Milwaukee Extreme Metal Band Saw Blade 25PK

As someone who spends a lot of time in the workshop cutting through various metals, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Milwaukee Extreme Metal Band Saw Blades (model 48-39-0605). These blades are designed for cutting through thick metal and are said to offer increased cutting efficiency and a longer lifespan, particularly in stainless steel applications. With a pack of 25 blades, this product promises to be a durable and cost-effective solution for metal cutting. Here’s my experience using these blades.

First Impressions

Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the packaging. Milwaukee has thoughtfully designed the box with a perforated opening, allowing for easy access to individual blades without having to pull them all out at once. This might seem like a small feature, but it’s incredibly convenient when you’re in the middle of a job and need to quickly replace a blade.

The blades themselves measure 44-7/8 inches in length and have an 8/10 TPI (teeth per inch) variable pitch design. The aggressive tooth design is aimed at providing faster cuts, which is something I was eager to test out.

Cutting Performance

I started with some galvanized pipe, and the blade cut through it like a hot knife through butter. The cuts were smooth and clean, with no burrs or rough edges. The variable pitch design of the teeth really seemed to make a difference, allowing the blade to bite into the metal without binding or chattering.

Next, I moved on to thicker materials, including 1/2-inch thick hot-rolled steel and 2-7/8 inch steel pipe. Here too, the blades performed admirably. The cuts were straight and smooth, and the blades didn’t seem to dull quickly. I was particularly impressed with how well the blades held up when cutting through stainless steel, which can be notoriously tough on saw blades.

Durability

One of the most significant selling points of these blades is their supposed durability. Milwaukee claims that these blades last three times longer than standard blades, and my experience aligns with this claim. After making numerous cuts through various types of metal, the blades remained sharp and showed no signs of wear. The welds on the blades are also well done, with no noticeable skipping or dragging at the weld points.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some users have reported issues with the durability of these blades. While I didn’t experience any breakages or premature dulling, it’s something to be aware of if you plan on using these blades for heavy-duty applications.

Efficiency

The efficiency of these blades is another area where they excel. Because they stay sharp longer, there’s less need to stop and change blades frequently. This translates to more productive work time and less downtime, which is always a plus in any workshop setting. The variable pitch design also means that these blades can handle different metal thicknesses without needing to switch to a different blade, adding to their versatility.

Practical Tips

From my experience, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind when using these blades to maximize their lifespan:

1. Break-In Period: When you first start using a new blade, it’s beneficial to run it at half speed for the first 100 linear inches of cutting. This helps to break in the blade and can significantly extend its life.

2. Lubrication: Using a cutting oil or lubricant can help to reduce heat and friction, further extending the life of the blade and improving the quality of the cuts.

3. Avoid Forcing the Cut: Let the blade do the work. Forcing the blade through the metal can cause it to overheat and dull more quickly.

Versatility

One of the standout features of these blades is their versatility. They’re designed to handle a variety of metal thicknesses, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re cutting through thin-walled tubing or thick steel bars, these blades can handle the job. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable, all-purpose metal cutting blade.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Extreme Metal Band Saw Blades are a robust and efficient tool for anyone who needs to cut through various types of metal. They offer excellent cutting performance, durability, and efficiency, making them a valuable addition to any workshop. While there have been some reports of durability issues, my experience with these blades has been overwhelmingly positive.

I would recommend these blades to anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance metal cutting solution. The convenience of the 25-pack, combined with the blades’ ability to handle different metal thicknesses, makes them a cost-effective and versatile choice. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, these blades are likely to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.