: I will finally start cutting some Okoume this week. Instead of investing in a
: new jig saw I thought I would start by buying some quality blades for my
: old Black and Decker. If that does not work then I can always spring for a
: new saw from my Santa money.

: Any suggestions on manufacturers and tooth count for 4mm and 3mm Okoume?

: grant

I've used all sorts of blades over the years and I don't really see all that much difference in them. I have to admit that I now use mostly Sears blades do to the fact that Sears and my favorite ( closest ) hardware store both sell Craftsman tools. But, I have also used some Vermont American blades and found them to be satisfactory.

For the Okoume ply or any mahogany, you will be better off using a fairly fine plywood or even a sheet-metal blade as the grain is very open and tends to splinter a bit. Watch the tooth angle ( direction ) to see which way the particular blace is cutting. Some up and some down. If it cuts on the down-stroke ( teeth facing down to the tip ) cut plywood with good face up. If it cuts on the up-stroke ( teeth facing up to the saw ) face your good side down. If you are cutting two sheets at once ( for mirror affect of like parts ) put the faces together in the middle. It keeps the splintering down to a minimum on the face sides.

Hope this helps!

Rehd