Thin Kerf Blades: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Reduced Material Waste:
  The thinner blade removes less material (narrower kerf), resulting in less sawdust and more usable wood per cut.

• Improved Performance on Lower Horsepower Saws:
  Requires less power to cut, making it ideal for saws under 3HP where full-kerf blades may bog down.

⚠️ Cons:

• Reduced Stability:
  The thinner plate can flex more easily, especially in dense or thick material. A blade stabilizer is often recommended for cleaner, more accurate cuts.

• Riving Knife Compatibility:
  Standard riving knives are typically too thick for thin kerf blades. For safety and alignment, it's important to use a thin kerf-compatible riving knife (e.g., Harvey RF-22 Thin Kerf Riving Knife).

Always verify that your blade and riving knife are properly matched to maintain both cut quality and operator safety.