Milwaukee 8 PC BIG HAWG™ Carbide Teeth Plumber's Hole Saw Kit

Milwaukee's 8 PC BIG HAWG™ Carbide Teeth Plumber's Hole Saw Kit is an ambitious offering that promises durability and efficiency in a variety of cutting tasks. As a seasoned user of Milwaukee tools, I approached this kit with high expectations, hoping it would live up to the brand's storied reputation.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about this kit is its substantial weight. This heft is a double-edged sword—it speaks to the robust construction of the hole saws themselves but also to the somewhat cumbersome nature of the kit as a whole. Each hole saw features larger carbide teeth designed to maintain sharpness and longevity, even when cutting through nail-embedded wood and abrasive materials. The depth of cut, listed at 2.34 inches, is more than sufficient for most plumbing and electrical tasks, making it versatile for a range of applications.

Performance

In terms of cutting performance, the hole saws themselves are impressive. They slice through wood, nails, and even some metals with relative ease. During my time using the kit, I tested it on various materials, including plywood, pressure-treated lumber, and a metal sheet. The hole saws performed admirably, maintaining their sharpness and showing minimal signs of wear, even after multiple uses. The larger carbide teeth indeed make for faster cutting, and the deeper slots facilitate easier plug removal, which is a significant time-saver on the job.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this kit is the quick-change arbor system. The arbors lock securely into place, reducing the time and effort required to switch between hole saw sizes. This is particularly useful for professionals who need to make multiple hole sizes in a single project. The design of the arbors also ensures that the saws don’t get stuck, a common issue with other hole saw kits I've used in the past.

However, not everything about this kit is user-friendly. The hole saws themselves, while effective, can sometimes wobble during use. This wobble can make it challenging to achieve precise, clean cuts, especially when working with harder materials. It’s manageable with a steady hand and some practice, but it’s worth noting for those who require high precision in their work.

The Case: A Significant Flaw

Where the Milwaukee kit falters significantly is in its case design. The case is intended to be a durable, portable solution for storing the hole saws and accessories, but it falls short in several areas. The plastic pins that hold the hole saws in place are not sturdy enough for the kit's weight. During transport, these pins can, and often do, break, causing the hole saws to jostle around inside the case. This not only makes it difficult to keep the kit organized but also increases the risk of damaging the saws.

Additionally, the compartment meant for storing arbors and pilot bits is poorly designed. The lid doesn’t stay attached, and the bits frequently spill out, making it a hassle to keep everything in its place. The fabric handle on the case is another weak point; it’s prone to slipping out of its hole, potentially causing the case to drop, which could be disastrous given its weight and the fragility of the plastic components.

Value for Money

Given the performance of the hole saws themselves, the kit offers good value in terms of cutting efficiency and durability. The carbide teeth extend the life of the saws, meaning you won’t need to replace them as frequently as you might with other brands. This long-term durability can justify the higher upfront cost for professionals who rely on their tools daily.

However, the poorly designed case is a significant drawback that could deter potential buyers. The frustration of dealing with a disorganized and fragile case might outweigh the benefits of the robust hole saws for some users. For those who value organization and portability, the case’s shortcomings are a considerable downside.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 8 PC BIG HAWG™ Carbide Teeth Plumber's Hole Saw Kit is a mixed bag. On one hand, the hole saws themselves are excellent—durable, efficient, and capable of handling a variety of materials with ease. The quick-change arbor system is another highlight, making the kit user-friendly and time-efficient.

On the other hand, the case design leaves much to be desired. The flimsy plastic components and poorly designed compartments make it challenging to keep the kit organized and portable. This issue is significant enough to detract from the overall value of the kit, especially for professionals who need to transport their tools frequently.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee hole saw kit? Yes, but with reservations. If you primarily need a durable and efficient set of hole saws and can overlook the case’s shortcomings, this kit is a solid choice. The cutting performance and longevity of the saws make it a worthwhile investment for those who demand high-quality tools.

However, if you place a high value on portability and organization, you might want to consider alternative options or be prepared to invest in a separate, more durable case. The frustration of dealing with a poorly designed case could overshadow the benefits of the excellent hole saws, especially for those who need a reliable, all-in-one solution.