Milwaukee Torch 48-00-5202 9 in. 8 TPI Carbide Metal-Cutting Sawzall Blade Review (2026)
By Nate Sawyer, Editor · Updated July 2026
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- Metal
- Thick metal
- Cast iron
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.
Pros
- Carbide teeth power through cast iron, thick pipe and stacked steel that strip bi-metal blades
- 8 TPI clears chips fast for aggressive metal demolition and cast-iron waste-pipe work
- Holds an edge far longer than bi-metal, lowering blade cost per cut on heavy metal jobs
Cons
- Too coarse for thin sheet or conduit, where it grabs and strips teeth
- Higher upfront price than a bi-metal metal blade for occasional users
- Carbide teeth can shatter if the blade whips or the cut binds
Specifications
| TPI | 8 |
|---|---|
| Length | 9 in |
| Material | Carbide teeth on steel body |
| Shank | Universal 1/2 in tang |
| Best cut | Thick metal (3/16 in+) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is a carbide recip blade worth the price?
- On thick metal — cast iron, thick pipe, stacked steel — where bi-metal blades strip their teeth in a cut or two. It holds an edge far longer than bi-metal, so the cost per cut on heavy metal work actually drops.
- Can you use this blade on thin conduit or sheet?
- No. At 8 TPI it is too coarse for thin material — it grabs and strips teeth. Thin stock needs a fine-pitch blade that keeps multiple teeth engaged.
- What makes carbide teeth fail?
- Whip and binding. Carbide is hard but brittle, so if the blade flexes badly or the cut pinches, teeth can shatter. Support the workpiece and keep the shoe against it.