I'm looking for recommendations on where to get table saw blades sharpened in the U.S., specifically around Los Angeles. Should I find an independent shop for this service, or do chain stores do a decent job? Also, is mail-order sharpening a good option? I'm aware that cheaper blades aren't typically meant to be sharpened, but I do have some quality blades like CMT that are worth maintaining.
5 Answers
My local Ace Hardware in Houston sends blades to a local guy who sharpens them. They even have a price list right at the counter. Just remember, a good clean can often do wonders for the blades, especially if you're cutting decent lumber! I've had success using Simple Green and a scrub brush to clean mine up.
Honestly, we just buy new blades every couple of years. But if you want to read more about blade maintenance, check out this article (might be behind a paywall).
I go to a local shop in Salt Lake City. They charge around $8 per blade, but the price can vary depending on size and teeth count. It's worth looking for a local option as they tend to do great work!
Thanks for the tip! I'll see if there are similar shops around here.
I used to have a great local shop an hour away for sharpening, but since the owner retired, I send mine to Forrest now. Their sharpening service is top-notch, and I always stick with their blades for my saws.
For regular upkeep, I usually just clean my blades periodically. Often they seem dull just from gunk buildup. Giving them a good clean can extend their life significantly!
Great idea! I'll definitely try that cleaning method before considering sharpening.