How to understand classification of scroll saw blades

[Ash]

Hi all,

Hope all is well at your end.

As I always mention that I am a beginner in the world of scroll saw and this is the reason why my questions here are very basic. They are so elementary that it me sound stupid to people with your level of experience. I am sorry for that.

So this time I am really confused about the different sizes of blades. I read number of different classifications online and know about the types. I also know that there are different sizes but i don't understand the way they write it - like Skip Reverse Blade Size 3 R. what is "R" stands for?  Is there any size 2 blade too because I have seen that only few times during my online research. 

Please help me with this.

Thanks in advance.

Regards.
Ash

Edited December 8, 2018 by Ash

[Foxfold]

This might help some. http://www.sheilalandrydesigns.com/articles/scroll-saw-blade-selection

 

[trackman]

Never apologize for asking a question. No one was born a expert (though some may think they did) so all had to ask a question now an again.  Welcome ask away!

[Woodmaster1]

   Here is a chart that might help. The second page did not appear. Search for the Olson blade chart.

olson-scrollblade-chart.pdf

Edited December 8, 2018 by Woodmaster1

[Bill WIlson]

Please don't be concerned about asking basic questions.  This is a friendly place and all questions are welcome.

You aren't the first to be confused by the blade designations and descriptions, so don't feel bad about it.

First keep in mind that the blade numbering system is not universal among manufacturers.  A #3 reverse tooth blade from one manufacturer may not be exactly the same size as a #3 revere tooth blade from a different manufacturer.  How's that for confusing?  We're only talking thousands of an inch difference, but it is important to note.  Think of it in relative terms.  The smaller the number, the smaller the blade.  If a blade size is indicated with a 0, such as a 2/0. this is smaller than a #2.  Each manufacturer will list the dimensions and TPI (teeth per inch) count in their descriptions, so you can always determine just how large each blade is.

The "R" in a description usually denotes a reverse tooth blade, as opposed to a skip tooth blade.  There are several types of tooth configurations and again, not all manufacturers will use the same system to describe them, so it's important to read their detailed descriptions, which can be usually found on the supplier's website and/or catalog.  They often include pictures of the tooth configuration to help.  The Skip Reverse tooth blade you refer to is one that has larger spaces between the teeth, like a conventional skip tooth blade, but also has some reverse teeth on the bottom.

I know Olson brand has a #2 reverse tooth blade.  I don't think Flying Dutchman does.  Again, if it is really important, take note of the actual dimensions for an exact comparison of blade sizes.

Hope this helps.

[Rolf]

Bill is spot on with his explanation. I will repeat a bit here.

Here is a copy of the most comprehensive blade chart that I have come across.

Unfortunately the "universal blade numbers" such as 2/0 r or just a simple blade number #3 is not the same for all manufacturers.  You really need to look at the number of teeth per inch (TPI) when making a comparison.  An example  a 2/0 R pegas blade with 13 TPI or a 2/0 R blade with 28 TPI will cut very differently in speed and control ability. 

SS_BLADE_CHART_2-22-2013.pdf

[Scrappile]

Deciding on blades was the hardest part of scrolling for me.  I ended up buying a verity pack of Flying Dutchman.  Tried different sizes and tooth configurations out and that got me in the ball park of what I liked best.  Several years later, I have some favorites, but I also like to buy different ones to try.  Sometimes I end up with a new favorite.

[Rockytime]

Beginners keep the Village interesting.When very basic questions are asked there are usually many answers provided.I always find the answers interesting and usually learn something new.