If you are one of those people who are hell-bent on finding the perfect blade for your table saw, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect article. Is making dado joints your passion and/or hobby? Well, fret no more as we have listed the best dado blades you could ever ask for.
Each of these sets includes 8-inch dado blades that will help you make the smoothest grooves you could dream of! Their impeccable sharpness and intense durability will leave you in awe. Browse through the reviews and pick the dado blade that can solve all your woodworking problems.
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11 Best Dado Blades in 2020
With all the different options on today’s market, picking the right dado blade can be a challenge. Fortunately, we have handpicked the 11 best dado blades in 2020.
1. DEWALT DW7670 8-Inch 24-tooth Stacked Dado Set
We begin this list of dado blade reviews with one of the best dado sets currently on the market. This highly efficient 8-inch dado blade set will prove a useful ally when cutting wood. It is specially designed for professionals looking for smooth and measured cuts of wood (also read our reviews on the best router for table mounting for accurate wood cutting).
This durable blade is made of superior quality materials that give it the wood splitting sharpness it needs. It has also been built to last a long time, regardless of the rate of use. You might be asking what really makes this blade set so formidable and precise. The answer lies within its design.
The stacked dado blade set 24 teeth in total – 4 teeth for each of the 4 chippers. This feature gives it the ability to effortlessly cut through any piece of wood that stands in your way. As if that wasn’t enough, the blade is also designed to spin at 7000 RPM. Now that’s a lot of power for the price you’re paying.
This blade set also has heavy gauge laser plates that are as efficient as they are shiny. These plates enable the user to achieve much smoother, flat-bottom cuts most people can only dream of. Now you can easily get that exact cut of wood right to the last inch. You never need to compromise again.
Moreover, this 8-inch blade set consists of micro-grain carbide teeth that make the cuts more precise and even. Due to this, no fussy splinters will be left behind. Whether it is the first or the hundredth time you’re using it, the end result is always satisfactory.
This versatile blade also comes with stainless steel shims used to adjust the width. A sturdy storage case is also provided with the set to prolong its lifespan.
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2. Oshlun SDS-0842 8-inch 42 Tooth Stack Dado Set
The next model of dado set consists of more teeth than any other blade on this list. This exceptionally designed 16-piece dado blade has 42 teeth in total. It provides you with more sharpness than a regular woodworker could ask for. This impeccable sharpness makes it suitable for cutting different types of wood.
Whether it’s hardwood, plywood or softwood, this blade slices through wood with the same amount of accuracy. This is because of the hardened tips of the blade and their unmatched strength. The tips are made of premium grade C-4 micro grain carbide, which makes them durable.
No matter what type of wood you cut with this tool, the blades never lose their shine. With the numerous teeth on this blade, you can gain accurate cuts ranging from 1/4 inches to 29/32 inches. This also makes it a highly versatile blade that works with sheer precision.
The cuts are also smooth and splinter-free and don’t require any finishing touches. Even though the blade design might look a bit complicated, it can be installed within a few minutes. Stainless steel shims allow you to adjust the width of the blade according to the nature of your task.
On the other hand, the chippers on this blade have a full-body, which means the vibrations are significantly reduced. This feature makes it easier for those DIY woodworkers out there who lack experience. The blade set is equally beneficial for the professionals of this field.
Besides all that, the blade comes in a beautifully designed storage case that protects it from long term damage.
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3. Freud SD208 8 Inch Professional Dado Blade
The next item on this list may be suitable for DIY enthusiasts, but it’s in some ways more productive than most of the dado blades in today’s market. This is because it’s manufactured by a company that has specialized in making dado blades more efficient for years.
This efficient dado blade is made of TiCo Hi-Density carbide that makes it easy to get flawless cuts of wood. TiCo Hi-Density carbide is a highly compact form of Titanium Cobalt Carbide that has been engineered by this company. This micro-grain carbide acts as a protective coating that keeps the blade sharp for longer.
The two eight-inch blades in this set perform well on any type of wood. They enable you to cut perfect joints with flat bottoms. The finishing is always smooth and admirable. It also includes three 1/8 inch chippers for maximum efficiency. However, the outer blades cut more profoundly than the internal chippers.
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Besides that, it can swiftly cut through wood with little to no effort from the user. All you need to do is guide it through. This particular dado blade can also be sharpened without creating a fuss. It will allow you to keep your blades in working condition for years to come.
The 8-inch blade set is also equipped with steel shims for micro-adjustments. This will give you an upper hand when you have a specific measurement in mind. Furthermore, these blades have negative hook angles that make it easier to get flat bottom grooves.
Every cut you make with this tool is flawless and virtually splinter-free.
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4. Forrest DK08244 Dado King 8-inch Bore Dado Blade Set
Next, we have a heavier set of dado blades built for superior stability. Even some of the sharpest blades on the market lack stability, which leads to uneven cuts. Fortunately, this is not a problem for this blade set that comes with heavier steel plates. This usually comes in handy when you’re cutting a thick piece of wood.
For more enhanced rigidity, the manufacturers have introduced negative face hooks. This also allows you to slice through the wood without leaving uneven grooves. They produce such smooth cuts that look as if they have been sanded. Although the blades run at high RPMs, they are surprisingly quiet.
It makes woodcutting more peaceful and fun for those who are new in this profession. What sets it apart is that most of its components are virtually handmade. The blades are straightened multiple times to achieve the optimum level of efficiency.
The blade includes C-4 carbide teeth that contribute to its intense sharpness. Carbide teeth are also hand brazen. On top of that, the manufacturers will provide you additional services even after you’ve bought it. If your blade seems to be worn out, they will sharpen the blade back to its original tolerance.
That’s one way to keep the blades new for years on end. It will be a long time before you have to replace them. The extensive design of this blade also eliminates splinters and helps you cut joints according to your needs. This is possible due to the 300 degree ATB tooth style of this exceptional blade set.
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5. The Mibro Group 416381 8-inch Carbide Stacking Blade Set
As the next addition to this list, we have picked this 14 piece blade set with some impressive features. Don’t be deceived by its low price as it’s one of the high-quality blades on this list. The blades are not only efficient at producing even cuts but are also very durable.
It’s suitable for achieving precise cuts with even edges. Square shoulders and flat bottoms are also easy to cut. This 8-inch blade is compatible with almost any table saw, and delivers the same amount of precision. It’s a versatile set of stacking blades that deserves more praise than it gets.
What makes them so efficient at producing even cuts are its carbide tips. Slicing through a piece of wood has never felt so effortless. Not only is it impressively sharp, but the carbide tips also enhance its durability. The blades rarely require any sharpening and will serve for several years to come.
The set consists of two blades that are equipped with 5 beveled cutting teeth. A straight raking tooth has also been added. The anti-kickback design of the blades prevents vibrations and increases stability. Each of the teeth is welded onto the blade with automated equipment from Germany.
This ensures that the placement is accurate, and only the right amount of brazing material is used. What extends its lifespan, even more, are the extra-large carbide teeth. The chippers include two more carbide teeth that are also electronically welded. This allows you to get smooth flat bottom grooves.
Shims are also included, which help to finely adjust the width of the blades.
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6. Freud SD206 6 Inch 10T Pro Dado Set
Another cheap option for getting flawless pieces of wood is this 6-inch pro dado set. Don’t be fooled by its price as this set includes 2 blades, 3 chippers, and spacers. It even comes in a colorful storage case that’s compact and can be carried easily.
The blades are made of an especially hardened material built to endure harsh conditions. This superior quality material makes it more durable than any other dado blade set at this price. If you’re a DIY woodworker limited by your budget, this is a perfect choice for you.
These blades consist of TiCo Hi-Density carbide that provides a protective coat around the tips. This material extends its lifespan significantly. For such a cheap dado set, it requires very little maintenance. If that doesn’t satisfy you, the blades also have a silver ICE coating that keeps materials from settling on the blade.
This keeps the blade clean and efficient for a long time. It’s also compatible with underpowered saws as it requires less power to run. They also work well on different types of wood so that you can work on different projects with this tool. The also includes 3 two wing chippers 3 spacers to make your job easier.
The chippers work relentlessly to discard all the debris from the surface. This makes the workplace smooth and reduces the possibility of errors. The manufacturers have designed this blade to suppress the kickbacks during work. Risks of sudden accidents are minimized when you have these blades equipped.
Another impressive feature is its micro-grain carbide tips. Due to this material, you can sharpen the blades as many times you want, without them losing their efficiency.
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7. IRWIN Dado Blade Set Stacked 8 Inch 1811865
The best thing about this model of a dado blade set is that it’s compatible with both radial arm and table saw. This makes it suitable for working on different projects simultaneously. The dado blade model also boasts a lightweight design, which makes it easy to use for amateur woodworkers [FYI, for beginner woodworkers, we have also reviewed wood carving tools].
This dado blade set includes 2 outer blades, 3 spacers, 3 chippers, and 7 shims. That’s all you could need for precise woodcutting for years on end. The blades are made of hardened superior quality material that can withstand some intense workload. Now you can work on your projects every day without a worry.
What really sets it apart is its carbide teeth. They are strong and durable like all carbide teeth but can also be resharpened multiple times. Even after you sharpen them, the blades don’t lose their efficiency. Not all blades come with such durable carbide teeth.
Besides having an extended life, these carbide teeth will allow you to cut through thick logs swiftly. The finish is always flawless, are barely requires any effort to achieve. It’s designed for both tongue and groove cuts with a splinter-free finish. The three chippers constantly work to keep the work surface clean of debris.
This is another reason why the end result will always leave you in awe. Moreover, the blades have a non-stick coating that makes it heat resistant. This not only provides even cuts but also makes it easier to clean. These dado blades also have a precision tension that increases the accuracy of every cut.
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8. Freud SD508 8 Inch 24T Super Dado Set
Presenting the third dado set on this list that has been manufactured by this world-renowned power tools company. This is a perfect accessory for those who need to complete different types of projects simultaneously. The super dado set is suitable for cutting a wide range of materials.
This 8-inch dado set comes with two outer blades, 6 chippers, and a shim set as well. They also provide necessary tips and tricks for basic woodcutting. Chipboard, hardwood, softwood, and plywood are only some of the materials it can work with.
Surprisingly, these blades deliver the same level of performance on all of these materials. Even after you complete different tasks every day, the blades still retain their efficiency. Each of the blades is made of Hi-density carbide and titanium. Needless to say, it’s one of the best dado blades on this list.
The high-quality material provides a sharper cutting edge to the blades. No matter which type of wood you cut, the end result is also impeccable. The smoothness achieved by this is the blade is often undisputable. What makes it so formidable are its 24 perfectly placed teeth.
They help you achieve clean cuts and flat grooves. This blade is so accurate that you only need one cut to get your desired result. It eliminates the need for repeated passes for an even finish. The final cuts are clean and splinter-free. Even better, this super dado set is compatible with all radial arms and table saws.
And the anti-kickback design reduces the risk of unwanted accidents at the workplace. This dado set might be a little expensive but is surely worth the investment.
Suggested reading: Top Cant Hooks Tested by Professionals.
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9. Oshlun SBJ-0830 8 Inch Dado Blade Set
Speaking of dado blades, this 8-inch dado blade set is one to look forward to. This is not only easy to set up but also comes with a specific set of instructions. These instructions will help you assemble the blade in no time. This is particularly helpful for the amateurs to learn the tricks of the trade.
The blade set is also affordable yet as efficient as any other model on this list. It’s a great start-up option for DIY enthusiasts. What really surprised me about this tool is its precision. This 8-inch blade will serve you well if you’re looking to make precision box joints.
Moreover, the blade is undeniably sharp and can effectively slice through any type of wood within a short amount of time. This allows you to cut wood in two different sizes – 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch.
The numerous teeth on this blade provide smooth cuts with no uneven residue. Square notches and fingers are also achievable.
On top of that, the dado blade comes with C-4 micro grain tungsten carbide tips that make it more formidable. The carbide tips offer more fluid operation and also keep the blades sharp for longer. Whether it’s hardwood or softwood, cutting through is as easy as cutting butter.
They are even equipped with stainless steel shims that allow you to adjust the thickness of the joints. This will prove immensely beneficial when you have an exact measurement to follow. Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about storing this item as it comes in a unique storage box that you can carry with you.
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10. Amana Tool 658040 Carbide Tipped Dado Set
The following dado set includes an 8-inch dado blade that is considered the best for table saws. This is due to the 46 teeth on this blade that make woodcutting an absolute breeze. Once you equip this blade on your table saw, you’ll be making precision joints more swiftly and accurately.
Furthermore, the high number of teeth on this blade offers a smooth and even finish with less visible splinters. You’ll be making cleaner joints much faster than you ever could. These blades also have a negative hook angle of 5 degrees, which further contributes to the smoothness of the end product.
You’ll rarely get such a productive tool at a low price like this. Unlike most cheap tools on the market, this dado blade set tends to last a long time. They are made of a highly durable material that will wear out much slower than most blades. Moreover, this 8-inch blade works well with several wood types.
Veneered polywood, hardwood, and melamine are only some of the materials you can work on. None of these wood types stand a chance against its micro-grain carbide tips. It protects the blade from imminent damage, and also requires less effort to operate efficiently.
Even though it’s a powerful tool, they barely make any sound while operating. This enables you to maintain a calm and peaceful environment in your workplace and helps you focus on the task. Due to its various features, this dado blade set is recommended for DIY and professionals alike.
For increased stability, the manufacturers have also added laser cut expansion slots. This will ensure that the blades don’t move out of place and cause any severe accidents.
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11. Freud SD308 8 Inch 22T Safety Dado Set
If you’re looking for a sharp blade for splinter-free dadoes, this 22 teeth dado set is perfect for you. The main priority of these blades is to make dadoes and grooves with fully even edges. You’ll be gladly amazed by the end result more often than not. It’s a suitable tool for aspiring woodworkers.
The set consists of two razor-sharp outer blades that can cut through any type of wood with utmost precision. Not only are they fast, but they also cut dadoes with a clean and flat bottom. There is a minimal presence of splinters, if any, and the workplace remains relatively clean as well.
It only takes one try for the blade to show its accuracy, so repeated cuts will become a thing of the past. This blade set is also safer as it has an anti-kickback feature that reduces the risk of perilous accidents. It also includes two wing chippers that constantly keep the debris out of your way.
Due to its wide range of features, this dado blade is capable of cutting different types of materials. Thus, you don’t need to pay for more than one blade for different tasks at hand. This dado set will serve you for several years to come. Each blade consists of micro-grain carbide tips that protect them from harm.
It also discards the hassle of sharpening the blade over and over again. They have also applied an ICE coating that prevents the buildup of debris on the blade. This is what keeps the blade running for longer than usual. All in all, it’s a product worth investing on.
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How to Choose the Best One?
There are some dado blades with features that might seem appealing at first, but they might not be suitable for you. Thus, it’s unwise to purchase without considering some key factors beforehand. These features will allow you to understand what type of dado blade you really need.
Type of Blade
The main factor to consider when buying a dado blade is its accuracy. There are different types of dado blades, each with their individual purpose. A wobble blade is usually a cheaper option but doesn’t offer high accuracy. They are suitable if you’re just a beginner.
However, a stack dado blade is more accurate. It enables you to cut the different sizes of grooves and apply a smooth finish. You will rarely need to apply repeated cuts to get the expected results. Stacked dado blades are usually expensive.
Compatibility
The dado blade you wish to buy should be corresponding to the type of saw you’re using. For example, a blade that’s compatible with a table saw might not fit in a radial arm saw. Most blades are compatible with all types of saws, but the standard speed of the blade may differ.
You need to check if the standard speed is compatible with your saw. On the other hand, some table saws don’t have a long enough arbor to fully support a dado blade set. Forcibly attaching the dado blade anyway will be a fool’s errand. You should rather try to cut one side of the dado first by aligning the fence.
Once you’re done, readjust the fence to finish cutting the dado.
Size
The size of a dado blade is not as important for its accuracy as you might think. Nevertheless, you should keep mind that a bigger dado blade will need more power to operate. 8-inch dado blades, like the ones mentioned above, can make almost all types of grooves.
A 6 inch blade would be more suitable for a low powered saw. 10 and 12-inch blades are ideally used for industrial purposes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dado blades illegal?
Yes, in some countries, dado blades are illegal. Countries such as the UK prohibit the use of dado blades require the guard and riving knife to be removed. This can often create a safety hazard that can lead to severe accidents. Some European countries shorten the arbors on their table saws to prevent the use of dado blades.
- What can you do with a dado blade?
A dado blade is a type of circular saw blade that can be equipped on a table saw, or radial arm saw to cut different grooves or dadoes in the woodworking. There are two basic types of dado blades – wobble blades and stacked dado blades.
- Will an 8-inch dado blade work on a 10-inch table saw?
It is possible to fit an 8 inch dado blade on a 10 inch table saw. The arbor diameter of the table saw should be identical to the arbor hole on the stacked dado blade. And if the arbor is long enough, you attach an 8 inch dado blade.
- What is the difference between a dado and a groove?
Dadoes and grooves have similar properties and are therefore called slots as well. However, one should not be mistaken as the other as they do have their differences. A groove is usually milled with the grain, whereas a dado is milled across the grain.
- Why is it called a dado?
In architecture, the word dado stands for the lower part of the wall. It is located below the dado rail and above the skirting board. The word comes from the Italian meaning dice or cube and often refers to the word die. In architecture, this word means the middle portion of a pedestal or plinth
Conclusion
By now you probably know all the details about picking the best dado blades and have already made up your mind. Don’t forget to keep the key factors in mind to make you’re making the right decision. Once you buy your blade, try to take all the necessary precautions before you start cutting those dadoes.
