Milwaukee BIG HAWG with Carbide Teeth

As a seasoned professional in the construction and woodworking industries, I've had my fair share of experiences with various hole saws. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee BIG HAWG with Carbide Teeth to the test, and I must say, it lives up to its formidable reputation.

The first thing that struck me about the Milwaukee BIG HAWG was its robust design. The carbide teeth are noticeably larger and more durable than those on traditional bi-metal hole saws. This immediately gave me confidence in its ability to handle tough materials and embedded nails without losing its edge. The carbide teeth are engineered for extreme durability, and Milwaukee claims they can handle up to 50 times more nails than standard hole saws. From my experience, this assertion holds true.

One of the standout features of the BIG HAWG is its ability to cut through nail-embedded wood and abrasive materials with ease. I tested it on various materials, including 2x pine framing, particle board, and even some cement board. In each case, the hole saw performed exceptionally well, cutting cleanly and quickly. The deep slots in the saw allow for easier plug removal, which is a significant time-saver on the job site. I particularly appreciated this feature when working on projects that required multiple holes to be drilled in quick succession.

In terms of efficiency, the BIG HAWG is a game-changer. Traditional hole saws often require significant drilling power and can be prone to binding, especially when encountering nails or other tough materials. However, the BIG HAWG's design minimizes these issues. The saw cuts only the kerf, which reduces the amount of power needed and allows for smoother, faster drilling. I used the saw with both a Milwaukee M18 Hole Hawg and a smaller cordless drill, and in both cases, the results were impressive. With the M18, I was able to drill a 4-inch hole through 2x pine framing in about 8 seconds. Even with the smaller drill, the hole was completed in roughly 15 seconds, albeit with a bit more effort.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the ease of use. The BIG HAWG attaches effortlessly to any standard electric or battery-operated drill, and I experienced no wobble or instability during use. This stability is crucial for achieving clean, precise cuts, especially when working on materials like drywall or vinyl siding. The carbide teeth remained sharp throughout my testing, and Milwaukee offers a sharpening tool for those who need it, though I haven't found the need to use it yet.

One of my primary concerns when using hole saws is the potential for splintering, particularly on the reverse side of the material. While the BIG HAWG is designed for rapid, rough cuts rather than finish carpentry, I found that using a sacrificial board minimized splintering and produced cleaner results. This makes the BIG HAWG versatile enough for a range of applications, from rough framing to more delicate tasks where a cleaner finish is desired.

The durability of the BIG HAWG is another major selling point. In my line of work, tools are subjected to heavy use and often encounter hidden nails or screws that can quickly dull standard hole saws. The BIG HAWG's carbide teeth handled these obstacles without issue, maintaining their sharpness and cutting efficiency. This durability translates to cost savings in the long run, as there's less need for frequent replacements or sharpening.

In terms of value, the BIG HAWG is a solid investment for professionals and serious DIYers alike. While it may be priced higher than some other hole saws on the market, the performance and longevity it offers justify the cost. The time saved on the job site, combined with the reduced need for maintenance and replacement, makes it a worthwhile addition to any toolkit.

One minor drawback I encountered was the occasional difficulty in clearing out the core, particularly with smaller diameter saws. While the larger saws allowed the core to fall out easily, the smaller ones sometimes required a bit more effort. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance and benefits of the tool.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee BIG HAWG with Carbide Teeth is an exceptional hole saw that delivers on its promises. Its ability to cut through tough materials quickly and efficiently, combined with its durability and ease of use, make it a standout choice for anyone in need of a reliable hole saw. Whether you're a professional contractor or a dedicated DIYer, the BIG HAWG is sure to meet and exceed your expectations.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Milwaukee BIG HAWG with Carbide Teeth. Its performance, durability, and efficiency make it an invaluable tool for a wide range of applications. If you're looking for a hole saw that can handle the toughest jobs with ease, the BIG HAWG is the tool for you.