Choosing the best jigsaw blade is crucial for achieving quality results in your work. Sometimes you need to cut fast, while other times you desire a finer finish or the ability to make tighter turns. Your blade choice significantly impacts all of these factors.
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Best jig saw blades for wood
| Image | Brand | Best for | Number of Teeth | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | DEWALT DW3742C | Wood, Metal | 18 | $19.98 | Get it today |
When it comes to cutting wood, jigsaws are primarily used. There is a wide variety of blades available for different purposes. In general, you want fewer teeth for faster cutting and more teeth for better finishes. Thicker blades offer more stability, while thinner blades allow for tighter turns. Consider the tooth count, measured as teeth per inch (TPI), to guide your choice.
Let’s dive in! Here are some exciting guidelines to kickstart your journey:
- Choose a 6 TPI blade for aggressive, fast cuts, even if it results in a rougher finish.
- Move up to a 10 TPI blade for a good balance of cutting speed and a better finish.
- Opt for a 12 to 20 TPI blade when you want a clean finish and don’t mind cutting more slowly.
A typical wood jigsaw blade has teeth that angle up, leaving a clean edge on the bottom of the workpiece. Alternatively, you can select a reverse cut or reverse pitch blade, which reverses the direction of the teeth, pointing them downward. This leaves the top of your material with a clean finish.
Apart from wood, jigsaws can also cut other materials like plastic, sheet metal, and even pipes. For cutting plastic, blades with a 14 TPI count should suffice. Some brands offer blades specifically designed for plastic, with tooth geometry that ensures faster and cleaner cuts.
Additionally, there are specialty blades available for specific materials, each with its own tooth count, angle, and composition. For instance, ultra-low tooth count blades (as low as 4 TPI) are suitable for cutting soft materials like foam. Blades with a tooth count of around 6 TPI work well for cutting plaster or fiberglass. When cutting carbon fiber or plexiglass, look for blades in the 12 to 14 TPI range.
Best jig saw blades for metal
| Image | Brand | Best for | Number of Teeth | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BOSCH T118G | Metal | 36 | $6.59 (-30%) | Get it today |
 | BOSCH T127D | Aluminium | 8 | $8.99 | Get it today |
To cut sheet metal and pipes, choose an 18 TPI blade for fast cutting in thin-walled pipes and softer materials. For thicker and harder materials, switch to a 24 TPI blade for slower, controlled cutting.
These jigsaw blades are the economical choice for cutting sheet metal and thin metals, both ferrous and non-ferrous. With their specially designed milled wavy set, they provide precise and efficient straight-cuts. Whether you’re working on a DIY project or a professional job, these blades are the perfect tool to tackle your metal cutting needs. Invest in quality and versatility with these reliable jigsaw blades.
For sheet metal 17-26 gauge and very thin metals ranging from 1/50 inch to 1/17 inch (0.5mm-1.5mm), these blades feature a 25 TPI tooth design for straight cuts in various thicknesses. Constructed with high-speed steel (HSS), they offer maximum life in straight cuts.
With an overall length of 3-5/8 inches (91mm) and a working length of 2-5/8 inches (66mm), these blades provide precise cutting. It is recommended to use proper lubricant when cutting metal.
- Suitable for sheet metal ranging from 17 to 26 gauge, as well as very thin ferrous and non-ferrous metals measuring 1/64 In. to 3/64 In. in thickness.
- Features a tooth design with 36 TPI for smooth cuts in extremely thin materials.
- Constructed with high-speed steel for maximum durability and longevity in straight cutting applications.
- Boasts an overall length of 3-5/8 In., with a working length of 2-5/8 In.
- It is recommended to use proper lubricant when cutting metal.
- Specifically designed for straight cuts.
- Intended for use in sheet metal ranging from 17 to 26 gauge, as well as very thin ferrous and non-ferrous metals measuring 1/64 In. to 3/64 In. in thickness.
Best jig saw blades for cutting plastic
| Image | Brand | Best for | Number of Teeth | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BOSCH T102BF | Plastic | 13 | $6.59 (-37%) | Get it today |
When it comes to working with plastic, using the correct blade is crucial for achieving clean and accurate cuts. The right blade will ensure minimal splintering and produce smooth edges, allowing you to create precise shapes and sizes. For cutting plastic, blades with a 13 TPI – 14 TPI count should suffice. Some brands offer blades specifically designed for plastic, with tooth geometry that ensures faster and cleaner cuts.
Choosing the Right Blade
Selecting the right blade for cutting plastic will greatly impact the quality of your cuts. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Look for blades specifically designed for cutting plastic materials.
- Consider the tooth count and configuration of the blade. Blades with finer teeth provide smoother cuts.
Proper Cutting Techniques
To achieve precise cuts on plastic, follow these techniques:
- Mark the cutting line on the plastic sheet using a pencil or marker.
- Adjust the speed and orbital settings on your jig saw according to the thickness and hardness of the plastic.
- Start cutting from the edge of the material, using a steady and controlled motion.
- Allow the blade to do the work—avoid forcing or bending it.
- Maintain a consistent cutting speed to avoid melting or chipping the plastic.
Best jig saw blades for Hardie & cement board
| Image | Brand | Best for | Number of Teeth | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOSCH T141HM1 | Fiber and Plaster | 6 | $13.78 (-50%) | Get it today |
 | Freud DJT141HM | Fiber Cement & Plaster | 6 | $10.76 | Get it today |
Using the wrong jig saw blade for cutting cement board and Hardie board can lead to several issues. Firstly, it can cause splintering or chipping along the edges, resulting in an unsightly finish. Moreover, the wrong blade can quickly wear out, leading to reduced efficiency and the need for frequent replacements. By using the appropriate blade, you can avoid these issues and achieve precise cuts that maintain the integrity of the boards.
When it comes to reliable jig saw blades for cutting cement and Hardie board, Bosch is a reputable brand that offers excellent options. Their carbide-tipped blades are specifically designed for cutting fiber cement materials, ensuring precise cuts and extended blade life. Bosch blades are known for their durability and compatibility with various jig saw models.
Best jig saw blades for tile
| Image | Brand | Best for | Number of Teeth | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BOSCH T130DG | Hard Tile, Marble | 30 | $9.11 (-21%) | Get it today |
If you’re planning to tackle a tile cutting project, choosing the right jig saw blade is crucial. The blade you select can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of your cuts. Different types of tiles, such as ceramic, porcelain, or marble, require specific blade compatibility. Ensure that the jig saw blade you choose is suitable for the material you’ll be working with. Using the wrong blade can result in chipping, cracking, or inefficient cutting.
If you’re just starting out with jigsaw cutting, consider purchasing a jigsaw blade starter sets like: DeWalt DW3742C, The Workpro jigsaw blades set & BLACK+DECKER Jigsaw Blades Set. These sets typically include a combination of wood, metal, and general-purpose blades, providing versatility and saving money.
As you gain more experience with different materials, you’ll develop a preference for tooth count, style, and specific brands. Experiment with various jigsaw blades on scrap materials of the same wood type to determine the speed, turning ability, and finish achieved by each blade.
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