Milwaukee 6" HOLE DOZER with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw

Cutting through tough materials has always been a challenge, but having the right tool can make all the difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Milwaukee 6" HOLE DOZER with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw, and it truly redefined my expectations for hole saws.

Right out of the package, it’s clear that this Hole Dozer is built for durability and efficiency. The carbide teeth are a standout feature, promising longevity and sharpness through a variety of materials. True to its claim, this hole saw effortlessly cut through everything I threw at it—from drywall and plaster to stainless steel and cast iron.

One of the most impressive aspects of this tool is its 3 TPI (teeth per inch) design. This configuration allows for fast, aggressive cutting while maintaining a smooth and clean finish. It’s a fine balance that many other hole saws fail to achieve, often sacrificing speed for accuracy or vice versa. With the Milwaukee Hole Dozer, I didn’t have to compromise.

The depth of cut is another feature worth mentioning. At 1-5/8 inches, it’s sufficient for most applications, including drilling through thick materials like cement board and asphalt shingles. I found this particularly useful when working on projects that required precise and deep cuts, such as installing recessed lighting in thick plaster ceilings.

One of the common issues with hole saws is the removal of the cut plug. Milwaukee has addressed this with their innovative Plug Jack t-slots. These slots make it extraordinarily easy to remove plugs, saving time and reducing frustration. I was particularly pleased with how smoothly the plug removal process went, even when dealing with denser materials like metal and hardwood.

The tool's versatility is another strong suit. I used it for an array of materials, including wood with embedded nails, and it performed admirably. The thermoset coating reduces friction, which not only helps in cutting efficiency but also in extending the life of the tool. It’s a thoughtful addition that makes a noticeable difference in performance.

However, no tool is without its drawbacks. One minor issue I encountered was with the arbor. The tool doesn’t come with an arbor, which is a slight inconvenience if you don’t already own one. Additionally, the rubber O-ring on the arbor sometimes makes detaching the hole saw a bit tricky. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does require a bit of finesse to avoid overtightening and potential damage.

Despite these minor issues, the Hole Dozer’s performance more than makes up for them. The saw’s ability to maintain sharpness through multiple cuts is impressive. After several uses, including cutting through abrasive materials like 6061 aluminum and cement board, the carbide teeth showed no signs of dulling.

For those concerned about build quality, rest assured that this tool is robust and well-constructed. Weighing in at just over 2 pounds, it has a solid feel without being unwieldy. The hex shank ensures a secure fit into the drill chuck, minimizing slippage and maximizing cutting efficiency.

What really sets the Milwaukee Hole Dozer apart is its efficiency. The deep gullets between the teeth allow for quick material clearance, which is crucial when working on time-sensitive projects. Whether I was drilling through soft materials like drywall or tougher substrates like stainless steel, the saw consistently delivered clean, precise cuts with minimal effort.

In terms of applications, the Hole Dozer is incredibly versatile. It’s equally at home in a professional setting as it is in a DIY workshop. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians will find it particularly useful for its ability to cut through various materials quickly and efficiently. DIY enthusiasts will appreciate its ease of use and reliable performance for home improvement projects.

After extensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Milwaukee 6" HOLE DOZER with Carbide Teeth Hole Saw. Its combination of durability, efficiency, and ease of use make it a standout choice for anyone needing a reliable hole saw. While the absence of an included arbor and minor quirks with the O-ring are small inconveniences, they are far outweighed by the tool’s overall performance and build quality.

In summary, if you’re in the market for a hole saw that can handle a wide range of materials with ease and precision, the Milwaukee Hole Dozer is an excellent investment. Its robust construction, sharp carbide teeth, and thoughtful design features make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a weekend warrior, this tool will not disappoint.