Milwaukee Carbide Demolition Wood and Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blade Set

In the world of reciprocating saw blades, finding a set that can handle a range of materials and tasks with durability and efficiency is a tall order. This is where the Milwaukee Carbide Demolition Wood and Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blade Set steps in. With the promise of carbide teeth for longer life and versatility, I was eager to put these blades to the test across various demolition and cutting tasks.

Initial Impressions and Contents

The set includes a well-rounded selection of blades: two 9” wood and cement board blades with 5 teeth per inch (TPI), two 6” metal blades with 7 TPI, and one 9” metal blade also with 7 TPI. The blades are designed to tackle a range of materials from wood and nails to cast iron and stainless steel. This versatility was a major selling point for me, as I often encounter diverse materials in my DIY projects and professional tasks.

Performance on Wood and Embedded Nails

My first test involved cutting through some old landscape timbers and 6x6 lumber. The wood blades performed exceptionally well, making quick work of both clean wood and wood embedded with nails. The 5 TPI design ensured fast, aggressive cuts, and I was pleased to see that the carbide teeth showed minimal wear even after extended use. This durability is a significant upgrade from standard bi-metal blades, which tend to dull quickly when faced with similar tasks.

One particularly challenging task was cutting through dirt-embedded roots of a crepe myrtle. The 9” wood blade handled this with surprising ease, saving me from the frustration of repeatedly swapping out cheaper, all-steel pruning blades. It’s clear that these blades are built to last, even in tough, abrasive conditions.

Metal Cutting Capabilities

Switching to the metal blades, I tested them on a variety of materials including 4” ABS pipe, soft steel up to 1/2” thick, and even pig iron gas line pipe. The 7 TPI metal blades provided efficient, smooth cuts without the need for excessive force. The slightly thicker and stiffer design of these blades compared to standard options contributed to their robustness and longevity.

One standout performance was cutting through cast iron piping. The blade maintained its sharpness and did not bend or break, which is a common issue with thinner, less durable blades. This reliability is crucial for professional applications where precision and efficiency are paramount.

Versatility and Ease of Use

The combination of wood and metal blades in this set makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you’re tackling demolition tasks, cutting through stubborn roots, or slicing through metal pipes, this set has you covered. The blades fit well into standard reciprocating saws, including my Milwaukee Sawzall and even a Craftsman model, ensuring broad compatibility.

Durability and Lifespan

Durability is where this blade set truly shines. The carbide teeth provide a significant lifespan extension compared to bi-metal blades. Even after multiple uses, the blades retained their cutting efficiency, and the carbide tips remained sharp. The paint on the blades did wear off relatively quickly, but this cosmetic issue did not affect performance.

The thicker and stiffer design of the blades also contributed to their durability, preventing bending and breakage during heavy-duty tasks. This sturdiness is particularly beneficial for demolition work, where blades are subjected to high stress and impact.

Practical Considerations

While the blade set is undoubtedly impressive, it’s worth noting a few practical considerations. The set does not come with a storage case, which would have been a nice addition for organizing and protecting the blades. Additionally, the price point is higher than standard blade sets. However, considering the enhanced durability and performance, I believe the investment is justified for both professionals and serious DIYers.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

After extensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Milwaukee Carbide Demolition Wood and Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blade Set. The combination of carbide teeth, versatile blade selection, and exceptional durability makes this set a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these blades will save you time, effort, and frustration across a wide range of cutting tasks.

The Milwaukee blades excel in both wood and metal cutting applications, maintaining sharpness and efficiency even under demanding conditions. The slight premium in cost is offset by the extended lifespan and reduced need for frequent blade replacements. In my experience, this blade set stands out as a reliable, high-performance option that delivers on its promises.