Milwaukee 12 PC HOLE DOZER with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit

Cutting through various materials can often be a challenge, especially when precision, durability, and versatility are needed. I recently had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee 12 PC Hole Dozer with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit to the test, and I found it to be a well-rounded addition to my toolbox.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Hole Dozer kit impresses with its robust build quality. The saws are constructed with carbide teeth, which promise extended longevity and the ability to tackle tougher materials. The teeth are sharp and aggressive, designed to handle a wide range of materials from wood and plaster to more demanding substances like stainless steel, cast iron, and fiberglass. The durable construction is immediately apparent and gives confidence that the set can withstand rigorous use.

The kit includes 12 pieces, featuring eight saws ranging from 7/8" to 2 1/2", two arbors, two spare pilot bits, and an Allen wrench. The saws are housed in a sturdy plastic case with a padded interior that ensures the teeth remain protected and the components stay organized. The case is compact and portable, making it convenient to carry around to different job sites.

Performance

The performance of this hole saw kit is where it truly shines. The 3 TPI (teeth per inch) design is tailored for fast and efficient cutting. I used the Hole Dozer to cut through a variety of materials, including wood with embedded nails, cement board, and even some stainless steel. In wood, the saws cut through effortlessly, leaving clean, precise holes with minimal tear-out. The carbide teeth maintained their sharpness well, even after multiple cuts.

When it came to metal, the Hole Dozer performed admirably but with a few caveats. Cutting through stainless steel and cast iron required a bit more patience and the use of cutting oil to keep the teeth cool and efficient. While the saws did manage to cut through metal, I found that they excelled more in materials like wood, plaster, and cement board. The depth of cut, at 1.62 inches, was sufficient for most of my needs, allowing for clean, deep holes in thick lumber and other materials.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this kit is the ease of use. The quick-change arbors make switching between hole saws a breeze. No additional tools are required to mount or remove the saws, which saves a considerable amount of time and frustration. The arbors secure the saws firmly, and I never experienced any wobbling or loosening during use.

The Plug Jack T-slots are another thoughtful addition. Removing plugs from hole saws can often be a tedious task, but the T-slots allow for easy insertion of a screwdriver or similar tool to pop out the plug quickly. This feature significantly speeds up the workflow, especially when making multiple cuts in quick succession.

Versatility

The Hole Dozer kit is versatile, suitable for a wide range of applications. I used it for installing door hardware, creating cable pass-throughs in desks, and even some light plumbing work. The variety of sizes included in the kit meant I always had the right size saw for the job. The saws also handled different materials with ease, which makes this kit a valuable addition for anyone who works with a variety of substances.

However, it's worth noting that while the saws are advertised for use on metal, they are more suited for occasional metal cutting rather than frequent, heavy-duty use. For those who primarily work with metals, a dedicated metal-cutting solution might be more appropriate.

Durability

Durability is often a concern with hole saws, especially when used on tough materials. The Milwaukee Hole Dozer kit, with its carbide teeth, stands up well to repeated use. After extensive use, the teeth showed minimal signs of wear. The coating on the saws also helps reduce friction, which not only aids in smoother cuts but also helps in prolonging the life of the saws.

Storage and Portability

The storage case deserves special mention. It is well-designed, with specific slots for each saw, arbor, and accessory. The top padding ensures that the saws do not get damaged during transport, and the compact design makes it easy to carry around. The case also features a sturdy handle and a secure locking mechanism, ensuring that everything stays in place even when jostled around.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Milwaukee 12 PC Hole Dozer with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit is a high-quality set that delivers on its promises. It combines durability, ease of use, and versatility in a well-thought-out package. The carbide teeth extend the life of the saws, and the quick-change arbors and Plug Jack T-slots enhance usability. While it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty metal cutting, it excels in a wide range of other materials, making it an excellent choice for general-purpose use.

I would highly recommend this kit to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. The robust build quality, combined with the thoughtful design features, make it a reliable and efficient tool for a variety of applications. Whether you're working on home improvement projects, carpentry, or light plumbing, the Milwaukee Hole Dozer kit is a valuable addition to your toolkit.