Anatomy of a Saw Blade

Not all saw blades are exactly alike. Check out this expert advice on saw blades and how they work together to create a cut.

Carbide Teeth(2 of 3)

The squiggly lines on the blade are actually an expansion joint. When you use a blade, it gets hot causing the metal to expand. An expansion joint gives the blade room to expand and prevent the blade from cupping or twisting when hot. The expansion joint also reduces noise and vibration.

The carbide teeth on this blade are slightly wider than the gauge of the blade. The teeth are angled so they will cut forward. This makes for a very aggressive cut. A blade with negative hook angled teeth will provide a cleaner cut.

Behind the teeth you will find the shoulder. The shoulder can be shaped to reduce kickback. It pushes material away from the gullet, to prevent binding. The gullet is the notch located behind the shoulder that helps pull sawdust out of the way.

The teeth on a rip blade have flat tops to help tear away material when you're cutting with the grain of the wood.

Next Photo: Alternate Top Bevel