As a boxmaker, I cut a lot of exposed slots miter splines. When I use a typical crosscut or combination tablesaw blade, the bevel angle on the end of each tooth produces a kerf with a shallow, inverted V-shape at the bottom. When a spline is added, the V-shape prevents the parts from making full contact. The result is a couple of shallow gaps that make the joint look less than perfect.

A rip blade makes a flat-bottomed cut. But tearout is often an issue when using a rip blade on crosscuts.

Mind the gaps. A new blade from Forrest Manufacturing cuts a flat-bottom kerf (left) for gap-free joinery. A groove cut by a typical combination blade produces an inverted V-shape (right).

Recently, I learned that Forrest Manufacturing is offering a custom-ground version of its venerable Woodworker 2 blade that cuts a flat-bottomed kerf. I tested it cutting keyed miter slots in exotic woods. The blade made dozens of flat-bottomed cuts with no tearout. It would also be of value when cutting box joints. The blade (part No. WW10401125) sells for $120. For more information, contact Forrest at www.forrestblades.com or 800-733-7111.

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