Blades are one of the first tools that were made in human history. The idea was simple and the mechanism was even simpler. The result? They have been ruling the tool world ever since as a toolbox staple, evolving through the years under the watchful eye of some fantastic brands.

Today we have large organisations devoting their manpower towards perfecting this must-have tool over time, widening its application and scope. One of the giant players is Starrett, whose cutting blades are very famous. In fact, Starrett has been called the ‘world’s greatest toolmakers’, which makes having their blades a total must-have!

Here’s a buying guide to help you get the best Starrett cutting blades for your needs.

A brief history of Starrett the brand

The company Starrett started as an idea and soon developed into a conglomerate. Starting in 1880, the company rapidly evolved and expanded, building an inventory of 5000 tools. They are the masters of cutting blades and rightfully so. Starrett’s cutting blades excel in quality, just like the rest of their products do.

Types of Starrett Cutting Blades for your toolbox

Starrett has a huge list of cutting blades, but in this blog, we will only be focusing on broad categories. This information will help you make the right choice.

Band Saw Blades

If you are looking for a versatile tool to cut hard and abrasive materials as well as ferrous and soft metals, this one is it. Starrett’s band saw blades have varied tooth configurations which enable them to cut different materials, They are categorised as follows:

Bi-Metal Band Saw Blades

You will find several options within this category ranging from blades perfect for ferrous to non-ferrous metals. These blades are a great investment as they can speed up your productivity. They have varied tooth configurations like a positive rake angle that provides easy cutting and smooth penetration through any material.

Carbon Blades

Most carbon band blades are made with HSS or high-speed steel. Starrett’s carbon blades are made to be durable and versatile. You can choose carbon blades when you want to treat softer materials like wood, plastic, and non-ferrous materials. The best part is that it can handle both easy-going and demanding jobs.

Carbide Blades

Carbide-tipped blades have a tooth configuration that is specific for abrasive materials. This is because of the carbide inserts attached to the teeth. This makes the blades more durable and provides extra hardiness for precise cutting. For people who are professional construction workers or have an active DIY hobby, these blades are very rewarding as they are extremely economical.

Factors that can impact the longevity of cutting blades 

Hand Tools are passed on from generation to generation. Some people consider hand tools as assets and with good care, they last for years on end. However, that is only possible when the tool itself has quality traits that allow them to last for a long time. This especially extends to blades as poor quality blades may rust and corrode. Here are some quality traits that impact blades and their longevity.

Materials used: The kind of materials used in the manufacturing of blades play a very important role. It is the core of the blade and must be thought out before application. The quality of the material determines its strength and durability. The better the quality of the blade, the more it will be able to withstand pressure, thus ensuring its long life. Some of the most durable blade materials are stainless steel and high-speed steel.

Design of the blade: Blade design is subjective to the kind of work that it is going to be used for. Accordingly, the thickness, shape, size, and configuration of the teeth change. Certain types might entail higher maintenance for longevity. 

Tampering: One of the biggest factors that impact blade longevity is tampering and heat treatments. Try not to tamper your blades too much with improper use.

Tooth sharpness: Goes without saying that the most important aspect of a blade is the sharpness of its teeth. Over time though, blades can lose their sharpness due to excessive and improper use. They can even lose their sharpness if they are not stored right, thus reducing their longevity. Hence, you need to ensure that you follow all the right rules when using Starrett cutting blades.

Conclusion

Looking for the best Starrett cutting blades? We have them all! While we talked about the different types of blades and their purposes, you can check them out firsthand at your nearest FK Tools store. The purpose of blades varies depending on the kind of material you are planning to cut so it’s best to get familiar with them in person. Visit us and find the best Starrett cutting blades for your project!