When it comes to cutting metal with a jig saw, having the right blade is crucial. The wrong blade can result in a slow, rough cut or even damage to the blade or jig saw itself. That’s why it’s important to invest in the best jig saw blades for metal.
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a blade for cutting metal. The first is the blade material. Blades made from high-speed steel (HSS) are a popular choice for cutting metal. They are strong and durable, and can handle the heat generated during the cutting process. Another option is a bi-metal blade, which combines the strength of HSS with the flexibility of a carbon steel body. This type of blade is often recommended for cutting thicker metals.
The next factor to consider is the blade’s teeth per inch (TPI). Generally, a higher TPI will result in a smoother cut, while a lower TPI will cut faster but leave a rougher finish. For metal cutting, a TPI between 14 and 24 is usually recommended. This will provide a good balance between speed and finish quality.
Finally, it’s important to choose a blade that is designed specifically for cutting metal. Some blades are multipurpose and can cut through a variety of materials, but they may not provide the best results when cutting metal. Look for blades that are specifically labeled for metal cutting, as these will have the right tooth configuration and blade material for the job.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Jig Saw Blades
When it comes to choosing the right jig saw blades for your project, there are several important factors to consider. Here are the key considerations that I always keep in mind when selecting the best blade for the job:
Type of Material: The first thing to consider is the type of material you will be cutting. Jig saw blades come in a variety of materials, such as high-speed steel, bi-metal, and carbide-tipped. Each material is designed for specific applications, so it’s vital to choose a blade that is suitable for the material you will be cutting. For example, if you are working with metal, you will need blades specifically designed for metal cutting.
Tooth Design: The tooth design of the jig saw blade is another crucial factor to consider. Different tooth designs are suitable for different cutting tasks. For instance, there are blades with fine teeth for smooth cuts in delicate materials, and there are blades with coarse teeth for faster, rougher cuts in thicker materials. Additionally, the tooth configuration, such as straight or progressive, also influences the cutting efficiency and speed.
Blade Length: The length of the jig saw blade is another consideration. Longer blades provide more reach and can cut thicker materials, while shorter blades offer better maneuverability and are suitable for intricate cuts. Choosing the right blade length depends on the nature of your project and the thickness of the material you will be cutting.
TPI (Teeth Per Inch) Count: The TPI count refers to the number of teeth per inch on the blade. Blades with a higher TPI count are ideal for cutting thinner materials, while blades with a lower TPI count are better for thicker materials. It’s important to match the TPI count with the thickness of the material to ensure clean and efficient cuts.
Brand and Quality: Finally, consider the brand and quality of the jig saw blades. It’s always recommended to choose blades from reputable manufacturers known for their quality and durability. Investing in high-quality blades may cost more upfront, but they are likely to last longer and provide better performance, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
By considering these essential factors, you can ensure that you choose the most suitable jig saw blades for your specific cutting needs, resulting in precise and efficient cuts.
My Top 5 Jig Saw Blades for Metal
As a seasoned DIY enthusiast, I have had my fair share of experience with different jig saw blades for cutting metal. After numerous trials and testing, I have compiled a list of my top 5 jig saw blades that have consistently delivered excellent results for me.
1. Bosch T118G
The Bosch T118G is a top-notch jig saw blade for cutting metal. Its high-speed steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The blade’s precision-ground teeth provide clean and precise cuts, making it perfect for a wide range of metal cutting tasks.
2. DEWALT DW3762H
Designed with a unique tooth geometry, the DEWALT DW3762H blade offers exceptional cutting performance on both thin and thick metals. The blade’s cobalt steel composition provides enhanced heat resistance, allowing for extended use without compromising cutting efficiency.
3. Milwaukee 49-22-1168
With its bi-metal construction, the Milwaukee 49-22-1168 blade offers superior strength and durability for cutting through various metals. The blade’s matrix II high-speed steel teeth provide excellent heat and wear resistance, ensuring precise and efficient cuts every time.
4. LENOX Tools 20332SS318
The LENOX Tools 20332SS318 blade is specifically designed for cutting stainless steel. Its bi-metal construction and TPI (teeth per inch) configuration allow for clean and precise cuts on stainless steel materials without dulling the blade quickly.
5. Festool 486564
One of the top choices for professional metalworkers, the Festool 486564 blade offers outstanding cutting performance and longevity. Its bi-metal construction and aggressive tooth design ensure effortless and precise cuts on a variety of metals.
When it comes to cutting metal with a jig saw, having the right blade is crucial. These top 5 jig saw blades for metal provide excellent cutting performance, durability, and versatility. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional, these blades will surely help you tackle any metal cutting task with ease and precision.
Conclusion
Jig saw blades for metal can greatly enhance the cutting performance and efficiency of your saw, allowing you to tackle various metal cutting tasks with ease. By selecting the right blade type and tooth count, you can achieve clean and precise cuts on different thicknesses and types of metal.
To maintain and extend the lifespan of your jig saw blades for metal, it is important to follow some key practices:
- Choose the right blade: Select a blade specifically designed for cutting metal. Consider factors such as tooth count, blade material, and blade thickness to ensure optimal performance.
- Use lubrication: Apply cutting lubricant or coolant to the blade during the cutting process. This helps to reduce heat build-up and friction, preventing premature wear and blade dulling.
- Control speed and pressure: Use the appropriate cutting speed and apply consistent, controlled pressure while cutting. Excessive speed or force can cause the blade to overheat or become damaged.
- Clean the blade: Regularly clean the blade to remove any metal shavings or debris that may accumulate during use. This helps to maintain the blade’s cutting performance and prevent clogging.
- Store properly: Keep your jig saw blades for metal in a clean and dry environment when not in use. Avoid storing them with other tools or materials that could cause damage.
By following these maintenance practices, you can prolong the lifespan of your jig saw blades for metal and ensure that they continue to deliver optimal cutting performance. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific jig saw and blade.
10 Best Jig Saw Blades For Metal
Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
Features
| Part Number | D1472CF |
| Model | D1472CF |
| Color | Multi |
| Size | One Size |
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Steel Demon 72T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
- Cermet Blend Teeth for cutting metal withstands impact, reduces wear, and lasts up to 3X longer than standard carbide.
- Improved Laser Cut Stabilizer Vents trap noise and vibration for maximum stability, keeping it cool and accurate in metal cutting applications.
- Triple Chip Metal Cutting Grind designed to maximize life, speed, and durability, giving burr-free cuts in metal cutting applications
- Tri-Metal Shock Resistant Brazing a three metal brazing system allows metal cutting carbide tips to withstand extreme impact for maximum durability
- Spark free Cold Cutting blades are “Hot work” compliant saving you the time and hassle of obtaining a Hot Work permit for jobsites (Check local laws)
Evolution Power Tools 14BLADEST Steel Cutting Saw Blade, 14-Inch x 66-Tooth , Blue
Features
| Part Number | 14BLADEST |
| Model | 14BLADEST |
| Warranty | No Warranty |
| Color | Blue |
| Release Date | 2017-03-12T00:00:01Z |
| Size | Blade |
- 14BLADEST: 14 inch mild steel saw blade with 66 teeth for chop saws (*Designed to cut mild steel only, do not use this blade for galvanized, hardened, or high-carbon steel)
- MILD STEEL CUTTING BLADE: Evolution's unique blades are designed for cutting mild steel and ferrous metal - Made from high-quality Japanese carbide and heat-treated for added durability
- NO HEAT, NO BURRS & VIRTUALLY NO SPARKS: Our TCT blades allow you to touch the finished cut within moments of cutting, unlike other blades that make the material too hot to touch, Evolution blades produce virtually no sparks
- LONG BLADE LIFE: Premium Tungsten Carbide Teeth (TCT) ensure maximum longevity and durability, hardened steel body minimises vibration, thin kerf design for accurate cuts and extended tool life
- FULL RANGE OF BLADES AVAILABLE: Evolution Power Tools offers a range of specialist blades for cutting different materials: stainless steel, mild steel and thin steel, aluminum, wood, masonry and a multi-material cutting blade
- 1600 RPM
- 66 Carbide Teeth, .094-Inch Kerf
- 1-Inch Arbor Size
14 Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade,Replacement for Evolution 14 Inch Metal Saw Blade for Evolution S355MCS S355CPS S355CPSL S380CPS Metal Cutting Saw,14 Inch x...
Features
| Part Number | 14BLADEST 14Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade |
| Model | 14 Inch Metal Cutting Saw Blade |
| Size | 14 Inch-66Tooth |
- 【14BLADEST product details】; ① metal cutting saw blade model;14BLADEST ② blade cutting width;0.094 inches ③ blade diameter;14 inches ④ 14 inch saw blade tip material;carbide tip ⑤ blade maximum speed;1,600 RPM ⑥ blade hook angle;1.5 ° ⑦ blade mandrel size;1 inch ⑧ cutting saw blade teeth grinding;TCG ⑨ Number of teeth on cutting saw blade;66 ⑩Maximum depth of cut of blade;6 inches
- 【Wide range of applications】;Our 14 inch metal cutting saw blades are designed for Evolution metal cutting saws S355MCS,S355CPS,S355CPSL, S380CPS.Compatible with Dewalt DW872,Jancy MCCS14 / MCCS14-2,Milwaukee 6190-20,MK Morse CSM14MB,Ridgid 614,Steelmax S14,or any other 14-inch low RPM metal cutting saw.
- 【Excellent cutting performance】;14 inch metal cutting saw blade is made of high-density grade titanium carbide ceramic alloy, compared with the traditional 14 inch metal cutting saw blade has higher strength and hardness and better stability wear resistance can withstand higher wear loads, widely used in cutting mild steel plate, angle steel, pipe and various ferrous metals, can quickly and accurately cut hard materials, to provide you with higher Cutting precision.
- 【Longer Life Cycle】;Our 14 inch metal cutting saw blade tip adopts improved TCG trapezoidal tooth design, which makes each TCG tooth have small and flat cutting surface, which helps to improve the cutting efficiency and cutting precision, and also adopts upgraded high quality material and advanced brazing technology, which greatly improves the service life of the 14 inch metal cutting saw blade.
- 【Worry-free after-sales service】:If you are not satisfied for any reason during the purchase of our 14 inch metal cutting saw blades, we support to exchange or return the product for you. You can contact us at any time even if you have exceeded the replacement time required by Amazon. We will offer you a solution within 24 hours until you are satisfied.
TWIN-TOWN 14-Inch 72 Teeth Dry Cut Steel and Ferrous Metal Cermet Saw Blade with 1-Inch Arbor
Features
| Part Number | TTM1472 |
| Color | Silver |
| Size | 14" 72T medium steel |
Diablo D1260CF 12-inch Steel Demon 60T Cermet II Carbide Ferrous Metal Saw Blade
Features
| Part Number | D1260CF |
| Model | D1260CF |
| Color | Ceramic |
| Size | One Size |
- Cermet Blend Teeth for cutting metal withstands impact, reduces wear, and lasts up to 3X longer than standard carbide.
- Improved Laser Cut Stabilizer Vents trap noise and vibration for maximum stability, keeping it cool and accurate in metal cutting applications.
- Triple Chip Metal Cutting Grind designed to maximize life, speed, and durability, giving burr-free cuts in metal cutting applications
- Tri-Metal Shock Resistant Brazing a three metal brazing system allows metal cutting carbide tips to withstand extreme impact for maximum durability
- Spark free Cold Cutting blades are “Hot work” compliant saving you the time and hassle of obtaining a Hot Work permit for jobsites (Check local laws)
- Cermet Blend Teeth for cutting metal withstands impact, reduces wear, and lasts up to 3X longer than standard carbide.
- Triple Chip Metal Cutting Grind designed to maximize life, speed, and durability, giving burr-free cuts in metal cutting applications
- Tri-Metal Shock Resistant Brazing a three metal brazing system allows metal cutting carbide tips to withstand extreme impact for maximum durability
- Spark free Cold Cutting blades are “Hot work” compliant saving you the time and hassle of obtaining a Hot Work permit for jobsites (Check local laws)
FAQ:
What are the best jig saw blades for cutting metal?
Some of the best jig saw blades for cutting metal include the Bosch T118G, DEWALT DW3742C, and LENOX Tools 20145S218HE.
What makes the Bosch T118G a good choice for cutting metal?
The Bosch T118G is a high-performance jig saw blade that is specifically designed for cutting thin metal sheets. It features a high-speed steel construction and precision-ground teeth, which allow for clean and accurate cuts in metal.
Are the DEWALT DW3742C blades suitable for cutting thick metal?
Yes, the DEWALT DW3742C blades are designed for cutting thick metal. They feature a bi-metal construction, which combines high-speed steel teeth with a flexible carbon steel body. This allows the blade to withstand the stress and heat generated during cutting thick metal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right jig saw blade for metal is crucial for achieving clean and precise cuts. It is important to consider factors such as the type of metal being cut, the thickness of the material, and the desired cut quality. With a wide range of options available on the market, it is important to select a blade that is specifically designed for cutting metal. The selection should also take into account the type of teeth, tooth count, and the material the blade is made of. By using the best jig saw blade for metal, one can ensure efficient and accurate results in their metal cutting projects.
