Milwaukee The AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade

Pruning and yard work can be daunting tasks, especially when dealing with thick branches, stubborn roots, and overgrown bushes. As someone who frequently undertakes these outdoor chores, I've always been on the lookout for tools that can make the job easier and more efficient. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out Milwaukee’s AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade, and it quickly became a staple in my toolkit.

From the moment I unpacked the blade, its build quality was apparent. The carbide teeth are designed to withstand abrasive conditions, and the blade itself has a low-profile design that makes it ideal for root removal. The 3 TPI (teeth per inch) design promises rapid cutting speed, and I was eager to put it to the test with my M18 Fuel Sawzall.

Performance and Efficiency

The first task I tackled was removing a large, dead branch from a tree in my backyard. Traditionally, I would have used a chainsaw for such a job, but the AX blade promised to handle it just as effectively. Climbing up into the tree, I started cutting with the Sawzall. To my surprise, the AX blade cut through the branch effortlessly. It didn’t heat up, bog down, or show any signs of wear during the process. The blade’s aggressive teeth and large gullets ensured that debris didn’t build up, allowing for continuous, smooth cutting.

Next, I moved on to some buried roots that needed to be cleared out. This is where the carbide teeth really shined. The roots were surrounded by soil and small rocks, environments that typically dull blades quickly. However, the AX blade maintained its sharpness and continued to cut through the roots without any noticeable degradation. The blade’s low-profile design made it easy to maneuver and get close to the ground without much hassle.

Versatility and Durability

One of the standout features of the AX blade is its versatility. Whether dealing with wet wood, dry wood, or even roots below ground, the blade performs consistently well. I used it to trim branches of varying sizes—from small twigs to thick limbs up to 6 inches in diameter. The blade’s aggressive cutting nature means that it can handle both softer woods like pine and harder woods like oak with equal efficiency.

Durability is another area where this blade excels. After several hours of continuous use, including cutting through buried roots and encountering occasional small rocks, the blade showed minimal wear. It didn’t bend or buckle under pressure, which is often a concern with thinner blades. Milwaukee’s design ensures that the blade remains sturdy and reliable, even in tough conditions.

Ease of Use

Attaching the AX blade to my Sawzall was straightforward, thanks to its universal tang. Once attached, the blade felt secure and didn’t wobble, which is crucial for maintaining control during cuts. The 9-inch length provided a good balance between reach and control, making it suitable for various pruning and cutting tasks.

One of the most impressive aspects of using the AX blade was how it maintained its cutting performance even after extended use. I noticed that the blade didn’t require frequent stops to clear debris, thanks to the large gullets. This not only saved time but also made the cutting process smoother and less frustrating.

Practical Applications

I found the AX blade to be particularly useful in several scenarios:

1. Tree Pruning: The blade’s ability to cut through both fresh and dry wood quickly made it ideal for pruning tasks. It handled branches of different sizes effortlessly, making it a versatile tool for general yard maintenance.

2. Root Cutting: When digging around tree bases or removing stumps, the blade’s carbide teeth proved invaluable. It cut through roots below ground without dulling, something that would typically ruin standard blades.

3. Construction and Demolition: While primarily designed for pruning, the AX blade also performed well in cutting clean wood during small construction tasks. It’s not the best option for finished wood due to its aggressive teeth, but for rough cuts, it’s more than capable.

Limitations

While the AX blade is impressive, it’s not without its limitations. The aggressive teeth make it less suitable for fine or finished cuts, as it can leave rough edges. Additionally, for those using less powerful saws, such as the M12 Hackzall, the blade’s aggressive nature might require a more controlled touch to prevent excessive vibration and ensure smooth cuts.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade is a standout tool for anyone involved in yard work, pruning, or light construction. Its combination of durability, efficiency, and versatility makes it an invaluable addition to any toolkit. The blade’s ability to handle tough conditions, including cutting through roots and dealing with abrasive underground materials, sets it apart from many other blades on the market.

I highly recommend this blade for its robust performance and long-lasting durability. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner tackling weekend yard projects, the AX blade will undoubtedly make your tasks easier and more efficient. It’s a tool that delivers on its promises and lives up to Milwaukee’s reputation for quality and reliability.