Milwaukee SDS PLUS SLEDGE 3/4" X 10" Flat Chisel

If you've ever tackled a heavy-duty demolition or masonry project, you know that having the right tool can make all the difference. Enter the Milwaukee SDS PLUS SLEDGE 3/4" x 10" Flat Chisel, an accessory that's poised to become a staple in your toolbox if you regularly work with concrete, masonry, or even metal. I had the opportunity to put this chisel to the test with my SDS Plus rotary hammer, and the results were nothing short of impressive.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you'll notice about the Milwaukee chisel is its robust construction. The chisel is made from high-grade forged steel, which promises durability and reduced wear over time. This isn't just marketing fluff—it's evident as soon as you hold the tool. The weight of the chisel, at 0.6 lbs, gives it a solid feel without being overly cumbersome. The 10-inch length strikes a good balance between reach and control, making it versatile for various tasks.

The reinforced edges of the chisel are a standout feature. They are designed to maintain sharpness longer, and in my experience, they lived up to this promise. After multiple sessions of breaking through concrete and chiseling out mortar, the edges showed minimal signs of wear. This longevity is crucial for anyone who doesn't want to spend time and money on frequent replacements or re-sharpening.

Performance

Using the Milwaukee chisel with an SDS Plus rotary hammer transforms your tool into a mini jackhammer. Whether you're breaking up a concrete slab, removing floor tiles, or chipping away at a brick wall, this chisel handles the job with ease. The longer tip length is particularly beneficial for extended life and sustained performance. I found that the chisel maintained its effectiveness even after prolonged use, which is a testament to its engineering.

One task that often challenges chisels is breaking through concrete with embedded rebar. I was particularly impressed with how the Milwaukee chisel handled this. It took substantial punishment, breaking through not just stone but also rebar. Remarkably, the chisel tip showed barely any wear afterward. This kind of durability is invaluable for professionals who need reliable tools that can withstand harsh conditions.

Versatility

While this chisel is primarily designed for concrete and masonry work, its versatility extends beyond that. I used it to chip off welding slag, and it performed admirably. The control it offers makes it suitable for delicate tasks as well as more aggressive demolition work. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially for those who need a multifunctional tool.

It's worth noting that while the chisel excels in many areas, it might not be the best choice for specific tasks like tile removal. There are specialized tile removal bits that are better suited for that job. However, for general chisel work, this tool offers a broad range of applications.

Compatibility and Ease of Use

Compatibility is always a concern when adding new accessories to your tool collection. The Milwaukee chisel is designed for SDS Plus rotary hammers, and it fits perfectly with my rotary hammer without any issues. However, it's essential to ensure that your rotary hammer is compatible with SDS Plus accessories to avoid any installation problems.

Using the chisel is straightforward. It doesn't require any special handling or maintenance. The promise of no need for re-sharpening or re-hardening is a significant time-saver. Even though the chisel did get slightly dull after extensive use, it was still effective, and the minimal maintenance required was a welcome feature.

Durability and Edge Retention

Durability is where the Milwaukee chisel truly shines. The high-grade forged steel construction ensures that the tool can handle heavy-duty tasks without significant wear and tear. I put the chisel through rigorous tests, including breaking up a cinder block wall and chiseling out a basement floor for a drain installation. In both cases, the chisel performed exceptionally well, maintaining its edge and showing minimal signs of wear.

The edge retention is another highlight. While some chisels require frequent re-sharpening, the Milwaukee chisel's reinforced edges and longer tip length reduce this need. This feature makes it a practical choice for professionals who need a reliable tool that stays sharp longer.

Drawbacks

No tool is without its flaws, and the Milwaukee chisel is no exception. One minor issue I encountered was that the chisel dulled faster than expected during one particularly demanding task. While it can be re-sharpened with a grinder, this might be a drawback for those who aren't familiar with sharpening tools. Additionally, the chisel's SDS connection point can be prone to breaking if subjected to extreme stress, although this is a rare occurrence.

Another point to consider is that while the chisel fits most SDS Plus rotary hammers, there may be compatibility issues with some models. It's always a good idea to check compatibility before purchasing to avoid any disappointment.

Conclusion

In summary, the Milwaukee SDS PLUS SLEDGE 3/4" x 10" Flat Chisel is a robust, versatile, and durable tool that excels in a variety of heavy-duty applications. Its high-grade forged steel construction, reinforced edges, and longer tip length make it a reliable choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. While it may not be the best option for specialized tasks like tile removal, its overall performance and durability make it a valuable addition to any tool collection.

I would highly recommend this chisel to anyone in need of a reliable, high-performing tool for concrete and masonry work. Its durability, ease of use, and versatility make it a standout choice in its category. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Milwaukee chisel is a tool you can count on to get the job done efficiently and effectively.