.There are many different woodworking tools out there, but one of the most efficient and versatile is the dado saw blade. But what exactly does it do? And how do you use a Dado Saw Blade? Read on below to find out.
What is a Dado Saw Blade?
A dado saw blade is actually a versatile set of table saw blades that can cut flat bottomed trenches, or dadoes, of varying widths. Dado saw blades typically come in a set, or “stack”, and adding blades or removing them from the stack lets you choose what width you want. There are two types of blades in a dado set, outer blades and chipper blades. The outer blades have many teeth whereas the chipper blades typically have 2-6 teeth.
How to Set up a Dado Saw Blade
To set up a stack dado set, first determine how many blades you will need. You can do this by cutting a piece of wood to the width of the dado you’re going to cut and stacking the blades until you reach that width. Be sure to put the chipper blades between the outer blades and make sure that none of the blades are touching. A stack dado set should come with spacers that can be put between the chipper blades to fine-tune the width of the cut. Try to spread these spacers out through the stack instead of putting them all in one place. You’ll need a table saw insert that fits your dado saw blade, these can be found online or at your local hardware store.
Best Dado Saw Blade
- Professional grade C-4 carbide
- Full body chippers
- Precision ground carbide tips
- Storage/Carrying Case
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If you’re looking to purchase a dado stack set for your future woodworking projects, look no further than this perfect set from Oshlun. This 16-piece set comes with everything you’ll need to get started. A dado saw blade, complete with 6 six-tooth chipper blades.
Best Uses for a Dado Saw Blade
A dado saw blade set is one of the most versatile and useful pieces of woodworking equipment you can have. Here are a few of the most common ways to use a dado blade.
Rabbet Joints
A stack dado set is a perfect tool to cut a rabbet joint. A recessed cut on the edge of a board to be glued to another board. This is one of the most common joints used in cabinetry. To make it you simply need to bring your table saw fence next to the blade. Then make a smooth indentation right on the end of your board.
Mortise and Tenon Joints
A mortise and tenon joint is comprised of a tenon, a rectangular pin cut into the end of a piece of wood, and a mortise, a slot made to fit the tenon. You can use your dado blade to cut a tenon. Start by cutting the end of your rail on each of the four sides to make a square peg in the center.
Dado Cut
The best use for a dado stack is cutting a dado groove in one board and inserting the end of the other board into the groove to join two boards together. This is a perfect way to make a snug-fitting joint that often doesn’t even need glue or screws.
