Choosing the right jig saw blades for metal can be the difference between a clean, professional finish and a ruined piece of material (not to mention a lot of frustration). Unlike wood blades, these metal-cutting versions need specific tooth configurations and high-grade materials to handle the friction and heat of steel, aluminum, or copper. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top-performing sets that I have found to offer the best durability and value for your workshop projects.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Jig Saw Blades For Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 50-Piece Contractor T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set with Storage Case
This 50-piece set is an absolute powerhouse for professionals who go through blades quickly. It covers everything from thick wood to thin metal, ensuring you always have a fresh edge ready for the next cut.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 50-piece variety for multi-material use
- ✓ T-shank design compatible with most modern jigsaws
- ✓ Durable storage case included for easy organization
- ✓ High-quality carbon steel and HSS construction
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for a comprehensive saw blades kit that won’t break the bank, this is it. The variety of tooth patterns means you can transition from metal to wood without searching through your toolbox.
Best For
Contractors and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable bulk supply of blades for daily job site use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the number of blades
- Durable storage case keeps things tidy
- Clean cuts across wood, metal, and plastic
- Standard T-shank fits nearly all brands
Cons:
- Metal blades may wear faster on very hard steel
- Case hinges can be a bit stiff initially
Customer Reviews
“Seem to be well made. Hold up well so far after moderate use.”
“These blades are great. The price is great and you get a variety of different blades. I use them to cut all different materials such as wood, metal, trex and azec. These always leave a nice clean cut with minimal burring.”
2. Bosch TPM005 5-Piece Pro-Metal T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set
When it comes to precision and industrial performance, Bosch is the gold standard. This set features carbide edges and progressive tooth designs specifically engineered for stainless steel and thick metals.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Carbide edge technology for cutting stainless steel
- ✓ Progresser design for fast cuts in varying thicknesses
- ✓ High-performance industrial-grade materials
- ✓ T-shank for maximum grip and stability
Why We Recommend It
If you have struggled to cut through tough materials like stainless steel with standard blades, this Bosch set is the answer. It handles heat significantly better than typical bi-metal options, making it a professional-grade addition to your saber saw toolkit.
Best For
Heavy-duty industrial applications and projects involving stainless steel or hardened metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Carbide teeth last much longer than HSS
- Excellent heat resistance during long cuts
- Designed for the most difficult specialty materials
- Fast cutting speed through thick plate
Cons:
- Higher price point per blade
- Only 5 blades included in the set
Customer Reviews
“I used these blades to cut 1/8 inch mild steel. I was very impressed by the speed of the cut and with a good amount of cutting didn’t use up a blade which is much better than expected.”
“No matter what project I’m working on, I have the right blade. They fit my jigsaw perfectly and cut cleanly and efficiently.”
3. 14-Piece Universal U-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set
For those using older saws or specific models requiring a U-shank, this 14-piece set is a fantastic find. It offers a range of TPI options to handle everything from rough wood to fine metal cutting.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Universal U-shank design for older tool compatibility
- ✓ Includes TPI models from 6T up to 32T
- ✓ High-carbon steel for durability and wear resistance
- ✓ Precise tooth design for fast, efficient clearing
Why We Recommend It
Finding high-quality U-shank blades can be tough as the market shifts toward T-shanks. This set provides a versatile range of teeth counts, ensuring you can tackle thin metal sheets without the blade “catching” or jumping.
Best For
Owners of older Black & Decker, Skil, or Craftsman jigsaws that utilize the U-shank fastening system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide variety of teeth sizes for different materials
- Excellent cost-to-performance ratio
- High-carbon steel resists bending
- Great for hobbyists on a budget
Cons:
- U-shank is not compatible with quick-change T-shank tools
- Steel is not as hard as bi-metal or carbide options
Customer Reviews
“I bought these mainly for the metal cutting blades. The blades were great. Cut a 7in hole in a dell servers side panel (Tough Steel) with no problem or sign of wear.”
“I have used the blade for wood cutting and was surprised by the smoothness of the cut. For the price, you can’t beat this variety.”
4. JMD 30-Piece T118A Metal Cutting Jigsaw Blade Set
If you find yourself cutting thin sheet metal frequently, this 30-piece bulk pack of T118A blades is exactly what you need. These are optimized for high-speed sawing through metals between 1mm and 3mm thick.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 30 pieces of T118A blades for long-term supply
- ✓ Milled and wavy set teeth for thin sheet metal
- ✓ Made of fully hardened high-grade HSS
- ✓ Designed specifically for straight, clean metal cuts
Why We Recommend It
Thin metal tends to destroy blades quickly if you aren’t careful with your speed and pressure. Having 30 blades on hand means you never have to hesitate to swap out a dulling edge for a fresh one, ensuring your work remains precise.
Best For
HVAC technicians, auto body workers, or anyone working with thin solid sheet metal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Hardened HSS material is very durable
- Wavy set teeth prevent snagging on thin sheets
- Great bulk price for professional users
- Fits all standard T-shank jigsaws
Cons:
- Not suitable for thick metal plates
- Does not include a dedicated storage case
Customer Reviews
“Bought to cut aluminium and they appear to keep their edge after several holes cut. I thought with 30 I can just keep changing them, but I’m still on my first blade!”
“Very efficient for thin steel and aluminum. They don’t bend as easily as some other cheap brands I’ve tried in the past.”
5. Diablo DJT121AF5 Bi-Metal Jigsaw Blades for Medium Metal
Diablo is well-known for their red blades that cut through tough materials like butter. These bi-metal blades for medium metal are designed to stay cool and provide 5X more life than standard options.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Bi-metal construction for flexibility and durability
- ✓ Ultra-hardened cutting edge for 5X longer life
- ✓ Optimized tooth technology for melt-free cuts
- ✓ 21 TPI for precision on medium-thickness metals
Why We Recommend It
When cutting metal, heat is your enemy. Diablo’s technology ensures the blade stays cooler during the cut, which prevents the teeth from softening and dulling prematurely. This is similar to the performance you’d see in high-end reciprocating saw blades.
Best For
Users who prioritize clean, melt-free finishes on medium-gauge metals like steel tubing or thick aluminum.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional lifespan compared to budget blades
- Vibration-reducing design for better control
- Creates very little burring on the cut edge
- Works well on curved cuts in laminate too
Cons:
- More expensive for a 5-pack
- Not intended for very thin metals (can snag)
Customer Reviews
“Fit my jigsaw perfectly, I used it to cut laminate flooring (very thick), it done a excellent job, no bending of blade, low dust, the teeth are tight enough to really make a clean cut.”
“These are my go-to for cutting steel rods and thick piping. They just keep going long after other brands have lost their teeth.”
6. Bosch T118G 5-Piece T-Shank Jigsaw Blades
The T118G is a specialized blade from Bosch designed for the thinnest metals imaginable. With a massive 36 teeth per inch, it provides a smooth cut in 17-26 gauge sheet metal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 36 TPI tooth design for ultra-smooth cuts
- ✓ High-speed steel construction for straight-cut durability
- ✓ Optimized for 1/64 inch to 3/64 inch thick materials
- ✓ Ferrous and non-ferrous metal compatibility
Why We Recommend It
Trying to cut very thin sheet metal with a standard 14 TPI blade is a recipe for disaster—it usually results in the metal bending or vibrating violently. These 36 TPI blades allow the jigsaw to glide through thin sheets with incredible control and minimal deburring needed afterward.
Best For
Precision work on very thin sheet metal, hobbyist metal crafts, and delicate metal fabrication.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smoothest cut available for thin gauges
- Prevents snagging and tearing of thin material
- Excellent for tight curves in sheet metal
- High-speed steel maintains sharpness well
Cons:
- Will quickly overheat if used on thick metal
- Slow cutting speed due to fine teeth
Customer Reviews
“excellent quality blades, they work great every time. the teeth last longer than any other brand.”
“I was able to cut through a pretty thick sheet metal, and in tight circle no less, with ease. In fact the cut was so clean I could carry the center around without deburring.”
7. Assorted 10-Piece T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set
This 10-piece kit uses SK5 high carbon steel, which is significantly more durable than standard CRV steel. It includes the popular T118A and T118B models for basic metalwork alongside wood-cutting options.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made from premium SK5 high carbon steel
- ✓ T-shank design for tool-free installation
- ✓ Versatile assortment for metal, wood, and plastic
- ✓ Excellent stability and grip during high-vibration cuts
Why We Recommend It
The use of SK5 steel is a big win here; it stays sharp roughly 50 times longer than standard chrome vanadium. For a budget-friendly set, the durability is much higher than you might expect, making it a solid backup set for any workshop.
Best For
General-purpose home repairs where you occasionally need to cut through a nail, a pipe, or a thin metal bracket.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- SK5 steel is notably harder than budget rivals
- Clear markings on each blade for easy identification
- Includes clean-cut blades for splinter-free wood
- Quick and easy T-shank compatibility
Cons:
- Only two blades specifically for metal
- Assortment may not be deep enough for dedicated metal projects
Customer Reviews
“These blades fit my Bosch saw perfectly and actually hold their edge better than the generic ones from the hardware store.”
“Great little starter set. The metal blades worked well on some aluminum trim I had to cut down for a renovation.”
8. Assorted 30-Piece T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set with Clear Storage Box
This 30-piece collection offers 9 different blade types, ensuring you are never caught without the right tool. It comes in a clear storage box that keeps your wood and metal blades separated and protected.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 9 distinct blade types for total project versatility
- ✓ High-carbon steel (HCS) and high-speed steel (HSS)
- ✓ Includes T118A and T118B for metal cutting
- ✓ Durable clear storage case included
Why We Recommend It
If you like to keep an organized shop, the included clear box is a major selling point. You can instantly see how many metal blades you have left, and the assortment of wood blades ensures you are ready for any material that comes your way.
Best For
Woodworkers who frequently deal with “mixed-media” projects involving metal trim or fasteners.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent organization with the plastic case
- T-shank fits almost every modern brand
- Wide variety of teeth for wood (fast, clean, and scrolls)
- Solid performance on thin to medium metal sheets
Cons:
- Blades are a bit thin for heavy-duty metal plate
- Case hinges can be fragile if dropped
Customer Reviews
“No issues at all — these blades will do the job. The variety for wood is especially impressive.”
“The metal blades worked great on some aluminum channel. Having the case to keep them organized in my toolbox is a life-saver.”
9. DEWALT DW3742C T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set
This 14-piece DEWALT kit is a staple in many professional toolboxes. It features a great mix of wood and metal blades, all stored in a rugged case that fits perfectly in a tool belt or pouch.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile kit for both wood and metal applications
- ✓ T-shank design specifically optimized for Bosch and DEWALT saws
- ✓ Hardened steel teeth for long-lasting performance
- ✓ Compact, durable storage case for on-the-go work
Why We Recommend It
DEWALT blades are known for their thickness and rigidity, which reduces “wandering” during a cut. These are some of the most reliable blades for keeping a vertical edge when cutting through 1/8″ metal plate or thicker hardwoods.
Best For
Professional tradespeople who need a high-quality, compact blade set for their mobile tool kit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Blades are thicker and stiffer than budget brands
- Excellent case that won’t pop open in your bag
- Very clean cuts in both ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Minimal vibration during high-speed operation
Cons:
- Higher price point for fewer blades compared to bulk sets
- Small case can be difficult to open with gloves on
Customer Reviews
“This DEWALT jigsaw blade set is a great all-around kit. The blades are sharp, durable, and cut smoothly without excessive vibration.”
“In my recent DIY projects, these blades proved to be essential companions. Each blade type was clearly marked, which made switching tasks easy.”
10. 50-Piece T118B T-Shank Jigsaw Blade Set
If you have a massive metal-cutting project ahead, this 50-piece pack of T118B blades is your best friend. With 12 TPI, these are optimized for “heavy-duty” metal cutting in thicker sheet materials.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Bulk 50-piece pack of dedicated metal blades
- ✓ 12 TPI tooth profile for heavy-duty metal sawing
- ✓ High carbon steel body for exceptionally long life
- ✓ T-shank design for universal tool compatibility
Why We Recommend It
Sometimes you don’t need a fancy assortment; you just need fifty of the same reliable blade to get through a long production run. These T118B blades are great for cutting thicker steel where fine teeth would simply clog or overheat.
Best For
Metal fabrication shops or scrap recycling projects where volume and cost-per-cut are the most important factors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable value for the quantity
- Perfect for thicker materials that destroy fine blades
- Sturdy storage case included
- Consistent quality across all 50 blades
Cons:
- Too coarse for very thin sheet metal (below 18 gauge)
- Single-purpose set (metal only)
Customer Reviews
“This is a great combination of lengths and tooth combinations. Definitely worth the investment for my shop.”
“I go through blades like candy cutting steel trim. These are cheap enough to swap often but durable enough to actually get the job done.”
Complete Buying Guide for Jig Saw Blades For Metal
Essential Factors We Consider
When you are shopping for jig saw blades for metal, the most important factor is TPI (Teeth Per Inch). For thick metal (1/8″ to 1/4″), a lower TPI of 12-14 is best. For medium metals, 18-24 TPI works well. For very thin sheet metal, you’ll want 30-36 TPI to ensure the teeth don’t “catch” the edge of the material. Also, consider the blade material: Bi-metal blades offer a great balance of flexibility and hardness, while carbide is necessary for stainless steel.
Budget Planning
If you are a hobbyist, a multi-material assortment kit (like the 14-piece or 30-piece sets) offers the best value. However, if you are working on a specific large-scale metal project, buying a bulk 50-piece pack of high-speed steel blades will save you significant money in the long run. Always check if the set includes a case, as loose blades tend to get lost or damaged in toolboxes.
Final Thoughts
Cutting metal doesn’t have to be a chore if you have the right accessories. Whether you choose the industrial precision of Bosch or the bulk value of a contractor set, ensure your saw is set to a lower speed and you use a bit of cutting oil to keep the friction down. This will extend the life of your blades and give you much cleaner results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use wood jigsaw blades to cut metal?
A: No. Wood blades have large, aggressive teeth that will snag on the metal, likely breaking the blade or damaging your tool and material. Always use blades specifically labeled for metal.
Q: What is the difference between T-shank and U-shank?
A: T-shanks are the modern standard and work with quick-change tool-less systems. U-shanks require a screw or tool to tighten them in place and are mostly found on older jigsaw models.
Q: How can I make my metal jigsaw blades last longer?
A: The two best tips are to use a lower speed setting on your jigsaw and apply a cutting lubricant or wax to the blade. This reduces heat, which is the primary cause of blade dulling.
I hope this roundup helps you find the perfect jig saw blades for metal for your next project. Having the right tooth count and material will make your work safer and much more efficient. Happy building!
