Everyday, we help customers with selecting a sawblade for their application. The process for selecting the correct blade is one of the most important, yet mis-understood, in woodworking. Therefore we have created this Sawblade Selection Guide to assist with selecting the proper 10" diameter saw blade for your application.
March 18, 2024
Sawblade Selection Guide for Optimal Cutting Results
Step 1 - The Basics - Material Thickness
Regardless of the cutting application (ripping and/or cross-cutting), you should always start with the THICKNESS of the material being cut. Focusing on the thickness will allow you to select a sawblade that will provide TWO (2) teeth "in" the material at any given time.
Why Two (2) Teeth?
For optimal cutting results, two (2) teeth "in" the material allows adequate cutting speed and cut finish while minimizing heat generated during the cutting process.
More teeth "in" the material = more heat generated during cutting.
And more heat often leads to burning and/or wood resin "liquifying" which ultimately coats the sawblade tips and saw plate. These conditions then further reduce cutting efficiency and create even more heat. This is a slippery-slope which results in poor cut finish, frustration and lost productivity.
Step 2 - Select the Proper Number of Teeth
The following images show the correct 10" sawblade selections for optimal cutting results based on the material thickness being cut. Note that the sawblade has been raised (projected) so the bottom of the gullet is flush with the top of the material being cut as shown in the drawings below.
1/4
10" x 80T
TS21080A-5/8
1/2
10" x 60T
TS21060A-5/8
1/2
10" x 48T
UTS21048AF-5/8
3/4
10" x 48T
UTS21048AF-5/8
*3/4
10" x 40T
TS21040-5/8
*4/4
10" x 40T
TS21040FT-5/8
4/4
10" x 30T
TS21030-5/8
5/4
10" x 30T
TS21030FT-5/8
6/4
10" x 30T
TS21030GL-5/8
6/4
10" x 24T
TS21024-5/8
8/4
10" x 24T
TS21024FT-5/8
8/4
10" x 20T
TS21020-5/8
The images show two (2) or three (3) teeth "in" the different material thickness' shown. Two (2) teeth are optimal, but Three (3) teeth are acceptable.
Many woodworkers cut primarily 3/4 and 4/4 material and the images show our 10" x 40T Super Combo is an excellent choice for these thickness' providing two (2) or three (3) teeth "in" the material.
Of course, no one wants to change their blade with each material thickness change so select a blade that allows some flexibility during your cutting.
More questions? Call us at 800-443-0992.
We are always happy to help and have you share your answer to our favorite question…“What Are You Cuttin’?”