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so i was looking at j-saws online and i noticed a large variety of blade sizes and two different shapes.  what size blade do you use (seemed to range from 5/0 to 8)?  and, do you use the "standard" blade shape or the "spiral" shape.  i was leaning toward the "spiral" blade because it seems like it would be better for curved or angular cuts (and easier to get into tight areas of a mini).  thanks for any advice.

I currently use just the standard blades, which I've found quite satisfactory at getting to fiddly bits and what not. In fact, I haven't even seen the spiral blades in any of the shops I've frequented for supplies, though I might pick some up to see how well they work. From what I saw when I looked up spiral blades, they look like they might be more of a pain in the kiester to use, since the design looks like it would be prone to snapping, snagging as well as possibly cutting away more material than needed. Perhaps Hans or another experienced hand has used the spiral shape and could give a better rundown on their pros & cons than I.

thanks for your input. do you know what size blade you use?

You're in luck! Just last night I snapped my last blade sawing a leg off (a pewter leg, that is) and my spare blades had somehow vanished on me. Probably gremlins or some other local fairey folk took them for some mischievous end. Anyhow, today I picked up a couple packs of Zona 5" jewlers saw blades, one No. 3/0 (.019" wide x .0095" thick) for the really fiddly bits and a pack of No. 1 (.024" wide x .012" thick) for tougher bits where the extra thickness is needed so they don't snap on you...

Which reminds me of the most important tool of all: Safety Glasses! Make sure ya got a pair and wear them at all times while using hand & power tools. Eyes, unfortunately, don't grow back! Just a friendly reminder from someone whose own eyesight has been saved on at least two occasions by safety glasses. Enjoy!

EDIT: After taking a closer inspection, I really could've gone with just the pack of  No. 1 (.024" wide x .012" thick) blades, as they are still much finer than the blades I was using previously and whose size I do not know. Both of the blades above are perfect for very fine work, but I worry that their thinness will cause them to snap easier. For heavier saw work that doesn't require as much finesse but is still in a hard to reach area, I would suggest heavier blades than those above. Good luck and happy converting!

nya~667, thanks for passing on the wisdom. much appreciated.