Ever stared at a wall of circular saw blades, feeling completely overwhelmed? Finding the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack!
Choosing a 160mm circular saw blade is tricky. There are so many different types, with varying tooth counts and materials. People often get confused about which blade is best for cutting wood, metal, or plastic. They might even buy the wrong blade and damage their saw or the material they’re cutting.
This guide will help you understand the differences between 160mm circular saw blades. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect blade for your project. We’ll explain the important features to look for, so you can make a smart purchase. Finding the right 160mm Circular Saw Blade can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you.
Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to choosing the perfect blade for your next project!
Top 6 160mm Circular Saw Blade
1. Oshlun SBFT-160048 160mm 48 Tooth FesPro Crosscut ATB Saw Blade with 20mm Arbor for Festool TS 55 EQ, DeWalt DWS520, and Makita SP6000K
The Oshlun SBFT-160048 saw blade is a great choice for precise cuts in wood. It’s designed to fit popular circular saws like the Festool TS 55 EQ, DeWalt DWS520, and Makita SP6000K. This 160mm blade boasts 48 teeth with an ATB (Alternate Top Bevel) grind, making it perfect for clean, smooth crosscuts. The 20mm arbor ensures a secure fit.
What We Like:
- The blade cuts smoothly and accurately. You’ll get clean cuts every time.
- It’s durable and built to last. This blade should handle many projects.
- The ATB grind minimizes tear-out. Your wood projects will look professional.
- It fits several popular saw models. It’s compatible with many common saws.
- The 48 teeth provide a fine cut. This blade excels at detail work.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some users. It’s a more expensive option.
- Availability could be better in some areas. It might be hard to find in certain stores.
Overall, the Oshlun SBFT-160048 saw blade delivers excellent performance for clean crosscuts. It’s a worthy investment for serious DIYers and professionals.
The quality justifies the cost for those needing precise cuts.
2. Freud LU79R006M20: 160mm Thin Kerf Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade
The Freud LU79R006M20 160mm Thin Kerf Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade is a high-quality saw blade designed for cutting plywood and melamine. It’s known for its precision and smooth cuts, making it a favorite among woodworkers. This blade’s thin kerf design reduces waste and helps you save money on materials.
What We Like:
- The blade makes incredibly clean cuts in plywood and melamine. You’ll get very little tear-out.
- Its thin kerf design minimizes material waste. This saves you money and time.
- The blade stays sharp for a long time. You won’t need to replace it often.
- It’s compatible with many table saws. This makes it a versatile tool.
- Many users report a significant improvement in their cutting experience compared to standard blades.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is a bit higher than some standard blades. However, the quality justifies the cost for many.
- Finding this blade in stock can sometimes be challenging. It’s popular, so check availability before you need it.
Overall, the Freud LU79R006M20 is an excellent choice for anyone who regularly cuts plywood or melamine. Its superior performance and long lifespan make it a worthwhile investment. This blade delivers professional-quality results.
3. Freud LU87R006M20: 160mm Thin Kerf Rip Blade
The Freud LU87R006M20 160mm Thin Kerf Rip Blade is a saw blade designed for precise ripping cuts in wood. It’s a popular choice for woodworkers who need clean, accurate cuts, especially when working with thinner pieces of wood. This blade’s thin kerf design reduces waste and helps you save money on materials.
What We Like:
- The blade makes incredibly clean, precise cuts. You’ll get amazing results.
- Its thin kerf design minimizes material waste. This saves you money and resources.
- It’s durable and built to last. This blade can handle many projects.
- Many woodworkers find it easy to use. It gives consistent, reliable performance.
- The 160mm size is great for many common woodworking tasks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some budget-conscious woodworkers. It’s an investment.
- Finding this blade in stock can sometimes be difficult. Check availability before purchasing.
- Proper safety equipment is always needed when using this blade. Always wear safety glasses.
Overall, the Freud LU87R006M20 is a high-quality rip blade that delivers exceptional results. It’s a worthy investment for serious woodworkers. However, consider the price and availability before buying.
4. 6-1/4″ Track Saw Blade Replacement for Festool TS-55 TSC-55 ATF-55 AP-55 DeWalt DWS520 Makita SP6000K, 160mm X 20mm Arbor X 48Tooth, Fine Finish Crosscut Framing Trimming Wood MDF Plywood
This 6-1/4″ track saw blade is a great replacement for several popular track saw models, including Festool, DeWalt, and Makita. It’s designed for precise crosscutting, framing, and trimming in wood, MDF, and plywood. The 48 teeth provide a fine finish, making it ideal for detailed work.
What We Like:
- It offers a smooth, clean cut. The blade cuts accurately.
- It works well with various materials like wood, MDF, and plywood.
- The 48-tooth design delivers a fine finish. You get excellent results.
- It fits many popular track saw brands. This makes it versatile.
- The price is competitive. It’s a budget-friendly option.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users reported slightly faster wear than other blades. This depends on usage.
- Availability might be an issue in some regions. Check before ordering.
Overall, this replacement track saw blade offers excellent value for its price. It performs well and is compatible with many popular saws.
This blade is a solid choice for DIYers and professionals alike who need a reliable and affordable replacement.
5. Freud LU86R006M20: 160mm Thin Kerf General Purpose Blade
The Freud LU86R006M20 160mm Thin Kerf General Purpose Blade is a versatile saw blade designed for various woodworking tasks. It’s a popular choice for its thin kerf design, which reduces waste and allows for cleaner cuts. This blade is great for ripping and crosscutting various wood types.
What We Like:
- Clean Cuts: The thin kerf design produces remarkably clean, precise cuts with minimal tear-out.
- Versatility: This blade handles both ripping (cutting with the grain) and crosscutting (cutting against the grain) effectively.
- Durability: It’s made of high-quality materials, promising a long lifespan even with frequent use. The blade stays sharp for a good amount of time.
- Smooth Operation: The blade cuts smoothly through wood, making the job easier and less tiring.
- Good Value: The price is competitive for a blade of this quality and performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Potential for Breakage: Because it’s a thin kerf blade, it’s slightly more prone to breakage if used improperly or on harder materials. Careful use is recommended.
- Limited Availability: You might need to search a bit to find this specific blade in some stores.
Overall, the Freud LU86R006M20 is a solid performer for everyday woodworking projects. Its clean cuts and smooth operation make it a worthwhile investment for many woodworkers.
This blade is a great choice if you prioritize clean cuts and smooth operation.
6. FOXBC 160mm Track Saw Blade 48 Tooth for Festool TS55, TSC 55, ATF 55, AP 55, HK 55, HKC 55, DeWalt DWS520K, Makita SP6000J Track Saw, Saw Blade 160×2.2x20mm Wood Fine Cut
This FOXBC 160mm track saw blade is a great choice for anyone using Festool, DeWalt, or Makita track saws. It’s designed for precise cuts in wood, and its 48 teeth provide a smooth, clean finish. This blade fits many popular track saw models, making it a versatile addition to your workshop.
What We Like:
- It makes clean, accurate cuts in wood.
- The 48 teeth create a smooth finish.
- It fits many popular track saw brands.
- The price is competitive.
- Many users reported long life from this blade.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users reported minor chipping on very hard woods.
- Availability might be an issue in some areas.
- More detailed instructions could be included.
Overall, this FOXBC 160mm track saw blade offers excellent value for money. It performs well and is compatible with numerous popular saws. It’s a worthy investment for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
We recommend it for most woodworking projects.
Choosing the Right 160mm Circular Saw Blade: A Buyer’s Guide
A 160mm circular saw blade is a versatile tool for various cutting jobs. Choosing the right one can make a big difference in your project’s success. This guide will help you understand what to look for when buying a 160mm circular saw blade.
Key Features to Consider
- Tooth Type and Count: The number and shape of teeth affect the cut. More teeth mean a smoother, cleaner cut, ideal for fine woodworking. Fewer teeth offer faster cutting, perfect for rough cuts and demolition. Look for blades designed for the type of material you’ll be cutting.
- Blade Material: The blade’s material influences its durability and lifespan. High-speed steel (HSS) is common and relatively affordable. Carbide-tipped blades are much more durable and last longer, though they cost more.
- Kerf: This is the width of the cut the blade makes. A thinner kerf means less material waste. Thinner kerfs are usually found on blades with fewer, larger teeth.
- Arbor Size: Make sure the blade’s arbor (the central hole) matches your saw’s arbor size. Most 160mm blades use a 20mm arbor, but double-check your saw’s manual.
- Hook Angle: This refers to the angle of the teeth. A larger hook angle results in faster cutting but can lead to rougher cuts. A smaller hook angle provides smoother cuts but might be slower.
Important Blade Materials
Circular saw blades are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) or have carbide tips. HSS blades are more affordable but wear down faster. Carbide-tipped blades are significantly more durable and last much longer, making them a better long-term investment, even if they cost more initially. The choice depends on your budget and how often you plan to use the blade.
Factors Affecting Blade Quality
- Manufacturing Precision: A well-made blade will have accurately formed teeth and a balanced design. This leads to smoother cuts and reduces vibration.
- Material Hardness: Harder materials, like those used in carbide-tipped blades, resist wear and chipping better. This improves the blade’s lifespan.
- Tooth Geometry: The shape and angle of the teeth are crucial. Properly designed teeth ensure clean cuts and prevent binding.
- Heat Treatment: Proper heat treatment strengthens the blade material, increasing its resistance to breakage and wear.
User Experience and Use Cases
The right blade makes all the difference. A sharp blade cuts cleanly and efficiently, requiring less force. A dull blade struggles, resulting in uneven cuts and potential damage to the material. Always choose a blade appropriate for the material you’re cutting. Wood blades are different from metal blades. Using the wrong blade can damage the blade and your saw.
For example, a fine-tooth blade is great for cutting plywood or veneer. A coarser blade is better for cutting lumber or ripping through thicker materials. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when using a circular saw.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the difference between a 160mm and a 185mm blade? A: The number refers to the blade’s diameter. A 185mm blade is larger and cuts a wider swath. Choose the size that fits your saw and the job.
- Q: How often should I replace my circular saw blade? A: This depends on use, but dull blades should be replaced. Look for signs like uneven cuts or excessive vibration. A dull blade is dangerous and inefficient.
- Q: Can I use a 160mm blade on any circular saw? A: No, make sure the blade’s arbor size matches your saw’s arbor size (usually 20mm for 160mm blades). Check your saw’s manual.
- Q: What type of blade should I use for cutting wood? A: Wood-cutting blades have teeth designed for wood. Look for blades with appropriate tooth counts and shapes for the type of wood (hardwood vs. softwood).
- Q: What type of blade should I use for cutting metal? A: Metal-cutting blades are specifically designed for metal. They are usually made from high-speed steel or have carbide tips. These blades are different from wood-cutting blades.
- Q: How do I sharpen a circular saw blade? A: Sharpening circular saw blades is difficult and often best left to professionals. Replacing a dull blade is usually easier and safer.
- Q: What safety precautions should I take? A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Make sure the material is securely clamped. Never force the saw; let it do the work.
- Q: What does “ATB” mean on a blade? A: ATB stands for “alternate top bevel.” This means the teeth are beveled alternately to the left and right, creating a smoother cut.
- Q: What does “TCG” mean on a blade? A: TCG stands for “triple chip grind.” This is a tooth design that improves cutting speed and reduces vibration.
- Q: Where can I buy a 160mm circular saw blade? A: You can find them at most hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.