How Thick Is A Table Saw Blade? Kerf Explained for Perfect Cuts

The table saw blade thickness refers to two key measurements: the table saw blade gauge, which is the thickness of the blade’s steel body, and the saw blade kerf, which is the width of the cut the blade makes. Knowing both measurements is crucial for choosing the right blade and achieving precise, clean cuts. This article explains everything you need to know about table saw blade thickness, including kerf thickness impact, table saw blade selection, and the differences between thin kerf vs full kerf blades for both blade thickness for ripping and blade thickness for crosscutting.

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Deciphering Table Saw Blade Thickness: Gauge vs. Kerf

A table saw blade has two important thickness measurements. One is the gauge, or the thickness of the steel disc. The other is the kerf, the width of the cut made by the blade. Both are critical for making good cuts.

Gauge: The Blade’s Backbone

The gauge describes how thick the steel body of the table saw blade is. It’s a structural measurement. A thicker gauge means the blade is more rigid and less likely to wobble or deflect during a cut. This is especially important when cutting thicker hardwoods or dealing with tough materials. The standard table saw blade thickness for the gauge typically ranges from 0.087 inches to 0.125 inches.

Kerf: The Width of the Cut

The kerf is the width of the cut the table saw blade makes. It’s wider than the blade’s gauge because the teeth are set (bent outward) to provide clearance. The kerf removes material as the blade spins. Kerf is important because it affects how much material you lose with each cut. It also affects the amount of power needed to make the cut.

Full Kerf vs. Thin Kerf: Choosing the Right Blade

The biggest decision you will make about table saw blade thickness is choosing between a full kerf or a thin kerf blade. Each type has pros and cons, making them suitable for different tasks and saws.

Full Kerf Blades: Power and Stability

• What are they? Full kerf blades have a wider kerf, typically around 1/8 inch (0.125 inches).
• Pros:
  • More stable: The wider blade body makes them more resistant to bending and vibration, which is great for tough materials.
  • Better for high-powered saws: Full kerf blades work well with larger, more powerful saws (3HP or more).
  • Durable: They can withstand more wear and tear.
• Cons:
  • Require more power: Removing more material requires the saw to work harder.
  • More waste: The wider cut creates more sawdust and wasted material.
  • Slower cutting speed: The wider kerf can slow down the cutting process, particularly with hardwoods.

Thin Kerf Blades: Speed and Efficiency

• What are they? Thin kerf blades have a narrower kerf, typically around 3/32 inch (0.094 inches) or even narrower.
• Pros:
  • Less power needed: Easier to push through material, which is great for smaller or underpowered saws.
  • Faster cutting speed: Cut through material more quickly.
  • Less waste: The narrower cut creates less sawdust and conserves material.
• Cons:
  • Less stable: Can be more prone to bending or vibration, especially with thicker materials.
  • Not ideal for high-powered saws: May not be able to handle the stress of very powerful saws.
  • Less durable: Might wear out faster than full kerf blades.

Table: Full Kerf vs. Thin Kerf Blades

Feature	Full Kerf Blade	Thin Kerf Blade
Kerf Width	~ 1/8 inch (0.125 inches)	~ 3/32 inch (0.094 inches)
Power Requirement	Higher	Lower
Cutting Speed	Slower	Faster
Stability	More	Less
Waste	More	Less
Saw Compatibility	High-powered saws	Smaller, less powerful saws
Durability	Higher	Lower
Best For	Thick, hard materials	Softwoods, plywood

How Kerf Thickness Impacts Your Cuts

The kerf thickness impact is significant on the quality and accuracy of your cuts. Here’s how:

Material Waste

A wider kerf removes more material with each cut. This can be wasteful, especially when working with expensive hardwoods. Thin kerf blades minimize waste, saving you money and resources.

Power Requirements

Full kerf blades demand more power from your saw. If you have a smaller or less powerful saw, using a full kerf blade can strain the motor and slow down the cutting process. Thin kerf blades are more forgiving and allow smaller saws to cut efficiently.

Cut Quality

A stable blade produces cleaner, more accurate cuts. Full kerf blades are generally more stable, reducing vibration and minimizing the risk of tear-out (splintering) on the workpiece. However, a high-quality thin kerf blade can also deliver excellent results if used correctly.

Accuracy

The kerf width is crucial when making precise cuts, especially when fitting pieces together. Always account for the kerf when measuring and marking your material. If you switch between full kerf and thin kerf blades, remember to adjust your measurements accordingly.

Table Saw Blade Selection: Matching the Blade to the Task

Choosing the right table saw blade is crucial for achieving optimal results. Here are some guidelines for table saw blade selection based on the type of cut you’re making:

Blade Thickness for Ripping: Cutting Along the Grain

Ripping is cutting wood parallel to the grain. For ripping, you generally want a blade that removes material quickly and efficiently.

• Full Kerf Ripping Blades: These are a good choice if you have a powerful saw and are working with thick hardwoods. The wider kerf removes material quickly, and the blade’s stability helps maintain a straight cut.
• Thin Kerf Ripping Blades: If you have a smaller saw or are working with softer woods, a thin kerf ripping blade is a better option. It requires less power and reduces the risk of bogging down the saw.

Blade Thickness for Crosscutting: Cutting Against the Grain

Crosscutting is cutting wood perpendicular to the grain. This type of cut requires a blade that produces a clean, splinter-free edge.

• Full Kerf Crosscutting Blades: A full kerf crosscutting blade can provide excellent results, especially on thicker materials. The blade’s stability helps prevent tear-out.
• Thin Kerf Crosscutting Blades: A high-quality thin kerf crosscutting blade can also produce very clean cuts. The narrower kerf reduces the amount of material being cut, minimizing the risk of splintering.

General Purpose Blades

Many blades are designed as general-purpose blades, effective for both ripping and crosscutting. These usually have a combination tooth design, alternating between ripping and crosscutting teeth.

• Full Kerf General Purpose: Offers good stability and cutting power for a range of materials.
• Thin Kerf General Purpose: Suitable for smaller saws or when you want to reduce waste.

Specialty Blades

For specific tasks, such as cutting dadoes or moldings, specialty blades are available. These blades often have unique tooth designs or kerf widths tailored to the specific application.

Table: Recommended Blade Thickness by Cut Type

Cut Type	Recommended Kerf	Blade Type Recommendation
Ripping	Full or Thin	Full Kerf for Power, Thin for Efficiency
Crosscutting	Full or Thin	Full Kerf for Stability, Thin for Clean Cuts
General Purpose	Full or Thin	Versatile Options for Various Tasks

Additional Factors to Consider

Besides kerf and gauge, other factors influence blade selection:

• Tooth Count: More teeth generally produce smoother cuts, while fewer teeth are better for ripping.
• Tooth Grind: Different tooth grinds are designed for specific materials and applications (e.g., ATB, FTG, TCG).
• Hook Angle: The hook angle affects how aggressively the blade pulls the material into the cut.
• Blade Material: Carbide-tipped blades are more durable and last longer than steel blades.
• Blade Diameter: Make sure the blade diameter matches the specifications of your table saw.

Maintaining Your Table Saw Blade

Proper maintenance extends the life of your table saw blade and ensures optimal performance. Here are some tips:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean your blade to remove pitch and resin buildup. Use a specialized blade cleaner and a stiff brush.
• Sharpening: Keep your blade sharp by having it professionally sharpened when it starts to dull.
• Storage: Store your blades in a dry place to prevent rust. Use blade guards or cases to protect the teeth.
• Inspection: Before each use, inspect your blade for damage, such as missing teeth or cracks.

Fathoming Table Saw Blade Thickness: A Summary

The table saw blade thickness, encompassing both gauge and kerf, is a critical factor in achieving accurate, efficient, and safe cuts. Choosing between a full kerf and thin kerf blade depends on your saw’s power, the materials you’re working with, and the specific type of cut you’re making. By interpreting these considerations and maintaining your blades properly, you can optimize your table saw’s performance and achieve professional-quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a thin kerf blade on any table saw?

A: While thin kerf blades are generally compatible with most table saws, it’s important to check your saw’s manual to ensure it’s designed to handle them. Using a thin kerf blade on a saw that’s not designed for it can lead to blade instability and potentially dangerous situations.

Q: What is the benefit of using a thin kerf blade?

A: Thin kerf blades require less power to operate, resulting in faster cutting speeds and reduced material waste. They are also ideal for smaller or underpowered saws.

Q: How do I measure the kerf of a table saw blade?

A: The easiest way to measure the kerf is to use a digital caliper. Measure the width of the teeth at their widest point. This will give you the kerf measurement.

Q: Is a thicker table saw blade better?

A: Not necessarily. A thicker blade (full kerf) is more stable and durable, making it suitable for heavy-duty cutting. However, a thinner blade (thin kerf) requires less power and produces less waste, making it a better choice for smaller saws and delicate projects.

Q: Can I resaw with a thin kerf blade?

A: While you can resaw with a thin kerf blade, it is generally not recommended for thick stock. Thin kerf blades are more prone to bending or wandering during resawing, leading to inaccurate cuts. A full kerf blade, or better yet, a dedicated resaw blade, offers greater stability and control for this task.

Q: How often should I sharpen my table saw blade?

A: The frequency of sharpening depends on the type of wood you’re cutting and how often you use your saw. As a general rule, sharpen your blade when you notice a decrease in cutting performance, such as increased resistance or rough edges.

Q: What is the difference between a ripping blade and a crosscutting blade?

A: Ripping blades are designed to cut along the grain of the wood. They typically have fewer teeth with a more aggressive hook angle. Crosscutting blades are designed to cut against the grain of the wood. They typically have more teeth with a less aggressive hook angle to produce a cleaner cut with less splintering.

Q: Do I need a special blade for cutting plywood?

A: Yes, it is recommended to use a blade specifically designed for cutting plywood. These blades typically have a high tooth count and a specialized tooth grind to minimize tear-out and produce clean, smooth edges on plywood and other veneered materials.