Milwaukee Anti-Splinter Strip

Cutting wood with precision is an art, and having the right tools can make a world of difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out Milwaukee's Anti-Splinter Strip (model number 48-08-0575), designed to work with their guide rails to minimize splintering and tear-out during cutting. Given Milwaukee's reputation for high-quality tools, I was eager to see if this product lived up to its promise.

First Impressions and Installation

The Anti-Splinter Strip comes in a roll advertised as 110 inches long, which should be ample for two 55-inch tracks. The strip itself is made of rubber and has an adhesive backing for easy attachment. As I unrolled the strip, I noticed that the adhesive seemed strong and the material itself felt durable. However, I quickly encountered my first issue: the roll was only 106 inches long, not the advertised 110 inches. This discrepancy meant that one of my 55-inch tracks would be left 4 inches short.

The installation process was straightforward—just peel off the backing and stick the strip onto the guide rail. However, I found that the adhesive was tricky to work with. In some areas, it adhered perfectly, while in others, it seemed to bubble and crease. These imperfections made it difficult to get a smooth, flat application, which is crucial for achieving clean cuts.

Performance and Usability

Once installed, the Anti-Splinter Strip did improve the quality of my cuts. I used it with Milwaukee's M18 FUEL™ Plunge Track Saw, and the edge of the cut wood was noticeably cleaner, with significantly less splintering. This was particularly beneficial when working with plywood and other materials prone to tear-out.

However, the adhesive issues persisted. After a few cuts, I noticed that the ends of the strip started to peel away from the track. This was frustrating because it meant I had to stop and re-adhere the strip, delaying my project. I tried using light clamps to hold the strip down, but this was only a temporary fix. Over time, the problem recurred, which is disappointing for a product meant to enhance efficiency.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is another concern. While the rubber material of the strip itself is sturdy, the adhesive is not up to the same standard. After a week of moderate use, the strip began to show signs of wear, with the adhesive losing its grip in several spots. This is not what I expected from a Milwaukee product, known for their durability and reliability.

Compatibility with Other Brands

One positive aspect is the strip's compatibility with other brands. I tested it on a Makita guide rail, and it fit just as well as it did on the Milwaukee rails. This versatility is a plus, especially if you work with multiple brands of tools. However, the same adhesive issues were present, regardless of the brand of guide rail used.

Final Thoughts

In summary, Milwaukee's Anti-Splinter Strip has its merits but also significant drawbacks. It does improve the cleanliness of cuts, which is essential for professional-quality work. However, the adhesive issues and the discrepancy in the advertised length are major drawbacks. The strip's tendency to peel and bubble can be frustrating and time-consuming to manage.

Would I recommend this tool? It's a mixed bag. If you are a Milwaukee enthusiast and need a quick replacement for a damaged splinter guard, this strip could be a convenient option. However, be prepared to deal with adhesive issues and potentially order more than one roll to cover your tracks adequately.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a long-term, hassle-free solution, you might want to explore other options. The inconsistency in the product's length and the adhesive's performance can be significant hindrances, especially for larger, more demanding projects.

In conclusion, while the Milwaukee Anti-Splinter Strip has the potential to enhance your cutting precision, its flaws make it a less-than-ideal choice for those seeking reliability and ease of use.