in environments where noise control matters. Its compact size and brushless motor also mean up to 3,000 RPMs, all on the proven M18 battery platform.

At around $199, the Surge is priced above standard impact drivers, which is why it eludes most DIYers.

When curating our list of niche Milwaukee tools, we went beyond the brand's everyday drills and drivers to highlight gear that is designed for the most specialized jobs. Each selection represents a tool with a specific purpose. This included highlighting everything from press tools made for plumbers, grease guns that keep heavy equipment running, to blowers and polishers crafted for detailed cleanup and finishing. We focused on models with proven reliability, unique applications, and strong user adoption across trades. By emphasizing function and trade-specific value, this roundup features the lesser-known Milwaukee tools that quietly save time and improve projects.