Carbide-Tipped Dry Cutting Blades for Mild Steel: A Complete Guide
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is for metalworkers, welders, fabricators, and contractors using low-RPM saws to cut mild steel. These blades are not compatible with woodworking saws or abrasive chop saws.
⚠️ Not compatible with high-RPM woodworking saws or abrasive wheels. These tools run 3,000–5,000 RPM and will damage a dry cut blade instantly. Check your saw before using these blades!
Designed for use on machines operating between 1,200 and 1,800 RPM. See common compatible models below:
| Saw Model | Blade Size | RPM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makita LC1230 | 12" | 1,300 | Most popular 12" dry cut saw |
| MK Morse Metal Devil NXT | 12" | ~1,300 | Heavy-duty steel cutting |
| Jepson 9430 | 12" | ~1,400 | European 12" metal saw |
| Evolution RAGE2 | 12" | ~1,450 | Entry-level dry cut saw |
| DeWalt DW872 (with 12" blade) | 12" | 1,300 | Can run 12" or 14" blades |
| Fein Slugger (12" model) | 12" | ~1,300 | Available in EU or select regions |
| Milwaukee CHS 355 | 12" | ~1,300 | Discontinued but still in circulation |
| Evolution S380CPS | 14" | 1,450 | Flagship 14" steel saw |
| DeWalt DW872 | 14" | 1,300 | Versatile, long-running saw |
| Milwaukee 6177-20 | 14" | 1,500 | Reliable shop saw |
| Morse CSM14MB | 14" | 1,300 | Durable, cool cutting |
| Metabo CS 23-355 | 14" | 1,300 | Industrial-grade saw |
| FEIN Slugger MCCS14 | 14" | 1,300 | Premium German saw |
| Jepson 9435 | 14" | 1,400 | Jepson’s 14" flagship |
What Makes These Blades Different
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Key Benefits
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1. Cuts Cooler
These blades generate minimal heat and produce fewer sparks than abrasive wheels, leaving a workable finish right off the saw.
2. Cuts Faster
Designed to maintain speed and control through thick and thin steel materials.
3. Lasts Longer
Can outlast abrasive wheels and lower-tier carbide blades by up to 20x, depending on the application.
4. Cuts Accurately
The rigid blade body reduces deflection and "walking," resulting in clean, straight cuts you can rely on.
5. Safer Operation
No blade shattering or high-speed friction risks like abrasive saws. Stable cutting with reduced kickback.
6. Lower Maintenance
Blades stay sharper longer, reducing downtime and the need for frequent replacements.
7. More Cost Efficient
Higher upfront cost is offset by long-term savings in blade life, speed, and reduced waste.
Blade Life & Maintenance Tips
- Use within recommended RPM range
- Clean the blade regularly to remove buildup
- Avoid forcing the material
- Store in a dry, controlled space
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these blades on a woodworking saw?
No. These blades are designed for use on low-RPM metal cutting saws only (1,200–2,400 RPM). Woodworking saws run at much higher speeds (3,000–5,000 RPM) and will damage the blade or create unsafe cutting conditions.
What materials can I cut with these blades?
These blades are specifically engineered for mild steel and structural steel materials like tubing, angle iron, and flat bar.
What blade sizes are available?
We offer 12" and 14" carbide-tipped blades. The 12" blade has a max RPM of 2,000, and the 14" blade has a max RPM of 1,800.
How long do these blades last?
Blade life depends on your application, material, and cutting technique. That said, they can last up to 20 times longer than abrasive wheels in comparable conditions.
How do I know if my saw is compatible?
Check your saw’s RPM rating (typically listed on the tool or in the manual). It must fall within the 1,200–2,400 RPM range. We've listed common compatible models above.
Do these blades leave a clean finish?
Yes. Our blades cut cooler and cleaner, often eliminating the need for secondary operations like grinding or sanding.
Can these blades be sharpened?
Technically yes, but we do not recommend it. These blades use tight tangential and radial angles on the teeth that are difficult to reproduce accurately. Sharpening reduces side clearance, which increases friction and heat buildup—significantly reducing blade life (up to half). Our pricing is structured so that sharpening typically isn’t cost-effective compared to replacement.
Ready to Upgrade Your Cuts?
Browse our full lineup of carbide-tipped dry cutting blades for mild steel to find the right fit for your saw. Have questions? Contact us—we’re happy to help.