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

As someone who spends a lot of time working on various yard projects, I was eager to try out the Milwaukee AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade (model number 48-00-5332). This blade boasts features that promise durability and efficiency in cutting applications both above and below ground, making it sound like a versatile addition to my tool kit. After putting it through its paces, I must say it has earned a permanent spot in my collection.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this blade is its robust build. The carbide teeth are a standout feature, designed to extend the blade's life significantly. This is especially useful when cutting through abrasive materials like dirt, sand, and rocks, which can quickly dull standard blades. The blade measures 9 inches in length and has a 3 TPI (teeth per inch) configuration, which is optimized for rapid cuts in clean wood. The 1/2-inch universal tang ensures compatibility with most reciprocating saws, making it a versatile choice for many users.

Performance

I initially tested the blade on some dead branches in my yard, using it with my Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall. The AX blade cut through the branches with remarkable ease, even those that were nearly 3 inches in diameter. What struck me the most was how the blade remained cool, even after several continuous cuts. This is a testament to its efficient design, which minimizes heat build-up.

Next, I moved on to a more challenging task: cutting roots below ground. Anyone who has dealt with underground roots knows that they often hide surprises like rocks and compact soil, which can wreak havoc on a blade. The carbide teeth and large gullets of this blade handled these conditions impressively. The blade cut through roots without significant wear, and the large gullets effectively minimized debris buildup, allowing for smoother cuts.

Versatility

One of the standout features of this blade is its versatility. It's not just for pruning; it's also capable of handling various types of clean wood, making it a useful tool for multiple applications around the yard. For instance, I used it to cut some 2x4 lumber for a small project, and it performed just as well as it did with the tree branches and roots. The aggressive 3 TPI design makes it particularly effective for rapid cuts, although this can result in rougher edges. Therefore, it's not the best choice for fine woodworking where a clean cut is essential.

Durability

Durability is where this blade truly shines. After extensive use, the carbide teeth showed minimal signs of wear. I even used it to cut through some old, buried bricks surrounded by roots, a task that would dull most standard blades in minutes. The AX blade, however, continued to perform admirably. This level of durability means fewer blade changes, saving both time and money in the long run.

Ease of Use

The blade's low profile and aggressive teeth make it easy to use in various conditions. Whether I was cutting overhead branches or tackling roots below ground, the blade responded well to different angles and pressures. The universal tang made it easy to switch between different saws, and the blade locked securely in place each time. This ease of installation and reliability under different conditions make it a user-friendly option for both amateur and professional users.

Limitations

While the AX blade excels in many areas, it's not without its limitations. The aggressive 3 TPI design, while great for rapid cuts, can be a bit much for smaller branches or softer woods. In these cases, the blade tends to vibrate and may require a sawing motion to complete the cut smoothly. Additionally, the blade's performance on very small branches (under 2 inches) was less than stellar when used with less powerful saws like the M12 Hackzall. For these finer tasks, a less aggressive blade might be a better choice.

Another minor drawback is the blade's packaging. It arrived in a simple envelope, which offered little protection. This isn't a deal-breaker but is something to be aware of if you're ordering it online.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee AX with Carbide Teeth for Pruning & Clean Wood SAWZALL Blade is an impressive tool that lives up to its promises. Its durability, versatility, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any tool kit, especially for those who frequently undertake yard work or small construction projects. The aggressive design makes it particularly effective for rapid cuts in clean wood and tough underground roots, though it may be overkill for finer tasks.

I would highly recommend this blade to anyone in need of a reliable, long-lasting pruning and wood-cutting tool. Its ability to handle a variety of materials, from tree branches to lumber and even underground roots, makes it a versatile choice for many applications. The investment in this blade will likely pay off through reduced downtime and fewer blade replacements, ensuring you can focus more on the task at hand and less on maintaining your tools.