Milwaukee The AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade 3PK

When I first laid hands on the Milwaukee AX Pruning Blade, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and the promise of durability that came with its carbide teeth. As someone who frequently engages in both yard work and various woodworking projects, I was eager to see how this blade would perform in real-world applications. The AX Pruning Blade is a 12-inch, 3 TPI blade designed for pruning and clean wood cutting, and it certainly looked the part.

The first task I tackled with the AX blade was pruning a large, overgrown tree in my backyard. Armed with my Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall, I began cutting through branches that varied in thickness from 1 to 4 inches. The blade sliced through the branches like a hot knife through butter. Even when I encountered thicker, more stubborn branches, the AX blade showed no signs of slowing down. Its 3 TPI design allows for aggressive cutting, making quick work of even the most challenging branches. I found that the blade remained cool to the touch, even after extended use, which is a testament to its efficiency and heat resistance.

One of the standout features of the AX Pruning Blade is its ability to cut both above and below ground. I put this to the test by cutting through some tree roots that were encroaching on my garden. The blade's optimized carbide teeth are designed to resist the abrasives found underground, and I was impressed by how well it handled the task. The low blade profile is particularly beneficial for root removal, allowing for precise cuts without the risk of damaging nearby plants.

Switching gears from yard work to a construction project, I used the AX blade to cut through some clean wood for a small shed I was building. The blade maintained its performance, cutting through 2x4s and plywood with ease. The large gullets on the blade help to reduce debris buildup, which is a common issue with other blades. This feature kept the cuts clean and smooth, minimizing the need for additional sanding or finishing.

Durability is a critical factor when choosing a blade, and the AX Pruning Blade did not disappoint. After several hours of cutting branches, roots, and clean wood, the blade showed minimal signs of wear. It retained its sharpness and continued to perform at a high level. This durability is primarily due to the carbide teeth, which extend the blade's lifespan considerably compared to traditional carbon steel blades.

One minor drawback I noticed was that the blade's aggressive nature could be a bit too much for smaller, more delicate branches. When using the blade with my M12 Hackzall, I found that it required a sawing motion and a light touch to cut through thinner branches without causing excessive vibration. However, this is a minor issue and is easily manageable with a bit of practice.

Another point worth mentioning is the blade's versatility. While it excels at pruning and cutting clean wood, it also handles other materials reasonably well. For instance, I used it to cut through some plastic and even a few pieces of metal embedded in old lumber. The blade performed admirably, although it's clear that its primary strength lies in wood cutting.

The AX Pruning Blade comes in a pack of three, which is a great value considering its durability and performance. Having multiple blades on hand ensures that you're always prepared for any cutting task, whether it's pruning trees, cutting roots, or working on a construction project.

In terms of ease of use, the blade's 1/2" universal tang makes it compatible with most reciprocating saws, including my Milwaukee Sawzall. Installation was straightforward, and the blade fit securely without any wobbling or looseness. This compatibility and ease of installation make the AX blade a convenient addition to any tool arsenal.

Overall, I highly recommend the Milwaukee AX Pruning Blade for anyone in need of a reliable, durable, and versatile cutting tool. Its performance in both pruning and clean wood cutting is exceptional, and its ability to handle underground cutting tasks sets it apart from other blades on the market. The carbide teeth ensure a long lifespan, providing excellent value for money. Whether you're a professional landscaper, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who simply needs to maintain their yard, the AX Pruning Blade is a tool that will not disappoint.