Milwaukee SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel

Every now and again, a tool comes along that truly stands out in terms of both design and performance. The SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel from Milwaukee is one such tool that has found a permanent place in my arsenal. Having worked in construction and remodeling for several years, I've had the opportunity to test a wide variety of chisels. The SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel, however, has impressed me with its robust build and exceptional functionality.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the chisel's construction. Made from high-grade steel and crafted in Germany, this chisel is built to last. The reinforced edges play a significant role in its durability, ensuring that this tool can withstand repeated use without significant wear. Unlike some other chisels I've used in the past, this one doesn't require frequent re-sharpening or re-hardening. That's a major plus for anyone who values both their time and their tools.

The chisel's dimensions are also worth noting. It's 2 inches wide and 15 inches long, making it a versatile tool for various applications. Whether you're removing concrete, mortar, rust, or even asphalt, the wide tip covers larger surface areas, allowing for efficient and effective work. I found the 2-inch wide chisel particularly useful for removing mortar from brick and block, which I often do when working on restoration projects. The chisel's sharp, 60-degree double-beveled tip is another standout feature, allowing for precise work without gouging the material.

One of the projects where the SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel really shone was breaking up a concrete fence footer. Typically, this kind of work can be quite taxing, but the chisel made the job significantly easier. The smaller surface area of the 2-inch chisel, compared to a 3-inch chisel, seemed to transfer more impact energy, making the task less strenuous on my back. Additionally, even after extensive use, the chisel maintained its sharpness, a testament to its engineered edge retention.

Another impressive aspect is the control this chisel offers. I used it to remove spilled concrete from a driveway and was able to accomplish this without damaging the underlying surface. This level of control is not something you find with every chisel, and it speaks volumes about the quality of Milwaukee's engineering. The same level of precision was evident when I removed old mortar from bricks for a chimney restoration. Although I initially chipped one brick due to my own overzealousness, the rest were cleaned off perfectly, ready to be reset.

The SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel is not just about brute strength; it also offers a high degree of finesse. This balance between power and precision is crucial, especially for those of us who take on a variety of tasks in the field. From heavy-duty demolition to more delicate restoration work, this chisel handles it all with aplomb.

It's also worth mentioning the compatibility factor. This chisel is designed to work specifically with SDS MAX rotary hammers. It's important to ensure that your hammer drill is compatible with SDS MAX bits before purchasing. While this might seem like a minor point, it's crucial for proper functionality and safety. In my case, pairing it with my Milwaukee 1¾” SDS-Max rotary hammer was seamless, and the combination delivered excellent performance.

However, there was one minor downside I encountered: the chisel arrived with a few shallow rust spots on the shank. While this didn't affect its performance, it's something worth noting. A bit of rust-preventive oil or a quick clean-up would easily solve this issue, but it's still a point that Milwaukee might want to address in future batches.

In conclusion, the SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel is a robust, versatile, and highly effective tool that excels in a variety of applications. Its durable construction, sharp edges, and excellent control make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're a professional builder, remodeler, or a DIY enthusiast, this chisel is likely to meet and exceed your expectations.

Would I recommend the SDS MAX SLEDGE™ Scaling Chisel? Absolutely. Its blend of durability, precision, and versatility makes it a standout tool in its category. Just ensure that your hammer drill is compatible with SDS MAX bits, and you'll find this chisel to be a reliable partner in your projects for years to come.