As cordless technology expands, so does the number of batteries that can run on a single tool at one time. Milwaukee is among the brands leading the way in building a fleet of such equipment. The lineup includes the M18 Fuel Self-Propelled Lawn Mower , the Dual-Battery Leaf Blower , and the M18 Fuel Backpack Blower . But one we haven’t explored yet is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Dual Battery String Trimmer (3006).
Perhaps you’re new to Milwaukee, or you’re already running its single-battery model and/or the Quik-Lok system . Either way, the 3006 may be the upgrade you’ve been looking to make. To help you take the first step in deciding, here’s a look at what this string trimmer can do.
Milwaukee Dual Battery String Trimmer Performance
Compared to its single-battery predecessor, Milwaukee’s 3006 gives you a slight bump in cutting swath (17 vs. 16 inches). That’s not bad for a cordless string trimmer .
And when you add to that a dual-battery design, you’ll have longer runtime, which is an asset for those working with large properties or multiple customers. Moreover, a two-speed selector lets you prioritize either runtime or cutting performance.
Now, it’s important to note that this is not an optional two-pack system. Milwaukee’s dual battery string trimmer requires both to operate. And, although any two M18 batteries will do the job, a pair of 8.0Ah High Output packs balance cutting, runtime, and weight the best.
Specs
- Model: Milwaukee 3006
- Battery: 2 x 8.0Ah
- Brushless motor
- Cutting swath: 15–17 in
- Weight: 16.4 lbs
In terms of power, the 3006 offers the equivalent of a 2.4HP gas unit. However, the PowerState brushless motor should generate higher torque than other gas and cordless Pro-grade string trimmers , according to Milwaukee.
We think the acceleration will impress you, as well, with this tool reaching full speed in under a second.
Milwaukee Dual Battery String Trimmer Design
The stock head on this M18 Fuel trimmer is Milwaukee’s Easy Load model.
With the 3006, there aren’t any manual line changes. Instead, you thread your line through a hole until it reaches a center point. Then, you twist the head to reel it in. Once you get the hang of it, the whole process takes less than 30 seconds.
Regarding line capacity, the Milwaukee dual battery string trimmer’s head holds 25 feet. Based on our experience, this should give you ample cutting before you have to reload.
As you’ll see in the photos, Milwaukee situated the batteries in an over-under configuration rather than side-by-side. Any size batteries fit, including 12.0Ah High Output packs. That said, the latter will extend below the motor housing.
And while on the topic of design, Milwaukee paid attention to ergonomics. Specifically, a two-point shoulder strap connection point between the trigger and the handle plays an important role in balance and support; especially with the weight of two batteries and the tool’s robust construction.
Pros
- Dual battery design
- Increased power & runtime
- 17-inch cutting swath
Cons
- Must use two batteries
The Final Word
Like its multi-pack siblings, Milwaukee’s Dual Battery String Trimmer gives its cordless lawn care line an extra performance shot in the arm. With this string trimmer ready to go for primary trimming tasks and the M18 Fuel Brush Cutter on deck for heavier growth, Pros will have plenty of muscle and versatility on their trailers.
Milwaukee Dual Battery String Trimmer Price
Milwaukee’s dual battery string trimmer is available as a kit for $699 and includes a pair of 8.0Ah High Output batteries and a charger. If you’d prefer the bare tool, you can pick it up for $399.
