Milwaukee 4-3/8" Recessed Light Hole Saw

Cutting precise holes for recessed lighting can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with various materials like drywall, plaster, and stucco. That’s where the Milwaukee 4-3/8" Recessed Light Hole Saw comes into play. This tool promises to make the job easier, quicker, and cleaner. After putting it through its paces, I’m here to share my experience.

One of the first things I noticed about this hole saw is its robust construction. The solid, welded build ensures that it remains stable during operation, which is crucial for making accurate cuts. The continual rim design is a standout feature, providing clean cuts without tearing the material. This is particularly beneficial when working with delicate surfaces like drywall or plaster, where a rough cut could lead to unsightly edges or even structural damage.

The carbide grit edge is another excellent addition. It’s designed to handle abrasive materials, making it versatile enough to cut through drywall, plaster, acoustical tile, wood, and even stucco with mesh. This versatility is a significant advantage for anyone who needs to work with multiple materials in a single project. I found that the carbide edge maintained its sharpness well, even after several cuts through tough materials.

One minor drawback is the depth of cut, which is limited to 1 inch. This means that for thicker materials, you may need to make cuts from both sides, which can be a bit cumbersome. However, the open back design makes plug removal straightforward, so you won't have to wrestle with material stuck inside the saw.

Using this tool for installing recessed lighting in my kitchen ceiling was a breeze. The hole saw made clean, crisp holes that fit the light fixtures perfectly. The recommended RPM of 600 worked well, providing a balance between speed and control. If you already own a Milwaukee Hole-Dozer kit, you’ll be pleased to know that the included 3/8” arbor fits perfectly, making it a seamless addition to your toolkit.

One thing to note is that the hole saw does not come with an arbor. If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to purchase it separately. This could be a bit of an inconvenience, especially if you’re in the middle of a project and don’t have time to run to the store. I used a Milwaukee arbor with locking pins, which worked perfectly. The locking pins are essential as they prevent the hole saw from flying off during operation, ensuring a safer and more controlled cut.

The tool performed admirably on various materials. It cut through plaster and lathe without dulling, saving me from the frustration of dealing with a worn-out blade after just a few cuts. The clean cuts also mean that there’s no light bleed or ill-fitting trims, which is crucial for a professional finish.

However, there are a few areas where the tool could use some refinement. The openings around the base tend to drop a lot of dust into the drill, which can be messy. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re working in a finished space. A dust shield would be a valuable addition to this tool, helping to keep the workspace cleaner.

Despite these minor issues, the Milwaukee 4-3/8" Recessed Light Hole Saw is a valuable tool for anyone looking to install recessed lighting. It’s particularly useful for old work cans, where the carbide grit edge excels at cutting through tough, abrasive materials without grabbing or dulling quickly. This makes it a worthy investment if you’re planning to install multiple light fixtures or work with challenging materials like plaster and stucco.

In terms of value, the tool is reasonably priced, especially considering its performance and durability. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the quality and ease of use justify the cost. The time saved and the professional finish achieved make it a worthwhile addition to any toolbox.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 4-3/8" Recessed Light Hole Saw is a reliable and efficient tool for installing recessed lighting. Its robust construction, clean cutting ability, and versatility make it a standout choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the need to purchase an arbor separately and the dust issue, these are easily manageable and do not detract significantly from the overall performance.

I would recommend this tool to anyone looking to install recessed lighting, particularly if you’re dealing with a variety of materials. Its ability to make clean, precise cuts quickly and efficiently makes it a valuable asset for any project. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIYer, the Milwaukee 4-3/8" Recessed Light Hole Saw is a tool that will make your job easier and deliver excellent results.