In “Premium Blade vs. Budget Blade: Is There a Real Difference?”, Jeff from TodaysCraftsmen puts two popular table saw blades to the test. With one blade priced at $30 and the other at $55, Jeff aims to discover whether the more expensive option truly offers better value.
To kick things off, Jeff emphasizes the commonality of these blades in woodworking shops, particularly as they excel in both ripping and cross-cutting various materials. The Diablo blade, known for its affordability, is pitched against the Tenryu silencer, which is slightly more expensive but well-regarded for its quality.
Jeff begins by measuring the specifications of both blades, noting that the Tenryu has larger carbide teeth and a thicker plate compared to the Diablo. This initial observation raises expectations for the Tenryu’s performance, as thicker teeth can often lead to cleaner cuts and greater durability.
Both blades feature an ATBR (alternate top bevel with a raker) tooth pattern, which is beneficial for achieving nice square cuts, particularly when working with joinery. Jeff highlights the design differences, explaining how the raker tooth helps create crisp corners.
The testing phase begins with ripping Cherry wood, a variety known for its tendency to burn during cutting. Jeff conducts a series of tests, starting with the Diablo blade. The results are promising, as the cuts show minimal burning and good smoothness.
Next, the focus shifts to the Tenryu blade, which Jeff also uses to rip Cherry wood. The results are similarly impressive, with clean cuts and no noticeable burning. This consistency in performance sets the stage for further comparisons.
Jeff then transitions to ripping White Oak, a denser wood that can challenge any blade. He is eager to see how the two blades handle this tougher material. After completing the cuts, Jeff notices that the Tenryu blade performs exceptionally well, producing a cleaner cut with less burning compared to the Diablo.
Continuing with the testing, Jeff moves on to pre-finished plywood and cross-cutting tasks. Both blades handle the plywood well, with only slight variances in the quality of the cuts. The final test involves cutting melamine, where both blades again perform adequately, but Jeff notes some minor chipping.
After completing all tests, Jeff compares the results of the Cherry cuts side by side. He notes that while both blades produced similar results, the Tenryu edged out the Diablo in terms of overall performance, especially with the White Oak. Jeff appreciates the feel and sound of the Tenryu, claiming it cuts with less force and sounds sharper during operation.
In the conclusion, Jeff discusses the longevity of the blades, noting that while the Diablo can be resharpened, it may only last for one sharpening. In contrast, the Tenryu, with its thicker carbide, can withstand multiple sharpenings, making it a more economical choice in the long run.
Ultimately, Jeff recommends the Tenryu blade for its superior performance and longevity, while acknowledging that the Diablo blade is still a solid option for those on a budget. This comprehensive comparison not only provides valuable insights for woodworkers but also encourages viewers to consider their specific needs when selecting table saw blades.
Buy on Amazon: Diablo or Tenryu.