Milwaukee 8975-6 Heat Gun Review

Editor Rating: 4.0/5

Outstanding

Milwaukee 8975-6
Reviewed by: Sean Masri Last modified: Nov 3, 2022 @ 8:00 am
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Milwaukee 8975-6 Review Summary:

Robust, both inside and outside, the Milwaukee 8975-6 heat gun is ideal for DIYers who need a hot air machine that will take the knocks and bump of intense use. Delivering dual temperatures of 570 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, this machine is equally at home removing lacquer and varnish as it is stripping paint or thawing pipes. Its durable ABS casing provides a solid shell to house the interior components — while an impact-resistant heating coil ensures longevity. An integrated hanging loop offers handy storage options — while eight feet of cable allows you to operate with impressive freedom. Side fins elevate airflow and assist in keeping the unit cool during use. As it features a standard two-inch nozzle, further third-party accessories can be easily added. This heat gun is the little brother to the variable temperature 8977 model. It hails from the USA-based Milwaukee brand — a respected power tool manufacturer with nearly 100 years of experience in delivering quality products to the serious DIYer.

Pros:

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Ergonomically-designed handle.
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Dual temperatures of 570 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
N
Impact-resistant coil.
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Heatshield to keep hands cool.
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Eight-foot mains cable.

Cons:

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Includes no additional accessories or nozzles.
N
Will not suit users needing temperatures of 500 degrees and below.
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Pricey for a dual temperature machine.
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Features and Benefits of Milwaukee 8975-6

Time to get serious! Let’s take a look at exactly what this dual temperature heat gun has to offer.

Cool Operation

Ironically, nothing is more uncomfortable than wielding a heat gun that’s hot in your hand. You want the intense heat to be administered purely onto your working material — not transferring through to your palms. Thankfully, the Milwaukee 8975 incorporates extensive heat shielding — preventing thermal conduction and allowing cool operation. Furthermore, eight ventilation holes increase airflow — allowing any excess heat to disperse.

Dual Temperature

The 8975 Milwaukee offers two temperature settings — 570 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows for a wide range of hot air applications, including bending pipes, stripping paint, and loosening rusted bolts and screws. Changing between these two heat settings is straightforward. A handle-mounted rocker switch permits you to adjust the temperature with one hand.

Impact Resistance

In my opinion, one of the standout features of this heat gun is its impressive durability. A robust ABS shell shields the crucial interior components from damage. Furthermore, this machine gun incorporates an impact-resistant heating coil. The manufacturer understands that intense use, especially on-site, can lead the unit to experience bumps. Hence, the crucial heating coil is protected from accidental knocks, increasing its longevity.

Ergonomic Handle

The Milwaukee heat gun boasts an ergonomically-designed handle — molded to fit snugly into the palm of your hand. Furthermore, it incorporates a textured finish — increasing grip and, hopefully, preventing unwanted slippage. Additionally, the base of the handle includes a broad buffer. This should ensure that the head gun remains firmly in your hand, even if you’re perspiring.

Extensive Power Cord

Unlike many heat guns — which typically possess the industry standard of a six-foot cable — the Milwaukee 8975 has an eight-foot power lead. This should increase your working freedom, allow you to work on larger projects, and prevent overstretching of the cable.

Cord Protector

Even with eight feet of cable, there may be times when you accidentally pull the power cord. But there’s no need to worry — this machine includes a cable protector — ensuring the crucial lead remains firmly affixed to the unit. This both increases longevity of the heat gun and elevates safety.

Hanging Loop

As this heat gun is not supplied with a carry case — you need to find somewhere to store the machine. Drawers and toolboxes aren’t ideal — they can subject the unit to scrapes and scratches — and coil-damaging detritus can enter the machine through the nozzle end. Hence, I welcome the inclusion of a hanging loop in the heat gun’s handle — allowing you to store your unit on a hook, nail, or pegboard.

Lightweight

Despite being a rugged machine that will cope with the pressures of heavy-duty work, the Milwaukee heat gun 8975-6 is surprisingly lightweight. Weighing just 1.8 pounds, this may appeal to the serious DIYer or tradesperson who will be wielding the gun for extended periods. Being lighter than many on the market, it should prevent hand fatigue and wrist pain.
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What Users Say About The Milwaukee 8975-6

In my eyes, the Milwaukee 8975 heat gun is a solid and robust machine that is built to withstand extensive and heavy-duty hot air work.

But, is this machine as strong and versatile as it first appears?

To gain a deeper insight, I researched the views of hot air specialists, tradespeople, and serious DIYers, who use this machine on a frequent basis. And, I’m pleased to say, that their views are generally positive and agree with my own insight.

Their comments praised its durable construction, lauded its ergonomic handle, and loved its lightweight nature. To be fair, some owners expressed a little frustration that the heat gun didn’t arrive with additional nozzles. That said, it can accommodate both Milwaukee as well as third-party, two-inch accessories.

Alternatives to Milwaukee 8975-6

Although a durable dual temperature heat gun — the Milwaukee 8975 will not suit all heat gun enthusiasts. Hence, if you find this machine lacking for your requirements, consider one of these alternative units.

DeWalt DCE530B

While the Milwaukee heat gun possesses a lengthy eight-foot cable — some users may still find this inadequate. If you’re working away from power sources, you need a cordless machine — such as this unit. The dual temperature DCE530B is powered by DeWalt’s standard 20-volt battery. One charge will deliver around 42 minutes of continuous use — releasing you from the shackles of mains leads.
  • Has two additional nozzles — the 8975 Milwaukee has none.
  • Lower upper temperature is slightly less than the Milwaukee, at 990 degrees.
  • Harder on the pocket than the 8975 model.
CHECK OUT THE DEWALT DCE530B

Porter Cable PC1500HG

If you consider that the Milwaukee 8975 heat gun lacks the temperature versatility you need — this could be a solution. The PC1500HG is a variable temperature machine — providing temperatures from 120 to 1150 degrees Fahrenheit. A substantial, side-mounted dial allows you to tailor the heat intensity to your required level.
  • Lighter on the wallet than the Milwaukee heat gun.
  • Six feet of cable as opposed to eight feet on the 8975 model.
  • Hands-free operation — not a feature of the Milwaukee 8975 heat gun.
CHECK OUT THE PORTER CABLE PC1500HG

Wagner Furno 700

Should you be seeking the ultimate in temperature control — this heat gun offers a modern solution. The Furno 700 incorporates an LCD screen. From here, you can manage both heat and fan settings, via four large rubber buttons. This delivers optimum flexibility, enabling you to use the machine for a broader spectrum of applications than the Milwaukee can provide.
  • Larger temperature range than the Milwaukee — 125 to 1300 degrees Fahrenheit, in 10-degree increments.
  • Complete with two additional nozzles — none are included in the 8975.
  • Includes side fins, allowing you to lay the heat gun flat while in use — not a feature of the Milwaukee 8975.
CHECK OUT THE WAGNER FURNO 700

Conclusion

With a robust ABS shell and an impact-resistant heating coil — the Milwaukee 8975 is a remarkably durable heat gun that should withstand the challenges of heavy-duty use. The dual temperature facility should deliver sufficient versatility for the majority of hot air projects, while its eight feet of cable with an included cord protector will allow for comfortable and safe use. Lightweight for a workhorse heat gun, and featuring an ergonomic handle, this machine should help to relieve hand fatigue, even on extensive projects. Admittedly, it’s a little price heavy. Remember, however, that this is a machine designed to provide years of hot air use. So, for extreme DIYers who push themselves to the limit — and expect their tools to be as equally hardworking and unrelenting — check out the Milwaukee 8975-6.
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Milwaukee 8975-6 FAQs

Q: Does the Milwaukee Heat Gun Shrink Tubing for Electrical Work?
Yes. The Milwaukee 8795 heat gun is ideal for shrinking tubing around electrical wires. Use the machine on the lowest heat temperature. If this is an application that you will use frequently, it may be advisable to invest in a reflector nozzle, which evenly distributes heat around the plastic sheath.
Q: Will the 8975 Milwaukee Pop a Dent in My Car?
No. The manufacturer indicates that the 8975 heat gun hasn’t been designed for this purpose. It will do little to remove dents — and is more likely to strip the paint from your car’s bodywork.
Q: How Much Is the Milwaukee 8975 Heat Gun?

The 8975 heat gun from Milwaukee is a robust machine that should provide years of hot air use. To check out the current cost of the Milwaukee 8975-6.

Q: Can the Milwaukee Heat Gun Melt Solder Connections?
Yes. Use the 8975 heat gun on the lowest setting to melt solder. However, it would be advisable to use a reducer nozzle — to help concentrate the hot air stream over a small area. Otherwise, you may burn the entire circuit board.
Q: Can I Cook Meat With the Milwaukee 8975?
The manufacturer indicates that the Milwaukee heat gun has not been designed for use with food.
Q: Does the Milwaukee 8975 Work to Remove Linoleum?
Yes. Use the heat gun on the lowest setting. The elevated temperature will loosen the adhesive beneath, allowing you to lift the linoleum.
Q: Is the Milwaukee Heat Gun Made for US Electricity Supply?
Yes. The Milwaukee 8975 is a 120-volt heat gun and therefore suitable for US mains electricity.
Q: What Are the Milwaukee 8975 Uses?
As a dual temperature heat gun, the Milwaukee 8975 has a broad spectrum of applications. While not an exhaustive list, you can use this machine for the following projects:
  • Drying paint.
  • Removing adhesives.
  • Defrosting freezers.
  • Lifting linoleum
  • Bending plastic pipes.
  • Molding plexiglass and formica
  • Shrink wrapping.
  • Thawing frozen water pipes.
  • Igniting BBQs and outdoor grills.
  • Hobbyist soap making
  • Removing car decals and stickers.
  • Tinting car windows.
  • Vinyl wrapping automobiles.
Q: What Is the Temperature of the Milwaukee 8975 Heat Gun?
The Milwaukee 8975-6 is a dual temperature heat gun that has two settings, 570 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
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