Can You Sharpen Your Milwaukee Hedge Trimmer Blade Or Should You Just Replace Them?

Whether you're a new homeowner looking to spruce up your outdoor space or a longtime gardener who demands precision, a hedge trimmer can make a world of difference. The long, slim build of these outdoor tools makes them ideal for cutting thin branches and detailing while possessing the power to do so efficiently. Just as with any other essential outdoor power tool, a hedge trimmer should be viewed as an investment for the health of your yard.  

Choosing a reputable hedge trimmer brand is the best place to start, and few names are quite as reputable as Milwaukee. The always trusty equipment manufacturer carries no shortage of excellent hedge trimmers that range in size and capability. Renowned for their lightweight design, ease of control, and great warranties, they're among the highest-rated hedge trimmers you'll find at The Home Depot and a great pick for getting any yard in shape. But like every tool out there, your Milwaukee hedge trimmer isn't indestructible. 

This will be most evident with the blade as it will gradually wear out after continuous use. In some instances, you can extend the life of the blade by simply sharpening it, while more extreme situations may require it to be swapped out with a new one. Knowing what the right move is for your situation will affect how well your tool performs and the overall outcome of your job. 

If you use your Milwaukee hedge trimmer on a moderate seasonal basis, then chances are it will last for quite a while, with the company's hedge trimmers typically boasting a three-year limited warranty. The most likely problem you'll encounter from time to time with the blade is having it lose its sharpness. You'll quickly notice this as cuts become messier and the tool grows less efficient. 

Maintaining blade sharpness is an essential part of hedge trimmer maintenance. The easiest and safest way to do so is relatively simple, requiring a sturdy bench vise and a file. Here's how to do so according to one of Milwaukee's care manuals:

1. Turn off the tool and remove its battery. Ensure the teeth are in the offset mode.
2. Place the blade between a vise and clamp until fully secure. 
3. Run a metal file over your blade's teeth one by one, filing to match the angle at which the teeth are pointed. 
4. Offset the teeth in the opposite direction to sharpen the other side of the teeth.

Once you're done, you can place your battery back in and be ready to go. For enhanced performance, you can also add blade cleaner and lubricant to touch up the tool before adding the battery back on. While the frequency and intensity of its use will ultimately determine how often you should sharpen your blade, it's generally recommended to give it a touch-up after every 50 hours of use.

Sharpening your hedge trimming blades may be a relatively standard operation, but removing and replacing them entirely can seem intimidating. However, this may be necessary depending on the condition of your tool. Milwaukee recommends that blades that are misaligned or broken be attended to immediately, as poorly maintained blades are typically at the root of serious accidents. 

Keep an eye on your blade's quality and performance. Poor cutting jobs, intense vibrations, or strange signs can be key signs of a damaged blade. After jobs, take the time to inspect it for cracks, bent teeth, rust, and any other abnormalities. If you live near a Milwaukee service center, you can bring in your trimmer so an expert can better determine if the problem is fixable or if it needs replacing.

If replacing turns out to be the best option, you can potentially have Milwaukee send you a replacement. As stated earlier, most of its hedge trimmers are protected by a three-year warranty. Keep in mind that the warranty won't cover normal wear and tear, as it only applies to defects stemming from a manufacturing error. Additionally, your tool must come from an approved retailer to qualify, meaning you should be cautious if purchasing yours from Amazon.