Milwaukee Hole Dozer™ Bi-Metal Hole Saw

As a professional who frequently works with a variety of materials, I’ve had the opportunity to try out numerous hole saws over the years. Recently, I got my hands on Milwaukee's Hole Dozer™ Bi-Metal Hole Saw, model 49-56-9654. This tool has quickly become a staple in my kit, and for good reason. Here’s my detailed take on its performance and features.

Design and Build Quality

The Hole Dozer™ boasts a robust construction that feels solid in hand. Upon first use, it’s apparent that Milwaukee has put considerable thought into its design. The 3.5 TPI (teeth per inch) tooth design is especially notable, promising extended life in metal applications. This isn't just marketing fluff—the saw’s performance in cutting through various metals is impressive.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of access slots for easy material slug removal. Anyone who’s used hole saws knows the frustration of material getting stuck inside the cup. The design of the Hole Dozer™ mitigates this issue, making it much easier to clear out debris and keep working efficiently.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Hole Dozer™ does not disappoint. I’ve used it on a variety of materials including thick and thin metals, aluminum, drywall, plastics, and wood. The saw cuts through each with ease, maintaining a clean and precise cut. The increased pilot visibility is a small but significant feature that aids in accurate placement, ensuring that each hole starts exactly where you intend.

One of the first tests I put the saw through was cutting through a dense wall composed of two layers of wood behind a layer of sheetrock. The Hole Dozer™ sliced through the layers effortlessly, leaving minimal marking and showing no signs of wear or dulling after the job was done. This level of durability is a testament to its high-quality construction and thoughtful design.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is another area where the Hole Dozer™ shines. Setting up the hole saw is straightforward, and the transition between different sizes is smooth and quick. This is particularly beneficial when working on projects that require multiple hole sizes, as it minimizes downtime and increases productivity.

The thermoset coating on the saw reduces friction, which not only makes cutting faster but also helps in keeping the saw cool. This is particularly important when cutting through tougher materials like metals, as it prevents overheating and extends the life of the tool.

Versatility

The Hole Dozer™ is highly versatile. It’s designed to handle a wide range of materials, from ductwork and nail-embedded wood to pipes and non-ferrous metals. I’ve used it for everything from electrical installations to plumbing work, and it has consistently delivered exceptional performance.

For instance, when I needed to cut holes in 1-inch hardwood flooring for a plumbing project, the saw chewed through the old wood with no problem whatsoever. It didn’t dance around or move off-target, which is a common issue with lesser-quality hole saws. The cuts were precise, and the wood was easily removed thanks to the well-designed access slots.

Durability and Warranty

Durability is a critical factor for any tool, and the Hole Dozer™ excels in this area. The teeth remain sharp even after multiple uses, and the overall construction is sturdy enough to withstand demanding jobs. Milwaukee backs this up with a lifetime tooth break warranty, which offers peace of mind and underscores the brand’s confidence in their product.

Limitations

While the Hole Dozer™ is excellent for most materials, it does have its limitations. It’s not the best choice for extremely hard materials like stone, stucco, or concrete. In these cases, a carbide-tipped hole saw would be more appropriate. However, for general-purpose applications, the Hole Dozer™ is hard to beat.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee Hole Dozer™ Bi-Metal Hole Saw is a top-tier tool that lives up to its promises. Its combination of durability, ease of use, and versatility makes it an invaluable addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this hole saw is designed to meet and exceed your expectations.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Hole Dozer™. It’s a reliable, high-quality tool that simplifies the task of cutting holes in a variety of materials. With its robust construction, thoughtful design features, and lifetime warranty on tooth breakage, it represents an excellent investment for anyone serious about their work.