Types Of Saw Blades For Wood

Saw blades are the toothed cutting parts of hand tools and power tools. While they can cut a variety of materials, this guide focuses on the most popular types of saw blades specifically for woodworking.

Making the right decision, which guarantees a clean, safe, and effective cut, requires an understanding of the different blade types and their purposes.

Types of Circular Saw Blades

A circular saw uses a spinning, toothed blade to cut through material. The three main types of circular saw blades for woodworking are defined by their tooth configuration, which determines their purpose.

1. Rip Saw Blades

Rip blades have a low tooth count (e.g., 16-24 teeth for a 7-1/4" blade) with flat-topped teeth and deep gullets. Ripping is the procedure by which they cut with the grain of the wood. The flat teeth and wide gullets efficiently remove sawdust and prevent the blade from binding.

• Best For: Fast and efficient cutting of lumber along its length.

2. Crosscut Saw Blades

Crosscut blades have a high tooth count (e.g., 60-80 teeth for a 12" blade) with alternating bevel teeth and shallow gullets. They are designed to cut perpendicular to the wood grain, a process called crosscutting. The high tooth count and beveled edges shear the wood fibers cleanly, producing a smooth finish with minimal tear-out.

• Best For: Precise, clean cuts for finish work, cabinetry, and furniture making.

3. Combination Saw Blades

As their name suggests, these blades combine the characteristics of crosscut and rip blades. They feature alternating beveled and flat teeth, as well as shallow and deep grooves. The blade's combined design allows it to perform both crosscutting and tearing.

• Best For: All-purpose use. A combination blade is a great choice for users who want to switch between cutting with and across the grain without changing blades.

Other Common Saw Blades for Wood

While circular saws are very popular, other types of saws use specialized blades for specific woodworking tasks.

1. Bandsaw Blades

Bandsaw blades are thin metal loops with serrations along one edge. They can be used on a bandsaw to create complex curves as well as straight cuts. They are essential tools for metalworking, woodworking, and other crafts.

2. Jigsaw and Reciprocating Saw Blades

• Small, thin blades called jigsaw blades are used to cut wood into intricate curves and designs. They are designed for precision and maneuverability.
• Reciprocating saw blades are larger and more aggressive, designed for demolition and rough cutting.

Specialty Cutting Blades

• Dado Cutting Blades: These blades are used on a table saw to cut flat-bottomed grooves, or dadoes, in wood. They come in two types: a stacked dado set, which provides very clean, precise cuts, and an adjustable wobble dado, which is simpler to use.
• Nail-Cutting Blades: These are designed with durable teeth to cut through wood containing hidden nails without damaging the blade. They are essential for demolition and projects using reclaimed wood.

Important Safety Information

Before using any saw, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions. Wear appropriate eye and ear protection and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Before changing the blade, always ensure the tool is disconnected from the power supply.