Logan Voss
You just bought a new saw, and you’re eager to get started on your project. But before cutting, you need to know which type of saw blade to use.
There are many different types of saw blades, each designed for a specific purpose. Let’s review some of the most common types of saw blades to make the best decision for your project.
Rip Saw Blade
One of the most common saw blades is the rip saw blade. This blade has a very sharp tooth that cuts on the upstroke, and a wide body that helps keep the edge from binding to the wood. The rip saw blades work by cutting along the wood grain.
Crosscut Saw Blade
A crosscut saw blade is the opposite of a rip saw blade. This blade cuts on the downstroke and a narrower body to keep the blade from binding. Crosscut saw blades work by cutting across the grain of the wood.
General-Purpose Saw Blade
The general-purpose saw blade is an excellent all-purpose blade for rip cuts and crosscuts. The general-purpose saw blade has a tooth that cuts on the upstroke and the downstroke and a body that is between the rip saw blade and the crosscut saw blade.
Band Saw Blade
The band saw blade is a continuous loop of metal used on a band saw. It is available in many sizes, but the most common is 1/2 inch. The band saw blade is also available in different tooth configurations, but the most common type is the regular tooth band saw blade.
Specialty Saw Blades
Many specialty saw blades work best for specific purposes. Some of these specialty saw blades include the following:
- Circular saw blade
- Miter saw blade
- Table saw blade
- Jigsaw blade
Each of these specialty blades works well for a specific type of saw and a particular type of cut.
Understanding the different types of saw blades will help you make the best project decision. Be sure to select the blade best suited for the material you are working with and the type of cut you need to make.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, having the right blade for your saw is essential to getting the job done right.
