Milwaukee BIG HAWG™ with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit

The Milwaukee BIG HAWG™ with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit has quickly become one of my most trusted companions in the toolbox. As someone who regularly works on rough-in applications, I’ve encountered my fair share of hole saws that promise durability and performance but fail to deliver when faced with real-world challenges. This kit, however, stands out in several key areas that make it a worthwhile investment for any professional or serious DIYer.

Build Quality and Durability

The first thing that struck me about this kit is the build quality. The hole saws themselves are robust, featuring larger carbide teeth designed for aggressive cuts. Milwaukee claims these saws can cut through over 1000 nails without losing their edge, and while I haven’t counted every nail, I can attest to their impressive durability. I’ve used them to cut through a variety of materials, including nail-embedded wood, drywall, plywood, and even cement board siding. Each time, the saws performed admirably, showing minimal signs of wear.

The kit includes six hole saws with sizes ranging from 2-1/8" to 4-1/4", which covers a wide array of applications. The depth of cut is 2.34", which is slightly deeper than many other hole saws I’ve used, allowing for more versatility in different tasks. The thick backer adds to the saws’ durability, ensuring they hold up under pressure.

Cutting Performance

Cutting speed is another area where this kit excels. The three-tooth design and larger carbide teeth contribute to faster and more efficient cuts. I’ve managed to cut through 1-1/2 inch thick framing members in under 40 seconds without any jamming or overheating issues. Even when cutting through tougher materials like cement board siding, the saws completed the job in less than half a minute.

One of the standout features is the optimized slot design, which makes plug removal incredibly easy. Anyone who has used a hole saw knows how frustrating it can be to remove the cut core, but Milwaukee has addressed this issue effectively. The saws spit out the wood as they cut, leaving a small inner core that quickly falls away, saving valuable time and reducing frustration.

Ease of Use

The kit comes with three 4-1/2 inch long carbide-tipped pilot bits, a hex wrench, a sturdy arbor, and a diamond file for sharpening the teeth. The pilot bits are versatile and durable, allowing for smooth operation across different materials. The arbor is easy to use, and the attachment method is the best I’ve seen. The nut and plate with pins design ensures a secure fit, preventing the common issue of the saw getting stuck to the arbor.

However, these hole saws are not lightweight. They are heavier than many other options, which can be a drawback for light projects like cabinet work. But for heavy-duty applications, the weight adds to their stability and cutting power. I highly recommend using a strong drill with a side handle to manage the torque and ensure safety.

Case Quality

The kit comes in a high-density polyethylene case with steel hinge pins and a sliding latch. While the case is sturdy and keeps everything organized, it’s not without its flaws. The latch tends to come undone easily, and the posts for the saws can fall off, making it less reliable for transport. I found myself using a different storage solution to avoid these issues.

Value for Money

Given the performance and durability of these hole saws, I believe the Milwaukee BIG HAWG™ kit offers excellent value for money. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but the time and effort saved, along with the longevity of the saws, more than justify the cost. For professionals who frequently need reliable hole saws, this kit can significantly improve efficiency and reduce downtime.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Milwaukee BIG HAWG™ with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw Kit is a formidable tool that delivers on its promises. It’s built to last, performs exceptionally well across various materials, and is designed with user convenience in mind. While the case could use some improvements, the quality of the hole saws themselves is unquestionable.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. For anyone who regularly tackles rough-in applications and needs a reliable, durable, and efficient hole saw kit, the Milwaukee BIG HAWG™ is a top contender. It’s an investment that pays off in performance and longevity, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.