Saw Blade

The Right Saw Blade Makes Every Cut Count

A saw blade may seem like a simple tool, but choosing the right one can mean the difference between a clean, precise cut and a frustrating, time-consuming job. Whether you're cutting through steel pipe, PVC conduit, aluminum extrusion, or wood framing, the blade you select determines your speed, accuracy, and how long your tool lasts between replacements. Understanding the key variables — tooth count, blade material, tooth geometry, and blade length — helps you match the right blade to every task.

Types of Saw Blades and What They're Used For

Hand tool saw blades generally fall into a few major families. Hacksaw blades are among the most versatile, designed to cut metal, plastic, and conduit with a fine tooth pattern measured in teeth per inch (TPI). Higher TPI blades (18–32 TPI) produce smoother cuts in thin materials, while lower TPI blades (14–18 TPI) remove material faster in thicker stock. Reciprocating saw blades are engineered for speed and aggressive cutting, tackling demolition work, pipe cutting, and automotive repair tasks. Jigsaw blades offer maneuverability for curved or irregular cuts in a wide range of materials.

Blade material is equally important. Bi-metal blades — featuring a high-speed steel cutting edge bonded to a flexible alloy steel body — are the go-to choice for most professional applications because they resist breakage while maintaining a sharp edge longer than standard carbon steel blades. Carbide-tipped blades step up performance further for cutting hard metals, stainless steel, and other demanding materials.

Key Factors When Choosing a Saw Blade

• TPI (Teeth Per Inch): Higher TPI for thin materials and smooth finishes; lower TPI for faster, aggressive cuts in thick stock.
• Blade Material: Bi-metal for durability and flexibility; carbide-tipped for the hardest materials; carbon steel for light-duty or occasional use.
• Blade Length: Match blade length to your saw frame or power tool for proper fit and safe operation.
• Material Compatibility: Always select a blade rated for the material you're cutting — metal, wood, plastic, or composite.
• Tooth Geometry: Raker, wavy, and variable-pitch tooth patterns each excel in different applications and material thicknesses.

Top Saw Blade Brands

Lenox is one of the most respected names in the saw blade category. Lenox has been producing blades since 1915, bringing over a century of cutting expertise to products ranging from hacksaw and reciprocating saw blades to industrial band saw blades. Their bi-metal and carbide-grade blades are engineered for long edge life and consistent performance across wood, metal, and specialty materials.

Milwaukee Tool is a trusted name among tradespeople who demand high performance from every component in their kit. Milwaukee's saw blade lineup is built around the same durability and innovation philosophy as their power tools, making them a natural pairing for professionals already invested in the Milwaukee ecosystem.

DeWalt brings its hallmark engineering standards to the saw blade category, offering a wide range of blades engineered to pair with their industry-leading power tools. With 15 products in this category, DeWalt provides broad coverage across tooth configurations and blade lengths for both jobsite and shop applications.

Irwin Hanson is a staple in professional toolboxes and well known for producing reliable, high-value cutting tools. With 12 saw blade SKUs available, Irwin Hanson covers a wide range of applications and is especially popular for hacksaw and general-purpose hand tool blades that deliver consistent results job after job.

Astro Tools rounds out the category with specialty cutting solutions geared toward automotive and shop environments, making them a solid choice for mechanics and technicians who need dependable blades designed with the garage in mind.