Rockwell Jig Saw Blade Substitutes

Blade Choices

• Among the many big name tool companies that provide replacement parts for their own and other tools, T-shank jigsaw blades are a fairly common variety. The T-shank features a top that is approximately 1/4 inch wide, with small tabs protruding out about 1/4 inch down. Bausch, Swiss and Dewalt make T-shank blades that will fit perfectly in the new Rockwell jigsaw. They can be purchased singly or in multiple packs of the same or various tooth styles.

Blade Types

• Choosing a jigsaw blade type is primarily about the material being cut. The general rule of thumb is the coarser the teeth, the coarser the cut. The other factor is the number of teeth per inch; the more, the better. Coarse toothed blades are used for cutting thick lumber, such as 2-by, or heavy plywood. Finer teeth are used for lighter materials or projects where a very fine cut is needed. Fine toothed blades are used for thin plywood and paneling, metal cutting and brittle materials such as PVC.

Installing Blades

• Typically the blade will break before the teeth are too worn to cut. To remove the blade, unplug the saw and pull down on the blade holder to move it as far away from the saw's body as possible. Press the spring loaded neck clip to release the latch and remove the blade from the saw. Keep the tension on the spring and slide the replacement into place, releasing the spring to lock it in. Use caution if the blade has cut recently, since it will be hot. Gloves or pliers for handling hot blades are a good idea.

Making Blades Last

• Selecting the right blade for the job will go a long way to making blades last longer, and at several dollars a piece, this can cut down on expenses. Using the wrong blade will cause it to heat up due to excess friction, weakening the metal. Store the jigsaw in its case, so that the blade is not bent during transport, or remove the blade and store it separately, since bent blades break more easily. Don't force the saw through the material, as this will dull the teeth and make the blade less effective.