Milwaukee 9" 5 TPI Pruning Sawzall Blade

Pruning can be a demanding task, especially when dealing with thicker branches or small trees. The Milwaukee 9" 5 TPI Pruning Sawzall Blade is designed to make this job easier and more efficient. I've had the chance to put this blade through its paces, and it has proven to be a reliable and effective tool for a variety of pruning tasks.

The first thing I noticed about this pruning blade is its aggressive tooth design. With 5 teeth per inch, the blade is capable of making quick work of branches and limbs. The extra deep gullets between the teeth allow for fast material removal, which means less time spent sawing and more time getting the job done. Additionally, the unique fleam ground teeth cut in both directions, resulting in cleaner cuts. This feature is particularly useful when you need to make precise cuts without causing unnecessary damage to the plant.

One of the standout features of this blade is its durability. The teeth are induction hardened, which means they retain their sharpness for a longer period of time compared to standard blades. In my experience, the blade maintained its cutting power even after extended use. For instance, I was able to prune a medium-sized birch tree with branches ranging from 1 to 4 inches and trunks just over 6 inches in diameter. The blade showed minimal signs of wear and was still sharp enough for additional pruning tasks.

Another aspect I appreciate is the universal tang design. This blade fits all Sawzall reciprocating saws, making it a versatile addition to any tool collection. Whether you're using a cordless or corded saw, you can easily switch out the blade and get to work. I tested the blade with a Ryobi cordless reciprocating saw and a Chicago Electric corded model, and it performed admirably with both.

The thin kerf of the blade also deserves mention. This design allows for more flexible cuts, which is particularly useful when working in tight spaces or making intricate cuts. The steel construction of the blade ensures it can withstand the rigors of heavy use without bending or breaking. Even when I encountered some dirt and small rocks while cutting roots, the blade continued to perform well.

One of the most impressive tests I conducted involved removing a tree stump. I had gone through several chainsaw chains and non-brand reciprocating saw blades without much success. However, the Milwaukee pruning blade made short work of the stubborn stump. It took only two blades and 45 minutes to complete the task, which speaks volumes about the blade's cutting efficiency and durability.

While the blade excels in many areas, it's not without its drawbacks. The blade can be a bit flimsy and may bend if not perfectly aligned during cuts. This is particularly noticeable when cutting harder woods. However, this is a minor issue considering the overall performance and effectiveness of the blade.

For those who need to perform a lot of pruning, this blade is a game-changer. It significantly reduces the need for a chainsaw, especially for smaller branches and limbs. The convenience of using a reciprocating saw with this blade cannot be overstated. There's no need to fuss with oil or worry about dulling the blade when it contacts the ground, as you would with a chainsaw. The blade's self-cleaning action, similar to that of a bow saw, ensures it remains effective even during prolonged use.

In terms of value, the 5-pack option is a great deal. Blades don't last forever, and having a few spares on hand ensures you're always ready for your next pruning task. Given the blade's longevity, it's likely that one pack will last a considerable amount of time, even with frequent use.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 9" 5 TPI Pruning Sawzall Blade is a highly effective and reliable tool for a wide range of pruning tasks. Its aggressive tooth design, durability, and versatility make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their pruning efforts. While it may have some minor issues with bending, the overall performance and convenience far outweigh this drawback. I would highly recommend this blade to anyone in need of a robust and efficient pruning solution. Whether you're tackling small branches, larger limbs, or even stubborn tree stumps, this blade is up to the task.