Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter Leaps to the Front of the Pack
Jump starters are essential tools for Professional mechanics and handy for just about anyone to have on hand. Over the years, we’ve tested quite a few models to see if they’re really living up to the hype. Many of these featured a small self-contained battery that’s ideal for a slightly undercharged battery, but the Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter takes a different approach.
We’ve got our hands on one, and I’ll share what sets the 3841 apart from the pack so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter Performance
- Max Power Output: 2000 amps
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to 122°F
- Max Engine Size: 8.1L (gas), 3.0L (diesel)
Power On!
The all-new Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter provides up to 2000 peak amps to jump start a car, truck, or boat battery with ease. With that kind of power, it can confidently revive up to a 8.1L gas engine or a 3.0L diesel engine. Using the kitted 8.0Ah Forge battery, Milwaukee tells us you can expect over 70 uses on a single charge!
This jump starter can operate in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 122°F. This ensures you can get your car up and running in any weather, even on those cold winter mornings. Plus, the capacitors are rated for up to 500,000 cycles, so this jump starter is built to last!
It’s worth noting that the HotShot’s power is not dependent on the size of the battery you use since this unit is compatible with the full line of M18 batteries. Rather, the battery is used to pre-charge the capacitors, which in turn deliver the power to the dead battery. With that in mind, a larger battery such as the kitted 8.0Ah Forge battery will deliver more jump start cycles, but any M18 battery will do the trick.
Control Panel
The control panel on this jump starter serves two purposes. It displays the current charge level on the capacitors and provides a voltage reading on the vehicle battery. Having the battery voltage is a nice touch—it’s not something we’ve seen on other units.
Getting Started
Using this jump starter is incredibly easy. Start by pairing it with a fresh M18 battery and press the power button to activate the unit. Next, press the charge capacitor button, indicated by a lightning bolt symbol, and connect the clamps. Last, press the jump start button, indicated by a key, and start the car within 30 seconds.
Reminder: Red (+) on Red (+), and Black (-) on Black (-)
In the event that you accidentally hook up the cables backwards, the 3841 is equipped with reverse polarity protection which will alert you to the issue before your battery is harmed.
Once the vehicle is started, power off the jump starter by pressing the power button. Lastly, remove the clamps starting with the black (-) first and secure them back on the unit.
The process is straightforward and easily manageable by one person.
Override Mode
If your battery voltage reads under 1.2V, then you will have to manually engage the override mode. To do this, follow all of the steps I already laid out, then press and hold the “start engine” button (key) until the override icon illuminates. A countdown time will appear on the display at which point you will have that allotted time to attempt a jump start.
Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter Design Notes
- Model: Milwaukee 3841
- Power Source: Milwaukee M18 battery
- Weight: 6.9 lbs (bare tool), 9.3 lbs (with 8.0Ah Forge battery)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 11.5 x 8.7 x 4.2 in.
- Ingress Rating: IP65
- Lead Length: 22.5 in.
Size and Weight
The Milwaukee HotShot jump starter weighs 6.9 pounds as a bare tool, and 9.3 pounds with the kitted 8.0Ah Forge battery. This is actually much lighter than most lead-acid battery-powered jump starters you’re likely to find in a mechanic’s shop.
Cable Management
Milwaukee did a great job with the cable management system on this jump starter. The 22.5-inch cables stow away neatly on either side of the unit, and there are two large rubber knobs for the clamps to grab onto while it’s stored away.
Clamp Design
Milwaukee designed the clamps with high strength springs and an aggressive tooth design that improves contact with the battery poles. Additionally, the clamps are strategically narrow so you have better access in tight engine bays and battery compartments.
Additional Features
- USB-C port for charging personal electronics
- Retracting top handle
- Impact resistant
- IP65 rated against dust and water
- 500 lumen task light
Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter Price
The Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter retails for $299 as a bare tool, and $578 as a kit that includes an 8.0Ah Forge battery and charger. Milwaukee backs it with a 3-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the Milwaukee M18 HotShot Jump Starter is a powerful, durable, and easy-to-use solution for reviving dead vehicle batteries in nearly any environment. With its impressive power output, rugged construction, and smart design features, it stands out as a top-tier tool for Pros and weekend garage warriors alike.
The real star of the show, however, is that it delivers peak power output with any Milwaukee M18 battery. This on-demand power is a major advantage over traditional lead-acid jump packs that require pre-charging. Not to mention, the range of motor sizes it can jump makes it a compelling option for roadside crews and Professional mechanics.
