Are Dado Blades Dangerous? Is Dado Stack illegal?

Dado blades are typically used in table saws or radial arm saws. They are a woodworking tools used to create grooves in wood pieces. There are two main types of dado sets: stacked and wobble. 

Stacked dado blades are two dado blades stacked on top of each other. Between them are several chippers that remove waste and keep things smooth. Generally, this is the better type since they are more efficient. Most woodworkers, when creating dado cuts, prefer to use the stacked option. 

Wobble blades are single blades that can be adjusted at different angles. The collar is what gives the blade its ability to change angles. Wobble dados get their name from its movement as the blade cuts- it wobbles. When there is a steeper angle, then there is a wider cut. The opposite goes for when there is a more level angle. 

Woodworkers use dado cuts to connect the two pieces together. They become handy when constructing bookshelves, tables, and more. A dado cut, though, is a groove cut that creates space for another piece of wood to fit snugly. 

The most common way to produce a dado cut is with a table saw. Most woodworkers prefer using stacked dados, while others opt for the wobble blade. Despite the ease of using a table saw, you can make this type of cut with a router. However, it is a bit more complicated. 

As with any woodworking equipment, dado blades are potentially dangerous. Due to their sharp edges, dados are a potential hazard to you and those who may encounter them. For this, it is crucial to handle dados with care and store them with caution, away from people who do not know how to handle sharp objects. 

Dado blades are a standard woodworking tool since they make cuts that prevent the need for screws, nails, or glue. You can purchase a stacked set or a wobble blade from any major home improvement retailer. 

Usually, brands that manufacture and produce table saws also have a market for accompanying blades, including dado blades. DeWalt, Avanti, Oshlun, and Freud are known to have some of the most popular dado blades. 

Due to the possible danger of dado blades, they are illegal in the United Kingdom. This is not the same for the United States. Woodworkers in the U.S. are permitted to use them. Interestingly, U.K. table saws cannot fit dado blades, to prevent their use. 

Most table saws can fit dado blades, especially stacked dado blades since they are the most popular. Table saw brands from DeWalt, Makita, SawStop, and Bosch all produce table saws with the capability of fitting dados.