How to Identify Milwaukee Tool Model Number Numeric System
Published February 8, 2025Milwaukee Tool has a structured model numbering system that provides useful insights into a tool’s product line, type, and configuration. However, it’s not always straightforward to decode these numbers without some knowledge of how they’re structured.
DEWALT’s model numbering system includes alphabetic codes in the model numbers that make it easy to remember what product line is being referenced: The “S” in DCS means it’s a saw, the “B” in DCB means it’s a battery, etc.
Unfortunately, understanding Milwaukee’s model numbers requires a decoding reference to understand the product line and tool type. This guide breaks down Milwaukee model numbers so you can confidently determine whether a tool is part of the M12, M18, or M18 FUEL series, whether it’s a drill, saw, or impact driver, and what accessories come with it.
Milwaukee Model Number Format
Milwaukee model numbers typically follow a ####-## format. Each section of the number serves a specific purpose:
- First Two Digits (
##xx) – Identifies the product series (M12, M18, M18 FUEL). - Third and Fourth Digits (
xx##) – Helps distinguish between different tools within a product line. - Dash and Final Digits (
-##) – Identifies the tool’s configuration (bare tool, kit, battery count).
Understanding Milwaukee Model Number Prefixes
The first two digits of a Milwaukee model number indicate the product line. Below is a table that outlines these prefixes:
| Prefix | Product Line/Tool Type |
|---|---|
| 24 | M12 Series Tools |
| 25 | M12 FUEL Series Tools |
| 26 | M18 Series Tools |
| 27 | M18 FUEL Series Tools |
| 28 | M18 FUEL Series Tools (some cases) |
- The M12 series (prefix 24 or 25 for M12 FUEL) consists of compact, lightweight cordless tools designed for portability.
- The M18 series (prefix 26) is Milwaukee’s standard 18V cordless lineup.
- The M18 FUEL series (prefix 27 and sometimes 28) features Milwaukee’s advanced brushless motor technology for more power and durability.
Important Note: The 28 prefix does not always indicate an M18 FUEL tool. While many M18 FUEL tools carry this prefix, Milwaukee does not have a strict rule that applies universally across all their product lines.
Higher Model Number, Newer Generation
As Milwaukee improves on their product lines, they have increased model numbers. For example, model numbers with 29 and 30 as the start of the four-number prefix are second and third generation models of older version.
How to Determine Tool Type from the Model Number
While the first two digits tell you the product series, the last two digits of the four-digit prefix help indicate the tool type.
| Model Number Range | Tool Type |
|---|---|
| 2400–2499 | M12 Drills and Drivers |
| 2500–2599 | M12 Impact Drivers/Wrenches |
| 2600–2699 | M18 Drills and Drivers |
| 2700–2799 | M18 Impact Drivers/Wrenches |
| 2800–2899 | M18 Hammer Drills |
| 2900–2999 | M18 Combo Kits |
However, the third and fourth digits can vary depending on the tool category. Some patterns have emerged, such as:
- Drills/Hammer Drills – Often end in 04 (e.g., 2804-20, 2504-20)
- Impact Drivers – Often end in 53 (e.g., 2853-20, 2553-20)
- Circular Saws – Often end in 30 (e.g., 2730-20, 2830-20)
- Impact Wrenches – Often end in 67 (e.g., 2767-20, 2967-20)
Example Breakdown:
- Model Number: 2730-20
- 27 = M18 FUEL product line.
- 30 = Identifies it as a Circular Saw (common pattern for saws).
- -20 = Indicates a bare tool (no battery or charger included).
- Final Result: M18 FUEL Circular Saw (Bare Tool).
- Model Number: 2804-22
- 28 = M18 FUEL product line.
- 04 = Identifies it as a Hammer Drill (common Milwaukee drill identifier).
- -22 = Kit including two batteries and a charger.
- Final Result: M18 FUEL Hammer Drill Kit (2 Batteries + Charger).
Understanding Milwaukee Model Number Suffixes
The last two digits after the dash (-##) indicate whether a tool is sold as a bare tool or as part of a kit. Here’s a reference table:
| Suffix | Configuration |
|---|---|
| -20 | Bare tool only (no batteries or charger included) |
| -21 | Includes the tool, one battery, and a charger |
| -22 | Includes the tool, two batteries, and a charger |
| -22CT | Includes the tool, two compact batteries, and a charger |
| -22XC | Includes the tool, two extended-capacity batteries, and a charger |
Examples of Milwaukee M18 FUEL Saws
Here are some examples of Milwaukee M18 FUEL saw model numbers:
| Model Number | Tool |
|---|---|
| 2732-20 | M18 FUEL™ 7-1/4″ Circular Saw (Bare Tool) |
| 2834-20 | M18 FUEL™ 7-1/4″ Circular Saw (Bare Tool) |
| 2782-20 | M18 FUEL™ Metal Cutting Circular Saw (Bare Tool) |
| 2736-21HD | M18 FUEL™ 8-1/4″ Table Saw w/ One-Key™ Kit |
Milwaukee PACKOUT model numbers
Milwaukee’s PACKOUT Modular Storage System features model numbers that differ from their power tools. These model numbers typically follow a 48-22-xxxx format, where:
- 48-22: Indicates the product category, in this case, PACKOUT storage solutions.
- xxxx: Specifies the particular storage product.
For example, the PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box has the model number 48-22-8426.
Unlike Milwaukee’s power tools, which use prefixes like ’24’ for M12 Series Tools or ’27’ for M18 FUEL Series Tools, the PACKOUT line utilizes the ’48-22′ prefix, followed by a unique four-digit identifier for each storage product.
This numbering system is specific to Milwaukee’s storage solutions and helps distinguish them from other product categories within the brand’s extensive lineup.
Here are some examples of Milwaukee’s PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System model numbers:
| Model Number | Product Name |
|---|---|
| 48-22-8426 | PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box |
| 48-22-8424 | PACKOUT Tool Box |
| 48-22-8425 | PACKOUT Large Tool Box |
| 48-22-8430 | PACKOUT Organizer |
| 48-22-8435 | PACKOUT Compact Organizer |
| 48-22-8431 | PACKOUT Low-Profile Organizer |
| 48-22-8436 | PACKOUT Low-Profile Compact Organizer |
| 48-22-8422 | PACKOUT Compact Tool Box |
| 48-22-8440 | PACKOUT Crate |
| 48-22-8410 | PACKOUT Dolly |
These model numbers follow the 48-22-xxxx format, where ’48-22′ designates the PACKOUT™ product line, and the subsequent four digits identify the specific storage solution. This system helps users easily distinguish between different PACKOUT components and select the appropriate storage options for their needs.
Final Takeaways
To summarize the model numbers outline above, the following is a quick summary of the various prefixes and suffixes.
- The first two digits (prefix) indicate the product line.
- M12 = 24, 25 (FUEL version)
- M18 = 26, 27 (FUEL version)
- 28 is sometimes M18 FUEL but not always
- PACKOUT = 48-22
- The third and fourth digits help identify the tool type.
- Common drill, saw, and impact driver identifiers exist but aren’t universal.
- The suffix (-20, -22, etc.) tells you what’s included in the package.
Understanding Milwaukee’s model number system makes it easier to identify tools, compare models, and ensure you’re getting the right configuration for your needs. By using this breakdown, you can confidently navigate Milwaukee’s lineup and choose the perfect tool for your job!
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