Table Saw Blades 101: Choosing the Right Blade for Every Project

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Picking the right blade for your table saw is paramount in yielding top-notch results in your woodworking projects. However, the array of options available may leave you puzzled – what blade suits you the best? Fret not; we’ve got you covered!

In this exhaustive guide, we’ll dissect the different types of blades for table saws, their anatomy, and factors to consider when making your choice. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a fervent DIY follower, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about table saw blades. Table saw blade selection can be a challenging task but with the right guidance, figuring out the most appropriate one for your project will be a breeze.

The Anatomy/Parts of a Table Saw Blade

Blade Diameter: Every saw employs a specific blade diameter. Knowing the diameter of your saw’s blade when choosing a new one is crucial.

Bore: It pertains to the hole in the middle of the blade that latches onto the saw’s arbor. Various brands of saws might have different bore sizes, an essential factor when buying a blade.

Teeth: The teeth of a saw blade are responsible for cutting through wood. Various types of teeth configurations exist, understanding them is key to picking the correct blade.

Gullet: The gullet refers to the space between the teeth on a saw blade. It plays a vital role in chip removal during the cutting process.

If you’re contemplating alternatives to the table saw, check out this article for a comprehensive review.

Understanding Blade Size and Arbor

Blade Diameter:

The diameter of the blade is an important consideration as it affects the cutting depth and the stability of certain applications, such as making dados and rabbets. Choosing a larger blade diameter provides more stability and allows for deeper cuts compared to smaller diameter blades. Most table saw blades have a diameter of 10 inches, which is suitable for most cutting tasks. However, if you need to cut thicker materials, such as over 1-1/4 inches, opting for a 12-inch blade may be necessary. It’s important to note that larger diameter blades may introduce some wobbling, reducing cutting accuracy, so ensure that your table saw can accept the size blade you plan to use.

Arbor Size:

The arbor size of the blade must match the arbor size of your table saw to ensure proper installation and avoid wobbling or incorrect assembly, which can lead to unsafe conditions. Before purchasing a new saw blade, always measure the arbor size of your table saw to ensure compatibility. Common arbor sizes for table saws are 5/8 inch and 1 inch, but there may be variations across different brands and models.

check out our review of the Ridgid R4514 table saw here.

Types of Table Saw Blades – Based on Application

With several types of blades for table saws available, each tailored for specific cutting applications, understanding these different types will aid you in choosing the apt blade for your woodworking needs.

Rip-Cut Blades:

Rip-cut blades, also known as rakers, are designed for cutting along the wood grain. These blades have teeth with square top edges that attack the wood in a chisel-like motion. They are fast cutting and durable, making them ideal for ripping through lumber. However, they don’t produce a clean surface, so they are not suitable for fine finishing cuts.

Cross-Cut Blades:

Cross-cut blades are designed for cutting across the wood grain. These blades have angled teeth that shear the wood fibers cleanly, resulting in smooth, splinter-free cuts. They are often marketed as “all-purpose” blades and are suitable for a variety of woodworking tasks.

Dado Blades:

Dado blades are specialized blades used for making wide, flat-bottomed grooves or dado cuts. These blades consist of multiple blade segments that can be adjusted to achieve different width cuts. Dado blades are commonly used for joinery work, such as creating dado joints, rabbets, and tongue-and-groove joints.

Types of Table Saw Blades – Based on Tooth Configuration

Alternate Top Bevel (ATB):

Blades with an ATB tooth configuration have alternating beveled teeth, with one tooth leaning to the left and the next tooth leaning to the right. ATB blades are versatile and suitable for general-purpose cutting tasks, including cross-cutting and ripping in both hardwoods and softwoods. They provide clean and precise cuts.

Flat Top Grind (FTG):

Blades with an FTG tooth configuration have square-shaped teeth that are ideal for ripping applications. FTG blades excel at cutting along the wood grain, providing fast and efficient removal of material. They create smooth edges without splintering or chipping, making them great for rough cutting tasks.

Combination Tooth Blades:

Combination blades are versatile and considered “all-purpose” blades as they can handle both rip cuts and cross-cuts. They typically consist of a mix of tooth configurations, such as alternating top bevel (ATB) teeth and raker teeth, or a combination of four ATB teeth followed by one flat top grind (FTG) or triple-chip grind (TCG) tooth. This combination allows combination blades to provide clean cross-cutting action as well as efficient ripping capabilities. Due to their versatility, combination blades are a popular choice among woodworkers for a wide range of woodworking applications.

The Importance of Tooth Angle and Hook Angle

The tooth angle and hook angle of a table saw blade are crucial factors that can greatly affect the cutting performance and efficiency of the blade.

Tooth Angle:

The tooth angle refers to the angle at which the teeth are ground in relation to the blade. Different tooth angles offer different cutting characteristics. The most common tooth angles found in table saw blades are the ATB, FTG, and TCG as discussed above.

Hook Angle:

The hook angle refers to the angle at which the tooth face leans forward or backward in relation to the center of the blade. The hook angle greatly influences the aggressiveness and ease of feeding the workpiece through the blade.

Positive Hook Angle:

Blades with a positive hook angle, where the teeth lean slightly forward (around 20°), provide an aggressive cutting action and a high feed rate. These blades are ideal for ripping tasks and are commonly used in table saws.

Negative Hook Angle:

Blades with a negative hook angle, where the teeth lean back slightly (around 6°), offer a slower feed rate. This helps prevent self-feeding or “climb cutting” and is beneficial for radial arm saws and sliding miter saws, which require less aggressive cutting actions.

Table Saw Blade Materials and Coatings

Carbon Steel Blades:

Blades made from carbon steel are known for their durability and strength. They can withstand heavy use and are suitable for cutting through various types of wood. However, carbon steel blades tend to lose their sharp edge more quickly compared to blades made from other materials.

Tungsten Carbide-Tipped Blades:

Tungsten carbide-tipped (TCT) blades are incredibly popular in the woodworking industry due to their exceptional durability and extended edge life. These blades consist of steel bodies with carbide-tipped teeth, which provide excellent cutting performance and longevity. TCT blades are ideal for cutting hardwoods, softwoods, and even some metals.

Stellite-Tipped Blades:

Stellite is a high-performance alloy that is used to create exceptionally durable saw blades. Stellite-tipped blades offer superior resistance to wear and heat, making them ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks and challenging materials.

Apart from the materials themselves, blade coatings can also enhance the blade’s performance and longevity. Non-stick coatings, such as Teflon or industrial-grade coatings, reduce friction and prevent pitch and resin buildup on the blade, resulting in smoother cuts and easier blade maintenance.

Here’s an article to delve deeper into the types of table saws for woodworking

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Table Saw Blade

Project Type and Material:

Consider the type of material you will be cutting, whether it’s hardwood, softwood, plywood, or other materials. Different blades are designed to excel in different materials and cutting applications.

Below is a table for the relationship between project type, material, and table saw blade choice:

Note: This table provides general recommendations based on typical project types and materials. It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your project and adjust the blade choice accordingly.

Blade Thickness and Kerf Width:

The thickness of the blade and the width of the kerf (the cut made by the blade) can affect the efficiency and accuracy of your cuts. Thinner kerfs remove less material and require less power, which is ideal for fine cuts, while wider kerfs provide more efficient material removal but may sacrifice some precision.

Cut Quality and Speed:

Consider the desired cut quality, including the smoothness of the cut surface and the absence of splintering or tear-out. Blades with more teeth generally provide finer cuts, while blades with fewer teeth cut more aggressively but may leave a rougher surface.

Blade Durability:

Evaluate the durability and lifespan of the blade. Look for blades made from high-quality materials, such as carbide-tipped blades, which are known for their longevity and ability to withstand tough cutting conditions.

Budget and Price Range:

Consider your budget and the price range of the blades available. While it’s important to invest in a high-quality blade, there are options available at various price points to suit different budgets.

Safety Considerations and Accessories

When working with table saw blades, safety should always be a top priority.

Related: See our complete list of safety precautions to take when using power tools.

Proper Blade Installation and Alignment:

Ensure that the blade is installed correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the blade is aligned parallel to the miter gauge slot and perpendicular to the table. This will help prevent kickback and ensure smooth and accurate cuts.

Safety Features and Accessories:

Blade Guards: Most table saws come with a blade guard that helps prevent accidental contact with the blade during cutting. Always use the blade guard, and make sure it is properly adjusted and functioning.

Riving Knife: A riving knife is a safety device that helps prevent kickback by keeping the workpiece from getting pinched behind the saw blade. It should be aligned with the blade and adjusted to the correct height.

Push Sticks and Push Blocks: Use push sticks or push blocks to safely guide and feed the workpiece through the blade, keeping your hands at a safe distance from the blade.

Featherboards: Featherboards can help keep the workpiece firmly against the table and fence, minimizing the risk of kickback and ensuring more controlled and accurate cuts.

Also, for easy shutting down of your table saw, we suggest you install a safety power tool switch.

Related: Looking to improve your table saw’s capability? See our article on the top 14 essential table saw accessories

Our Recommended Table Saw Blades

Based on experience, here are some table saw blades we highly recommend.

Diabo by Freud D1060X 10″ x 60 Tooth Saw Blade

This blade from Freud is known for its exceptional performance and cutting precision. With 60 teeth and a 10-inch diameter, it is designed for cross-cutting and clean, smooth finishes. The carbide tips ensure longevity and durability, making it a reliable choice for various woodworking projects.

Get the Diabo by Freud D1060X 10″ x 60 Tooth Saw Blade available at:

• Home Depot

DEWALT 10in Miter/Table Saw Blades (DW3106P5)

DEWALT is a trusted name in the power tool industry, and their table saw blades are no exception. This combo pack includes two blades – a 10-inch, 60-tooth fine-finish blade and a 32-tooth general-purpose blade. Suitable for use with any 10-inch miter saw or table saw, these blades offer versatility and excellent cutting performance. The thin-kerf design ensures fast and efficient cuts with minimal debris.

Get the DEWALT 10in Miter/Table Saw Blades (DW3106P5) available at:

• Zoro

WEN BL1040 10-Inch 40-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Saw Blade

This WEN blade is a cost-effective option without compromising on quality. With 40 carbide-tipped teeth and a 10-inch diameter, it delivers clean and accurate cuts in various wood materials. The blade is designed for general woodworking tasks and is compatible with most 10-inch table saws.

Get the WEN BL1040 10in 40-Tooth Saw Blade available at:

• Home Depot

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use any blade on my table saw?

Not every blade is designed for every type of saw. Using the wrong blade can result in poor cutting performance and potential safety hazards.

How often should I replace my table saw blade?

The frequency of blade replacement depends on various factors such as usage frequency, cutting materials, and maintenance. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to replace the blade when you notice dullness, excessive wear, or damage that affects cutting performance.

What is the difference between a rip-cut blade and a cross-cut blade?

A rip-cut blade is specifically designed for cutting along the wood grain, making straight cuts parallel to the length of the material. On the other hand, a cross-cut blade is designed for cutting across the wood grain, producing clean and smooth cuts with minimal tear-out on the edges.

Can I use a table saw blade on other types of saws?

While there may be some compatibility between certain types of saw blades and different saw types, using a blade designed for a table saw on other saw types may result in suboptimal performance or safety risks.

How do I clean and maintain my table saw blade?

To clean your table saw blade, remove it from the saw and use a blade cleaning solution or a mixture of water and mild detergent to remove built-up pitch, resin, and sawdust. Gently scrub the blade with a brush and rinse thoroughly before drying.

See our detailed article on how to clean a saw blade in 15 minutes

Are there specialized blades for cutting different materials like plywood or hardwood?

Yes. There are blades specifically optimized for cutting plywood, hardwood, laminate, or metals. These blades have unique tooth configurations and angles to achieve optimal cutting performance in their respective materials.

How do I select the right number of teeth for my blade?

The number of teeth on a blade determines the quality and speed of the cut. Blades with higher tooth counts, such as 50-60, are suited for fine cuts and smoother finishes, while blades with fewer teeth, around 24-30, are better for aggressive and fast material removal in rough cuts.

How tight should a table saw blade be?

When installing a table saw blade, you should tighten it enough to keep it from moving but avoid overtightening, which can damage the blade and saw components.

Should I use a thin or thick kerf blade?

The choice between a thin kerf blade and a thick kerf blade depends on the specific cutting application and the material you are working with. Thin kerf blades remove less material and require less power, making them ideal for thin materials and smaller saws with lower horsepower. Thick kerf blades are sturdier, remove more material per cut, and are generally better suited for thicker materials and more powerful saws.

Conclusion

By understanding the nuances of table saw blades and utilizing the right blade for each project, you can achieve the best possible results in your woodworking pursuits. Good luck with your cutting and stay safe in your shop!

For tips on safety gears, check out our must-have workshop safety gears for woodworkers article.

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