Not all jigsaw blades are made equal, and if you’ve ever tried using a wood blade to cut metal, you know what we mean. Whether you’re ripping through timber, chasing curves in laminate, or cutting into tiles or fibre cement, you need the right blade to get the job done clean and fast. These versatile blades can handle a range of applications in carpentry work, construction jobs, automotive tasks and more.
We’ve got blades for every material and every type of cut. Scroll through, pick the right teeth, and get the right gear at the best price. Plus, with brands you trust like Makita, Milwaukee and Bosch, jigsaw blades have never been better.
Jigsaw blades FAQ
What are the different types of jigsaw blades?
There are a few main jigsaw blade types, and the one you pick really depends on what material you're cutting and how clean you want the finish.
Here's a quick breakdown of the different materials used in jigsaw blades:
High carbon steel (HCS): This is a flexible and inexpensive option, great for cutting softwood, plastic, and soft materials.
High-speed steel (HSS): Harder and more heat-resistant than HCS, it’s the better option for metal and firmer plastics.
Bi-metal: A power combo of HCS and HSS, it’s durable, versatile, and knows its way around curves. Use it to cut wood, metal, and resist breakage.
Carbide grit/tungsten carbide: Best for abrasive materials like ceramic, tile, cement board. This one doesn’t have teeth and cuts by grinding.
Diamond grit: Coated with industrial diamond particles bonded to a steel blade. Use a diamond jigsaw blade for clean cuts and longevity when tackling brittle and abrasive materials.
Shank type is also something to look out for. T-shank blades make up the majority, and are used on most high quality jigsaws these days. These have replaced the older style U-shank blades that often needed a screwdriver or specialised tool to change.
Choosing the right blade makes the job easier, gives you a cleaner cut, and saves your gear from unnecessary wear, so take the time to consider what you need.
How do I know which jigsaw blade to use?
When choosing a jigsaw blade, ask yourself what material you’re cutting, the type of cut you want, and your jigsaw’s compatibility with the blade. For a fast cut, go for a wide blade and low TPI (teeth per inch). If you’re after a clean cut though, you’ll need fine teeth, and a higher TPI.
Here are the main types of blades for different materials to help you decide:
Wood-cutting blades: These have larger, widely spaced teeth to cut through timber quickly. Great for rough cuts and framing.
Metal-cutting blades: These have finer teeth designed to cut through metal like steel or aluminium. You’ll want to run the jigsaw slower for these.
Ceramic/tile blades: These are toothless with a fine diamond or carbide grit for a clean finish
Laminate jigsaw blades: These have a reverse-tooth or fine-tooth design to avoid chipping in a variety of laminate finishes.
Fibre cement jigsaw blades: Often made from tungsten carbide, the teeth are widely spaced. They’re also highly durable, which means they won’t wear out quickly from silica-heavy dust
Once you know which blade you need, go for a quality brand so you know it’ll last. With everything from Bosch to Makita jigsaw blades, we’ve got you covered with blades designed for professional tradies or avid DIYers who know their stuff.
Need more advice? Head into your local Tool Kit Depot for recommendations.
Can I use a metal jigsaw blade to cut wood?
While you can use a metal jigsaw blade to cut wood, it's not ideal. Jigsaw blades for wood have lower TPI, which means quick cuts, so the finer teeth in metal jig saw blades means the job’ll take a lot longer. Blades designed for metal are also stiffer, which means they’ll be less forgiving on curves. The cut you’ll get is another factor to keep in mind, as the higher heat from the teeth is going to potentially burn the wood. Even if you manage a smooth cut, it won’t look that great!
That said, you can make a judgement call. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
When it’s okay:
You're cutting very thin wood or small, precise areas
You want a very clean, fine cut
You don’t have a wood blade available temporarily
You're cutting composite materials with both wood and plastic/metal layers (e.g., laminated panels)
When to pick up a wood jigsaw instead:
For fast, rough cuts
On thick or softwood
When cutting curves (metal blades are usually too rigid or fine)
If you're concerned about burn marks or excessive wear
Shop online or visit your nearest Tool Kit Depot for blades that cut perfectly, every time!
