Consistency in Makita Diamond Blades

["George Graham" <georgergraham@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello John,

Here is what I know about diamond blades.

There is 2 basic kinds, sintered blades, which have the diamonds mixed into
the steel. This type is only for hard stone, wet or dry, and the rpm's are
very important. Hard stone , meaning granite type stones.
The other type is used on "soft stone" , like marble , alabaster, limestone,
etc. This kind has the diamonds sprinkled on the outside of the blade. My
understanding is that you should not use softstone blades on hardstone. It
will wear out quickly.

I've used both kinds extensivly, and am amazed at how long these saw blades
last. The small sintered diegrinder wheels and grinder heads that I get from
Granite City Tools take an incredible amount of abuse when used on granite.
These tools are mainly used by carvers and hand-cut letter carvers. They are
VERY expensive, but worth it.

The soft stone blades don't look like they would last , but it you only use
them on marble and other soft stone, they do.
The professional granite carvers in the monument industry use these diamond
grinders and sawblades extensivly, as these tools  cut stone the most
effeciently. I have seen very thin saw cuts used to cut hair lines on a
statues eyebrows, so I know these thin saw blades are out there.
You will have to accept the fact that no tools last for ever when working
with a hard stone, and that you get what you pay for when buying these
high-tech tools.
GCT's phone number is 1-800-451-4570, and they aint cheap!

Good luck, get a GOOD dustmask.
George Graham