Blade for my RAS!

The Forrest blade says “For Radial Arm Saw or Table Saw Use,” right on it.

That’s NOT the Forrest blade I would suggest you consider.

They make one that is ONLY for RAS’s.

For that one, you have to call them, directly, and talk with … well …. Charles :-)

If you can afford that one (I think it IS $90, also), it’s the best.

If not, I’d probably buy the Freud LU91R008, for $58. It has that negative hook angle that is really important to prevent the thing from “self-feeding” on you.

-- -- Neil

I’d also suggest looking at the blade topics on the Delphi Radial Arm Saw Frequently Asked Questions page:

http://people.delphiforums.com/snotzalot/sawdust/faq.htm

Good luck !

-- -- Neil

Neil what model Forrest blade do you have?

-- CJIII Future cabinetmaker

Since a RAS is rarely used to rip, a combination blade is not always a good idea. You want a good crosscut blade, and unless you have a really underpowered saw, thin kerf isn’t the way to go. Full kerf is more stable and produces better cuts.

Negative hook is great if you can get one in your price range, it will make the saw safer. But I have no trouble at all with a good Diablo crosscut blade with a standard hook.

Buy the best you can afford and use the saw properly and you can’t go wrong.

-- It's the best woodworking show since the invention of wood... New episodes Wednesdays at: http://www.stumpynubs.com

I have a 1/2 hp RAS.

-- CJIII Future cabinetmaker

It’s a Woodworker I.

BUT … it’s specially made FOR the RAS, and HAS TO be ordered directly from Charles Bazikian, AT Forrest:

[800-733-7111 extension 314]

Look at this page, where it says, “Parts to restore a DeWalt radial arm saw”

-- -- Neil

If you can afford the Forrest blade (you REALLY should talk with Charles, directly), then I’d get it.

If not, then the Freud I linked to is probably your best bet.

But Mr. Sawdust …. ONLY recommends the RAS-specific Forrest blade … if you want to follow HIS advice ;-)

-- -- Neil

The MMB (yours) is a 9” saw.

If you get an 8 inch blade, then you’ll spin it easier, and won’t HAVE to worry much about the thinner kerf.

Worst that happens is … you have to use a slower feed rate.

To ME, that’s perfectly okay.

-- -- Neil

Another good one, Charles, for $40:

http://www.amazon.com/Freud-LU83R008-Combination-PermaShield-Coating/dp/B00020JOA0

-- -- Neil

Yes my is a 9’’. I really like forrest blades.

-- CJIII Future cabinetmaker

Charles – As has been mentioned on other forums, you need a hook angle of no more than 5°….less is great. The LU88 (+15°) and the LU83 (+10°) are great blades for a TS, but have too steep of a hook angle for a RAS.

-- Happiness is like wetting your pants...everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth....

And … as I’m fond of saying … I’d take Scott’s advice on this, instead of mine ;-)

So … I think we’re back to Freud’s LU91, or the Forrest.

‘Zat sound right, Scott ?

-- -- Neil

Neil, I really like the Forrest.

-- CJIII Future cabinetmaker

Forrest blades are the best!!

-- Matt Garcia Wannabe Period Furniture Maker, Houston TX

LOL….yeah, those are both great choices!

-- Happiness is like wetting your pants...everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth....