So, you probably have a task to complete that requires oscillating tools, and you are confused about which blade to use.
Oscillating tools are usually used in work like trimming pipes, cutting wood, removing mortar, sanding down furniture, removing tile grout, and many more. All these works can be efficiently done only when the oscillating tools are fitted with the most suitable blade. This is so because every blade is made according to the task it can do.
If you use a blade for any other task apart from its designed task, there is a high chance it will be damaged. It can also lead to serious accidents or severe injuries.
Therefore, it is vital you first know the different types of blades used in oscillating tools and their specific usage. Doing so will help you make an informed decision while selecting the suitable blade for your work.
Here are 8 types of oscillating tool blades and their usage, followed by tips for selecting the most suitable blade.
1. Fine Tooth Blades
When it comes to working on metal and wood, fine tooth blades are the best option. These blades can make the precise cuts you want on wood or metal as their blades are small and placed together.
You can find Fine tooth blades in different sizes, the most common being 3/8″, 3/4 “, 1″, and 3/8”. In addition, these blades have a measuring strip on either end or both ends. This strip is used to calculate the depth of the cut, eliminating any guesswork.
These oscillating tool blades are perfect for you to pick up if you plan to work on wood or metal. But while purchasing them, check text mentions (wood, bi-metal, or metal) on the blade to pick the suitable one.
2. Plunge Cutting Blades
If you are working on a task that requires broad cuts, such as installing under-step lighting, putting support railings, and installing panels, Plunge cutting blades are the perfect partner.
The Plunge cutting blades have wider blades than Fine tooth blades, which help make wide cuts. This ability to provide wider cuts is what sets them apart from other blades.
To speed up the process while making a wide cut, you can tape a yardstick where you need the cut. This will also help you in guiding your blade.
3. Scraper Blades
As the name suggests, the Scrapper blades are used for scrapping away stubborn residues like old adhesive and silicone. You can use these blades on a wide range of surfaces, for example, removing tile adhesive, wallpaper, carpet, floor lacquer, and stickers.
There are two different types of scrapping blades:
- Rigid
- Non- Rigid
Depending upon the task, you choose the type of blade. So, rigid blades will be used if you have some heavy-duty task like removing carpet. On the other hand, if you are removing softer material like wallpaper, a non-rigid blade is the best choice.
Never use the scraper blade for cutting purposes, as they aren’t really good at cutting anything.
4. Sanding Attachment And Pads
Sanding blades or pads are usually used for sanding down wood furniture to give it a final touch. Using this blade, you can smoothen the surface of any furniture or wood material by leveling unwanted bulks. You can also sand down paint and clear away sawdust.
These blades are perfect for small sanding jobs like sanding furniture, but when it comes to big sanding tasks, you must avoid them.
5. Carbide Blades
Cutting brick, cement, or concrete and removing grout requires oscillating tools with tough and durable blades like carbide blades. These blades are highly versatile and can cut through any hard surface. You can also use them to trim screws, nails, and stainless-steel bolts.
Besides, you can also use the Carbide blade for all woodworking. In fact, when you use them for wood working, they last 10 to 20 times longer than other wood cutting blade. This will save you a lot of cost and effort in the long run.
6. Drywall Saw Blades
There are many blades that are specifically made for a particular task. Drywall saw blades are among them. You can use the drywall blade to easily cut through drywall to make a wide cut as per requirement. While for the same purpose, you can use the Fine tooth or Plunge blade; the drywall saw blade creates a more precise cut with less effort.
Drywall saw blades come in different variants, each providing a unique and different way to cut drywall.
7. Bi-Metal Blades
Bi-Metal blades are generally used for cutting hard metals, including steel. These blades are made of a combination of two metals that include high-quality spring steel, carbon steel, high-speed steel, and stainless steel. Among them, spring steel is most commonly used for backing, and high-speed steel is used for edging.
Besides cutting hard metals, Bi-metal blades are also used for cutting fiberglass, nonferrous metal, drywall, plastic, and wood.
8. Rasping Blades
Rasping blades are smaller in size compared to many blades on this list and are covered in carbide grit. These blades come in different shapes, including triangular, round, and finger-shaped.
You can use rasping blades for sanding adhesive from different surfaces like plaster, wood, tiles, stone, and concrete.
4 Tips for Selecting the best blade for your oscillating tool.
- The first and most important thing while selecting a blade for your oscillating tool is checking its compatibility with your tool. The blade is only usable when it fits your oscillating tool.
- Check for the manufacturer. Buying low-quality blades can compromise your safety. So, ensure you buy blades from renowned brands.
- Consider the task you will be performing with the blade. It is vital you choose the blade as per your task.
- Reflect on the price. Of course, you need not empty your pocket simply because you need a blade. By comparing the range of blades, you can get the most affordable one.
Conclusion
Blades are an essential part of any oscillating tool. Without them, you can operate any oscillating tool. In addition, choosing a suitable blade for your tool is also vital to successfully completing any task. Hence, you must first know all types of blades and their usage. Once you know the blades thoroughly, you can easily find the most suitable blade for your oscillating tool and task.
