Have you ever tried cutting plywood and ended up with a messy, splintered edge? It’s frustrating, right?
Finding the right Track Saw Blade For Plywood can be challenging. There are so many different blade types, tooth counts, and materials. Choosing the wrong one leads to ripped pieces, uneven cuts, and wasted time. Many people get confused by all the technical details.
This guide will help you avoid those problems. You’ll learn about the key features to look for, understand different blade types, and discover the best blade for your specific plywood cutting needs. We’ll break down the jargon and make choosing the perfect blade easy.
Ready to make clean, accurate cuts every time? Let’s dive into the world of track saw blades and find the perfect one for your plywood projects!
Our Top 5 Track Saw Blade For Plywood Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Track Saw Blade For Plywood Detailed Reviews
1. Freud LU79R006M20: 160mm Thin Kerf Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade
Rating: 9.4/10
The Freud LU79R006M20 is a 160mm thin kerf blade designed for cutting plywood and melamine. This blade boasts a special design for clean, precise cuts. It’s popular among woodworkers who need accuracy and efficiency. It’s a great choice for detailed work and quick projects.
What We Like:
- It makes incredibly clean cuts in plywood and melamine. You’ll get smooth edges every time.
- The thin kerf design reduces waste. You’ll save material on every cut.
- It’s durable. This blade lasts a long time, even with regular use.
- The Freud name is known for quality. You’re buying a reliable product.
- Many users report a smoother cutting experience compared to other blades.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is higher than some competitor blades. This might be a concern for those on a budget.
- Finding this specific blade might be difficult in some stores. Online ordering is usually the easiest option.
- Some users report a slight increase in noise compared to thicker kerf blades.
Overall, the Freud LU79R006M20 is a top-performing blade. It excels at precision cutting for plywood and melamine. While the price might be a factor, the quality and performance justify the cost for most serious woodworkers.
2. Freud 6-1/2 X 60 Bulk Diablo
Rating: 9.6/10
The Freud 6-1/2″ x 60″ Diablo bulk blade is a great option for woodworkers who need many saw blades. These blades are known for their durability and clean cuts. They’re perfect for ripping and crosscutting various types of wood.
What We Like:
- These blades cut incredibly smoothly. You get very clean cuts with minimal tear-out.
- They last a long time. The Diablo blades are tough and can handle a lot of work before needing replacement.
- Buying in bulk saves money. The price per blade is lower when you buy many at once.
- These blades are versatile. They work well on a variety of wood types.
- Freud is a reputable brand. You can trust the quality of their products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bulk packaging could be more protective. Some blades might arrive slightly damaged during shipping.
- Finding them in stores can be difficult. You might need to order them online.
- The blades are expensive individually. While the bulk price is good, a single blade is costly.
Overall, the Freud 6-1/2″ x 60″ Diablo bulk blades are an excellent investment for serious woodworkers. They offer superior performance and longevity.
The excellent cutting quality makes them worthwhile, despite the higher initial cost.
3. WEN BL6556 6.5-Inch 56-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Thin-Kerf Professional ATAFR Track Saw Blade with PTFE Coating
Rating: 9.2/10
The WEN BL6556 6.5-Inch 56-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Thin-Kerf Professional ATAFR Track Saw Blade with PTFE Coating is a serious tool for serious woodworkers. This blade boasts a thin kerf design, meaning it makes narrow cuts, minimizing wood waste. The 56 teeth provide a smooth, clean cut. Its PTFE coating reduces friction and helps prevent gumming up, leading to a longer blade life. It’s designed for use with track saws, giving you accurate and precise cuts every time.
What We Like:
- The blade cuts smoothly and cleanly. The cuts are incredibly precise.
- The thin kerf design saves material. You waste less wood.
- The PTFE coating helps the blade last longer. It resists sticking.
- It works well with track saws. It’s compatible with many systems.
- Many users found it easy to install and use. It’s a user-friendly blade.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some home hobbyists. It’s an investment.
- Some users reported a slight increase in noise compared to other blades. The difference is minor for most.
- Availability at certain retailers can be inconsistent. It may require online ordering.
Overall, the WEN BL6556 track saw blade is a high-quality tool that delivers excellent results. While the price might be a factor, its performance and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. It’s a great choice for precise, clean cuts.
4. HYCHIKA 32-Piece Reciprocating Saw Blade Set Metal Wood Cutting Saw Blades with Organizer Case
Rating: 8.6/10
The HYCHIKA 32-Piece Reciprocating Saw Blade Set is a great value for your money. This set includes a variety of blades for cutting wood and metal. It comes in a handy organizer case, keeping everything neat and easy to find. This makes it perfect for DIY projects around the house or for professional use.
What We Like:
- The case keeps the blades organized and protected.
- The set includes many different blade types, suitable for various materials.
- The blades cut cleanly and efficiently.
- The price is very competitive compared to other sets.
- The blades are durable and last a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the metal blades a little less durable than expected.
- The case could be made of a sturdier material.
- More detailed instructions on which blade to use for different materials would be helpful.
Overall, the HYCHIKA 32-Piece Reciprocating Saw Blade Set offers a good selection of blades at a reasonable price. The included case is a nice bonus. It’s a solid choice for most DIYers and professionals. We recommend this product.
5. 6-1/2-Inch (20mm Arbor) 60-Tooth Track Saw Blade Plunge Saw Blade for Fine Finish Fine Cut Wood
Rating: 9.4/10
This 6-1/2-inch (20mm arbor) 60-tooth track saw blade makes incredibly clean cuts in a variety of materials. It’s designed for fine finish work, so you get smooth edges every time. This blade works great with wood, plywood, MDF, plastic, veneer, particle board, and hardboard. It’s perfect for DIY projects or professional woodworking.
What We Like:
- The blade produces very smooth, clean cuts. You won’t find splintering or tear-out.
- It works well with many different materials. This makes it a versatile tool.
- Sixty teeth provide a fine cut. This is ideal for detail work.
- The 20mm arbor fits most track saws. This ensures compatibility.
- The blade’s durability is impressive; it lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some budgets.
- Finding this specific blade in stores can sometimes be difficult.
Overall, this 60-tooth track saw blade is a fantastic choice for anyone needing precise, smooth cuts. Its versatility and performance make it worthwhile, despite the higher price and occasional availability issues.
It’s a great investment for quality woodworking.
Choosing the Right Track Saw Blade for Plywood: A Buyer’s Guide
Plywood is a popular material for many DIY and professional projects. Cutting it cleanly and accurately is key to a successful project. A track saw with the right blade makes this easy. This guide helps you pick the best track saw blade for your plywood cutting needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
- Tooth Type and Design: Look for blades with **alternate top bevel (ATB)** teeth. ATB teeth create smoother cuts, reducing chipping and tear-out on the plywood’s surface. Avoid blades with flat-top teeth, which are better for rougher materials.
- Tooth Count: Higher tooth counts (more teeth) generally provide smoother cuts, especially important for thin plywood. Fewer teeth are better for thicker plywood. A good range is 40-60 teeth for most plywood projects.
- Blade Diameter: Check your track saw’s specifications to ensure the blade diameter fits. Too large, and it won’t fit. Too small, and it won’t cut properly.
- Kerf: The kerf is the width of the cut the blade makes. A thinner kerf means less material is wasted. Look for blades that advertise a narrow kerf.
- Material: High-quality blades are made from durable materials like high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide-tipped steel. These last longer and cut more accurately.
2. Important Blade Materials
The material of the blade greatly impacts its performance and lifespan. High-speed steel (HSS) blades are a popular choice. They are strong and hold their sharpness well. Carbide-tipped blades are even tougher. They last much longer than HSS blades but are more expensive. The best choice depends on your budget and how often you cut plywood.
3. Factors Affecting Quality
- Manufacturing Quality: Well-made blades have precisely ground teeth and are balanced to reduce vibration. Poorly made blades might vibrate excessively, leading to inaccurate cuts and faster wear.
- Tooth Geometry: The shape and angle of the teeth are crucial. Properly designed teeth minimize tear-out and provide a clean cut. Poor tooth geometry will result in ragged edges.
- Blade Thickness: Thicker blades are generally more durable but create wider kerfs, wasting more material. Thinner blades are better for precision but might break more easily.
- Sharpness: A sharp blade cuts smoothly and accurately. A dull blade requires more force, creates more friction, and produces a rougher cut. Regular sharpening extends blade life.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A good track saw blade for plywood should make cutting fast and easy. It should produce smooth, clean cuts with minimal chipping or tear-out. This makes finishing the plywood easier. You’ll need less sanding or filling. Use cases include building cabinets, shelving, furniture, and cutting plywood sheets to size.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the best tooth count for plywood? A: 40-60 teeth usually work best for most plywood thicknesses, providing a good balance of speed and smoothness.
- Q: Can I use a standard wood blade for plywood? A: You can, but an ATB blade designed for plywood will give you much cleaner and smoother cuts, minimizing chipping.
- Q: How often should I replace my blade? A: This depends on usage. If you notice the cuts becoming rough or inaccurate, it’s time for a new blade. Regular maintenance (cleaning and checking for damage) extends blade life.
- Q: What’s the difference between HSS and carbide-tipped blades? A: Carbide-tipped blades are much more durable and last longer but are pricier. HSS blades are a good balance of cost and performance.
- Q: How do I choose the right blade diameter? A: Always check your track saw’s manual for the correct blade diameter. This is crucial for safety and proper operation.
- Q: Are there blades specifically for thin plywood? A: Yes, blades with a higher tooth count are generally better suited for thinner plywood to prevent tear-out.
- Q: What should I do if my blade is vibrating excessively? A: Check for balance issues, ensure the blade is correctly mounted, and inspect for damage. Excessive vibration indicates a problem that needs addressing.
- Q: How important is a narrow kerf? A: A narrow kerf means less material waste, which can save you money, especially on larger projects.
- Q: Can I sharpen my track saw blade? A: Yes, but it’s a specialized task. For best results, consider having it professionally sharpened or replacing it when it becomes dull.
- Q: What safety precautions should I take when using a track saw? A: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped, and never force the blade. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
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.