Have you ever sliced through a piece of wood, only to have the cut look jagged and uneven? It’s frustrating!
Finding the right Track Saw Blades can be challenging. There are so many types, sizes, and tooth designs. Choosing the wrong blade can ruin your project. You might end up with messy cuts, a dull blade quickly, or even damage your expensive track saw.
This guide will help you understand the different types of Track Saw Blades. We’ll explain what makes each blade special, and which is best for different materials like wood, plywood, and even plastics. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect blade for your next project, saving you time, money, and frustration.
Let’s dive into the world of track saw blades and find the perfect one for you!
Our Top 5 Track Saw Blades Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Track Saw Blades Detailed Reviews
1. 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 track saw blade is a serious tool for serious cuts. This 6.5-inch blade boasts 56 carbide teeth, a thin kerf design, and a slick PTFE coating. It’s designed for professional-grade accuracy and smooth cuts in wood. This blade fits many track saws and promises a cleaner, faster cut than other blades.
What We Like:
- The PTFE coating reduces friction and helps prevent resin buildup. This means less sticking and easier cleanup.
- The thin kerf design minimizes material waste. You get more from each cut.
- Fifty-six teeth provide a very smooth, clean cut. The blade cuts through wood incredibly well.
- Many users report its long lifespan. It can handle lots of cutting before needing replacement.
- The blade’s professional-grade construction feels durable and reliable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is a bit higher than some other blades. It’s an investment.
- Some users reported slight variations in cut quality depending on the wood type.
- Finding this specific blade might be challenging in some stores.
Overall, the WEN BL6556 is a high-quality track saw blade. It delivers precision, efficiency, and a long lifespan. However, the higher price and potential availability issues should be considered.
2. Makita B-57342 6-1/2″ 56T Carbide-Tipped Cordless Plunge Saw Blade
Rating: 9.6/10
The Makita B-57342 6-1/2″ 56T Carbide-Tipped Cordless Plunge Saw Blade is a great option for anyone needing a high-quality blade for their cordless plunge saw. It’s designed for clean, precise cuts in wood and other materials. This blade features 56 carbide teeth, which provide a smooth cut and a long lifespan. It fits many Makita cordless plunge saws.
What We Like:
- The blade cuts smoothly and cleanly. It leaves very little tear-out.
- Its carbide teeth last a long time. You get many cuts before needing a replacement.
- It’s compatible with many Makita saws. This makes it a versatile choice.
- The 6-1/2″ size is useful for a wide range of projects.
- Many users report a long lifespan for this blade.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price is higher than some other blades. It’s a more expensive option.
- Finding this blade in stock can sometimes be difficult. Availability varies.
- The packaging could be improved. It’s simple, but not very protective.
Overall, the Makita B-57342 is a top-performing blade. It offers excellent cutting performance and durability. However, potential buyers should consider the price and availability.
We recommend it for serious DIYers and professionals who value a quality cut.
3. DEWALT Tracksaw Blade
Rating: 9.4/10
The DEWALT Tracksaw Blade (DW5258) is a 6-1/2-inch, 48-tooth blade designed for ultra-fine finishing. It’s made for precise cuts in wood and other materials. This blade promises a smooth, clean finish, ideal for woodworking projects needing a professional look. Many users find it useful for trim work and detailed cuts.
What We Like:
- This blade makes incredibly smooth cuts. The 48 teeth provide a fine finish.
- It’s durable and performs well even after many uses. This blade lasts a long time.
- The DEWALT name means quality. You can trust its performance.
- It fits most standard tracksaws. Compatibility is rarely an issue.
- Many users find it easy to install and use.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price is higher than some other blades. It’s an investment.
- Some users report a slightly slower cutting speed compared to blades with fewer teeth. This is expected with fine-tooth blades.
- Finding this specific blade in stock can sometimes be challenging. Check availability before you need it.
Overall, the DEWALT DW5258 tracksaw blade is a great choice for anyone needing a high-quality blade for fine finishing work. The smooth cuts and durability justify the price for many professionals and serious DIYers.
The excellent finish makes it worth the investment.
4. 25 Pack 9 inch 14/18TPI Metal Cutting Sawzall Blades
Rating: 9.0/10
Need to cut through metal? This 25-pack of 9-inch sawzall blades will help you tackle your next project! These bi-metal blades have M42 cobalt teeth for extra strength and durability. They’re designed for cutting medium-thickness metals, and the automatic dismantling feature makes changing blades quick and easy. This set is perfect for DIYers and professionals alike.
What We Like:
- These blades cut through metal quickly and efficiently.
- The 25-pack provides great value for your money.
- The M42 cobalt teeth are very strong and last a long time.
- The automatic dismantling system makes blade changes easy.
- They work well on various medium-thickness metals.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging could be more robust to prevent damage during shipping.
- A few users reported some minor breakage after extended use on very hard metals.
- More detailed instructions could be included.
Overall, this 25-pack of sawzall blades provides excellent value and performance for most metal-cutting needs. They are a great addition to any toolbox.
We highly recommend them for their durability and ease of use.
5. Freud LU79R006M20: 160mm Thin Kerf Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade
The Freud LU79R006M20 160mm Thin Kerf Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade is a great choice for cutting plywood and melamine. It’s designed for clean cuts and smooth finishes. This blade’s thin kerf design reduces waste and helps you save money on materials. This makes it perfect for DIY projects or professional woodworking.
What We Like:
- The blade makes incredibly clean cuts in plywood and melamine. You’ll get professional-looking results.
- Its thin kerf design minimizes material waste. This saves you money and reduces your environmental impact.
- It’s durable and built to last. This blade can handle a lot of work.
- The Freud brand is known for quality. You can trust this blade to perform well.
- It’s easy to install and use. Even beginners can easily use this blade.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is a bit higher than some other blades. However, the quality justifies the cost.
- Finding this specific blade in some stores might be difficult. Check online retailers for availability.
Overall, the Freud LU79R006M20 is a high-quality blade that delivers excellent results. The clean cuts and reduced waste make it a worthwhile investment for any woodworker.
It’s a top pick for precision and efficiency.
Choosing the Right Track Saw Blade: A Buyer’s Guide
Track saws are amazing tools for making precise cuts in wood. But to get the best results, you need the right blade. This guide helps you choose the perfect track saw blade for your projects.
Key Features to Look For
- Tooth Type and Count: Blades have different tooth designs. ATB (alternate top bevel) teeth are great for smoother cuts in plywood and softer woods. FTG (flat top grind) teeth are better for ripping (cutting along the grain) hardwoods. More teeth mean a smoother cut, but slower cutting. Fewer teeth cut faster, but might leave a rougher finish.
- Blade Diameter: This is the size of the blade. Check your saw’s manual to see what size it can handle. Larger blades can handle thicker material.
- Arbor Size (Bore): This is the hole in the center of the blade. It must match your saw’s arbor. Common sizes are 20mm and 30mm.
- Kerf: This is the width of the cut the blade makes. A thinner kerf means less material is wasted.
- Hook Angle: This affects how aggressively the blade cuts. A higher hook angle means faster cutting, but may cause more tear-out.
Important Materials
Track saw blades are usually made of high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide-tipped steel. Carbide-tipped blades are much more durable and last longer. They are best for tougher materials and repeated use. HSS blades are cheaper, but they wear down faster.
Factors Affecting Quality
- Blade Material: Carbide-tipped blades are superior to HSS blades. They stay sharp longer and handle harder materials better.
- Manufacturing Precision: A well-made blade will cut straight and accurately. Look for blades from reputable brands.
- Tooth Geometry: The design of the teeth is crucial. Properly designed teeth produce clean cuts and minimize tear-out.
- Heat Treatment: Proper heat treatment makes the blade harder and more durable. This is important for long-lasting performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
Track saws are fantastic for making long, straight cuts in various materials. They are especially useful for:
- Sheet Goods: Plywood, MDF, and other sheet materials are easily cut with a track saw.
- Hardwoods: With the right blade, you can make clean cuts in hardwoods like oak and maple.
- Laminates: A fine-toothed blade will help prevent chipping when cutting laminates.
- Precise Cuts: The track system ensures straight cuts, perfect for cabinetry and furniture making.
Choosing the right blade depends on the materials you’re cutting. Softer woods need a different blade than hardwoods. Read the product descriptions carefully. Consider the tooth count and type. A higher tooth count provides a smoother finish, while fewer teeth cut faster. Ultimately, a quality carbide-tipped blade will provide better performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How often should I replace my track saw blade?
A: It depends on use. Dull blades cause tear-out and inaccurate cuts. Replace when you notice significant dulling or if the cuts aren’t clean. - Q: What’s the difference between ATB and FTG teeth?
A: ATB (alternate top bevel) teeth create smoother cuts in softer materials. FTG (flat top grind) teeth are better for ripping hardwoods. - Q: Can I use any track saw blade in my saw?
A: No. Check your saw’s manual for the correct blade diameter and arbor size. - Q: What’s the best blade for plywood?
A: An ATB (alternate top bevel) blade with a higher tooth count will give you the cleanest cuts in plywood. - Q: What’s the best blade for hardwoods?
A: An FTG (flat top grind) blade with fewer teeth is typically better for ripping hardwoods. - Q: What does kerf mean?
A: Kerf is the width of the cut your blade makes. A thinner kerf means less material waste. - Q: Are carbide-tipped blades worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, they last much longer and cut more accurately than HSS blades. - Q: How do I know if my blade is dull?
A: You’ll notice rough cuts, more tear-out, and a general lack of precision. - Q: Can I use a track saw blade in a circular saw?
A: No, track saw blades have specific features that aren’t compatible with circular saws. - Q: Where can I buy track saw blades?
A: You can find them at most home improvement stores, online retailers, and specialty woodworking stores.
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.