Milwaukee 6" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal 3PK

Using a reciprocating saw can often be a test of patience and endurance, especially when cutting through tougher materials like medium-thickness metals. However, my experience with the Milwaukee 6" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal (Model 48-00-5351) was a game-changer. Designed specifically for medium metal applications, this blade has set a new standard for durability and performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about this blade is its robust build. The carbide teeth are a significant upgrade over traditional bi-metal blades. The carbide material is known for its hardness and resistance to wear, and this blade leverages those properties to deliver an extended lifespan. Milwaukee claims that the carbide teeth provide up to 50 times the life of bi-metal blades, and my experience aligns with this assertion.

The blade itself is 6 inches long, but the actual cutting surface is about 4.5 inches. This length is versatile enough for a range of applications, from cutting EMT conduit to stainless steel pipe. The 10 teeth per inch (TPI) configuration is optimized for smooth and efficient cutting, and the large tooth gullets facilitate easy material ejection, reducing the risk of clogging.

Performance

To test the blade, I used my trusty Milwaukee Super Sawzall, a corded reciprocating saw that has been a reliable companion since 1993. I started with a piece of 3-inch exhaust pipe. The blade cut through it like a hot knife through butter, leaving a clean, straight edge with minimal burring. This was impressive, considering that exhaust pipes can often be tricky to cut cleanly.

Next, I tackled a 1-1/4 inch mild steel square tubing with a 0.133-inch wall thickness. The blade made a clean initial pass without any jumping, and it took around 30 seconds to complete the cut. The blade remained cool to the touch, which is a testament to its efficient design and material composition.

I also tested the blade on a variety of other materials, including a 1-1/4 inch mild steel pipe with a 0.236-inch wall thickness, a thin 16-gauge 3/4 inch square tube, and a piece of 1/2 inch rebar. In each case, the blade performed exceptionally well, maintaining its sharpness and showing no signs of flexing or bending. Even after cutting through the rebar, the teeth remained intact, although the white paint on the teeth did wear off.

Versatility

One of the standout features of this blade is its versatility. While it is designed for medium metal applications, it also performs admirably on other materials. I tested it on a piece of 1-1/2 inch PVC schedule 40 pipe, a treated 2x4, and a 4x4 post. The cuts were fast and clean, with minimal burring or splintering. This makes the blade a valuable addition to any toolbox, as it can handle a wide range of cutting tasks.

Durability

Durability is where this blade truly shines. The carbide teeth are not just a marketing gimmick; they genuinely extend the blade's life. After multiple cuts through various materials, the blade showed little to no wear. This durability makes it a cost-effective option in the long run, despite its higher upfront cost. You might pay more initially, but the extended lifespan means fewer replacements and less downtime.

Ease of Use

The blade's design also enhances ease of use. The 1/2 inch universal tang ensures compatibility with most reciprocating saws, and the optimized teeth design reduces vibration and increases cutting speed. Even after extended use, the blade remained cool enough to touch, which is a significant safety feature.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 6" 10TPI The TORCH with Carbide Teeth for Medium Metal is a standout performer in its category. Its robust build, exceptional durability, and versatile performance make it a must-have for anyone dealing with medium metal applications. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this blade offers excellent value for money.

Would I recommend this blade? Absolutely. Its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment. While it may be on the pricier side, the extended lifespan and superior cutting ability justify the cost. If you're looking for a blade that can handle a variety of materials with ease and last significantly longer than traditional bi-metal blades, the Milwaukee TORCH with Carbide Teeth is the way to go.