Milwaukee General Purpose Hole Saw Kit - 16PC

Milwaukee's General Purpose Hole Saw Kit, model 49-22-4030, is a comprehensive 16-piece set designed to tackle a variety of metal applications. As someone who frequently works with various materials, I was eager to put this kit through its paces and see if it lived up to the Milwaukee name.

Performance

The core of any hole saw kit is, of course, the hole saws themselves. This set includes a range of sizes that cover most needs, from small 1/4-inch holes to larger 4-3/4-inch ones. The 3.5 TPI (teeth per inch) bi-metal design is built to last and proved effective in my tests. I used the hole saws on wood, plastic, and metal, and they cut cleanly and efficiently in each case. The thermoset coating reduces friction significantly, which minimizes heat buildup—a crucial feature when working with metals.

One of the standout features is the access slots that make plug removal straightforward. This is often a pain point with hole saws, and Milwaukee has addressed it effectively. The tooth design also ensures that the cuts are smooth and precise, reducing the need for additional finishing work.

The Case

Here’s where things start to get a bit problematic. The customizable case is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, the idea of a case that allows for interchangeable pegs and reinforced grids for secure storage is fantastic. It’s designed to be compatible with Milwaukee’s Packout™ Organizers, which is a definite plus for those already invested in that system.

However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The plastic pins that hold the hole saws in place are flimsy and prone to breaking. In my experience, I found that even slight jostling caused the pins to come loose, leading to the hole saws rolling around inside the case. This not only makes it difficult to keep everything organized but also risks damaging the saws and other components.

The removable accessory box intended for extra space is another weak point. It doesn't stay in place securely and often pops open, spilling its contents. This is particularly frustrating if you’re transporting the kit between job sites.

Build Quality

Milwaukee is known for its durable and well-made tools, and the hole saws themselves live up to this reputation. They feel robust and well-constructed, able to withstand rigorous use. The arbors and pilot bits included in the set are also high-quality and easy to swap out, thanks to a quick-change mechanism that simplifies the process.

However, the alignment of the hole saws when attached to the arbor could use some improvement. I noticed a slight wobble during use, which can lead to imprecise cuts. This may not be a deal-breaker for rough-in work or electrical applications, but it could be problematic for more precision-based tasks like fine woodworking.

Ease of Use

One of the key benefits of this kit is its user-friendly design. The hole saws are quick and easy to assemble, and the access slots for plug removal streamline the process. The quick-change arbors make it simple to switch between different sizes, saving valuable time during projects.

The kit’s weight is manageable at 4.0 lbs, making it easy to carry around. The compact size of the case is another advantage, fitting neatly into most tool storage systems. However, the issues with the case's durability and the flimsy plastic pins somewhat negate these benefits.

Value for Money

At its price point, this kit offers a broad range of sizes and high-quality hole saws that perform well across multiple materials. The inclusion of extra pilot bits and a sturdy, customizable case adds to its value. But the case's design flaws and the alignment issues with the hole saws raise questions about whether it’s worth the investment, especially considering the premium price tag.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee General Purpose Hole Saw Kit is a mixed bag. The hole saws themselves are durable and perform well, and the quick-change arbors are a practical addition. However, the case design is a significant drawback, and the slight misalignment of the saws detracts from an otherwise solid product.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your priorities. If you need a versatile set of high-quality hole saws and are willing to overlook the case's shortcomings, this kit is a good investment. However, if organization and precision are crucial for your work, you might want to look elsewhere or consider modifying the case to better secure its contents.

Overall, Milwaukee has delivered a tool that performs admirably in its primary function but falls short in the finer details of storage and ease of transport. As a result, it gets a qualified recommendation from me.