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What’s causing a rough cut on a high TPI blade?
You asked
Hello, Les back. I just received my new blade - 59 1/2" x 1/4" and 14 TPI. I use my saw for ship modelling so I am cutting 5 mm mahogany or walnut. This new blade seems to be very aggressive compared to the 6 TPI that came with my saw. What is your suggestion for a smooth cut on thin materials? Thank in advance.
Asked by Les S.
Our expert answers
In general, a 14 TPI blade cuts significantly smoother than a 6 TPI blade because more teeth mean each tooth takes a smaller bite, resulting in a finer finish. You’ll get a rougher cut if the finer teeth pack up with sawdust and overheat, or lose set (though this usually happens when you’re cutting thick stock). If the feed rate, blade tension, or tracking are not optimized for a fine-tooth blade the finish can be rougher than expected. And finally, if one or more teeth are bent or damaged, they can disrupt the uniform cutting action, causing the blade to track unevenly, chatter in the cut and leave a rough or wavy surface.
Published January 7, 2026 | Last revised January 7, 2026
