Milwaukee 9" 14 TPI The Torch Ice Hardened SAWZALL Blades (5 Pk)

Using the Milwaukee 9" 14 TPI Torch Ice Hardened SAWZALL Blades (48-00-4787) has been a game-changer in my metal-cutting projects. These blades are specifically designed to tackle tough materials, and they certainly deliver on that promise. Whether you're cutting through old cast iron pipes, rebar, or angle iron, these blades stand up to the challenge with impressive durability and performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about these blades is their robust construction. Milwaukee has incorporated a reinforced rib design that strengthens the blade tang, minimizing the risk of breakage. This is a significant improvement over many other blades I've used in the past, which often snap or bend under pressure. The honeycomb pattern further enhances the blade's rigidity, preventing it from buckling during use. This feature is particularly beneficial when making straight cuts in tougher materials, as it ensures the blade remains stable and accurate.

Performance and Durability

One of the key features of these blades is the optimized tooth design, which Milwaukee claims provides a longer lifespan compared to previous generations. In my experience, this claim holds true. I've used a single blade multiple times for cutting through various materials, including rebar, 5/8" all-thread, and nails. The blade maintained its sharpness and cutting efficiency throughout these tasks, which is a testament to its durability.

Cutting through old cast iron is notoriously challenging, but the Milwaukee blades handled it with relative ease. While it did take a bit longer to cut through compared to some other blades, the Milwaukee blades didn't snag or bend, which is a common issue with less robust options. This reliability is crucial, especially when working on projects where precision and consistency are essential.

Versatility

The versatility of these blades is another strong point. They are designed to cut through a variety of materials, including scheduled 80 pipe and angle iron. This makes them an excellent choice for professionals who need a reliable blade for different types of metal-cutting tasks. The 14 TPI (teeth per inch) configuration strikes a good balance between cutting speed and smoothness, making it suitable for both rough and fine cuts.

Ease of Use

The blades feature a 1/2" universal shank, which fits most SAWZALL and reciprocating saws. This compatibility is a significant advantage, as it means you don't have to worry about whether the blade will fit your tool. The 9" length is also ideal for a range of cutting applications, providing enough reach without being unwieldy.

Value for Money

Considering the quality and performance of these blades, they offer excellent value for money. The pack of five ensures you have spares on hand, which is always a plus. While they may be slightly more expensive than some other brands, the durability and reliability they offer make them a worthwhile investment. In the long run, the reduced need for frequent blade replacements can save both time and money.

Recommendations

Based on my experience, I would highly recommend the Milwaukee 9" 14 TPI Torch Ice Hardened SAWZALL Blades. They are durable, versatile, and perform exceptionally well across a range of metal-cutting tasks. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these blades are a reliable addition to your toolkit.

The reinforced construction and optimized tooth design ensure that the blades remain sharp and effective, even after multiple uses. The honeycomb pattern adds an extra layer of rigidity, preventing buckling and ensuring straight, accurate cuts. These features, combined with the ease of use and compatibility with most reciprocating saws, make these blades a top choice for anyone needing a dependable metal-cutting solution.

In summary, the Milwaukee 9" 14 TPI Torch Ice Hardened SAWZALL Blades deliver on their promises of durability and performance. They are a solid investment for anyone who regularly works with tough materials and needs a blade that can keep up with demanding tasks.