Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw

The Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw (model 49-56-9695) is a tool that certainly grabs attention when it comes to versatility and durability. With a 3.5 TPI tooth design and a robust bi-metal construction, this hole saw is engineered to tackle a wide range of materials, from metals and aluminum to drywall, plastics, and wood. I decided to put this tool through its paces to see if it lives up to the reputation Milwaukee tools have garnered over the years.

Design and Build Quality

The Hole Dozer boasts a durable design that is immediately noticeable. The bi-metal construction feels solid and well-balanced, which is crucial when you're working on projects that require precision. One of the standout features is the All Access Slots, which make it significantly easier to remove plugs after cutting. This is a small but thoughtful addition that can save a lot of time and frustration during extended use.

The 3.5 TPI tooth design is another highlight. The teeth are sharp and well-spaced, which allows for efficient cutting without excessive friction. This design also helps in reducing heat build-up, which is often a concern when cutting through tougher materials like stainless steel or thick wood.

Performance

I first tested the Hole Dozer on a walnut butcher block, a material that can be quite challenging due to its density. The hole saw made quick work of the task, producing a clean, precise hole with minimal effort. The coating on the saw certainly played a role here, reducing friction and allowing for smoother, faster cuts.

Next, I moved on to a more challenging material—stainless steel. I needed to install a soap dispenser in a stainless steel undermount sink, which required a clean, precise hole. The Hole Dozer did not disappoint. It cut through the stainless steel with relative ease, and I was able to finish the job from underneath the sink without any issues. The teeth remained sharp throughout, and there was no noticeable decline in performance.

To further test its versatility, I used the hole saw on a 1/4" thick steel pipe. This is where the tool truly shined. The Hole Dozer cut through the steel like it was butter, and after multiple holes, the teeth were still sharp. The hardest part was drilling the pilot hole, but once that was done, the hole saw chewed through the steel with minimal force required.

Usability

One of the most user-friendly aspects of the Hole Dozer is its increased visibility for accurate placement. The side windows help line up the pilot bit and remove drilled material, which is a huge plus when working on precise projects. I also appreciated the adjustable pilot bit, which allows for some margin of error in placement.

However, not everything was perfect. When I used the hole saw to drill through a 2x6 pine board, it struggled a bit more than I expected. I had to switch from a cordless drill to a corded one to get the job done. This suggests that while the Hole Dozer excels in cutting through tougher materials, it may require more power for thicker wood.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is where the Hole Dozer truly stands out. The lifetime tooth break warranty offers peace of mind, and the bi-metal construction ensures that the tool can withstand a lot of abuse. After multiple uses on various materials, the teeth showed minimal wear, which is a testament to its build quality.

However, it's worth noting that some users have reported issues with the hole saw becoming dull quickly or the barrel being out of round. While I did not experience these issues myself, it's something to be aware of, especially if you're planning to use the tool for heavy-duty applications.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw is a versatile and durable tool that excels in a variety of applications. Its robust design, efficient tooth configuration, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. Whether you're working on metal, wood, or plastic, this hole saw can handle the task with ease.

Would I recommend the Hole Dozer? Absolutely. Its performance on challenging materials like stainless steel and thick steel pipes was impressive, and the All Access Slots and increased visibility add a level of convenience that can't be overstated. However, if you're primarily working with thicker wood, you might need a more powerful drill to get the best results.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saw is a reliable, high-performing tool that lives up to the Milwaukee name. Its combination of durability, efficiency, and user-friendly features makes it a worthwhile investment for both professional and DIY enthusiasts.