Milwaukee The TORCH™ 6 in. SAWZALL® Diamond Grit Blade

The TORCH™ 6 in. SAWZALL® Diamond Grit Blade by Milwaukee offers a promising solution for those needing to cut through tough and abrasive materials. As someone who frequently works with everything from cast iron pipes to concrete blocks, I was eager to put this blade to the test. Here’s my comprehensive review of its performance.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the TORCH™ blade impresses right out of the package. The blade boasts a thick, rigid body that inspires confidence. Milwaukee’s design ensures that the blade resists bending and fracturing, which is crucial when dealing with hard materials. The diamond grit is visibly dense and evenly distributed, promising durability and efficiency.

The blade’s geometry is another well-thought-out feature. It reduces twisting, which is particularly beneficial when aiming for more accurate cuts. The universal tang is a welcome touch, fitting any SAWZALL® blade holder without any fuss.

Performance on Various Materials

Cast Iron

The performance of the TORCH™ blade on cast iron pipes is a mixed bag. On one hand, I found it to be relatively efficient, especially when working in confined spaces where other tools like chain snappers or grinders are impractical. For instance, I used this blade to cut through a 6-inch cast iron pipe, and while it wasn’t lightning fast, it got the job done within a reasonable time frame. The blade maintained its grit throughout multiple cuts, which speaks to its durability.

On the other hand, the blade does seem to struggle a bit with biting into the material initially. This can be frustrating if you’re used to faster cuts with other types of blades. However, patience and steady pressure will yield satisfactory results.

Concrete and Masonry

Cutting through concrete blocks and masonry is where this blade truly shines. I used it to finish cuts on 6-inch landscape blocks and was pleased with the clean, consistent lines. The thick blade body minimizes bending, which is often a challenge with thinner blades. While it’s slower than using a circular saw, the TORCH™ blade creates significantly less dust, making it a more convenient option for indoor projects.

However, it’s worth noting that the blade does wear down more quickly when cutting through solid concrete compared to hollow blocks. The diamond grit starts to smooth out after extended use on tougher materials, which is something to keep in mind for larger projects.

Other Materials

The versatility of the TORCH™ blade extends beyond just cast iron and masonry. I tried it on steel bands and found it to be reasonably effective. The blade did not struggle much and maintained its integrity. It’s a useful trait for those who might switch between different materials during a single project.

Longevity and Durability

One of the most impressive aspects of the TORCH™ blade is its longevity. After cutting through multiple cast iron pipes and concrete blocks, the blade still retained a good portion of its diamond grit. This is a testament to Milwaukee’s quality craftsmanship. Unlike some other blades that wear out after just a few cuts, the TORCH™ blade is built to last, even under rigorous conditions.

Ease of Use

The TORCH™ blade is straightforward to use. Its universal tang means it fits easily into any SAWZALL® saw, and the thick body provides stability during cuts. However, the blade’s rigidity can be a double-edged sword. While it reduces twisting, it also makes the blade less flexible, which can be a disadvantage in some situations. For instance, when cutting around obstructions or making irregular cuts, a more flexible blade might be preferable.

Price and Value

While the TORCH™ blade is priced higher than some of its competitors, its performance and durability justify the cost. For professionals who need reliable tools that can withstand heavy use, the TORCH™ blade offers excellent value. The initial investment pays off in the long run, as you won’t need to replace the blade as frequently.

Areas for Improvement

While the TORCH™ blade excels in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be improved. The initial biting into hard materials like cast iron can be slow, which might frustrate some users. Additionally, while the blade is durable, it does wear down more quickly on solid concrete. A slightly more aggressive grit could potentially improve its performance on such tough materials.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the TORCH™ 6 in. SAWZALL® Diamond Grit Blade by Milwaukee is a robust and reliable tool that excels in cutting through abrasive and hard materials. Its design and build quality are top-notch, and it offers a versatile solution for various cutting needs. The blade’s longevity and durability make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious DIYers alike.

Would I recommend the TORCH™ blade? Absolutely. Its performance on cast iron and masonry, combined with its durability, make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it has some minor drawbacks, its overall benefits far outweigh them. If you need a blade that can handle tough materials and deliver consistent results, the TORCH™ blade is an excellent choice.