Saw blades

Saw blades for power saws, used to cut wood, metal, plastics and building materials, for tradespeople, workshop users and keen DIYers. Our range holds over 80 models from Makita, Bosch, DeWalt and Metabo, plus Silky, a maker known for hand and pruning saws.

How to choose a saw blade

Saw and fitting. The blade has to match your machine. For circular saw blades check the diameter and the bore (the centre hole), and for jigsaw or reciprocating blades check the shank type. The saw's manual or the markings on the old blade tell you what fits.

Material. Blades are designed for a particular material, such as softwood, hardwood, laminate, aluminium or steel. A wood blade used on metal will lose its teeth quickly, and a metal blade can leave rough, burnt edges in timber. Choose by what you cut most often.

Tooth count and shape. Fewer, larger teeth remove material quickly and suit rough cutting along the grain. More teeth give a cleaner edge for crosscuts, veneered boards and laminates, but cut more slowly. Read the product description for the tooth count and the intended use.

Blade construction. Carbide-tipped blades stay sharp far longer than plain steel in hard or abrasive material such as chipboard, and they can be resharpened in many cases. A thin-kerf blade removes less material and asks less of the motor, which helps on cordless saws where battery life matters.

Saw blade brands we carry

• Makita: a Japanese power tool maker whose blades are designed to match its own circular, mitre and cordless saws, and it has the largest share of this range.
• Bosch: its professional blades are sold in the blue Bosch Professional line, and the brand covers blades for many saw types and materials.
• DeWalt: known for yellow and black site tools, with blades aimed at construction and carpentry work on cordless and corded saws.
• Metabo: a German manufacturer best known for angle grinders and professional power tools, with blades for both woodworking and metalworking.
• Silky: a Japanese brand known for hand saws and pruning saws used by arborists and gardeners.

Saw blade FAQ

How do I know which saw blade fits my saw?

Match the blade to the saw's specifications. For a circular saw, the diameter and bore must be the same as the original blade, and the blade must not be thicker than the saw's splitter allows. For jigsaws and reciprocating saws, the shank type must suit the saw's blade clamp.

How many teeth should a circular saw blade have?

It depends on the cut. A blade with around 24 teeth is typical for fast, rough cutting along the grain, while 48 teeth or more suits clean crosscuts and sheet materials. Fine-toothed blades are slower but leave less splintering.

Can I use a wood blade to cut metal?

No, a standard wood blade is not suitable for metal. The tooth shape and material are wrong, so the blade dulls fast and can be dangerous. Use a blade made for the metal you are cutting, and make sure your saw is suitable for it.

When should I replace a saw blade?

Replace a blade when it burns the wood, needs more force to push through the cut, or leaves a rough edge. Missing or chipped teeth are another clear sign. Some carbide-tipped blades can be resharpened by a specialist before they need replacing.