Milwaukee 6" 14 TPI Sawzall Blades (5 Pk)

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in the world of power tools, and their 6" 14 TPI Sawzall Blades are no exception. These blades are marketed as thin kerf metal-cutting blades, optimized for cutting through tough materials like scheduled 80 pipe and angle iron. As someone who's spent considerable time in the workshop, I was eager to see how these blades would perform in various demanding scenarios.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the package, the Milwaukee blades look robust and well-crafted. The 6-inch length is standard, but what caught my attention was the optimized tooth design. According to Milwaukee, this design is meant to improve durability, which is crucial when you're dealing with tough materials. The blades also feature ribs that strengthen the blade tang to reduce breakage and a honeycomb pattern that enhances blade rigidity. These features are not just marketing fluff; they genuinely add to the blade's overall durability and performance.

Cutting Performance

I started my testing with some scheduled 80 pipe and angle iron, materials I frequently work with. The blades cut through the metal like a hot knife through butter. The 14 TPI (teeth per inch) configuration strikes a good balance between speed and smoothness, making quick work of the materials. I was particularly impressed with how the blades maintained their sharpness throughout the cutting process. Even after several cuts, there was no noticeable dulling of the teeth.

Versatility and Flexibility

Next, I moved on to some more challenging tasks, including cutting through rusty bolts and dismantling an old elliptical machine. The blades performed admirably in both scenarios. The flexibility of the blade allowed me to make cuts at odd angles without compromising the blade's integrity. This flexibility is a significant advantage when you need to make flush cuts or work in tight spaces.

However, the blades did show some limitations. When cutting through large diameter galvanized pipe, I noticed that the blades wore out faster than expected. This was somewhat disappointing, especially given Milwaukee's reputation for durability. It seems that while these blades excel in many areas, they may not be the best choice for extremely thick or tough materials.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is often a make-or-break factor for any tool, and the Milwaukee blades have a mixed record here. In most cases, the blades held up well, with minimal breakage or dulling. However, there were instances where the blades broke at the tang or lost teeth prematurely. This inconsistency in durability can be a concern for professionals who rely on their tools for heavy-duty work.

Ease of Use

Changing blades in the holder is straightforward and quick, a feature that I appreciate when I'm in the middle of a project. The blades also fold up neatly, making storage a breeze. These small details contribute to a smoother, more efficient workflow, which is always a plus.

Comparing with Other Brands

I've used various brands of Sawzall blades over the years, and Milwaukee's offering holds its own against the competition. While some users might find other brands to be more durable, especially for specific tasks like cutting large diameter pipes, Milwaukee's blades offer a good balance of performance, durability, and flexibility. They're particularly well-suited for general-purpose metal cutting, making them a versatile addition to any toolkit.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Milwaukee's 6" 14 TPI Sawzall Blades are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable metal-cutting blades. They excel in cutting through materials like scheduled 80 pipe and angle iron and offer good flexibility for making cuts at odd angles. While they may not be the most durable option for extremely thick or tough materials, they perform well in most general-purpose applications.

Would I recommend these blades? Yes, but with some reservations. If you're looking for a versatile, reliable blade for general metal cutting, Milwaukee's blades are a great choice. However, if you frequently work with very thick or tough materials, you might want to consider other brands known for their durability in such conditions.

In the end, the Milwaukee 6" 14 TPI Sawzall Blades offer a good balance of performance, durability, and ease of use, making them a valuable addition to any workshop.