Delta has recently introduced a range of full-kerf (0.125 in.) sawblades designed to be used on tablesaws with at least 3 hp motors. I tested the 10 in. 50 tooth combination blade (read the review from FWW #211), and I also tested their 10-in. 80-tooth blade designed for crosscutting plywood. The Delta 35-1080HN5 has a high, alternate top bevel (ATB) configuration with the bevel angle of 35°. I put it up against Freud’s LU97R010 triple-chip grind blade, and the Forrest Duraline HI-A/T blade. All three 80-tooth blades are designed to cut plywood and/or laminates and melamine with little if any tearout/chipout.

All three blades cut considerably cleaner than the combination/general purpose blades. There was little to choose from in terms of cut quality but the Delta’s street price of $86 versus $95 for the Freud and $136 for the Forrest represents good value.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

Buy at Amazon

Festool Cleantec CT 26 E HEPA Dust Extractor

The clear winner here is Festool’s CT 48 Dust Extractor. It has amazing capacity relative to its size, and unmatched suction power. It packs in a number of subtle but very helpful design touches, like a clever foot brake and easy hose and cord storage.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon