Choosing the Right Saw Blade
The wrong blade is a common cause of kickback, burns, broken blades and bad cuts. The blade must fit the saw, match the material and be in good condition. Choosing takes a minute and prevents injuries.
- Carpenters
- Metal Workers
- Homeowners
Match the blade to the tool
- Diameter: use the size the saw is designed for. A bigger blade can hit the guard; a smaller one cuts less deep.
- Arbor (center hole) size and shape: must match the saw's spindle. Never use reducing bushings or washers to force a fit unless the maker says so.
- Maximum rpm rating: the blade's rpm must be equal to or higher than the saw's. Check the label.
- Blade type: use blades made for that saw. A table saw blade is not made for a handheld circular saw, for example.
Match the blade to the material
| Material | Blade |
|---|---|
| Rough framing lumber | Carbide-tipped, fewer teeth (about 18 to 24 on a 7-1/4 inch blade) |
| Fine woodwork, plywood | More teeth (40 to 80) for smooth cuts |
| Aluminum, nonferrous metal | Carbide blade made for non-ferrous metal, with the right tooth shape |
| Steel | Metal-cutting carbide or abrasive blade as the tool is designed for |
| Masonry and concrete | Diamond blade (wet or dry as marked); abrasive masonry blade |
| Tile and stone | Diamond blade, usually with water. See Wet Tile Saws |
| Laminates and composites | High tooth count with a hook angle suited to the material |
Kerf and teeth
- Kerf is the cut width. Thin-kerf blades remove less material but can flex; use them on saws with enough power.
- More teeth give a finer cut but slower feed; fewer teeth cut quickly with a rougher finish.
- Do not cut materials like treated lumber with wet pitch or metal inserts using blades not made for it.
Condition and safety
- Inspect before use for cracks, missing teeth, warping and heavy pitch buildup
- Replace or have dull blades sharpened. A dull blade overheats, binds and kicks back
- Use abrasive wheels only on tools rated for them, and do not use them past their expiration date
- Unplug the tool or remove the battery before changing blades
- Tighten the arbor nut as directed and put the guards back
- Wear eye, hearing and dust protection. See Power Tool Basics
Standards & references
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