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Choosing the right saw blade is like picking the right lens for a camera — the result can make a basic job look professional or turn a simple cut into a messy struggle. Whether you’re cutting wood for a weekend DIY shelf, trimming metal pipe, or slicing tile for a bathroom revamp, the blade you choose determines speed, finish, and safety. In the UK, where DIY and professional trades run side by side, knowing which blade fits which saw and material saves time, money, and frustration.
Let’s break down the most common blade types so you can match them to the task at hand. Think of these as tools in a chef’s kitchen: each has a purpose and a special technique for best results.
Hacksaw blades are the go-to for cutting metal, plastic, and occasionally small wood trims. Typical blades are 12-inch long and come in a variety of teeth-per-inch (TPI). For example, the Ck Hacksaw Blade 12 X24tpi Set Of 3 — available from stores such as Expert Electrical — is great for fine, clean cuts in thin metal or plastic. Higher TPI means a smoother finish but slower cutting speed, while lower TPI removes material faster but leaves a rougher edge.
Circular saw blades are what most people think of for power saw work. They’re measured in inches — common sizes include 7-1/4-inch for handheld circular saws and 10-inch or 12-inch for larger table saws. Tooth design and material (high-speed steel, carbide-tipped, or thin-kerf) decide whether the blade is best for ripping lumber, crosscutting, or cutting plywood and MDF without tear-out.
Jigsaw blades are small and versatile, perfect for curves and intricate cuts. They’re classified by tooth shape and TPI, and selecting the right blade can mean the difference between a smooth curve and a ragged finish. Jigsaw blades come in lengths and shank types to fit different jigsaw brands and models.
Mitre and chop saws typically use larger, higher-tooth-count blades for clean crosscuts in timber and molding. A 10-inch mitre saw blade with 40 teeth is a common choice for fine carpentry, while fewer teeth might be used for fast, rough cuts. Carbide-tipped blades last longer and keep their edge under heavy daily use.
Diamond blades are the specialist choice for masonry, tile, and stone. They’re often used on angle grinders, wet saws, or tile saws. If you’re cutting ceramics, porcelain, or concrete pavers, a diamond blade keeps chipping to a minimum and maintains cutting speed.
If you want pro-level cuts, you have to understand a few basic specs. Tooth count and TPI affect cut smoothness; kerf — the width of the cut — affects material waste and the power required from your saw.
TPI is crucial: more teeth per inch equals a finer cut and slower feed rate. For metal, aim for 18–32 TPI depending on thickness; for wood, a 24–60 tooth blade on a circular saw will deliver a clean finish. Tooth geometry — alternate top bevel (ATB), flat top grind (FTG), or triple-chip grind (TCG) — changes how the blade bites into the material. ATB is great for crosscuts and plywood, while TCG is better for hard materials like laminates or metals.
Kerf is the width of the blade’s cutting edge, usually expressed in fractions of an inch. Thin-kerf blades (smaller than 1/8 inch) remove less material and put less strain on your saw, which is handy for lighter duty saws. Standard kerf blades are sturdier and better for demanding tasks where warp resistance matters.
Blade materials determine durability, cost, and the range of materials you can cut.
HSS blades are affordable and sharp but wear faster when used on abrasive materials. They’re a sensible choice for hobby jobs and occasional metal cutting where cost matters more than longevity.
Carbide-tipped blades are the workhorses on woodworking sites. They stay sharp far longer than HSS, resist heat, and handle hardwoods and engineered boards without dulling quickly. If you’re cutting a lot of timber or ply, invest in a carbide-tipped blade.
Diamond blades carry embedded diamond grit for slicing through stone and tile. They’re often used wet to reduce dust and keep the blade cool. For a one-off patio repair or a full bathroom remodel, diamond blades deliver cleaner cuts and less chipping than abrasive discs.
When you’re shopping in the UK, options range from specialist tool shops to big-box DIY stores. Each has strengths: availability, price, specialist advice, or a wide product range. Here are stores you’ll want to consider as you compare blades.
Expert Electrical stocks a range of tool accessories, including hacksaw blades like the Ck Hacksaw Blade 12 X24tpi Set Of 3. If you’re after small consumables or a specific branded blade, shops like Expert Electrical are handy because they focus on trade-ready products and replacement parts.
Screwfix is a staple for tradespeople and serious DIYers. They offer a broad selection of circular, mitre, and jigsaw blades — often with same-day collection from local stores. Prices are competitive and they stock trusted brands suitable for timber, metal, and masonry.
These DIY giants are great for household projects and often bundle blades with saw packages. B&Q and Wickes tend to stock a helpful mix of entry-level blades and mid-range carbide options, making them perfect for weekend projects without breaking the bank.
Toolstation and Machine Mart specialise in trade-quality tools. If you need heavy-duty blades — think 10-inch or 12-inch table saw blades for daily workshop use — these stores usually carry professional-grade carbides and diamond options.
Online marketplaces offer huge choice and user reviews that can help you pick the right blade. Amazon UK is useful for comparing brands and reading buyer feedback, while specialist online tool stores can provide expert product descriptions and compatibility details.
Before you add a blade to your cart, check your saw’s manual for compatible diameter, arbor size, and maximum RPM. Using a blade that’s too large or spinning it too fast is dangerous. For example, a 7-1/4-inch circular saw will require a blade of the same size with the correct bore diameter; match the kerf to the saw’s power for cleaner cuts.
Always match the blade’s arbor hole to your saw’s arbor — adapters exist, but they must be used correctly. Also check the blade’s maximum RPM rating and ensure your saw does not exceed it. This protects the blade from shedding teeth and prevents dangerous failures.
Think long-term value rather than cheapest price per blade. Higher-quality blades last longer and provide cleaner cuts, reducing rework and wastage.
For small blades like hacksaw or jigsaw blades, multi-packs are economical. The CK Hacksaw Blade 12 X24tpi Set Of 3 is an example — buying several at once saves repeated trips and often lowers the per-blade cost. For tradespeople, stocking spares prevents job delays.
Some carbide-tipped blades can be resharpened instead of replaced. Check whether the blade model is serviceable; having blades sharpened can extend life and reduce running costs, especially for costly diamond or carbide blades.
Safety isn’t negotiable. Always unplug power tools or remove the battery before changing blades. Use gloves and eye protection during installation, and make sure blades are tightened correctly and oriented in the right cutting direction.
Inspect blades for missing teeth, cracks, or excessive wear before use. A damaged blade increases kickback risk and ruins your workpiece. If a blade shows significant damage or wear beyond serviceable limits, replace it promptly.
Let’s pair real-world jobs with the best blade choice so you can visualise how these suggestions work in practice.
For ripping and cutting softwood and ply for a bookshelf, use a 7-1/4-inch circular saw with a thin-kerf, 24-tooth carbide blade for rip cuts and a 40-tooth blade for clean crosscuts. Finish edges with a fine-tooth jigsaw blade when trimming curved details.
For thin-walled copper pipe, a 12-inch hacksaw blade with 24 TPI — like the Ck Hacksaw Blade 12 X24tpi — gives a neat edge without deforming the pipe. For faster, repetitive cuts, consider a pipe cutter, but for odd lengths or awkward positions a hacksaw blade wins.
A wet diamond-blade tile saw is the best option for porcelain and porcelain-coated tiles. Use a continuous rim diamond blade for smooth edges and a segmented rim for faster cuts in concrete or pavers.
Store blades flat or hung, keep them clean, and avoid cutting materials they aren’t designed to handle. A blade that’s been used to cut nails or abrasive material will dull quickly. Wipe blades after use and, for metallic blades, apply a light oil to stop rust.
Sharpen carbide blades as needed — some shops offer sharpening services by the inch — and replace non-sharpenable disposable blades when they begin to smoke, burn, or require excessive force. Tracking usage in hours or jobs can help you estimate replacement intervals.
Before you checkout, run through this quick checklist: confirm blade diameter and arbor fit, verify TPI and tooth geometry match your material, choose the correct kerf for your saw, and decide whether a carbide or diamond blade suits your workload. And remember to compare stock across trusted UK retailers for the best blend of price, availability, and expertise.
Armed with these tips, you’ll make smarter choices, get cleaner cuts, and save yourself the hassle of botched projects. Happy sawing!
| £ 29,19 |
