Milwaukee WRECKER with NITRUS CARBIDE SAWZALL blade

Milwaukee's WRECKER with NITRUS CARBIDE SAWZALL blade immediately caught my attention with its promise of cutting through a variety of materials, from wood and drywall to metal and roofing materials. This versatile blade, with its 6TPI design and carbide-tipped teeth, seemed like the perfect solution for my demolition and remodeling tasks. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its claims.

Upon first glance, the WRECKER blade exudes quality. The blade feels robust and well-constructed, with the universal 1/2" tang ensuring it fits seamlessly into my reciprocating saw. I appreciate that Milwaukee offers this blade in different lengths—6", 9", and 12"—to cater to various needs. For my purposes, I opted for the 12" blade, which seemed ideal for tackling both large and small tasks.

Performance in Various Materials

The first test I conducted was on wood, specifically a 9-inch dry pine log. Given the blade's multi-material capabilities and carbide teeth, I anticipated a smooth and swift cut. However, the experience was less than satisfactory. The cutting process was slow, and despite allowing the blade to do the work, it overheated quickly. After a prolonged effort, I had only made it three-quarters of the way through the log. This was surprising and somewhat disappointing, considering the blade's specifications. Nevertheless, I decided to move on and test the blade on other materials.

When it came to demolition work involving wood with embedded nails, the WRECKER blade truly shined. It sliced through nail-embedded wood effortlessly, maintaining its sharpness and integrity throughout. This performance was consistent with Milwaukee's reputation for durable and long-lasting carbide blades. The blade's ability to resist bending and maintain its cutting edge was particularly impressive, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty demolition tasks.

Versatility and Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the WRECKER blade is its versatility. I used it for a variety of applications, including cutting through drywall, plaster, rigid conduit, and black pipe. The blade handled each material with ease, making it a valuable tool for any remodeling project. The Fang Tip design proved effective for plunge cuts in wood and drywall, allowing for precise and controlled cuts.

The blade's durability was another notable aspect. Despite extensive use, the carbide teeth remained sharp, and the blade showed minimal signs of wear. This longevity is a significant advantage, especially for professionals who require a reliable tool that can withstand rigorous use.

Challenges and Considerations

While the WRECKER blade excels in many areas, it does have its limitations. Cutting through thick, dry wood was a challenge, and the blade's performance in this regard fell short of expectations. Additionally, the blade tends to load up with pitch when cutting through treated lumber or hardwood, which can slow down the cutting process and require frequent cleaning.

Another consideration is the blade's price. The WRECKER blade is relatively expensive compared to other reciprocating saw blades on the market. While its durability and versatility may justify the cost for some users, those on a budget might find it more economical to opt for Milwaukee's older "white colored" carbide-tipped blades, which are typically sold in quantity lots.

Practical Applications

In practical applications, the WRECKER blade proved invaluable for various tasks. I used it to trim large shrubs around my yard, and its 12-inch length allowed for deep cuts into thick branches. The blade's ability to cut through both wood and metal made it ideal for removing an old fence, where I encountered numerous nails and knots. It also performed admirably in more delicate tasks, such as pruning and tree trimming, demonstrating its versatility.

For demolition work, the WRECKER blade is a powerhouse. It easily cut through old lath and plaster, and its flexibility allowed for blind cuts from one side of a structure. The blade's ability to handle multiple materials without frequent changes made it a convenient choice for complex projects.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Milwaukee's WRECKER with NITRUS CARBIDE SAWZALL blade is a high-quality, versatile tool that excels in most demolition and remodeling tasks. Its durability, ability to cut through various materials, and compatibility with multiple saw brands make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. However, its performance in cutting thick, dry wood and its tendency to load up with pitch are areas where it falls short.

Would I recommend this blade? Yes, with some reservations. For those who primarily work with wood, metal, drywall, and similar materials, the WRECKER blade is an excellent choice. Its durability and versatility make it a reliable tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. However, if your primary need is cutting thick, dry wood, you might want to explore other options or keep a secondary blade on hand for those specific tasks.

In conclusion, the WRECKER blade lives up to much of its hype, offering robust performance and long-lasting durability for a wide range of applications. With a few minor limitations, it remains a standout tool in Milwaukee's impressive lineup.