Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel

Removing tiles can be a daunting task, but with the right tool, it becomes significantly more manageable. Recently, I had the chance to work with Milwaukee's SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel, and it proved to be quite an impressive addition to my toolkit. This chisel is designed for use with SDS MAX rotary hammers, and its performance certainly lives up to the Milwaukee name.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things you'll notice about this tile chisel is its robust construction. Made from high-grade forged steel, it feels solid and durable right out of the box. The chisel features reinforced edges that are designed to maintain their sharpness over extended use, which is a significant advantage when tackling large projects. The attention to detail in its construction is evident, and the German manufacturing quality shines through.

The 2" wide blade is perfect for removing tiles, mortar, laminate, and other composite materials. The angled head design is particularly noteworthy. It allows for more comfortable handling and better leverage, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use. This is especially beneficial when you're working on larger areas or stubborn tiles that don't want to budge.

Performance

Using the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel with my SDS MAX rotary hammer was an eye-opening experience. The chisel made quick work of removing old floor tiles, and its performance was consistent throughout the job. The reinforced edges held up well, and I didn't need to stop and resharpen the tool, which saved a lot of time and effort.

One of the standout features of this chisel is its ability to maintain a sharp edge. This not only makes the tool more effective but also increases productivity by reducing downtime. The high-grade steel construction contributes to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Versatility

While the primary function of this tool is tile removal, I found it to be quite versatile. For instance, I used it to remove old indoor/outdoor carpeting that had been glued to a concrete porch. The angled head did a fantastic job of cleaning up the adhesive, making the task much easier than using a hand chisel and mallet. This versatility makes the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Ease of Use

The chisel's design makes it easy to use, even for those who may not be professional tradespeople. The angled head and ergonomic design reduce strain and make it easier to maintain the correct angle during use. However, it's essential to practice in an inconspicuous area first to avoid any unintended surface damage, especially when working on delicate materials.

Safety is another critical aspect to consider. The chisel can generate a lot of dust and debris, so wearing safety glasses, a mask, knee pads, and gloves is highly recommended. Additionally, applying a light coating of grease on the chisel end that goes into the hammer can make it easier to extract at the end of the day.

Drawbacks

While the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel has many strengths, it's not without its drawbacks. Some users have reported that the chisel can be too aggressive, potentially gouging wooden subfloors if the angle isn't right. This makes it crucial to maintain proper technique during use.

Another issue is that the chisel may not be the best choice for all types of tiles. For example, when I tried to remove slate tiles, the chisel caused the slate to flake and disintegrate rather than come up in large pieces. In this case, a smooth 3-inch chisel worked better for the application. Therefore, it's essential to consider the type of material you're working with before selecting this chisel.

Durability and Maintenance

One of the significant advantages of the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel is its durability. The high-grade forged steel construction ensures that the tool can withstand heavy use without significant wear. However, some users have reported that the chisel can dull quickly when used on particularly tough materials. In such cases, a grinder can be used to resharpen the edges, although this somewhat contradicts the claim that no re-sharpening is required.

Despite these minor issues, the overall durability of the tool is commendable. It's built to last and can handle a variety of demanding tasks without compromising performance.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel is a high-quality, durable tool that excels in tile removal and other similar tasks. Its robust construction, reinforced edges, and ergonomic design make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it may have some limitations, particularly with certain types of tiles and materials, its overall performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment.

Recommendation

I would recommend the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its durability, ease of use, and consistent performance make it a reliable tool for various applications. However, it's essential to consider the type of material you're working with and maintain proper technique to avoid any potential issues. If you're in the market for a high-quality tile chisel, the Milwaukee SLEDGE 2" Tile Chisel is definitely worth considering.