Should I keep this Freud blade?

[Salty]

I picked up a Freud Diablo at HD the other day for about $28. It is a D1024X and is supposed to be for ripping. Haven't opened it yet.
There are some differences between this one and their LU87R 10" blade. The plate is the same thickness at .071". The kerf on the Diablo is slightly thicker, .098 compared to .094", the hook angle is at 15 degrees where the LU is 20 degrees. Both also use ATB tooth patterns.
Supposedly the Diablo series is designed for the contractor and the LU series for the woodworker. Actually I know of contractors who are more of a 'woodworker' than I am.
I am thinking of trying this blade on some Hickory and cutting it like resawing. I'd be cutting some 4/4 stock 1/25 to 2.5" wide that needs to be a little over 1/4" thick and then it will be put through a planer to make faceframe covers.
Should I take it back and get a better blade?

[SARGE..g-47]

Evening Salty..

Teh 24 T is for ripping. The Diablo is a little lesser grade materials (carbide, plate coating, etc.) than Freuds WW line. I have used them to rip with no problem. Not a bad blade and not a great blade IMO. If you are going to surface the stock after ripping, you should be fine. The Diablo won't give the surface smoothness of Freud's Glue-line or the LU 87R. The 15 degree +hook will be slightly less agressive as the 20*, so you will have to be patient to keep from burning stock.

As far as taking it back, you will have to decide. You can do the job described with the Diablo, IMO. For future reference, you might look at the CMT 24 T @ $33. It's more blade than the Diablo and as much blade as the LU 87R as I see it.

And BTW.. you mentioned taking the re-saw of slightly over 1/4" to the planer once you have ripped it. If you intend on planing 1/4" you best use a sled or you're asking for trouble with that thin from my view of the world!

Regards...

[Knottscott]

If you can get a good price on the LU87, it should have some slight advantages. When they're close in price, I always recommend taking the step up. You'll get more carbide, tighter tolerances, etc. Most of the time the "L" series can be had for literally $3-$5 more than the Diablo or TK/Avanti series. If you're not picky and there's a big price difference, it might not be worth it you. Your call. Knowing me, I'd do it...