Choose the right blade for the job! Reciprocating saw blades are categorized by their tooth design and material, directly impacting cutting performance. Incorrect blade selection leads to slow cutting, broken blades, or even damage to the saw.
Tooth Design and Material
Wood cutting blades feature large, widely-spaced teeth for fast removal of material. Metal blades use smaller, more closely set teeth for precise cuts and durability. Bi-metal blades combine high-speed steel teeth with a flexible body, ideal for cutting both wood and metal. For demolition work, demolition blades have extra-large teeth designed to quickly cut through thick materials like wood, nails, and even some metal. Always check the blade’s description for its application to avoid damage. Demonstrating flexibility, high-carbon steel blades offer longer life than standard blades, although this increased longevity typically comes at a higher price point.
Compatibility: TPI and Shank
Teeth Per Inch (TPI) dictates the blade’s aggressiveness. Higher TPI blades create smoother cuts, while lower TPI blades are faster but leave rougher surfaces. The shank is the blade’s connection point to the saw. Common shanks include U-shank, T-shank, and S-shank. Ensure your blade’s shank matches your reciprocating saw’s specifications. Using an incompatible blade is dangerous and can cause damage.
| Wood | High Carbon Steel | 4-8 | Wood, Drywall |
| Metal | High-Speed Steel | 10-18 | Metal, Pipe |
| Bi-Metal | High-Speed Steel & High Carbon Steel | 8-14 | Wood, Metal, Plastic |
| Demolition | High Carbon Steel | 3-6 | Demolition, Thick Wood |
Beyond the Basics
Beyond the main types, you’ll find specialty blades for cutting specific materials, like ceramic tile or fiberglass. Always carefully read the blade’s packaging for recommended materials and safety precautions before use. Remember, safety should always be your priority.
