Craftsman 10 In Table Saw Blade 60 Tooth with 5/8 in Arbor (2 Pack)

When you're tackling a woodworking project, the quality of your saw blade can make all the difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Craftsman 10-inch Table Saw Blade 60 Tooth with a 5/8-inch Arbor (2 Pack), model CMAS210CMB, and I must say, it was a pleasant experience. This set includes two blades: a 24-tooth blade for framing and ripping tasks, and a 60-tooth blade for fine finishing. Here's my detailed review based on my hands-on experience.

Build Quality and Features

The first thing I noticed about these Craftsman blades is the solid build quality. The induction-brazed carbide teeth promise durability and an extended lifespan, and they certainly seem up to the task. The heat-treated steel plate is designed to minimize warping, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy over time. Moreover, the precision-ground teeth offer smooth and accurate cuts, a feature that lived up to its claim during my tests.

Another noteworthy aspect is the corrosion-resistant coating. This is particularly useful if you’re working in a humid environment or if your tools are stored in less-than-ideal conditions. The coating helps to prevent rust, ensuring that the blades remain in good condition for a longer period.

Performance

When it comes to performance, these Craftsman blades did not disappoint. I tested them on a variety of materials including oak, composite decking, and vinyl beadboard. The 60-tooth blade delivered exceptionally smooth cuts, almost comparable to a planer blade. It handled complex cuts on hardwood without any tear-out, which is impressive for a blade at this price point.

The 24-tooth blade was equally effective for rougher tasks. It made quick work of framing lumber and plywood, providing clean and efficient cuts. One of the highlights was how true the blade ran on the table saw, producing straight cuts without any noticeable wobble.

Ease of Use

Installing the blades was straightforward, although I did encounter a minor issue with the mounting hole having a burr. A quick filing resolved the problem, allowing the blade to slide on and tighten up just fine. Once installed, the blades performed flawlessly, making it easy to switch between rough cuts and fine finishes.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with saw blades, especially if you're a professional remodeler or a DIY enthusiast who uses their tools frequently. These Craftsman blades have held up well during my testing period. They remained sharp and showed no signs of wear after multiple projects. However, I did notice that the blade started to dull a bit quicker when cutting through composite materials, which is something to keep in mind if you frequently work with such materials.

Value for Money

One of the standout features of these blades is their value for money. Priced significantly lower than some of the more premium brands, these blades offer comparable performance at a fraction of the cost. For professional remodelers on a tight budget, this is a huge plus. Even for hobbyists, the cost-effectiveness combined with high performance makes these blades a worthwhile investment.

Comparisons

In comparison to other brands like DeWalt and Bosch, the Craftsman blades hold their own quite well. While they may not last as long as some of the higher-end options, the performance is nearly on par, especially for fine finishing cuts. The fact that they are made in the USA adds another layer of appeal for those who prefer domestically produced tools.

Drawbacks

No product is without its flaws, and the Craftsman blades are no exception. The most notable issue I encountered was a slight wobble in one of the blades, which was somewhat disappointing given the brand's reputation. Additionally, while the blades perform exceptionally well on wood, they tend to dull quicker when used on composite materials. This could be a drawback if your projects frequently involve such materials.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman 10-inch Table Saw Blade 60 Tooth with a 5/8-inch Arbor (2 Pack) offers excellent value for money. The combination of durability, performance, and affordability makes these blades a great addition to any workshop. Whether you're a professional remodeler or a DIY enthusiast, these blades will serve you well for a variety of tasks.

Would I recommend these Craftsman blades? Absolutely. They provide smooth, accurate cuts, are built to last, and come at a price that won't break the bank. While there are minor issues like the occasional wobble and quicker dulling on composite materials, these are outweighed by the blades' overall performance and value. If you're looking for reliable and cost-effective saw blades, the Craftsman CMAS210CMB set is definitely worth considering.