James, I would go to www.mikesworkshop.com. You can also e-mail him at [email protected]. Mike is very helpful when it comes to the selection of blades and can help you decide which blade to use for the type of wood you want to cut.

Mick,

 

Delta P-20

thanks...I've been to Mike's website, but the number of different blades was a bit overwhelming to a noob...

I'll see what he has to say...thanks

James, while by no means hard and fast rules, this is what I typically use.

Up to 1/4" - 2/0 or #1.

1/4" - 1/2" - #3

1/2" - 3/4" - #5

3/4" - 1" - #7

1" - 1.5" - #9

1.5" - 2" - #12

 

Again, this is just a starting point, I've used #7's on 2" thick wood and 1/2" thick wood.  Harder woods typically will require a bigger blade while softer woods will require a smaller blade.  As an example, when cutting 1/2" Brazilian Cherry, if at all possible, I'll use a #7 blade to reduce the burning while when cutting 1" cedar I will use a #1 or #3 blade.  You can also slow the speed down on the saw and use a larger blade for thinner material.  Oh, the above are all flat blade recommendations as I rarely use spirals.

 

Kevin

Thanks for the info. I have had lots of good information from this website. Very helpful site, especially to someone new to this.