Introduction
If you've been following Tools in Action for a while, you know I'm a big fan of Hilti. They don't cut corners, and every tool they put out is built to handle real job site conditions. I'm working with Hilti on this article, and trust me, that's not something I'd do with a brand I didn't stand behind. The SL 5-22 cordless work light is no different. It runs on Hilti's 22V Nuron battery platform, which, if you haven't read our full breakdown on that yet, you need to. The short version is that Hilti built a smarter, more connected battery system, and the SL 5-22 takes full advantage of it. No cords, no extension cables, just grab it and go.
Adjustable Head and Powerful LEDs
The first thing you notice when you pick up the SL 5-22 is how bright it is. We're talking up to 1,900 lumens, which is serious output for a light this size. The head swivels 310 degrees, so you can point it exactly where you need it without repositioning the whole unit. Working in a tight corner, under a cabinet, or up in a ceiling space, just tilt the head and you're covered. The LEDs are clean and even, no hot spots, no dark edges. And if you need to stretch the battery, Hilti gives you three modes, low, medium, and high, with runtimes going all the way up to 12 hours on low with a B22-85 Nuron battery. That's a full workday and then some.
Magnetic Base
This is where the SL 5-22 gets really practical. The magnetic base is strong enough to hold the light securely to any metal surface, which means you can slap it on a beam, a machine, or anything steel and it's not going anywhere. No tripod, no setup, no fumbling around. Just stick it and get to work. Hilti also threw in a mounting clamp that works on pipes and wood studs up to 2 inches thick, so even if you're not near metal, you've got options.
FAQ
Yes. The head swivels 310 degrees so you can direct the light exactly where you need it.
Absolutely. The magnetic base lets you attach it to any metal surface, or you can use the mounting clamp on studs and pipes. Note: The SL 5-22 does not have a tripod socket.
As long as they're Nuron 22V batteries, yes. That's one of the big advantages of the Nuron platform, one battery family across the whole tool lineup.
Final Thoughts
The Hilti SL 5-22 is one of those tools that doesn't get enough attention. Everyone talks about the drills and the demo tools, but a good work light makes everything else easier. The 1,900 lumens, the 310-degree swivel head, and the magnetic base all add up to a light that actually works the way you need it to. If you're already in the Nuron ecosystem, this is a no-brainer add to the kit. And if you're not on Nuron yet, it might be time to make the switch.
