Even 1/2 way into my 1/2" steel pipe and the nozzle splintered. Without the center drill the whole saw wobbled and distorted the hole. I drilled. I bought a second one (only because one is nothing and 2 is one) and finished the hole. I have 2 more hole saws hoping I will have enough to finish my project. I can replace the pilot drill with something less fragile like a rod and pre-drill the holes , or I can just spend $167 and buy what I make myself.