Milwaukee SLEDGE Scraping Chisel

The Milwaukee SLEDGE Scraping Chisel has proven to be a robust and efficient tool in my experience. This chisel, made from high-grade steel, is designed to tackle some of the toughest demolition tasks, and it does so with aplomb.

One of the standout features of the SLEDGE Chisel is its durable construction with reinforced edges. This design ensures that the chisel maintains its sharpness over time, which is a significant advantage when working on extensive projects. The wide tip is particularly effective for scraping larger surfaces, making it a go-to tool for removing materials such as concrete, mortar, and rust.

In my use, I found the chisel's performance to be quite impressive. It seamlessly fits into an SDS MAX rotary hammer, and it feels balanced and sturdy during operation. The chisel's ability to maintain sharp edges without the need for re-sharpening or re-hardening is a testament to its high-quality craftsmanship. This not only saves time but also ensures a longer lifespan compared to standard chisels.

One of the practical applications where this chisel excels is in removing floor tiles. The wide tip and sharp edges make quick work of lifting tiles, even those that are firmly adhered to the substrate. However, I did find that the shaft could be longer. A longer shaft would allow for a more ergonomic working position, especially when removing tiles from a floor, as it would enable the user to work while standing rather than kneeling.

The SLEDGE Chisel also performs admirably in concrete demolition. Its robust design allows it to cut through concrete walls smoothly, leaving clean cuts. This makes it an excellent tool for tasks that require precision and efficiency, such as creating openings for plumbing or electrical installations in concrete walls.

However, it's not all smooth sailing. During one of my demolition projects, I encountered a significant issue. The chisel broke on the first day of use, snapping right in half. Upon closer inspection, it appeared that there were air bubbles in the casting, which likely contributed to its failure. This was a disappointing experience, especially given Milwaukee's reputation for producing high-quality tools. I had to exchange it for a new one, and while the replacement has held up well so far, this incident does raise concerns about quality control.

Despite this setback, the chisel's performance in other scenarios has been commendable. For instance, when working on an exterior patio to remove old floor tiles, the chisel, paired with a Milwaukee Rotary Hammer, worked flawlessly. It made the task much easier and faster, showcasing its effectiveness in similar outdoor applications.

Another notable use case was when I needed to work around a broken drain pipe in a newly poured slab. The SLEDGE Chisel made the job significantly easier, allowing me to precisely remove the surrounding concrete without damaging the pipe. This level of control and precision is a key advantage of this chisel.

Additionally, the chisel's ability to dig out compacted dirt was a pleasant surprise. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit, as it can handle a variety of tasks beyond its primary design for concrete and tile removal.

However, durability remains a concern. In another instance, the chisel snapped by the tip after just a few days of use. The metal appeared to have rust inside, which compromised its integrity. This is a critical issue that Milwaukee needs to address to ensure consistent quality and reliability.

On the positive side, the chisel's angle is well-designed for scraping, making it very easy to use. This ergonomic design reduces user fatigue, which is particularly important during prolonged use. The chisel's weight and balance also contribute to its ease of use, providing a comfortable and controlled experience.

In terms of value, the SLEDGE Chisel is reasonably priced, considering its performance and versatility. While the durability issues are concerning, the tool's overall effectiveness in various applications cannot be overlooked. For those who frequently undertake demolition projects or need a reliable tool for removing tiles and concrete, the SLEDGE Chisel is a worthy investment.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Milwaukee SLEDGE Scraping Chisel with some reservations. Its performance and versatility are impressive, making it a valuable tool for various demolition tasks. However, the durability issues need to be addressed to ensure consistent quality. If Milwaukee can improve the quality control and address the casting issues, the SLEDGE Chisel would be an exceptional tool. For now, it remains a solid choice, but users should be aware of the potential for early breakage and handle it with care.