Dado blades are best for interlocking applications in woodwork. They can make the perfect joints for door panels, drawers, cabinets, etc.
But can you use a dado blade on any table saw? That’s what I’m going to discuss in this article. So, let’s get right in.
What Makes A Dado Blade Different From A Regular Table Saw Blade?
Dado blades are specially designed to cut wider grooves in the wood. This circular blade is different from regular table saw blades in many ways. Generally, Dado blades cut wider grooves in the wood compared to their traditional counterpart.
Some dado blades look like they have multiple blades attached. Again, some dado blades have wobbles to cut wider than regular blades.
Dado blades generally have large tooth-scoring blades, which is not the case for regular table saw blades.
Most importantly, dado blades are made for tackling specific tasks, like making cabinetry, wood joints, drawers, etc.
Can You Use A Dado Blade On Any Table saw?
Dado blades are used in table saws. But they are different from regular table saw blades because of their application and how they are made. Many people don’t know if you can use dado blades on any table saw.
Well, you might be unable to use dado blades on any table saw. To do so, the arbor diameter of your table saw, and the arbor diameter hole of your dado blade has to match.
If they are of the same sizes, then you can use dado blades on any table saws.
Different Types Of Dado Blades
You will find two types of dado blades available on the market. Let’s see what they are:
Stacked Dado Blades
Stacked dado blades are multiple blades stacked together, creating a broader blade to deliver a wider groove. These blade sets come as many parts. You have to assemble them based on your need.
You can intersperse them with a spacer to get precise cuts. The outer blade is a chipper blade that you can remove or add.
Wobble Dado Blade
Wobble dado blades are single-part blades with offset rotation. Although these blades do not have multiple blades like stacked ones, you can also get similar results from them. However, stacked blades are better than wobble blades because they do not vibrate while using.
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How Do You Attach Dado Blades To A Table Saw?
To use a dado blade on your table saw, you must attach it first. Here’s the step-by-step process on how you can attach your dado blade to a table saw:
- Firstly, you have to remove the regular table saw blade from your table saw.
- Then make sure the table saw insert is wide enough to take your dado blade width.
- After that, if you have a stacked dado blade, insert the outer blade in the proper orientation. Then insert the chippers and the spacers. Insert the second outer blade next. If you have a wobble blade, insert it into the arbor hole.
- Make sure the teeth of the blades are alternating and remember to keep at least two to three threads exposed after installing all your stacked blades.
- Finally, tighten the blades using a scrap wood piece to wedge your blade, and your dado blade is ready to use.
How To Use A Dado Blade On Table Saw?
There are several ways to use dado on your table saw. Let’s check how to use dado blades on a table saw. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Firstly, you must determine what type of cut you want from your dado. Then you have to fix the width of your cut.
- After that, if you want to cut with the miter gauge, you will have to use a backer board with your dado blade.
- Use your table saw fence to cut wood with your dado blade. For this, you have to use proper pushback to keep your hands safe.
- Then, use a sacrificial fence to cut rabbits with your dado blade.
What to focus on when using a dado blade on any table saw?
Since not all table saws are compatible with dado blades, you must ensure many things while using them on any table saw.
Firstly and most importantly, you must ensure that the arbor holes of your dado blade and the table saw are the same sizes.
Then, make sure the teeth of your stack dado blades are alternating when you install them. You should also use scrap wood to attach the blades to your table saw securely.
Make sure your wood is not chipping all over you while cutting with your dado blade.
Using Dado blade Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Now, let’s see some of the common mistakes people make using dado blades:
Not Wearing Safety Equipment
It’s the most common mistake people make all the time. You should never use a dado blade or table saw without wearing safety goggles and other safety equipment. So, make sure you wear them before starting your action.
Not Using Featherboards
Many woodworkers or DIY enthusiasts refrain from using featherboards while using dado blades on their table saws. So, your blade can lift your wood piece and throw it away, which can be dangerous. So, try to use feather boards.
FAQ
Dado blades are designed to use with table saws. You have to make sure that the arbor holes of the dado blade and the table saw are of the same size.
Yes, you can do a dado cut with a table saw. For that, you have to remove the regular table saw blade and insert a dado blade.
Last Words
Dado blades are excellent if you can use them in the right way. They are good at what they do. So, if you want to use a dado blade, make sure they are compatible.
Do not just use it with any table saw; it might cause harm.
I am Imtiaj Islam. I am a wood working enthusiast, having 6 years of experience in carpentry work. I have a BBA graduate degree from Chittagong College. I got vocational training on wood works from Korean Polytechnic out of the quest and zest he has for carpentry as well. I take several wood projects and keep testing different woodworking tools for comfortable and perfect work. I just love playing with woods and machines.