Milwaukee Annular Cutter

As a seasoned professional in metalworking, I've had the opportunity to test numerous annular cutters over the years. Recently, I got my hands on the Milwaukee 49-59-2018 Annular Cutter, and I was quite eager to see how it would perform in my workshop. This cutter is specifically designed for creating precise holes in steel plates, and it promises durability and efficiency, thanks to its black oxide coating and 3/4" Weldon shank.

First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Milwaukee Annular Cutter, the first thing that caught my eye was its robust build. The black oxide coating gives it a sleek, professional appearance while also serving a functional purpose by enhancing its durability. The 3/4" Weldon shank is a standard feature, ensuring compatibility with most drill chucks, which is a significant advantage for those who use various drilling machines.

Performance and Efficiency

I started by testing the cutter on a 1/4 inch steel plate. The cutter's performance was impressive right off the bat. It cut through the steel smoothly and efficiently, taking less than four minutes to complete a hole, including the ¼ inch pilot. This is notably faster than some other cutters I've used, which often took around six minutes per hole. The key to this efficiency lies in the cutter's design, which minimizes the rate of feed sensitivity. This means I didn't have to be overly cautious with the feed rate, which is a common issue with other brands that can lead to dulling or breaking.

Edge Retention and Durability

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee Annular Cutter is its edge retention. After drilling approximately 200 holes using the 5/8 and 11/16 bits, both cutters remained sharp. This longevity is crucial for professionals who need reliable tools that can withstand heavy use. To maintain this sharpness, I made sure to clean out the hollow pathway after each hole and used plenty of cutting fluid. This simple maintenance routine can significantly prolong the life of the cutter, saving time and money in the long run.

Versatility and Application

The Milwaukee Annular Cutter is versatile enough to handle both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. I tested it on a 1/4 inch copper plate, and it performed admirably, completing the hole with ease. The 3/4" shank diameter makes it suitable for both magnetized portable drill presses and industrial drill presses, adding to its versatility. However, I did notice that the limited length of the cutter could be a drawback when working with thicker materials or when using clamps to secure the stock. This is something to keep in mind if your projects often involve deeper cuts.

Case Quality

While the cutter itself is of high quality, the carrying case leaves something to be desired. The case is not well-designed to keep the cutters in place, and a minor jostle can cause them to fall out. This is easily remedied by adding a piece of foam for cushioning, but it's a small inconvenience that could have been avoided with a better case design. Given the price point, I expected a more secure and durable carrying case to protect these valuable tools.

Price and Value

Speaking of price, the Milwaukee Annular Cutter is on the higher end of the spectrum. However, considering its performance, edge retention, and durability, I believe it's a worthwhile investment. The time saved on each hole and the extended lifespan of the cutter can offset the initial cost over time. For professionals who rely on their tools for daily work, investing in a high-quality cutter like this one can lead to better efficiency and fewer replacements.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 49-59-2018 Annular Cutter is a robust and efficient tool that delivers on its promises. Its performance in cutting through steel and other metals is impressive, and its edge retention ensures long-term use. While the carrying case could be improved, this is a minor issue compared to the cutter's overall quality and efficiency.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Annular Cutter? Absolutely. Its durability, performance, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any metalworking toolkit. Whether you're a professional or a hobbyist, this cutter will enhance your productivity and provide reliable results. Just make sure to maintain it properly with regular cleaning and ample cutting fluid, and you'll have a tool that serves you well for years to come.