Diablo Demo Demon vs Milwaukee Torch: Which Reciprocating Blade?
By Nate Sawyer, Editor · Updated July 2026
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Diablo Demo Demon DS0906CWS3 9 in. Carbide Reciprocating Blade (3-Pack)
A 9 in. carbide-tipped reciprocating blade (5/7 variable TPI, 3-pack) for demolition through nail-embedded wood that kills bi-metal blades, with a Perma-Shield coating that fights gumming in wet framing. Diablo rates it up to ~50x bi-metal life. It costs several times more per blade, leaves a rough edge, and the tips chip if you twist or pry.
| TPI | 5/7 variable |
|---|---|
| Length | 9 in |
| Material | Carbide-tipped |
| Shank | Universal 1/2 in tang |
| Best cut | Wood with nails / demo |
Milwaukee Torch 48-00-5202 9 in. 8 TPI Carbide Metal-Cutting Sawzall Blade
A 9 in. 8-TPI carbide-toothed Sawzall blade for thick, abrasive metal (3/16 in.+): cast iron, thick pipe, and stacked steel that strip bi-metal blades. The coarse 8 TPI clears chips fast and holds an edge far longer than bi-metal. It's too coarse for thin sheet or conduit, where it grabs and strips teeth, and can shatter if it whips or binds.
| TPI | 8 |
|---|---|
| Length | 9 in |
| Material | Carbide teeth on steel body |
| Shank | Universal 1/2 in tang |
| Best cut | Thick metal (3/16 in+) |
Our verdict
Both are carbide, but they are built for opposite materials. The Diablo Demo Demon runs a coarse 5/7 TPI tuned to rip through wood that may hide nails and screws, making it the demolition and remodeling blade. The Milwaukee Torch uses 8 TPI carbide geometry aimed at thick metal, cast iron and pipe. Pick the Diablo for teardown of framing, decks and studs; pick the Torch when you are cutting steel, conduit or cast-iron waste pipe. Neither is a good substitute for the other's job.