Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw

The Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw is a tool that caught my attention due to its reputation for durability and efficiency. As someone who frequently works with various materials, from wood to metal, I was eager to put this tool to the test across different applications. The model I used was the 49-56-9644, which boasts a 3.5 TPI tooth design and several features aimed at enhancing user experience, such as slots for easier plug removal and increased pilot visibility.

Right out of the box, the Hole Dozer feels substantial and well-made. The bi-metal construction suggests it's built to last, which is reassuring when you're about to cut into expensive materials. My first project with the Hole Dozer involved installing a soap dispenser in a walnut butcher block kitchen island with an undermount stainless steel sink. Precision was paramount here, as a mistake would mean an unsightly hole in a prominent piece of furniture.

After measuring multiple times and ensuring I had the exact size needed, I proceeded to cut. The Hole Dozer performed admirably, making a very clean hole through the walnut. When it came time to penetrate the stainless steel sink, I was impressed by how effortlessly the saw bit handled the metal. There was no noticeable struggle or signs of wear on the teeth, even after cutting through such a tough material.

However, my experience wasn't entirely without hiccups. On another occasion, I tried to cut a hole in an 18-gauge metal sink, expecting the same smooth performance. Unfortunately, this time the Hole Dozer struggled significantly, barely scratching the surface despite using cutting oil. This was disappointing, especially since the product is marketed as suitable for metal applications. I contacted Milwaukee for support, and while they were responsive, it did make me question the consistency of the tool's performance.

Switching gears, I used the Hole Dozer again for a project involving 1/4" thick steel pipes. Here, the tool shined brilliantly, cutting through the steel like it was frozen butter. The efficiency and sharpness of the teeth were remarkable, even after multiple holes. The hardest part was drilling the pilot hole; once that was done, the hole saw made quick work of the steel with minimal force required.

One of the thoughtful design elements of the Hole Dozer is the slots for plug removal. In previous hole saws I've used, it was always a tedious task to clear out the drilled material. The slots on the Hole Dozer made this process significantly easier, saving a lot of time and frustration. The increased pilot visibility also proved beneficial, particularly in projects requiring high precision.

For a DIY project, I used the Hole Dozer to make a rack for cleaning wine bottles out of a plastic cutting board. The saw managed to cut slowly and evenly through the tough plastic, which was a relief. The teeth did require cleaning halfway through each cut, but the result was clean and precise holes, making the job much easier.

It's worth noting that the Hole Dozer does seem to struggle with thicker wood on occasion. While drilling through a 2x6 pine board, the saw seemed to struggle a bit more than expected. It required a corded drill to get through, as my 20v cordless drill couldn't handle the task, even with a full charge. This experience made me cautious about recommending the Hole Dozer for thicker wood applications unless paired with a powerful drill.

In another instance, I needed to create holes for a reverse osmosis system in a kitchen sink. The Hole Dozer made this task straightforward, producing a perfect hole quickly and efficiently. This solidified my confidence in its ability to handle common household projects without much hassle.

One of the more impressive feats I achieved with the Hole Dozer was cutting through a 55-gallon steel drum. The saw made light work of the steel, drilling seven holes in about four minutes. The slugs fell into the barrel without requiring any cleanout, which was a pleasant surprise and a testament to the tool's efficiency.

Despite some mixed results, I have to commend the Hole Dozer for its overall performance. It handled a variety of materials, from thick steel to dense wood, and delivered clean, accurate holes in most cases. The build quality and thoughtful design features like the slot for plug removal and increased pilot visibility enhance the user experience significantly.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw? For the most part, yes. It excels in metal applications, particularly thicker steel, and offers a reliable solution for household projects involving materials like plastic and wood. However, if your primary use is cutting metal, be aware of its occasional inconsistency and have a backup plan just in case. Overall, the Hole Dozer is a valuable addition to any toolbox, offering durability and efficiency for a wide range of applications.