Milwaukee SAWZALL Metal Cutting Bi-Metal Reciprocating Blade Set (16 Piece)

Milwaukee’s SAWZALL Metal Cutting Bi-Metal Reciprocating Blade Set is a versatile and indispensable addition to any DIY enthusiast or professional’s toolkit. With a combination of features aimed at enhancing both performance and durability, these blades are designed to make metal cutting tasks more manageable and efficient. After putting these blades through their paces in various applications, I’ve gathered a comprehensive understanding of their strengths and limitations.

Variety and Versatility

One of the standout aspects of this blade set is the variety it offers. The set includes sixteen blades, split between six 9-inch blades and ten 6-inch blades, each with varying teeth-per-inch (TPI) counts suitable for different cutting tasks. This variety ensures that you have the right blade for the job, whether it’s cutting through thin metal sheets or thicker, more robust materials.

The set includes two main styles of blades: the ‘Torch’ blades and the thin kerf blades. The ‘Torch’ blades are wider and taller, providing added rigidity and less susceptibility to bending or warping, especially useful in confined cutting spaces. On the other hand, the thin kerf blades, with their narrower profile, offer more flexibility and are ideal for making quick, precise cuts.

Performance and Durability

In terms of performance, the blades excel in most standard metal cutting tasks. They cut through galvanized pipes, conduits, and light metal rods with relative ease. However, for harder, tempered metals, the blades tend to wear out faster, and it’s advisable to switch to more specialized carbide-tipped blades for such tasks. The Tough Neck ribs and Grid Iron honeycomb pattern incorporated into the design are noteworthy features that enhance the blades' durability by reinforcing the blade tang and preventing buckling.

During testing, I found that the 14-18 TPI blades were particularly effective for cutting metal between 1/8" - 7/16" thick. The 6-inch blades, with their higher TPI (up to 24), were excellent for finer, more detailed cuts, while the 9-inch blades handled larger, more demanding jobs.

User Experience

Using these blades is a straightforward experience. The 1/2 inch universal tang ensures compatibility with most reciprocating saws, and the blades are easy to swap out when necessary. One minor drawback is the packaging; the clamshell packaging isn’t particularly user-friendly for storage. A more practical storage solution, such as a sleeve or case, would have been a welcome addition.

The blades perform well not just in metal cutting but also in wood cutting scenarios, especially when dealing with wood embedded with nails. This makes the set a versatile choice for mixed-material demolition work. However, it is crucial to let the blade do the work and avoid forcing it, as this can significantly reduce the blade's lifespan.

Value for Money

Considering the price, the SAWZALL Metal Cutting Bi-Metal Reciprocating Blade Set offers excellent value. At less than $2 per blade, it’s a cost-effective option for both occasional DIY tasks and more intensive professional use. The longevity of the blades, when used properly, further enhances the value proposition, as they tend to outlast many cheaper alternatives on the market.

Limitations

Despite the many positives, the blades do have some limitations. For example, while the ‘Torch’ blades offer increased rigidity, they may still bend under heavy use or when cutting extremely hard metals. Additionally, the thin kerf blades, while flexible, can be prone to bending if not handled with care. These issues are relatively minor but worth noting for users who plan to undertake heavy-duty cutting tasks regularly.

Another consideration is the set’s performance with particularly tough materials like rebar. In such cases, the blades may wear out quicker, and switching to more robust, specialized blades might be necessary.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee SAWZALL Metal Cutting Bi-Metal Reciprocating Blade Set is a reliable and versatile choice for a wide range of cutting tasks. The variety of blades, combined with the robust design features, makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you are a weekend DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, these blades offer a good balance of performance, durability, and value for money.

I would recommend this blade set for most users, particularly those who need a versatile and reliable solution for cutting various metals and occasional woodwork. The performance and durability, coupled with the cost-effectiveness, make it a worthwhile investment. However, for users who frequently cut extremely hard metals or require the utmost rigidity, it might be worth considering additional specialized blades to complement this set.