Since its introduction in the early 1980s, Forrest’s Woodworker II blade (model WW 10407125) has become something of a gold standard for general-purpose blades. So when the company announced a new Woodworker II (WW 10487125), I was anxious to try it out.

The new Woodworker II has 48 teeth, compared to the 40 on the old one, and they are pointier. The alternating top bevel (ATB) profile has been increased from 15° to 25°, with the steeper angle meant to reduce chipping during crosscuts and when cutting veneer plywood and melamine.

I used the blade to rip 8/4 and 4/4 poplar, hard maple, and mahogany, and to crosscut 6/4 maple. I also crosscut some birch plywood and some double-sided melamine particleboard. All cuts were made with a regular throat plate to make tearout more likely. I found that the new Woodworker II is much more of a crosscut blade than a combination or general-purpose blade. It excelled at crosscutting maple and melamine, but struggled to rip 8/4 stock.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

Buy at Amazon

Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon