Milwaukee Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit - 18PC

When equipping your toolbox for a variety of cutting tasks, versatility and reliability are key. The Milwaukee Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit - 18PC promises to deliver just that. After putting this kit to the test, I have some insights to share about its performance, durability, and overall usability.

Construction and Design

The Milwaukee hole saw kit is built with a 3.5 TPI tooth design, optimized for cutting through a range of materials, including metal, non-ferrous metal, aluminum, wood, wood with nails, plaster, and PVC. The bi-metal construction ensures that the saws are durable and can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The anti-friction coating further aids in smoother cuts and reduces the heat generated during the cutting process, which is a significant advantage when working with metal.

One of the standout features of this kit is its customizable storage case. The case is designed with interchangeable pegs, allowing for a tailored configuration based on your specific needs. This is particularly useful if you have other Milwaukee accessories you want to include in the case. The removable accessory box adds another layer of customization, making it easy to keep everything organized and accessible.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Milwaukee hole saws excel in metal cutting. The 3.5 TPI tooth design bites into metal surfaces efficiently, producing clean and precise holes with minimal effort. However, it’s worth noting that while the saws are highly effective on metal, their performance on wood can be somewhat lacking. In my experience, cutting through wood required frequent stops to clear out sawdust, and the saws tended to catch more often compared to other brands. This necessitated the use of a drill with a side handle to maintain control and avoid wrist strain.

When it comes to changing blades, the quick-change mechanism is a game-changer. It allows for rapid swapping of hole saws, which is particularly useful when working on projects that require multiple hole sizes. The slots for easy plug removal are another thoughtful addition, saving time and effort when extracting the cut material.

Durability

Milwaukee's reputation for durability is well-earned, and this hole saw kit is no exception. The saws are robust and hold up well under continuous use. I’ve used the 3” bit extensively on materials like OSB and plywood, and it still performs as well as it did out of the box. The lifetime warranty on tooth breakage is a testament to the confidence Milwaukee has in its product, and it provides peace of mind for users.

However, the case quality leaves something to be desired. While the saws themselves are built to last, the case is somewhat flimsy and doesn’t close properly. This can be a minor annoyance, especially if you rely on the case to keep your tools organized and protected. The latch mechanism is particularly problematic, as it doesn’t secure the case effectively, leading to potential spills and disorganization.

Ease of Use

The Milwaukee hole saw kit is generally user-friendly, with a few caveats. The aggressive tooth design means that the saws cut quickly and efficiently, but this also makes them prone to grabbing and pulling through the material too quickly. This can be managed with a steady hand and a bit of practice, but it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re new to using hole saws.

The lack of an extension in the kit is another minor drawback. An extension would be useful for reaching deeper cuts or working with thicker materials. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s a feature that would have added to the overall versatility of the kit.

Overall Value

Considering the price point, especially when the kit is on sale, the Milwaukee hole saw kit offers excellent value for money. The saws are durable, perform well on a variety of materials, and the quick-change mechanism is a significant time-saver. Despite the issues with the case and the occasional challenges when cutting wood, the overall quality and performance of the saws make this kit a worthy addition to any toolbox.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit - 18PC? Yes, with some reservations. If your primary need is for cutting metal and other tough materials, this kit is an excellent choice. The durability and performance of the saws are top-notch, and the quick-change mechanism adds a level of convenience that is hard to beat.

However, if you anticipate doing a lot of work with wood, you might find the performance less satisfactory. The saws tend to catch and require frequent stops to clear sawdust, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the case quality is a notable downside, and if organization and portability are important to you, this might be a deal-breaker.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit is a solid investment for those who need a reliable and versatile set of hole saws, particularly for metalworking. With a bit of patience and care, it can serve well for a variety of tasks, making it a valuable addition to your tool collection.