Blade Kerf
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionKerf is the width of the cut a blade makes, measured in fractions of an inch. A standard full-kerf circular saw blade cuts about 1/8-inch (0.125") wide. A thin-kerf blade cuts around 3/32-inch (0.094"). The difference matters because a thinner kerf removes less material, needs less motor power, and wastes less wood. Thin-kerf blades work well on cordless saws where you want to conserve battery. Full-kerf blades are stiffer and deflect less on long rip cuts.
Why It Matters
On a cordless circular saw, a thin-kerf blade can stretch your battery 15 to 20% further per charge. On a corded or table saw with plenty of power, full-kerf gives you a straighter cut with less wobble on long rips.