Jigsaw Blades

How to Choose the Right Jigsaw Blade

Start by checking what material you need to cut. Wood, laminate, plastic, metal, worktops, boards and sheet materials may all need different blade types. Always check the product details to make sure the blade is suitable for both your material and your jigsaw.

You should also check the blade fitting. Many jigsaws use T shank blades, while some older or specific models may use U shank blades. The blade must fit your jigsaw correctly before it is used.

What Matters Most When Comparing Jigsaw Blades

The main things to compare are blade shank type, material compatibility, tooth count, blade length, tooth design, cutting direction and whether the blade is made for straight, curved or fine finish work.

Tooth count can make a big difference. Blades with fewer teeth usually cut faster but leave a rougher edge. Blades with more teeth normally cut more slowly but can give a cleaner finish. If the cut edge will be visible, a finer blade is usually worth considering.

Wood, Metal or Multi Material Jigsaw Blades?

Wood jigsaw blades are designed for timber, boards and wood based materials, depending on the blade. They are useful for garden projects such as planters, shed repairs, fencing work, shelving and general DIY cutting.

Metal jigsaw blades are made for suitable metal materials and usually have finer teeth than wood blades. They cut more slowly but are designed to cope with harder materials.

Multi material blades can be useful for varied DIY jobs, but they should still be checked carefully against the material you are cutting. The trade off is convenience versus specialisation. A specialist blade is often better when you need a cleaner or more controlled result.

Fine Cut or Fast Cut Jigsaw Blade?

A fine cut jigsaw blade is best when the finish matters. It can help reduce rough edges and is useful for visible cuts, laminate style surfaces, trims and more careful work.

A fast cut jigsaw blade is better when speed matters more than finish. It can be useful for rough timber cuts, hidden cuts and general construction work where the edge will not be on show.

The trade off is simple. Fine blades give a neater finish but can take longer. Fast blades remove material more quickly but may leave a rougher edge.

Straight Cuts, Curves and Detail Work

Jigsaws are often chosen because they can cut curves and shaped lines. For curved cuts, a narrower blade is usually easier to guide around corners, while a wider blade can help with straighter cuts.

If you are cutting tight shapes, detailed patterns or awkward sections, choose a blade designed for control rather than speed. If you are cutting long straight lines, blade stability and a suitable guide can help improve accuracy.

Safety, Fit and Practical Use

A jigsaw blade should always be fitted securely and matched to the tool, speed setting and material. Using the wrong blade can cause rough cuts, overheating, broken blades or poor control.

Never use a bent, damaged or unsuitable blade. Check that the blade is seated correctly before cutting, support the material properly and allow the blade to do the work rather than forcing it through the cut.

Find Jigsaw Blades That Suit Your Project

Browse our range of jigsaw blades and compare options by shank type, blade length, tooth count, material compatibility and intended use. Choose blades that match your jigsaw, suit your material and help make curved cuts, straight cuts and DIY shaping jobs easier.

Jigsaw Blades FAQs

What are jigsaw blades used for?

Jigsaw blades are used for cutting materials such as timber, boards, plastic, laminate and metal when fitted to a compatible jigsaw. The exact use depends on the blade type.

What should I check before buying jigsaw blades?

Check the shank type, blade length, tooth count, material compatibility, cutting style and whether the blade is suitable for your jigsaw and the material you need to cut.

What is the difference between T shank and U shank jigsaw blades?

T shank and U shank refer to the fitting at the top of the blade. Many modern jigsaws use T shank blades, but you should always check which type your jigsaw accepts.

Are more teeth better on a jigsaw blade?

More teeth usually give a cleaner finish but can cut more slowly. Fewer teeth often cut faster but may leave a rougher edge.

What jigsaw blade is best for cutting curves?

A narrower jigsaw blade is usually better for cutting curves because it can turn more easily. The best option also depends on the material and how tight the curve needs to be.

Can one jigsaw blade cut all materials?

No, one jigsaw blade should not be expected to cut every material well. Wood, metal, laminate, plastic and other materials may need different blades.

When should I replace a jigsaw blade?

Replace a jigsaw blade if it is blunt, bent, damaged, overheating, cutting poorly or leaving rough results. A sharp, suitable blade is safer and easier to control.

Can jigsaw blades cut metal?

Some jigsaw blades are designed for metal cutting, but they must be suitable for the type and thickness of metal. Always check the blade details before use.

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