7 Best Dado Blade Sets Of 2021 [Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide]
People in the woodworking business look for three things while choosing a tool – power, precision, and durability. But the latest dado blade sets offer all this and more, making them the go-to products for DIY enthusiasts. We were surprised by the many quality additions allowing you to adjust the width and cutting depth depending […] The post 7 Best Dado Blade Sets Of 2021 [Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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People in the woodworking business look for three things while choosing a tool – power, precision, and durability.
But the latest dado blade sets offer all this and more, making them the go-to products for DIY enthusiasts. We were surprised by the many quality additions allowing you to adjust the width and cutting depth depending on the type of task.
Moreover, the high rpm and durable teeth permit users to complete work quickly. Speaking of durability, most models undergo heat-treatment while featuring a carbide construction for long-lasting performance.
There’s much more to like about it, but before that, we need to answer an important question. How do you choose the best dado blade set from the numerous options available out there? We’ve narrowed down seven premium-quality models and added a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision.
So, without further ado, let’s get to work.
Top Dado Blade Sets
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick | Mibro Dado Blade Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Freud Dado Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | DEWALT Dado Blade Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Oshlun Dado Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | IRWIN Dado Blade Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Amana Tool Dado Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Porter-Cable Dado Blade |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
While looking at dado blades, this set from Mibro immediately caught our attention. So what makes it special? Well, its components feature a sturdy construction complemented by a terrific slot width, ensuring that it’s one of the top models in the market.
- Cuts smooth and precise grooves with clean edges, square...
- Set includes two 8" outer blades, five two-wing chippers and...
- Slot widths range from 1/4" to 13/16", in 1/16" increments
- Carbide tooth blades and chippers feature negative hook...
Why Did We Like It?
First things first, this set is available in two different packs, and obviously, the price varies accordingly. But irrespective of your choice, the engineers have manufactured a tool with precise grooves and clean edges for smooth cuts. Similarly, the square shoulders and flat bottom proves useful in delivering the desired results.
Now, what are the components available with it? You’ll notice that it has two 8-inch outer blades supported by five two-wing chippers and seven metal shims. All three components work together, allowing you to make fine adjustments, which allow your projects to stand out.
We loved the slot width range varying from ¼ inches to 13/16 inches, with 1/16-inch increments for greater versatility. Also, the carbide-tooth blade and chippers come with negative hook angles, preventing splintering that makes it suitable for various tasks.
Finally, the designers have added a sturdy case complete with internal dividers to store all the components safely.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The only gripe we’ve is that the flat bottom cuts need improvement. You won’t face any problems while cutting through thicker materials, but occasionally, the accuracy in the flat bottom cuts leaves a lot to be desired. This is why users may have second thoughts before purchasing this set.
- Impressive slot width
- Seven metal shims
- Negative hook angles
- Sturdy case
- Square shoulders
- Occasionally falters during flat bottom cuts
Looking at the name, you might wonder whether we intend on journeying into the depths of our subconscious. But rest assured, we’re here to talk about a fantastic dado blade set that shares its name with the famous Austrian neurologist. Now that we’ve piqued your interest let’s take a closer look at what this product offers.
- 6" Dado Set, 5/8" Arbor
- Set includes 2 blades, 3 chippers, spacers, shim set and...
- Negative hook angles
- Features Premium TiCo HI-Density Carbide Crosscutting Blend...
Why Did We Like It?
This multicolored tool has been making all the right noise, thanks to its 6-inch blades and ⅝-inch arbor. So, it’s suitable for most tasks, ensuring that you can work from various angles for the best output. In that regard, users will love that the manufacturers have added all the relevant components, meaning there’s no need for additional purchases.
As seen with other units, the Freud Dado Set also comes with two blades, three chippers, and a shim set. Along with that, you’ll find spacers for improved precision, giving it an edge over other products. And with the durable carrying case, storing the components is easier than ever.
What’s more, the negative hook angles add to the versatility, allowing you to make clean cuts without any splintering. Thus, the silver ICE coating on the blades prevents overheating and reduces debris build-up, keeping the blades in top condition for long-lasting performance.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although there’s not much wrong with this blade set, the chart provided by the manufacturer is inaccurate. The chart tells users which components to use for the desired width and precise output. So, any negligence on their part could prove costly, especially for first-time users, causing user-experience to take a hit.
- Shim set
- Spacers
- Durable carrying case
- Negative hook angles
- Silver ICE coating
- Inaccurate chart
- Challenging for first-time users
DEWALT is a well-known brand that has made significant strides in developing user-friendly tools. Not surprisingly, this dado blade set promises precise output, making it highly popular in the market. It’s worth the investment and will be an excellent addition to your tool shed.
- Heavy gauge, laser cut plates provide true, accurate cuts
- Micro-grain carbide teeth deliver clean cuts and reduce...
- 4-tooth chippers give smooth, flat bottom cuts
- Stainless steel shims allow for ultra-fine width adjustments
Why Did We Like It?
We’ll begin by discussing the stainless-steel construction, proving convenient for several reasons. Firstly, the durable design guarantees reliability, ensuring it doesn’t break down in the middle of work to produce consistent output daily. Also, despite its sturdy construction, the engineers have done well to reduce the weight for greater maneuverability.
Furthermore, the heavy-gauge laser-cut plates come in handy for making fast yet accurate cuts. So, it’s suitable for working on different projects, highlighting its incredible efficiency. Another noteworthy aspect is its micro-grain carbide-teeth blades that help reduce splintering.
Moving on, we found that the 4-tooth chippers prove ideal for smooth performance, allowing you to work on flat-bottom cuts. But that’s not all, as the stainless-steel shims improve range, permitting users to make intricate width adjustments.
Lastly, we must mention the robust storage case that keeps the blades safe from damage and chipped teeth.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We came across a couple of minor issues that need mention. The shims have a burr on their edges, meaning you’ll need to stone them flat before working. Secondly, one or two of the chipper teeth might be unaligned, which is frustrating and could be a deal-breaker for perfectionists.
- 4-tooth chippers
- Robust storage case
- Ultra-fine width adjustments
- Weighs 9.8 pounds
- Prevents splintering
- Shims have burr edges
- Unaligned chipper teeth
We’re at the halfway point in our guide, but the quality products keep coming. Our next recommendation is the Oshlun Dado Set that has 42 teeth and carbide C-4 blades for a powerful performance. No wonder customers are rubbing their hands in glee and can’t wait to try out its functions.
- Professional grade C-4 carbide
- Full body chippers
- Precision ground carbide tips
- Storage/Carrying Case
Why Did We Like It?
Let’s start by looking at the blades before discussing it’s other features. The professional-grade C-4 carbide blades have 42 teeth, making them ideal for cutting through most materials with ease. Hence, you can quickly complete work without compromising on precision, thanks to the carefully designed carbide tips.
We loved the full body chippers, reducing effort while improving accuracy, permitting you to work for extended periods. But despite its many components, this is a lightweight model weighing barely 9.94 pounds. Meaning users can work from different angles and maneuver the blades according to the type of task.
What’s more, the shim set allows you to carry out fine adjustments to make your projects stand out. In that regard, the 8-inch diameter, supported by the ⅝-inch arbor and six chipper teeth, comes in handy for delivering the best results.
Finally, the carrying case keeps the components damage-free for long-lasting performance.
What Could’ve Been Better?
If we’ve to nitpick, we would say that it cuts slightly wider on plywood. This error is seen with the instruction manual as it fails to highlight the maximum slot width when working on different materials. On the other hand, if the width had been narrower, adding a shim would have solved the issue.
- Fast
- Accurate
- Weighs 9.94 pounds
- Efficient shim set
- ⅝-inch arbor
- Inaccurate chart
- Slightly wider cuts on plywood
Another unit that has ticked most of the right boxes is this IRWIN Dado Blade set. The striking aspect is its lightweight design supported by 12 carbide teeth, generating fantastic output in most situations. Plus, the designers have included the relevant components, ensuring it has most bases covered.
- Designed for making tongue and groove cuts, Rabbets and...
- Resharpenable oversized carbide
- Cuts grooves from 1/4" to 7/8"
- Heat-resistant non-stick coating
Why Did We Like It?
DIY enthusiasts looking for variety will love working with this IRWIN Dado Blade Set. And, thanks to its innovative design, users can make tongue and groove cuts with ease. On top of that, you can focus on Rabbets and Shelving for table saws or radial arm saws as well.
The blade has 12 teeth taking the overall weight of the model to a mere 1.8 pounds. However, more importantly, these carbide teeth are resharpenable, ensuring that their oversized nature doesn’t lead to wear and tear. As a result, users can make cuts ranging from ¼ inches to ⅞ inches without any hassle.
Furthermore, the heat-resistant and non-stick coating enhances longevity for reliability in your tasks. All the components, including its two outer blades, three chippers, three spacers, and seven shims, deliver consistent output. They won’t break down suddenly and can withstand various internal and external conditions.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We should tell you that working with this model isn’t without its concerns. Users have reported that as the blades cut through, metal slivers fly in your direction. Consequently, these get stuck in the skin, causing bleeding and cuts, so you need to wear protective gear like gloves and goggles.
- Heat-resistant
- Non-stick coating
- Three chippers
- Two outer blades
- Three spacers
- Releases metal slivers
- Protective gear is a must
The Amana Tool Dado Set is an industrial-grade high-performing product, and users have taken a liking to its state-of-the-art construction. It’s a common occurrence on most wish lists, receiving a positive response from customers. As a result, it has generated substantial buzz in the market.
- (D) diameter: 8 (200mm)
- Teeth: 24
- (D) Bore: 5/8
- Tooth grind: Hi-ATB
Why Did We Like It?
Right off the bat, the 4-wing chippers prove ideal for cutting dadoes, grooves, and tenons, highlighting the versatility of this model. As a result, it delivers smooth and accurate flat-bottom cuts along the grain, making it the preferred unit for DIY enthusiasts.
The significant addition is that of the anti-kickback design, providing stability and preventing overfeed for smooth performance. Moving on, the steel plates, along with their D-10 carbide teeth, allow users to get precise output, thanks to the ATB grind geometric construction. This ensures it can remove chips with ease while lasting a long time for the best results.
Other than that, you can increase the cutting width by 1/32 inches when needed with help from the shim set. Therefore, your work won’t be hampered by ragged edges or tear-outs, making it a highly dependable unit.
Besides, we must mention the six interior chippers ranging from ⅛ inches to 29/32 inches, offering more variety during your tasks.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite Amana solving issues related to accuracy, the chippers might be unaligned, which isn’t ideal. This issue also plagues other models, and understandably, you’ll have problems getting flat-bottom grooves. Other than that, the chipper width isn’t visible, meaning you’ll have to mark it for future reference.
- ATB grind geometric design
- Longevity
- Shim set
- No ragged edges
- Six interior chippers
- Occasionally chipper might be unaligned
- Chipper width isn’t visible
Another top brand that has left a mark on customers is Porter-Cable, with its latest dado blade set generating a positive response. Not only does it offer one of the highest RPMs going around, but the blades produce precise output, making this model a favorite for buyers. We assure you won’t be disappointed.
- Adjustable to cut dadoes 3/16", 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"...
- Precision sharpened Carbide teeth
- Max RPM: 7000
Why Did We Like It?
If you’re looking for a versatile model, it doesn’t get better than what Porter-Cable offers. Having been in the market long enough, this brand has now developed a dado blade set that’s adjustable to a wide range of configurations. And the cutting width ranging from 3/16 inches to 13/16 inches delivers the desired performance in most tasks.
What’s more, this lightweight model produces 7000 rpm, producing unmatched speed and allowing you to quickly complete work. But that doesn’t mean the engineers have neglected other aspects like accuracy and longevity. In that regard, the precision sharpened blades deliver consistent output permitting users to make clean cuts.
Also, there’s no need to worry about splintering with the ⅝-inch arbor coming in handy. You can work on various materials like plywood, hardwood, softwood, and melamine, leading to its increasing popularity. Finally, this is a corded model, meaning the power supply doesn’t fluctuate, making it highly efficient.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Unlike other models, hand size plays a vital part in determining whether you can use this unit for the desired purpose. If you’ve large hands, it might be difficult to maneuver this dado blade set. It’s unlikely you’ll get the hang of it, so don’t be hasty while making the purchase.
- Corded electric power source
- Improved cutting width
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Precision sharpened blades
- Not suitable for small-sized hands
Dado Blade Sets Buyer’s Guide
The product reviews are over, but there’s no time to waste as we’ve arrived at a critical juncture in our guide. Let’s progress to the buyer’s guide, where we’ll be discussing the essential attributes of dado blade sets.
Are you ready with your notepads? Then, let’s begin.
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Durability
At the very outset, we’ve to mention durability because it offers reliability for you to work uninterrupted. Most of the products on our list feature a carbide construction coupled with silver coating and heat-resistant design for the best results.
Also, the sturdy case keeps the components in top shape for long-lasting performance.
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Power
Next, let’s talk about power owing to which users can complete work quickly. You can also operate the dado blade set on different materials like plywood and softwood without compromising on accuracy.
Moreover, certain models are corded-electric, delivering a steady supply of power for consistent output.
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Ease of Use
Another important factor is user-friendliness, allowing users to work for extended periods while experimenting from various angles. The unit must be easily maneuverable, ensuring it’s suitable for first-time users and professionals alike.
Verdict
Those were our picks of the best dado blade sets, and, hopefully, the guide was interesting and informative.
Do you feel like you’ve developed a better understanding of this tool? Well, if the answer is no, there’s no need to worry as we’ve decided to offer additional help before signing off. First and foremost, feel free to refer to the buyer’s guide for any confusion between top models.
If that doesn’t solve the issue, we’ve highlighted our favorite products in different categories for your benefit. After a lot of thought, we feel that the Mibro Dado Blade Set is a complete unit, providing the perfect blend of power and precision.
Apart from that, Freud Dado Set has cemented a place among the top products with innovative additions and improved versatility. That’s all the time we’ve got, but we’ll be back with more exciting product reviews.
Till then, take care and bye!
The post 7 Best Dado Blade Sets Of 2021 [Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
