The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·01150·Announced 2001-05-10

Milwaukee and DEWALT Electric Drills Recalled for Sticking Switches

Milwaukee and DEWALT are recalling 1/2-inch electric drills because the switches can stick, causing the tools to keep running after the trigger is released.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where a hand injury has been reported, but no fatalities or serious injuries are documented, fitting the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. and DEWALT Industrial Tool Co. are recalling approximately 58,000 1/2-inch electric drills, including Milwaukee 1/2" drills and DEWALT 1/2" Stud & Joist Drills. The recall involves specific model numbers and serial or date codes listed in the official notice.

The hazard exists because the switches on these power tools, manufactured by Eaton Corp., can stick. This defect allows the drills to continue operating after the trigger is released, posing a risk of injury to consumers. Milwaukee has received four reports of switches sticking and one report of a hand injury, while DEWALT has received three reports of sticking switches with no reported injuries.

These drills were sold nationwide at home centers, hardware stores, industrial tool distributors, and factory service dealers from May 2000 to April 2001 for between $300 and $555. Consumers should stop using these drills immediately and contact the respective manufacturer to receive a free tool repair.

The recalled product

Product
Milwaukee Electric Tool 1/2" drills and DEWALT 1/2" Stud & Joist Drills
Manufacturer
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp., of Brookfield, Wis.
Category
Consumer Product — Power Tools
Hazard
Affected units
58,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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