Types of Saw Blades: learn to cut ?

Overview:
Reciprocating saw blades move back and forth rapidly in a push-pull motion. These blades are ideal for demolition, remodeling, and rough cuts.

Best For:

• Cutting through wood with nails
• Pruning tree branches
• Metal pipes and conduit
• PVC and plastic

Subtypes:
Reciprocating blades come in a variety of tooth counts and materials. For example, bi-metal blades are great for metal and nail-embedded wood, while carbide-tipped blades handle tough materials like cast iron or thick metal.

Overview:
Used in circular saws, table saws, and miter saws, these round, rotating blades make straight, clean cuts through a variety of materials.

Best For:

• Woodworking
• Sheet goods (plywood, MDF)
• Crosscuts and rip cuts
• Framing and decking

Subtypes:
Circular blades vary by tooth count, material, and design. Some are specifically made for wood, metal, masonry, or laminate. Tungsten carbide blades are popular for general-purpose woodworking, while abrasive blades are used for cutting stone or concrete.

Overview:
Oscillating blades move side-to-side in a tight arc, allowing precise cuts in tight spaces.

Best For:

• Flush cuts in wood or metal
• Removing grout or caulk
• Cutting drywall or trim
• Scraping or sanding (with attachments)

Subtypes:
Blades include wood-cutting, metal-cutting, multi-material, and grout removal options. For example, carbide-grit blades handle tile and masonry, while bi-metal blades are tougher for nails and screws.

Overview:
These thin, straight blades move up and down rapidly. Jigsaws are perfect for curved, detailed cuts.

Best For:

• Curves and patterns in wood
• Thin metal and plastic
• Laminate and soft materials

Subtypes:
Jigsaw blades vary by material and teeth design. Use high carbon steel (HCS) for wood, high-speed steel (HSS) for metal, and carbide for ceramics or fiberglass.rews.

Overview:
Bandsaws use a continuous loop blade stretched between two wheels. These blades offer precise control, especially for intricate shapes and resawing.

Best For:

• Woodworking with curves
• Resawing thick boards
• Cutting metal or meat (with specialized blades)

Subtypes:
Bandsaw blades come in various widths, TPI, and materials. A skip-tooth blade is great for wood, while bi-metal or carbon steel versions are suited for metal or plastic.

Overview:
Bandsaws use a continuous loop blade stretched between two wheels. These blades offer precise control, Overview:
Though similar to circular saw blades, miter saw blades are designed for precise angle cuts. They are often used in trim work and framing.

Best For:

• Accurate crosscuts
• Crown molding
• Baseboards and window casings

Subtypes:
You’ll find miter saw blades with different coatings, angles, and tooth counts. Fine-tooth carbide-tipped blades work best for finish carpentry, while general-purpose blades can handle framing tasks.

Overview:
Bandsaws use a continuous loop blade stretched between two wheels. These blades offer precise control, OOverview:
Tile saws use diamond-coated blades to grind through hard materials instead of cutting with teeth.

Best For:

• Ceramic and porcelain tiles
• Granite and marble
• Masonry and concrete (with special blades)

Subtypes:
Wet-cut blades reduce heat and dust, ideal for ceramics. Segmented diamond blades can cut brick or concrete, while continuous rim blades provide cleaner tile edges.