Power Tool Buying Guide for Saw Blade

Diablo Saw Blades

What Are Saw Blades?

Saw blades are the heart of your cutting setup. Whether you're using a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, or reciprocating saw, the blade determines how clean, fast, and accurate your cut will be. There’s no one-size-fits-all, different materials and cut types demand specific blade designs. Using the wrong blade doesn’t just make for rough results, it can burn your material, dull the teeth, and even stress your tool.

History of Saw Blades

The evolution of the saw blade traces back to ancient hand saws, but the modern circular saw blade came into play during the late 18th century in England. With the growth of electric saws in the 20th century, companies like Freud, Diablo, and Forrest started refining tooth geometry, carbide tips, and vibration control. Today’s blades are purpose-built for everything from rough framing to high-end cabinetry.

What They’re Used For

Saw blades are used across construction, woodworking, and metalworking. Common applications include:

  • Cross-cutting and ripping lumber
  • Cutting sheet goods like plywood or MDF
  • Trimming laminate or plastics
  • Cutting metal, PVC, or composite materials
  • Creating fine-finish cuts for cabinetry or furniture

What to Look for When Buying

Blade Diameter

  • Match the blade to your saw. Most common are 7 1/4", 10", and 12".
  • Don't use oversized or undersized blades—follow your saw’s specs.

Tooth Count (TPI – Teeth Per Inch)

  • 24T–40T: Faster cuts, good for framing and rough cuts
  • 60T–80T: Smoother cuts, best for trim, finish work, and plywood
  • Higher tooth counts = cleaner cuts, but slower feed

Kerf Width

  • Full kerf: Stronger, more stable for heavy-duty work
  • Thin kerf: Lighter, better for cordless saws or reducing waste
  • Thin kerf blades cut faster but can flex under load

Tooth Material

  • Carbide-tipped: Longer life, stays sharper, standard for most uses
  • Steel: Budget-friendly, dulls faster
  • Diamond-tipped: For tile, stone, and masonry cutting

Tooth Grind Type

  • ATB (Alternate Top Bevel): Good all-around; clean cross-cuts
  • FTG (Flat Top Grind): Fast ripping
  • TCG (Triple Chip Grind): Cuts through plastic, laminate, non-ferrous metal

Hook Angle

  • Positive hook: Aggressive feed, better for fast cuts
  • Negative hook: More controlled, clean finish cuts (used in miter saws)

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Purpose-built blades improve cut quality and accuracy
  • Carbide tips stay sharp much longer than traditional steel
  • Specialty grinds and TPI options for every task
  • Thin kerf blades are ideal for cordless saws and save material waste

Cons

  • Using the wrong blade for the job can burn, bind, or chip material
  • Cheap blades dull quickly and leave rough edges
  • High-end blades can get pricey
  • Not every blade works across all materials or saw types

Safety and Maintenance Tips

  • Always unplug the saw before changing blades
  • Use the correct RPM-rated blade for your saw
  • Never force a dull blade, replace or sharpen
  • Clean resin buildup from blade teeth regularly
  • Store blades flat or in a holder to avoid warping
  • Use blade stabilizers for thin kerf blades in table saws to reduce wobble

Who This Is For

  • Homeowners doing weekend projects or trim installs
  • DIYers who want clean, accurate cuts
  • Pros in framing, finish carpentry, or cabinetry

The right blade means better results and fewer problems. Whether it’s a rough cut or a detail pass, blade choice matters.

FAQ

Can I use a finish blade for framing?

Yes, but it’s slower and not ideal. Finish blades are for cleaner cuts—not speed or rough lumber.

What’s the best blade for plywood?

Look for a high tooth count (60T+) and an ATB grind to avoid tear-out.

How often should I replace saw blades?

It depends on use, material, and blade quality. If cuts are burning, chipping, or you're forcing the saw—it's time.

Final Thoughts

Saw blades aren’t just accessories, they’re the cutting edge of your entire setup. Matching the right blade to your saw and the task at hand can make all the difference in speed, safety, and finish. Know your cut type, understand the material, and don’t skimp on blade quality. A great saw with the wrong blade is a wasted opportunity.