Jewelers saw blades are primarily sized by their "cut," which is determined by the distance between the teeth, also known as teeth per inch.
Jewelry tool suppliers categorize these blades using a specific numbering system that ranges from very fine to much larger sizes. The system indicates the coarseness or fineness of the blade, which in turn affects its cutting speed and ease of use.
Understanding Jewelers Saw Blade Sizes
The sizing follows a pattern:
- Finer Blades: These are denoted by sizes like #8/0, #7/0, #6/0, and so on. The higher the number before the "/0", the finer the blade. For example, #8/0 is finer than #6/0. The reference states that finer blades are generally easier to use, although they cut more slowly.
- Larger Blades: Sizes transition from the "/0" system to numbers starting with 0, then #1, #2, and progressively higher numbers for the largest and coarsest blades.
Here's a simple overview:
| Size | Description | Relative Fineness | Cutting Speed | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8/0 | Finest size | Finest | Slower | Easier |
| #7/0, #6/0 | Progressively less fine than #8/0 | Very Fine | Slower | Easier |
| 0 | A standard size, transition point | Medium | Moderate | Moderate |
| #1, #2+ | Larger sizes, increasingly coarser blades | Coarser | Faster | More Skill |
Choosing the correct blade size depends on the material being cut and the desired detail level. Finer blades are excellent for intricate work and cutting thin materials, while larger blades are better suited for thicker stock or faster removal of material.
