▼EXPAND THIS SECTION FOR IMPORTANT INFO/LINKS▼ *Tools used in this video:* - My favorite dado set (Use coupon code SNWJ10): ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/dado-sets/products/8-x-24t-x-5-hk-x-8-pc-x-4t-chipper-dado-master - Magnetic Shims: ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/accessories/products/magnetic-dado-shim-set - Dado set holder: ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/accessories/products/blade-runner-storage-case *Some other useful links:* - Tips for setting up and using a dado set: ua-cam.com/video/KPYXUe1q9yM/v-deo.html - Why not use a 10-inch dado set?: ua-cam.com/video/ioyobsgaYUA/v-deo.html ★THIS VIDEO WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY★ Ridge Carbide's Premium Saw blades (Use coupon code SNWJ10): goo.gl/z8TP0k *Please help support us by using the link above for a quick look around!* (If you use one of these affiliate links, we may receive a small commission) -More videos on our website: stumpynubs.com/ -Subscribe to our e-Magazine: stumpynubs.com/browse-and-subscribe/ -Check out our project plans: stumpynubs.com/product-category/plans/ -Instagram: instagram.com/stumpynubs/ -Twitter: twitter.com/StumpyNubs ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHEAP TOOLS★ -123 Blocks: lddy.no/vpij -Mechanical Pencils: amzn.to/2PA7bwK -Lumber pencil: amzn.to/2QtwZjv -Pocket Measuring Tape: amzn.to/2kNTlI9 -Irwin Drill Bit Gauge: amzn.to/2AwTkQg -Nut/Bolt/Screw Gauge: amzn.to/2CuvxSK -Self-Centering Punch: amzn.to/2QvbcrC -Self-Centering Bits: amzn.to/2xs71UW -Angle Cube: lddy.no/10nam -Steel Ruler: lddy.no/10mv7 -Utility knife: amzn.to/3nfhIiv -Center-Finding Ruler: lddy.no/10nak -Bit & Blade Cleaner: amzn.to/2TfvEOI -Digital depth gauge: amzn.to/3mwRf2x -Wood Glue: amzn.to/3mqek6M -Spade Bits: amzn.to/3j8XPtD
It would be awesome if Ridge Carbide shipped outside of the US and Canada.. I'd love to get one of these, but I'm on the other side of the Pacific.. Would my only option be to have it shipped to a friend in San Diego and for them to pass it on..?
He’s a good teacher and example because he explains the ideas behind his selections or applications, and justifies them using experience and reason. He would be an excellent cook, or painter, or surgeon. He is sharing principals as he understands them, and them carefully shows the audience how applying these principals work.
James, I truly appreciate how you clearly and patiently explain the entirety of the subject matter you’re covering in each video, and how you haven’t resorted to hyperbole and clickbait titles and facial expressions on the thumbnails to try and attract viewers. I think the majority of your audience would agree with me, and it’s rare to find on UA-cam. Mille grazia for another great episode!
Maybe I missed where he explained why it might be illegal in other countries, but I didn't hear it. It was why I clicked on the video and I feel clickbaited.
I very much like the way you say "for me". When I am selling discs (disc golf discs) at my store, I'm often asked for "the best disc". But I can only provide them with "the best disc for them".
In Germany dado blades are not generally forbidden, but for some years now, all new table saws are required to come to a full stop within 3 seconds after power-off, so they have a brake on the shaft. Because of the higher mass compared to a standard sawblade, this can cause the nut which holds the blades to come lose, therefore many manufacturers write in their manuals that the use of dado blades on those particular machines is not allowed. If you're a hobbyist, nobody will bother you for using dado blades, but if you're a professional, maybe even with employees, you only should use them on machines that are meant to handle them (you don't wanna get caught and pay a fee of thousands of €s). Greetings from Germany, Marcus
Used a Freud dado set for years but was unhappy with not smooth bottoms on the cut. Finally bought the Oshlun 8" dado set two months back and love it. 42 teeth on the outer blades, 6 teeth on each of the 6 chippers (four 1/8 blades and then a 1/16" and a 3/32" blade. I had purchased the magnetic shims previously. All of the blades have a positive rake. The Freud set has a negative rake. The Oshlun outperforms my old set by a mile. Just cut a 3/4" rabbet in a hickory backsplash and was amazed at the ease of cut and the cleanliness of the bottom, almost polished. As always, thank you for the advice and the professional presentation.
I watched this video wanting to find a better dado solution. Over the years I’ve had several, wobble, stacked steel, cheaper carbide. They all sucked. I finally finished restoring my 40’s Unisaw and bought the dado recommended here. Game changer! I’m in the process of building some doors for a historical structure and this will make the tenons so much cleaner. Thank you!
I wanted a Ridge Carbide set but they were all sold out when I was in the market, so I ended up buying a DeWalt set. Honestly had no idea what to expect, but the reviews were great. I have been very very happy with the set. It includes all the shims you would need, a 3/32 chipper, and leaves a very clean finish.
Well now maybe you understand why I asked you about which way to look when needing a dado set! Thanks again for the info stumpy! Buying my first house! Moving in in 2 weeks!
Well, you once again have taught me something. Those magnetic shims look like they would be the bomb! I've only seen the metal ones and you're correct that getting them stuck in the threads of the arbor is a huge pain... both getting them to seat when installing, and them getting hung up when you try to remove them. I'm checking out the magnetic ones right now! Thanks, James!
I bought a cheap dado set a few years ago, and they have worked for me, probably for three reasons: I don’t use them often at all; they are sharp, since I don’t use them often 3; I’ve never used a good set so it’s quite possible my dados suck, and I don’t know it.
I’ve been using my Oshlun 8” set for a few years and it’s been good. It didn’t have a case but the first thing I did was make one using the blades that would be their home. One safety thing I would advise is no larger than 8” diameter on a 10” saw. When you get up to 3/4 dado stack, it’s a hella mass spinning.
Another important thing to know about dado stack maintenance is when you get them sharpened, everything needs to be sharpened at the same time to maintain the flat bottom of the dado.
I bought the sawstop brand dado set and have had excellent results. Has a 3/32 raker and a 1/4” raker as well which I’d never seen before. It comes in a nice hard plastic case too which has a designed spot for a dado brake cartridge. Super clean cuts, used it for a few kitchens worth of cabinets now, would highly recommend
Love your approach to everything. I learn the most and appreciate it the most, when you also give the skill range/ occupation level for the point your making. Thx again!
Returning my $90 Freud for their Super Dado set for $150 while I can. Great information and very timely for me. Thank you. I’ll gladly spend the few extra dollars for a set that includes the benefits described in this video.
Great info. I'm gunna look into those magnetic shims. In the meantime (after deforming several of my finer metal shims exactly as you pointed out) I've learned to put the fine shims on immediately after the first disc blade, so that they ride on the unthreaded part of the arbor.
My dial a width is the best dado set I've ever used.... Absolutely love it! That said, I actually use my box joint set of blades pretty much for everything cause I hate batwings.
The shims getting into the arbor threads is the main thing that soured my dado experiences, the magnetic shims is a fantastic solution. I'll have to get some.
I am just a tinker but did use your advice. I couldn't spend the money on the Ridge dado set because I couldn't justify the expense, but they do have good saw blades. I have a few for precision cuts. I ended with the Frued dado set SD508 but will come back to ridge and get the magnetic spacers after the holiday. Your reasons are well taken. I do enjoy your content and have learned and continue from you.
I have a Forrest dado set, and it cuts like a dream. It cost me a bloody fortune, but it only hurt once (when I had to pry my fingers from around the money).
I have the same Craftsman Kromedge dado set that I inherited from my dad. I tried it just once on the 1963 Craftsman radial arm saw I also inherited. That's a lot of weight to be slinging around at high speed, and the tiniest imbalance really vibrated the saw. I love old tools and I just can't part with the set, just like you still have yours, but I'll never use them again. Thanks for the great info and for the trip down memory lane.
So I’ve had regular shims my whole career. The un-mentioned upgrade for these are that it speeds up the process of switching out the blades because there’s no more binding trying to get the stack on the arbor, thanks!
Thanks James. I recently got my first set from Freud. I didn't know that it mattered where you place the outside blades. I realize now that I should pay more attention and read the directions better.
The teeth are also not centered on the blade. So if you swap them, the stack width won't add up to what you're expecting. I found that out the hard way.
My dad loved his "stacked dado set" and used it when he built things whenever he could. He took time off wood working and went back to use it and found the flattest mouse under the case, he unknowingly squished the poor guy, gave him a burial in an old box for nails. One of my best memories 😂
I live in one of the countries where dado sets are not readily available. I thought I could simulate a set by using two regular blades; I bought two new blades purporting to be of identical spec and from the same batch only to find that there was a half-millimetre difference in the outside diameters of the two blades.
James, I have 5 dato sets. Ridge carbide is my favorite except the brass shims. Thank you for letting us know about the magnetic style, I just ordered them. I also love my Ridge Carbide table and radial arm saw blades. (Yes I am old school)
Great information. I have a Fried dado set that I only use occasionally. I also have a Fried SBox8 that I use a good bit. Thank you for sharing this with us today, stay warm, safe, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
I have the same Craftsman dado stack, also inherited and it works terrific! Received it and a wobbler dado blade. I use the stack as the wobbler, with its dial adjustment that moves an eccentric bushing, just seems a bit sketchy. Those magnetic bushings you show look like disks removed from 3.5” floppies! Yeah, old school here.
My dad gave me a great set from Grizzly a few years ago. Has all the good features James mentioned. 3/32" chippers, magnetic shims (da bomb!), 4 tooth chippers, raker teeth, 8". Around $70. My frustration lies with my table saw. Has a short arbor so I cant support anything wider than a 1/2" stack. Which in the grand scheme is not a big deal and likely a little safer. I do like the dado holder, my storage box is getting worn so I'm gonna look into that.
I have not tried what I am about to type. Just an idea/suggestion. You may have some success magnetizing your metal shims by running a strong magnet over them. Rub in one direction only and place the shims under a cloth or perhaps construction paper to help hold them in place. If the magnet is strong enough be careful not to bring it in contact with the shim directly. You could have trouble separating them.
UK/EU buyers, much less to choose from here but the CMT dado pro sets are good value. Watch out for the mag shims fusing to the blades though, which can happen if you leave a set in the saw for a few days.
When I bought my Sears table saw at the resale shop . Could not find the dado set until I went to Indiana Sears store and got and have used them till this day .
Like my Oshlun set just fine - comes with the 3/32nd chipper, metal shims, and is reasonably priced. I will note that it's 50% more expensive than it was only 1 year ago! But it's still a good starter set at under $100.
Quick note: dado stacks aren’t illegal in the UK (or EU). There are regulations about _commercial settings_, not home/hobby, and they’re about guarding and stopping time.
They are made virtually impossible to use because of regulations that limit the length of the arbor on your table saws, and rules about how quickly a blade must come to a stop after the saw is turned off. Many people over there consider that the same thing.
That’s true, but you can buy commercial table saws and dado blades. Regulation is about workplace safety. But, this is a very good and informative video. I know YT comments are full of people like me mansplaining.
Bought a Dewalt set several years ago and has served me well. Although I would never buy their table saw blades again. Screaming’ meemies! I’ll have to check your points against it. I know I do not have the 1/32 chipper.
One unmentioned problem is that in my case my Bosch saw does not have a long enough arbor to use anything other than the two outside blades of the dado set. I can use shims but nothing else. Make sure your arbor is long enough to accommodate the entire dado stack or at least most of it.😵💫
James! This is a great video, but like, 3 days late for me lol. I got the Freud super dado set, which I'm very happy with, so I'm good anyway. Great info, as always. You're a walking woodworking textbook!
Nice video. One thought: Have you considered donating the tools that are just sitting in storage? I like to give my unused tools to Restore. Seems like a solid organization. Employees can either use my tools or sell them onward.
The cheap shims can also be a hazard. I had one get caught once in the threads, and I didn't notice as I was tightening. In the end, it wasn't tightened fully because of the shim, and when turning off the saw the arbor nut came undone. Fortunately I wasn't standing in line with the blade at the time.
James, thank you for this one . I've been talking to my wife for some time about some day getting a set of Ridge Carbide dado blades. I have the page bookmarked and drool over it whenever I go to it. My trouble is simply cost. With my SawStop CNS175 I also would need to purchase a new brake and plate... making the whole thing a bit over my budget. but someday... someday....
@@ericlipps7152 Well, she is the best and puts up with my purchases just fine. I'm the one who cares more about budget. I've recently added to our home theater system and I need to take it easy on the wallet. I like Ridge Carbide a lot. I've bought the flat kerf blade from them based on James' recommendations.
Fantastic tips, James! Thanks! 😃 Unfortunately it's pretty hard to find those here in Brazil... But they show up every now and then. Anyway, stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
I kept having memories of throwing stars.... I may have to pay more attention. Haha! I don't have a dado stack just yet...I've used the circular saw and multiple passes for the occasional need for a wide slot.
I had acouple of wobble dado blades and found them to be inconsistent and tempemental to set up. After messing around for 20 years I purchased the Freud kit and "this time I read the instructions. " It's a seldom used tool but we'll worth the hundred bucks I paid for it.
I've had the same dado set for over 20 years. I think they were made by Freud. The chipper blades only have 2 teeth but it does a good job of making a smooth cut. I don't use it very often so it won't be getting replaced any time soon but I think I will have to buy those magnetic shims. I've never pinched a shim to deform it but the blued steel my shims are made of have developed some rust (my fault for not oiling them). It probably isn't enough to throw off the blades but it still bothers me. They are also a pain to ad or remove from the arbor. The arbor hole is such a close fit that they bind up at the slightest angle. I guess the edge of the shim dips into the threads on the arbor just a bit and catches.
I bought my Ridge Carbide dado stack on the assumption that if RC made a good table saw blade, they must also make a good dado stack. I have never had a complaint with mine.
Lee Valley advertises a Forrest set which has all the recommended specs per blade (number of teeth, negative hook angles), magnetic shims, and 6 chippers in the set for a max cut width of 29/32". Pricey? nah... Edit: The SawStop premium dado set has very similar 24/4, -5 degree specs and the same 29/32” max cut width. I thought it might be identical to the Forrest (perhaps just rebranded) but the teeth spacing on the main blades differs and there’s only five chippers. Lotsa options…
I have a CMT set that I do like but you are dead on about the plastic shims. I had to remake some out of brass because they got chewed up in the threads. I found a solution that helps though, I use a little bit of mineral oil between one of the blades and the shim. It creates enough suction to hold the shim in place. It's not 100% perfect but much better than nothing at all.
What is the general opinion about the dial a blade instead of a dado set? I have one and am wondering if a dado is worth the investment for cabinet building.
Appreciate the video and all the info within it. However, I was hoping for a bit more of a detailed breakdown on the differences between the dado sets you had sitting on your bench in front of you and how you'd compare them. Nothing super intense but a bit of detail showing the differences in quality between the sets.
I don't think I need to list each set I happen to have and what features each lacks when I spent the whole video telling you what to look for in any dado set you may look at.
Good intro to Dados - thank you - but how should the chipper teeth be placed rotated in relation to the teeth on the outer blades? I have a set that appears you can seat the chipper tooth back, against the "next" tooth of the outer blade. This is essentially where it would be pushed if the cutting action could rotate the blade. Or as close to the tooth "in front" of the chipper? so if rotation does occur, it is unlikely to rotate far enough to touch that back tooth? (And yeah, I tighten the arbor so rotation doesn't occur, but using shims, especially cheap plastic, might mean rotation no matter what...)
No two teeth should be touching each other. This can damage the blade when you tighten the arbor nut. I like to spread them out as much as I can. If the nut is tight, they should not rotate during cutting, just as your regular saw blade does not slip and rotate back when you use it.
I have a couple of the 'wooble' sets, an adjustable stack that is all tied together. The better quality one cuts a flat bottom dado. they were far more affordable than a true stacked set 35 years ago. Still a pain to dial in.
Its funny how here in Eastern Europe they are ilegal due to safety regulations but having the exact same system of multiple even thicker and larger blades installed on my a spindle moulder vertical spindle is not banned :)
Thanks! Great video and subject James. Could you give your opinion on 8" dado sets vs. 10"? There is a big price difference and I can't think of a situation where a 10" dado set would ever be needed. Why would a person need that much height adjustment when cutting dados?
The larger set has a tooth speed 25% faster, and will have more room to dissipate heat. I imagine they are preferred for high volume production work more than depth of cut.
Bought the Diablo dado stack at home Depot since I was struggling to get reliable, straight, cross-grain dados and rabbets with the router on narrower pieces like table legs and face frame parts in cabinetry. I have never been more disappointed in my life. Awful, uneven, jagged cuts with a ridiculous amount of tearing and chipping. It works okay when going with the grain if you have a zero clearance throatplate, but the time it saves in setup is far outweighed by the damage it can cause to what I'm building. I have to score every edge at least a 32nd deep, often a 16th, to avoid shredding the entire face of the workpiece.
I just ordered the magnetic shims. I loathe using a Dado stack because of the shims falling in the threads of the arbor. I even bought a second (second hand) saw just to set up for dados because I hate the shims so much.
I just realized how you rough measured against undersized plywood... Man so simple yet i never thought about that lol thanks for the probably unintended tip 😀
i've got the 8" dado, a ts2000 and a thin kerf blade from ridge carbide, i got them all based on your recommendations but i gotta be honest the experience i had was one that i am not willing to risk repeating. first the dado stack had one of its raker teeth in the wrong spot, which caused the stack to cut a deep groove on one side. second my ts2000 looked great, but when i put it on the saw and fired it up for the first time i heard this "zzzzzzingg" and long story short found one of the carbide teeth embedded in the drywall of my shop ceiling, and third the thin kerf blade is ok but i found out because of the oddball atb+r grinds when i sent to my local sharpener the blade came back with the raker teeth ground to atb and i realized if i want to maintain the atbr my only option was to do the mail to ridge carbide and wait 4 weeks. to ridge carbides credit, they offered me a full refund on all the blades. they sent me a magnet shim set and blade carrier which they didn't need to do. so yea the customer service was great but after spending $500 and 3 months of shipping tag to get what i wanted i cant say im willing to try with them again.
Having owned more than a dozen Ridge Carbide blades, every one of them prefect, I find this VERY difficult to believe. I am not saying it did not happen (I take you at your word) but this experience is so far from my own and that of literally hundreds of my viewers who have told me about their great blades for years. Even so, I am not surprised at the part where you said they took care of you. Ridge Carbide is a rare company that honestly stands behind their products.
@@StumpyNubs it was right when the company switched ownership and the new owner called me personally to apologize for my experience. I didn’t share this to discourage others or talk down the company, they are spoken so highly of I’ve tried convincing myself it was my fault event haha..
▼EXPAND THIS SECTION FOR IMPORTANT INFO/LINKS▼
*Tools used in this video:*
- My favorite dado set (Use coupon code SNWJ10): ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/dado-sets/products/8-x-24t-x-5-hk-x-8-pc-x-4t-chipper-dado-master
- Magnetic Shims: ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/accessories/products/magnetic-dado-shim-set
- Dado set holder: ridgecarbidetool.com/collections/accessories/products/blade-runner-storage-case
*Some other useful links:*
- Tips for setting up and using a dado set: ua-cam.com/video/KPYXUe1q9yM/v-deo.html
- Why not use a 10-inch dado set?: ua-cam.com/video/ioyobsgaYUA/v-deo.html
★THIS VIDEO WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY★
Ridge Carbide's Premium Saw blades (Use coupon code SNWJ10): goo.gl/z8TP0k
*Please help support us by using the link above for a quick look around!*
(If you use one of these affiliate links, we may receive a small commission)
-More videos on our website: stumpynubs.com/
-Subscribe to our e-Magazine: stumpynubs.com/browse-and-subscribe/
-Check out our project plans: stumpynubs.com/product-category/plans/
-Instagram: instagram.com/stumpynubs/
-Twitter: twitter.com/StumpyNubs
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-Pocket Measuring Tape: amzn.to/2kNTlI9
-Irwin Drill Bit Gauge: amzn.to/2AwTkQg
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It would be awesome if Ridge Carbide shipped outside of the US and Canada..
I'd love to get one of these, but I'm on the other side of the Pacific..
Would my only option be to have it shipped to a friend in San Diego and for them to pass it on..?
I’m not a woodworker, I just enjoy learning new things. I really enjoy your videos and love the way you explain your topics. Thank you.
He’s a good teacher and example because he explains the ideas behind his selections or applications, and justifies them using experience and reason.
He would be an excellent cook, or painter, or surgeon. He is sharing principals as he understands them, and them carefully shows the audience how applying these principals work.
James, I truly appreciate how you clearly and patiently explain the entirety of the subject matter you’re covering in each video, and how you haven’t resorted to hyperbole and clickbait titles and facial expressions on the thumbnails to try and attract viewers. I think the majority of your audience would agree with me, and it’s rare to find on UA-cam.
Mille grazia for another great episode!
Maybe I missed where he explained why it might be illegal in other countries, but I didn't hear it. It was why I clicked on the video and I feel clickbaited.
One of the best woodworking UA-cam channels. Top ten for sure. Maybe top five.
I very much like the way you say "for me".
When I am selling discs (disc golf discs) at my store, I'm often asked for "the best disc".
But I can only provide them with "the best disc for them".
This is a quintessential wood working channel. Appreciate you and your work, man.
In Germany dado blades are not generally forbidden, but for some years now, all new table saws are required to come to a full stop within 3 seconds after power-off, so they have a brake on the shaft. Because of the higher mass compared to a standard sawblade, this can cause the nut which holds the blades to come lose, therefore many manufacturers write in their manuals that the use of dado blades on those particular machines is not allowed. If you're a hobbyist, nobody will bother you for using dado blades, but if you're a professional, maybe even with employees, you only should use them on machines that are meant to handle them (you don't wanna get caught and pay a fee of thousands of €s).
Greetings from Germany,
Marcus
Used a Freud dado set for years but was unhappy with not smooth bottoms on the cut. Finally bought the Oshlun 8" dado set two months back and love it. 42 teeth on the outer blades, 6 teeth on each of the 6 chippers (four 1/8 blades and then a 1/16" and a 3/32" blade. I had purchased the magnetic shims previously. All of the blades have a positive rake. The Freud set has a negative rake. The Oshlun outperforms my old set by a mile. Just cut a 3/4" rabbet in a hickory backsplash and was amazed at the ease of cut and the cleanliness of the bottom, almost polished. As always, thank you for the advice and the professional presentation.
Anything Ridge Carbide produces is definitely worth serious consideration. Thanks for the info. My old set has never been entirely satisfactory to me.
I watched this video wanting to find a better dado solution. Over the years I’ve had several, wobble, stacked steel, cheaper carbide. They all sucked. I finally finished restoring my 40’s Unisaw and bought the dado recommended here. Game changer! I’m in the process of building some doors for a historical structure and this will make the tenons so much cleaner. Thank you!
I wanted a Ridge Carbide set but they were all sold out when I was in the market, so I ended up buying a DeWalt set. Honestly had no idea what to expect, but the reviews were great. I have been very very happy with the set. It includes all the shims you would need, a 3/32 chipper, and leaves a very clean finish.
Well now maybe you understand why I asked you about which way to look when needing a dado set! Thanks again for the info stumpy! Buying my first house! Moving in in 2 weeks!
Well, you once again have taught me something. Those magnetic shims look like they would be the bomb! I've only seen the metal ones and you're correct that getting them stuck in the threads of the arbor is a huge pain... both getting them to seat when installing, and them getting hung up when you try to remove them. I'm checking out the magnetic ones right now! Thanks, James!
Terrific information presented in a concise, no-frills manner. Love it! Thanks for the upload.
I bought a cheap dado set a few years ago, and they have worked for me, probably for three reasons: I don’t use them often at all; they are sharp, since I don’t use them often 3; I’ve never used a good set so it’s quite possible my dados suck, and I don’t know it.
I've never been this early to a Stumpy Nubs video... time to find out what tools I didn't know I needed.
Sameeeee
He knows, if only I could afford them all
Personally I'd prefer videos of tools I don't need 💸💸💸💸💸😁
@@valvenator
You and me both 😊
Why do people always feel the need to share how early they are lmao
Absolutely perfect timing. I’m literally shopping for a new set right now. Came to YT for reviews!
Thanks for the content, be safe & happy holidays!
I’ve been using my Oshlun 8” set for a few years and it’s been good.
It didn’t have a case but the first thing I did was make one using the blades that would be their home.
One safety thing I would advise is no larger than 8” diameter on a 10” saw.
When you get up to 3/4 dado stack, it’s a hella mass spinning.
Spinning masses scare me, more than they probably should, not just sharp ones.
Another important thing to know about dado stack maintenance is when you get them sharpened, everything needs to be sharpened at the same time to maintain the flat bottom of the dado.
I bought the sawstop brand dado set and have had excellent results. Has a 3/32 raker and a 1/4” raker as well which I’d never seen before. It comes in a nice hard plastic case too which has a designed spot for a dado brake cartridge. Super clean cuts, used it for a few kitchens worth of cabinets now, would highly recommend
Seriously the best woodworking videos online. So much info packed Into a concise and well presented package
Great advice again, I never fail to learn from each of your videos. Thank you.
I don't have a shim without damage from the arbor threads. Ordering the magnetic ones now. Can't wait to see how well they work. Thanks for sharing.
Love your approach to everything. I learn the most and appreciate it the most, when you also give the skill range/ occupation level for the point your making. Thx again!
I see the struggle to produce the content.
James, you're a treasure to the industry and the craft.
Thank you for your hard work.
Returning my $90 Freud for their Super Dado set for $150 while I can. Great information and very timely for me. Thank you. I’ll gladly spend the few extra dollars for a set that includes the benefits described in this video.
Great info. I'm gunna look into those magnetic shims. In the meantime (after deforming several of my finer metal shims exactly as you pointed out) I've learned to put the fine shims on immediately after the first disc blade, so that they ride on the unthreaded part of the arbor.
My dial a width is the best dado set I've ever used.... Absolutely love it! That said, I actually use my box joint set of blades pretty much for everything cause I hate batwings.
The shims getting into the arbor threads is the main thing that soured my dado experiences, the magnetic shims is a fantastic solution. I'll have to get some.
I am just a tinker but did use your advice. I couldn't spend the money on the Ridge dado set because I couldn't justify the expense, but they do have good saw blades. I have a few for precision cuts. I ended with the Frued dado set SD508 but will come back to ridge and get the magnetic spacers after the holiday. Your reasons are well taken. I do enjoy your content and have learned and continue from you.
I have a Forrest dado set, and it cuts like a dream. It cost me a bloody fortune, but it only hurt once (when I had to pry my fingers from around the money).
Fascinating video. I’ve been intimidated by dado sets, but knowing how they work helps a lot.
Thanks for the refresher on the Dado Blades James. Tis one is looked at alot. Fred.
I have the same Craftsman Kromedge dado set that I inherited from my dad. I tried it just once on the 1963 Craftsman radial arm saw I also inherited. That's a lot of weight to be slinging around at high speed, and the tiniest imbalance really vibrated the saw. I love old tools and I just can't part with the set, just like you still have yours, but I'll never use them again. Thanks for the great info and for the trip down memory lane.
It's a scary set on a radial arm saw, for sure. (He used it on a RAS, and I inherited that too.)
Great video. I agree with eveything you said. I'm using the Infinity Tools dado set and I have zero complaints.
Yet another great delivery of valuable info. Keep 'em coming!
So I’ve had regular shims my whole career. The un-mentioned upgrade for these are that it speeds up the process of switching out the blades because there’s no more binding trying to get the stack on the arbor, thanks!
Thanks James. I recently got my first set from Freud. I didn't know that it mattered where you place the outside blades. I realize now that I should pay more attention and read the directions better.
Good advice when working with any kind of high speed spinning sharp metal things :)
Sadly these are not legal here.
The teeth are also not centered on the blade. So if you swap them, the stack width won't add up to what you're expecting. I found that out the hard way.
My dad loved his "stacked dado set" and used it when he built things whenever he could. He took time off wood working and went back to use it and found the flattest mouse under the case, he unknowingly squished the poor guy, gave him a burial in an old box for nails. One of my best memories 😂
I'll probably never buy a dado set, but if I ever do this seems like excellent pertinent information.
I live in one of the countries where dado sets are not readily available. I thought I could simulate a set by using two regular blades; I bought two new blades purporting to be of identical spec and from the same batch only to find that there was a half-millimetre difference in the outside diameters of the two blades.
James,
I have 5 dato sets. Ridge carbide is my favorite except the brass shims. Thank you for letting us know about the magnetic style, I just ordered them. I also love my Ridge Carbide table and radial arm saw blades. (Yes I am old school)
Great information. I have a Fried dado set that I only use occasionally. I also have a Fried SBox8 that I use a good bit. Thank you for sharing this with us today, stay warm, safe, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
I have the same Craftsman dado stack, also inherited and it works terrific! Received it and a wobbler dado blade. I use the stack as the wobbler, with its dial adjustment that moves an eccentric bushing, just seems a bit sketchy. Those magnetic bushings you show look like disks removed from 3.5” floppies! Yeah, old school here.
I have the same vintage Craftsman set. My father bought it in the sixties and it has the box as well.
Definitely a plus one from me on the magnetic shims, so much better (and I also had the metal shims get pinched and ruined)
My dad gave me a great set from Grizzly a few years ago. Has all the good features James mentioned. 3/32" chippers, magnetic shims (da bomb!), 4 tooth chippers, raker teeth, 8". Around $70. My frustration lies with my table saw. Has a short arbor so I cant support anything wider than a 1/2" stack. Which in the grand scheme is not a big deal and likely a little safer. I do like the dado holder, my storage box is getting worn so I'm gonna look into that.
I assemble my own with rough cutters in the middle and fine cuts to the outside, less tearout than any I have found, and spacing is variable to task.
Another great one Stumpy. Thank you!
I have not tried what I am about to type. Just an idea/suggestion. You may have some success magnetizing your metal shims by running a strong magnet over them. Rub in one direction only and place the shims under a cloth or perhaps construction paper to help hold them in place. If the magnet is strong enough be careful not to bring it in contact with the shim directly. You could have trouble separating them.
UK/EU buyers, much less to choose from here but the CMT dado pro sets are good value. Watch out for the mag shims fusing to the blades though, which can happen if you leave a set in the saw for a few days.
When I bought my Sears table saw at the resale shop . Could not find the dado set until I went to Indiana Sears store and got and have used them till this day .
Excellent, educational content, delivered clearly and concisely! Thank you!
Like my Oshlun set just fine - comes with the 3/32nd chipper, metal shims, and is reasonably priced. I will note that it's 50% more expensive than it was only 1 year ago! But it's still a good starter set at under $100.
Yes, I live in the land of the free and the home of the brave enough to use dado blades. My favorite Stumpy Nubs joke.
Quick note: dado stacks aren’t illegal in the UK (or EU). There are regulations about _commercial settings_, not home/hobby, and they’re about guarding and stopping time.
They are made virtually impossible to use because of regulations that limit the length of the arbor on your table saws, and rules about how quickly a blade must come to a stop after the saw is turned off. Many people over there consider that the same thing.
That’s true, but you can buy commercial table saws and dado blades. Regulation is about workplace safety. But, this is a very good and informative video. I know YT comments are full of people like me mansplaining.
You are so right I use mine when needed on my skill table saw the one with the big wheels I also have a moulding head
Bought a Dewalt set several years ago and has served me well. Although I would never buy their table saw blades again. Screaming’ meemies! I’ll have to check your points against it. I know I do not have the 1/32 chipper.
Forty years of building fine furniture using the same dado set - I've never had a problem with the shims that came with the original product.
One unmentioned problem is that in my case my Bosch saw does not have a long enough arbor to use anything other than the two outside blades of the dado set. I can use shims but nothing else. Make sure your arbor is long enough to accommodate the entire dado stack or at least most of it.😵💫
Thanks for the great video James. You gave us a lot to think about.
When I was a kid, dad had a wobble-dado on his Craftsman radial arm saw. Scariest thing I've ever seen.
I’ve used one and I agree.
Great information James. Thanks for sharing it.
James! This is a great video, but like, 3 days late for me lol. I got the Freud super dado set, which I'm very happy with, so I'm good anyway. Great info, as always. You're a walking woodworking textbook!
Nice video. One thought: Have you considered donating the tools that are just sitting in storage? I like to give my unused tools to Restore. Seems like a solid organization. Employees can either use my tools or sell them onward.
I give many tools away.
The cheap shims can also be a hazard. I had one get caught once in the threads, and I didn't notice as I was tightening. In the end, it wasn't tightened fully because of the shim, and when turning off the saw the arbor nut came undone. Fortunately I wasn't standing in line with the blade at the time.
Thank you, once again for a great education! Professor James
Again you produced an excellent video. Thank you.
James, thank you for this one . I've been talking to my wife for some time about some day getting a set of Ridge Carbide dado blades. I have the page bookmarked and drool over it whenever I go to it.
My trouble is simply cost. With my SawStop CNS175 I also would need to purchase a new brake and plate... making the whole thing a bit over my budget. but someday... someday....
If the tool you are buying is not big enough for the wife to spot go ahead and buy it without asking just pay attention to your delivery time.
@@ericlipps7152 Well, she is the best and puts up with my purchases just fine. I'm the one who cares more about budget. I've recently added to our home theater system and I need to take it easy on the wallet.
I like Ridge Carbide a lot. I've bought the flat kerf blade from them based on James' recommendations.
In the meantime you can use a router to cut dados.
Sounds like you should just buy another Sawstop just for dados :)
@@demosthenes614 i will consider that 😀
Fantastic tips, James! Thanks! 😃
Unfortunately it's pretty hard to find those here in Brazil... But they show up every now and then.
Anyway, stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
I kept having memories of throwing stars.... I may have to pay more attention. Haha! I don't have a dado stack just yet...I've used the circular saw and multiple passes for the occasional need for a wide slot.
Nice! I’m about to buy a new set. Ready to upgrade from that harbor freight set lol
I had acouple of wobble dado blades and found them to be inconsistent and tempemental to set up.
After messing around for 20 years I purchased the Freud kit and "this time I read the instructions. "
It's a seldom used tool but we'll worth the hundred bucks I paid for it.
Incredible information, thank you
Very helpful, well presented.
What's wrong with the internet? Why don't you have 1 million + subscribers yet. Easily top 5 woodworking channel's
I've had the same dado set for over 20 years. I think they were made by Freud. The chipper blades only have 2 teeth but it does a good job of making a smooth cut. I don't use it very often so it won't be getting replaced any time soon but I think I will have to buy those magnetic shims. I've never pinched a shim to deform it but the blued steel my shims are made of have developed some rust (my fault for not oiling them). It probably isn't enough to throw off the blades but it still bothers me. They are also a pain to ad or remove from the arbor. The arbor hole is such a close fit that they bind up at the slightest angle. I guess the edge of the shim dips into the threads on the arbor just a bit and catches.
I bought my Ridge Carbide dado stack on the assumption that if RC made a good table saw blade, they must also make a good dado stack. I have never had a complaint with mine.
Lee Valley advertises a Forrest set which has all the recommended specs per blade (number of teeth, negative hook angles), magnetic shims, and 6 chippers in the set for a max cut width of 29/32". Pricey? nah... Edit: The SawStop premium dado set has very similar 24/4, -5 degree specs and the same 29/32” max cut width. I thought it might be identical to the Forrest (perhaps just rebranded) but the teeth spacing on the main blades differs and there’s only five chippers. Lotsa options…
I have a CMT set that I do like but you are dead on about the plastic shims. I had to remake some out of brass because they got chewed up in the threads. I found a solution that helps though, I use a little bit of mineral oil between one of the blades and the shim. It creates enough suction to hold the shim in place. It's not 100% perfect but much better than nothing at all.
I have the Diablo set and they work okay for me. I don't use them very often though. But they do seem accurate.
What is the general opinion about the dial a blade instead of a dado set? I have one and am wondering if a dado is worth the investment for cabinet building.
Appreciate the video and all the info within it. However, I was hoping for a bit more of a detailed breakdown on the differences between the dado sets you had sitting on your bench in front of you and how you'd compare them. Nothing super intense but a bit of detail showing the differences in quality between the sets.
I don't think I need to list each set I happen to have and what features each lacks when I spent the whole video telling you what to look for in any dado set you may look at.
Good intro to Dados - thank you - but how should the chipper teeth be placed rotated in relation to the teeth on the outer blades? I have a set that appears you can seat the chipper tooth back, against the "next" tooth of the outer blade. This is essentially where it would be pushed if the cutting action could rotate the blade. Or as close to the tooth "in front" of the chipper? so if rotation does occur, it is unlikely to rotate far enough to touch that back tooth? (And yeah, I tighten the arbor so rotation doesn't occur, but using shims, especially cheap plastic, might mean rotation no matter what...)
No two teeth should be touching each other. This can damage the blade when you tighten the arbor nut. I like to spread them out as much as I can. If the nut is tight, they should not rotate during cutting, just as your regular saw blade does not slip and rotate back when you use it.
I have a couple of the 'wooble' sets, an adjustable stack that is all tied together. The better quality one cuts a flat bottom dado. they were far more affordable than a true stacked set 35 years ago. Still a pain to dial in.
Its funny how here in Eastern Europe they are ilegal due to safety regulations but having the exact same system of multiple even thicker and larger blades installed on my a spindle moulder vertical spindle is not banned :)
Yeah a dado set is too dangerous, but everything is fine with putting some huge moulding cutter on full send and just going to work
Vielen Dank für diese Tipps. 👍
Thanks! Great video and subject James. Could you give your opinion on 8" dado sets vs. 10"? There is a big price difference and I can't think of a situation where a 10" dado set would ever be needed. Why would a person need that much height adjustment when cutting dados?
8 inch is the one to get. There is a video on that subject included in the links I provided.
@@StumpyNubs Thanks! I'll check out the video on the links.
The larger set has a tooth speed 25% faster, and will have more room to dissipate heat. I imagine they are preferred for high volume production work more than depth of cut.
A 10 inch set is a very heavy set, you should only use those for the industrial machines it will easily snap the arbor on any of the jobsite saws.
@@bobh64 I notice Ridge Carbide will provide the 10” set with a 5/8” bore, so presumably they don’t think it’s a problem.
Good catch at around 4:08. You should not run them backwards😀
Bought the Diablo dado stack at home Depot since I was struggling to get reliable, straight, cross-grain dados and rabbets with the router on narrower pieces like table legs and face frame parts in cabinetry. I have never been more disappointed in my life. Awful, uneven, jagged cuts with a ridiculous amount of tearing and chipping. It works okay when going with the grain if you have a zero clearance throatplate, but the time it saves in setup is far outweighed by the damage it can cause to what I'm building. I have to score every edge at least a 32nd deep, often a 16th, to avoid shredding the entire face of the workpiece.
I love my Freud set.
I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.
Thank you Sir-just saved me much grief on my future investments
I just ordered the magnetic shims. I loathe using a Dado stack because of the shims falling in the threads of the arbor. I even bought a second (second hand) saw just to set up for dados because I hate the shims so much.
I just realized how you rough measured against undersized plywood... Man so simple yet i never thought about that lol thanks for the probably unintended tip 😀
It's in the setup video I mentioned :)
molto belle, ma montano su qualsiasi banco sega? io ho il bosch professional
Good information.a dato set are not really really the kind of thing to cheap out on
Great video, man.
Uk what's funny is the set u landed on is the first and only brand ive ever used since my first experience with them almost 20 years ago in votech
Great video James but why such an abrupt riding?. It felt unfinished and hurried.
i've got the 8" dado, a ts2000 and a thin kerf blade from ridge carbide, i got them all based on your recommendations but i gotta be honest the experience i had was one that i am not willing to risk repeating. first the dado stack had one of its raker teeth in the wrong spot, which caused the stack to cut a deep groove on one side. second my ts2000 looked great, but when i put it on the saw and fired it up for the first time i heard this "zzzzzzingg" and long story short found one of the carbide teeth embedded in the drywall of my shop ceiling, and third the thin kerf blade is ok but i found out because of the oddball atb+r grinds when i sent to my local sharpener the blade came back with the raker teeth ground to atb and i realized if i want to maintain the atbr my only option was to do the mail to ridge carbide and wait 4 weeks. to ridge carbides credit, they offered me a full refund on all the blades. they sent me a magnet shim set and blade carrier which they didn't need to do. so yea the customer service was great but after spending $500 and 3 months of shipping tag to get what i wanted i cant say im willing to try with them again.
Having owned more than a dozen Ridge Carbide blades, every one of them prefect, I find this VERY difficult to believe. I am not saying it did not happen (I take you at your word) but this experience is so far from my own and that of literally hundreds of my viewers who have told me about their great blades for years. Even so, I am not surprised at the part where you said they took care of you. Ridge Carbide is a rare company that honestly stands behind their products.
@@StumpyNubs it was right when the company switched ownership and the new owner called me personally to apologize for my experience. I didn’t share this to discourage others or talk down the company, they are spoken so highly of I’ve tried convincing myself it was my fault event haha..