Milwaukee 12" 18 TPI Thin Kerf SAWZALL Blades (50 Pack)

When tackling metal-cutting projects, having the right blade can make all the difference in the world. That's why I was eager to put the Milwaukee 12" 18 TPI Thin Kerf SAWZALL Blades to the test. Milwaukee, known for its durable and high-performance tools, offers these blades in a convenient 50-pack, promising increased durability and speed. Here’s my take after using them extensively.

Initial Impressions

Straight out of the package, the blades look robust and well-made. The 12-inch length and 18 teeth per inch (TPI) profile suggest they’re designed for precision and efficiency. The blades also feature a honeycomb pattern, which, according to Milwaukee, increases blade rigidity. This is a nice touch because it implies less bending and more accurate cuts.

Performance and Durability

Over the course of several weeks, I used these blades for a variety of metal-cutting tasks, including slicing through rigid conduit and strut. The optimized tooth design is immediately noticeable. The blades cut through metal like a hot knife through butter, maintaining a fast cutting speed throughout.

Durability is where these blades truly shine. The reinforced tang minimizes breakage, which is a significant improvement over some older models that I've used. Even in heavy-duty conditions, these blades held up exceptionally well. I didn’t experience any premature breakage, which is often a concern with other brands.

Cut Quality

Cut quality is consistent and precise. The thin kerf design ensures minimal material waste, which is particularly useful when working with expensive metals. I noticed that the cuts were clean and required minimal deburring. This efficiency is a time-saver on any job site, reducing the need for additional finishing work.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features is how easy these blades are to use. They fit securely into my SAWZALL without any issues, and the reinforced tang provided a stable connection. Even during prolonged use, the blades remained sharp and effective. There were instances where the blades did bend slightly, but this was under extreme conditions and didn’t significantly impact the overall performance.

Value for Money

Given the performance and durability, the 50-pack offers excellent value for money. It’s a bulk purchase that ensures you’re well-stocked for multiple projects. Compared to other brands I've tried, these Milwaukee blades offer a higher lifespan and better cutting efficiency, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Areas for Improvement

While these blades are impressive, they’re not without their flaws. Under extreme conditions, there is a tendency for the blades to bend. This doesn’t happen often, but it’s worth noting for those who might be pushing their tools to the limit. Additionally, while the blades are generally durable, they do wear out faster when cutting through extremely hard metals. This isn’t a deal-breaker but something to keep in mind depending on your specific needs.

Final Thoughts

After thoroughly testing the Milwaukee 12" 18 TPI Thin Kerf SAWZALL Blades, I can confidently say that they’re a solid choice for anyone needing reliable and efficient metal-cutting blades. They offer a balance of durability, performance, and value that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, these blades are likely to meet your needs.

Would I recommend these blades? Absolutely. They excel in most areas that matter—durability, cut quality, and ease of use. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall performance and value make them a worthwhile investment for any metal-cutting project.