Understanding Reciprocating Saw Blades for Resawing

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 139 views

Which Reciprocating Saw Blades Would You Recommend for Resawing?

Resawing with Reciprocating Saws: A Comprehensive Guide

Resawing is a crucial process in woodworking that involves cutting a board into thinner pieces, often to create multiple boards from a single wide board. While bandsaws are typically the go-to tool for resawing, they can be limited by their throat depth and may not always be feasible for larger boards. In such cases, a reciprocating saw can be a valuable alternative, offering greater flexibility and convenience. However, choosing the right reciprocating saw blade for resawing can be a daunting task, especially for those new to woodworking.

Understanding Reciprocating Saw Blades for Resawing

Before we dive into the recommended reciprocating saw blades for resawing, it's essential to understand the key characteristics that make a blade suitable for this task. A good reciprocating saw blade for resawing should have the following features:

Thin kerf: A thin kerf blade reduces the amount of material removed, resulting in less waste and a cleaner cut.
High tooth count: A higher tooth count provides a smoother cut and reduces the risk of tear-out.
Coarse tooth spacing: Coarse tooth spacing is essential for resawing, as it allows the blade to cut through the wood more efficiently.
Durable construction: A durable blade construction ensures that the blade can withstand the rigors of resawing and maintain its performance over time.

Recommended Reciprocating Saw Blades for Resawing

Based on these criteria, here are some recommended reciprocating saw blades for resawing:

1. Bosch T1019

Tooth count: 9 TPI (teeth per inch)
Kerf: 0.0625 inches
Tooth spacing: 1/4 inch
Blade material: High-carbon steel
Price: Around $10-$15

The Bosch T1019 is a popular choice among woodworkers, offering a thin kerf and high tooth count for a smooth cut. Its coarse tooth spacing makes it ideal for resawing, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use.

2. DeWalt DWAFT1-100

Tooth count: 10 TPI
Kerf: 0.0625 inches
Tooth spacing: 1/4 inch
Blade material: High-carbon steel
Price: Around $15-$20

The DeWalt DWAFT1-100 is another top-notch reciprocating saw blade for resawing. Its thin kerf and high tooth count provide a smooth cut, while its coarse tooth spacing makes it suitable for resawing. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use.

3. Makita T-1019

Tooth count: 9 TPI
Kerf: 0.0625 inches
Tooth spacing: 1/4 inch
Blade material: High-carbon steel
Price: Around $10-$15

The Makita T-1019 is a high-quality reciprocating saw blade for resawing, offering a thin kerf and high tooth count for a smooth cut. Its coarse tooth spacing makes it ideal for resawing, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use.

4. Milwaukee 48-22-1000

Tooth count: 10 TPI
Kerf: 0.0625 inches
Tooth spacing: 1/4 inch
Blade material: High-carbon steel
Price: Around $15-$20

The Milwaukee 48-22-1000 is a high-performance reciprocating saw blade for resawing, offering a thin kerf and high tooth count for a smooth cut. Its coarse tooth spacing makes it suitable for resawing, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use.

Tips for Using Reciprocating Saw Blades for Resawing

While the recommended reciprocating saw blades for resawing are top-notch, there are a few tips to keep in mind when using them:

Use a steady hand: Resawing can be a challenging process, especially when using a reciprocating saw. Make sure to use a steady hand and maintain control over the saw.
Apply gentle pressure: Apply gentle pressure to the saw, as excessive pressure can cause the blade to bind or break.
Use a sharp blade: A dull blade can cause the saw to bind or vibrate excessively, leading to a poor cut. Make sure to use a sharp blade and maintain it regularly.
Keep the saw blade clean: Keep the saw blade clean and free of debris to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Resawing with a reciprocating saw can be a convenient and flexible alternative to using a bandsaw. By choosing the right reciprocating saw blade for resawing, you can achieve a smooth cut and minimize waste. The recommended reciprocating saw blades for resawing, including the Bosch T1019, DeWalt DWAFT1-100, Makita T-1019, and Milwaukee 48-22-1000, offer a thin kerf, high tooth count, and coarse tooth spacing for optimal performance. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can achieve professional-grade results with your reciprocating saw.
Frequently Asked Questions: Reciprocating Saw Blades for Resawing

Q: What is the best reciprocating saw blade for resawing?

A: The best reciprocating saw blade for resawing depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, the recommended blades listed in this article, including the Bosch T1019, DeWalt DWAFT1-100, Makita T-1019, and Milwaukee 48-22-1000, are all high-quality options that offer a thin kerf, high tooth count, and coarse tooth spacing for optimal performance.

Q: What is the difference between a thin kerf and a thick kerf blade?

A: A thin kerf blade is designed to remove less material than a thick kerf blade, resulting in less waste and a cleaner cut. Thin kerf blades are ideal for resawing, as they allow for a more precise cut and minimize the risk of tear-out.

Q: How do I choose the right tooth count for my reciprocating saw blade?

A: The tooth count of your reciprocating saw blade will depend on the type of wood you are working with and the level of detail you require. A higher tooth count is generally recommended for resawing, as it provides a smoother cut and reduces the risk of tear-out.

Q: What is the difference between a coarse tooth spacing and a fine tooth spacing?

A: Coarse tooth spacing is designed for resawing and other heavy-duty applications, as it allows the blade to cut through the wood more efficiently. Fine tooth spacing is designed for finer cuts and is typically used for trim work and other detailed applications.

Q: How do I maintain my reciprocating saw blade?

A: To maintain your reciprocating saw blade, make sure to:

Clean the blade regularly to prevent debris from accumulating
Store the blade in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and corrosion
Use a sharpener or replace the blade regularly to maintain optimal performance
Avoid using the blade for applications other than resawing, as this can cause wear and tear on the blade

Q: Can I use a reciprocating saw blade for other applications besides resawing?

A: While reciprocating saw blades are designed for resawing, they can also be used for other applications such as trim work, demolition, and general-purpose cutting. However, it's essential to choose the right blade for the specific application to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Q: What are the safety precautions I should take when using a reciprocating saw blade for resawing?

A: When using a reciprocating saw blade for resawing, make sure to:

Wear protective gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask
Use a steady hand and maintain control over the saw
Apply gentle pressure to the saw to avoid binding or breaking the blade
Keep the saw blade clean and free of debris to prevent accidents

Q: Can I use a reciprocating saw blade for resawing on a variety of wood types?

A: While reciprocating saw blades can be used for resawing on a variety of wood types, it's essential to choose the right blade for the specific type of wood you are working with. For example, a blade designed for resawing hardwoods may not be suitable for resawing softwoods.

Q: How do I store my reciprocating saw blade when not in use?

A: To store your reciprocating saw blade when not in use, make sure to:

Clean the blade thoroughly to prevent debris from accumulating
Store the blade in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and corrosion
Use a protective case or storage container to prevent damage to the blade
Label the blade with its intended use and any relevant safety information

Q: Can I use a reciprocating saw blade for resawing on a variety of materials besides wood?

A: While reciprocating saw blades are designed for resawing wood, they can also be used for resawing other materials such as plastic, metal, and drywall. However, it's essential to choose the right blade for the specific material you are working with to ensure optimal performance and safety.