Any advantage to using a blade stabilizer with a high quality, full kerf blade (like the Infinity 010-044 “super general”)?
Thanks,
Morty
Any advantage to using a blade stabilizer with a high quality, full kerf blade (like the Infinity 010-044 “super general”)?
Thanks,
Morty
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Replies
If the blade is as good as they claim, you should not need a stabilizer. Stabilizers have some draw backs. When installed, they limit the depth of cut. They reposition the blade on the arbor so you have to change your throat plates. This also effects any measuring devices on your fence. They can have the same effect on any shop made jigs, sleds, etc. You are adding weight to the arbor which may not be good for small saws. If you use a splitter or riving knife, you will have to make modifications to their positions, if possible. They can interfere when making bevel cuts, might even rub on saw parts under the table.
General purpose blades are often a compromise when it comes to different tasks. They may not be the best choice when ripping thick and long hardwoods, making fine miters, cutting plywood or materials like melamine. In a normal days activities, I'm changing blades to suit the cuts, many times. Years ago I bought some stabilizers. With all the different blade thicknesses along with issues I mentioned above, I only used them for a short time. I didn't find they made enough difference to make up for all the work. I'm better off with several industrial quality blades, made for each cutting operation.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
Morty - The biggest advantage to getting a blade stabilizer goes to whoever sold it to you... ;)
If the saw's arbor runs true with minimal vibration, a stabilizer shouldn't even be necessary for a good TK blade, let alone a full kerf.
BTW - I've got one of those blades and find it leaves a very polished edge for a 40T GP blade.
Edited 1/22/2008 10:57 am ET by Knotscott
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