Milwaukee 9" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal

There’s something uniquely satisfying about finding a tool that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, especially when it comes to cutting through tough materials. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee 9" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal to the test, and I must say, it left a lasting impression.

First Impressions

Straight out of the package, the blade feels robust. The carbide teeth are visibly different from your standard bi-metal blades, hinting at the durability and cutting power that lies within. Milwaukee has a reputation for quality, and this blade certainly looks the part. The 9-inch length makes it versatile for various tasks, from cutting conduit to slicing through stainless steel strut.

Performance

I had a perfect project to test this blade's mettle: cutting through some discarded truck running boards, which were a mix of stainless steel and possibly coated steel. These running boards were hefty, and I needed to cut them down to fit into a disposal bin.

I attached the blade to my reciprocating saw, and the first thing I noticed was how smoothly it engaged with the metal. The 10 TPI (teeth per inch) design seemed optimized for this type of work, allowing the blade to bite into the material without snagging or struggling.

Cutting Speed and Efficiency

Cutting through each running board took about two minutes, which is impressive given the thickness and composition of the material. The blade maintained a consistent cutting speed throughout, never bogging down or overheating. I was particularly impressed by how cool the blade and the saw remained even after multiple cuts. This speaks volumes about the blade's efficiency and the quality of the carbide teeth.

Durability

After completing the cuts, I inspected the blade for wear and tear. Remarkably, the teeth were still sharp, and there were no signs of chipping or bending. This is a crucial point because durability often translates to cost-effectiveness. A blade that maintains its sharpness and integrity over multiple uses reduces the frequency of replacements, saving both time and money in the long run.

Design Features

The Milwaukee TORCH blade boasts several design features that enhance its performance. The large tooth gullets are particularly noteworthy. They facilitate easy material ejection, preventing the blade from clogging and ensuring a smoother cutting experience. Additionally, the universal 1/2" tang means it fits most reciprocating saws, adding to its versatility.

The blade is available in different lengths (6", 9", and 12") and pack quantities, which is a nice touch. Depending on the nature of your project, you can choose the appropriate length and quantity, making it a flexible addition to any toolkit.

Versatility

While my primary use for the blade was cutting through truck running boards, its applications are far-reaching. It's designed to handle medium metals, including EMT conduit, strut, rigid conduit, stainless steel pipe, and copper. This makes it an invaluable tool for electricians, plumbers, and general contractors who frequently work with metal.

Ease of Use

One of the standout aspects of this blade is how user-friendly it is. The optimized carbide teeth design not only ensures smooth cuts but also reduces the effort required to push the blade through the material. This can significantly reduce user fatigue, especially during prolonged use.

Made in the USA

For those who prioritize American-made products, you'll be pleased to know that this blade is manufactured in the USA. This often implies stringent quality control and adherence to high manufacturing standards, which is evident in the blade's performance.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Milwaukee 9" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal is a stellar performer. Its durability, cutting efficiency, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice for anyone needing to cut through medium-thickness metals. The blade's ability to maintain its sharpness and integrity even after multiple uses is particularly impressive, underscoring its value for money.

Recommendation

Would I recommend this blade? Absolutely. Its performance exceeded my expectations, and it handled tough cutting tasks with ease. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this blade is a reliable addition to your toolkit. Its combination of durability, efficiency, and versatility makes it a worthwhile investment.

If you're in the market for a blade that can tackle medium metal applications with ease and longevity, look no further than the Milwaukee TORCH with Carbide Teeth. It’s a tool that delivers on its promises and then some, making it a top choice for cutting medium metals.