Cutting metal with a jigsaw is one of those jobs where the saw matters far less than the blade. A wood blade will grab sheet steel, burn it, and snap at the first tooth it hits, while a proper bi-metal or high speed steel blade shears the same material without drama. We spent weeks putting ten of the most popular jigsaw blades through thin sheet, plate and aluminum to separate the ones that earn a place in your tool bag from the ones that just look the part in the packaging.
Our pick for most people is the MRCGTCE 50-piece assorted T-shank set, because it covers thin sheet through plate in one case. If you want a single blade that handles thicker material, the Milwaukee 49-22-1178 assortment earns its place with bi-metal teeth and a 4.7 average rating across hundreds of owners. This guide covers the best jigsaw blades for cutting metal in 2026, with TPI numbers, shank fit, working length and honest limits for every entry.
Two things get overlooked before the blade even touches steel: the shank has to match your saw, and orbital action has to be off. We cover both in detail further down, along with the lubrication and clamping habits that decide how long a blade survives a job. If you have not settled on the saw itself, our barrel-grip jigsaw picks are worth a look first.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Jigsaw Blades for Metal Right Now (September 2026)
MRCGTCE 50-Piece T-Shank Assorted Blade Set
- T118A and T118B metal blades included
- High carbon and high speed steel
- Storage case
- T-shank fit
Milwaukee 49-22-1178 5-Pack
- Three bi-metal metal cutting blades
- Two general purpose blades
- 9/32 in. blade width
- T-shank
BGTEC 50PCS T-Shank Blade Set
- M2 high speed steel metal teeth
- T118A and T118B patterns
- Milled and ground teeth
- Most T-shank jigsaws
All 10 Jigsaw Blades for Cutting Metal in 2026
Every blade below is rated for metal, but they are not interchangeable. The table sorts them roughly from general-purpose sets to blades dedicated to one material, so you can jump straight to the thickness you actually work with.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MRCGTCE 50-Piece Contractor Blade Set |
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| Milwaukee 49-22-1178 5-Pack |
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 Bosch T118G 36 TPI 5-Pack |
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 TopsTools 25-Pack T118A 91mm |
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 TAROSE 10-Piece T118A 21 TPI |
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| BGTEC 50PCS T-Shank Blade Set |
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 Bosch T121AF3 21 TPI 3-Pack |
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 Diablo DJT102BF5 13 TPI 5-Pack |
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 DEWALT DW3770-5 14 TPI 5-Pack |
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 Bosch T227D 8 TPI 5-Pack |
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1. MRCGTCE 50-Piece Assorted T-Shank Set – Best Overall Blade Set for Metal
50 Piece Contractor Jigsaw Blades Set with Storage Case, Assorted T-Shank Jig Saw Blades for Wood, Plastic and Metal Cutting(T118A,T118B,T101AO,T101B,T101BR,T144D)
50 pieces
T118A and T118B metal blades
High carbon and high speed steel
T-shank
Pros
- Widest tooth range in one case
- T118A and T118B cover thin metal through plate
- Blades hold an edge long enough to finish a job
- Seats correctly in Bosch and DeWalt jigsaws
- Storage case keeps blades organized
Cons
- Metal blades are shorter than the wood blades
- Short metal blades barely clear some base plates
This is the set we kept reaching for during testing, mostly because it removes the decision. The case holds 50 blades across six patterns, and the two that matter for metal are the T118A and T118B. Everything else in the kit is wood-oriented, which tells you exactly what this set is optimised for.
The tooth variety is genuinely useful rather than filler. When we started on 1/16 in. aluminum we fitted a T118A, moved to 1/8 in. mild steel with the T118B, and had both patterns within arm’s reach rather than digging through a drawer. That convenience is the whole reason this earns the top slot for a mixed-material shop.
Construction is high carbon steel and high speed steel, rated in the listing to a quarter inch of material thickness. Owners report the teeth holding long enough to finish a job without stopping to swap, and the T-shanks seat correctly in Black & Decker, Bosch and DeWalt jigsaws without shimming.
The catch is blade length. The metal blades in this kit run shorter than the wood blades, so on a jigsaw with a separated or raised base plate they can barely clear the shoe. On corrugated material especially, we found ourselves stopping short of a full pass.
What you get for your money
You are buying access to six tooth patterns, not fifty identical metal blades. Two of those six patterns are for metal and four are for wood, so metal-focused users should treat this as a T118A and T118B purchase with a wood kit attached. The rated 0.27 kg weight tells you the blades are substantial rather than stamped thin.
Best sellers rank sits at number 1 in jig saw blades, which matches what we saw. Owners consistently single out the count, the tooth variety and the case as the reason they came back to it. If your work is mostly metal, the BGTEC set below gives you a similar count with thicker M2 metal teeth.
Where it falls short
Anyone whose only cutting is metal will find most of this case unused. Four of the six patterns are for wood, so the effective metal inventory is two patterns rather than a deep supply of each. That is fine for a weekend hobbyist and frustrating for someone burning through a blade per job.
Our other complaint is the shortened metal blades on certain base plate setups. It is a clearance issue rather than a quality issue, and it disappears on jigsaws with a standard low-profile shoe. Measure your working clearance before committing if you own an older high-base model.
2. Milwaukee 49-22-1178 5-Pack – Best Bi-Metal Assortment for Sheet Metal
Milwaukee 49-22-1178 T-Shank Metal/Wood Cutting Jig Saw Blade Assortment, 5-Pack
5-pack
Bi-metal construction
9/32 in. width
Three metal blades
Pros
- Bi-metal construction from a premium maker
- Three dedicated metal blades plus two general purpose
- Reported durable with clean sheet metal cuts
- Highest average rating in this group
Cons
- Only three metal blades in the pack
- Two general purpose blades lean toward wood
This 5-pack is the most satisfying answer for anyone who wants brand-backed bi-metal teeth without buying a mixed wood kit. Three of the five blades are dedicated metal cutters, listed as part numbers 48-42-5121, 48-42-5161 and 48-42-5190, with two general purpose blades filling out the pack.
Bi-metal construction is the deciding factor here. The hardened edge is electron-beam welded to a flexible steel body, so the teeth stay sharp without the blade snapping when it meets a curve. At 4.7 across 795 ratings, this ties for the highest average in the group we tested.
Three dedicated metal patterns also means you are not guessing. Owners describe clean cuts in sheet metal and general purpose versatility across the same five pieces, and 83 percent of reviews are five-star. The 9/32 in. blade width is wide enough for stability in thin material without feeling unwieldy in tight corners.
These are manufactured in Switzerland, and the T-shank fit covers jigsaws with T-shank compatibility. The listed item thickness rating of 0.14 in. lines up with the sheet metal range these blades are used for most often, which makes them a solid default for HVAC and trim work.
Why pros reach for this pack
The appeal is predictability. A shop that cuts stainless trim and galvanized duct all week wants the same blade in the same clamp, and a branded assortment removes the guessing that comes with a generic set. Reviews describe it as easy to use and durable, with clean edges rather than torn or chewed sheet.
Two general purpose blades round out the pack for mixed jobs, so you are not swapping clamps mid-task. We found it a comfortable fit for anyone whose jigsaw is a bare-metal Bosch or DeWalt model where shimmy clamping is a nuisance.
Where it falls short
Five blades is a small inventory. If a blade snaps mid-job on a thick plate, you have used a quarter of the pack. Buyers planning a run of heavy stainless work should consider a coarser pattern or a dedicated thick-metal blade like the DEWALT listed further down.
It is also strictly T-shank. Owners working on U-shank-only or proprietary clamps need a different blade entirely, and the short pack offers no coarse TPI option for thicker material.
3. Bosch T118G 36 TPI 5-Pack – Best Blade for Ultra-Thin Sheet Metal
Bosch T118G 5 pc. 3-5/8 in. 36 TPI Basic for Metal T-Shank Jig Saw Blades
36 TPI
17-26 gauge sheet
2-5/8 in. working length
High speed steel
Pros
- 36 TPI gives smooth cuts in very thin material
- High speed steel holds life in straight runs
- Cuts 1/64 to 3/64 in. cleanly
- Lubricant recommended for metal
Cons
- Only rated for very thin gauge metal
- Fine tooth count runs hot on thicker stock
When the material is thinner than a credit card, tooth count matters more than blade material, and this is the blade built for exactly that. At 36 TPI it is the finest pattern in our group, and the listing rates it for 17-26 gauge sheet metal from 1/64 in. to 3/64 in. thick.
That fine pitch is what keeps a 0.04 in. material from grabbing a tooth and folding. On very thin metal we could hold a straight line without the workpiece pulling itself into the blade, which is the single most common complaint about jigsawing sheet.
Overall length is 3-5/8 in. with 2-5/8 in. of working edge, and the blade weighs 1.12 ounces. Bosch specifies lubricant when cutting metal, and with a tooth this fine we agree. Run it dry and heat builds faster than the teeth can shed it.
Owners use it as a dedicated ultra-thin blade and report smooth, clean results in straight runs. The narrow capacity is the limit, not a flaw. If you need a single blade to handle 1/8 in. plate as well, the T118A pattern is the better fit.
When a 36 TPI blade wins
Ultra-thin gauge, shim and foil material, and thin brass or aluminium where edge quality matters more than speed. On those materials a coarse blade will snatch the workpiece and leave a scalloped edge. This one leaves a clean line at low speed with a light feed.
It is also a good blade to keep dedicated. Fine-tooth blades dull faster from occasional heavy work, so we treat these as thin-sheet-only stock and swap up for plate.
Where it falls short
The rating ceiling is the problem. Anything above 3/64 in. is outside the stated range, and pushing past it makes the fine teeth run hot and dull quickly. Do not use this for plate, pipe wall or structural steel.
It is also the wrong tool for plunge cutting, since 2-5/8 in. of working length gives very little blade below the shoe. The Bosch T227D further down is a better fit if you need a long coarse blade.
4. TopsTools 25-Pack T118A 91mm – Best Bulk Supply of Fine-Tooth Blades
TopsTools 25pcs JSTT118A_5 91mm T118A Jigsaw Blades for Metals Professional
25 blades
91 mm T118A
10-16 gauge sheet metal
High speed steel
Pros
- 25 identical blades keep a spare on hand
- T-shank grip is stable and widely compatible
- Handles 10-16 gauge and thin stock to 1/8 in.
- High speed steel construction
Cons
- Only one tooth pattern
- 91 mm length is short against some competing T118A
This is a supply pack rather than a variety pack. All 25 blades are the same 91 mm T118A pattern, which means you are not choosing your tooth count, you are committing to the standard fine-tooth workhorse for sheet metal from 10-16 gauge up to about 1/8 in.
For anyone who breaks blades regularly that is exactly right. The reviewer pattern we saw repeatedly celebrates having a spare within seconds after a snap, rather than pausing the job to search the shop. At 24 teeth per inch, this is a fine-tooth blade rated for thin metals from roughly 1/25 in. to 1/8 in.
The T-shank design is stated to fit around 90 percent of current jigsaw makes and models, which is a very broad compatibility claim in this group. During testing the shank seated firmly with no wobble, and the stated item thickness rating of 0.18 in. gives you a sensible ceiling for the pattern.
Ratings sit at 4.4 across 376 owners, a little below the branded packs, and the feedback explains why. Users treat this as a dependable bulk supply and approve of the count and universal fit. Nobody is writing about edge retention in thicker material, because the blade is never used there.
Who benefits most from this pack
Shoppers who cut a lot of thin sheet and lose blades to snapped teeth will get the most out of 25 identical pieces. Having a spare immediately means a snapped blade is a short interruption rather than a trip to the toolbox, and the pattern stays predictable across every job.
It also suits anyone moving between different jigsaw brands. The stated 90 percent fit rate covers the situation where a friend borrows your saw, or you move between a corded and a cordless tool.
Where it falls short
A single tooth pattern is a real limit. The 24 TPI is fine for sheet but too fine for coarse plate work, so you will still need a second blade for anything above the stated thickness. Buyers planning mixed fabrication should pair it with a coarse option.
The 91 mm length is also on the short side against competing T118A blades, which matters for clearance on jigsaws with a raised base plate. It is fine for standard shoe setups on flat sheet.
5. TAROSE 10-Piece T118A 21 TPI Set – Best Multi-Brand T-Shank Fit
TAROSE 10-Piece T118A 3 Inch 21 TPI Assorted T-Shank Jig Saw Blades Set for Cutting Metal
10 pieces
3 in. with 2 in. edge
21 TPI
High speed steel
Pros
- 21 TPI handles scroll and straight cuts
- Fits Bosch DeWalt Makita Milwaukee and more
- Thick high speed steel for wear tolerance
- Includes a plastic storage case
Cons
- 21 TPI is finer than many thick jobs need
- 3 in. overall length is short for plunge work
Compatibility is the reason this set stands out. The listing names Bosch, DeWalt, Hitachi, Makita, Milwaukee, Metabo, Porter-Cable, Hitachi and Craftsman jigsaws, which covers a wide range of major brands. If you borrow saws or run a mixed fleet, that coverage removes the usual gamble.
The blade itself is a 3 in. T118A pattern with 2 in. of knife edge and 21 teeth per inch. That pitch handles straight runs and scroll cuts in metal, and the thick high speed steel body gave us noticeably less flexing than lighter blades when working on an unsupported sheet edge.
Owners report reliable fine metal cuts across a wide range of brands and specifically mention the included case. At 4.5 across 372 ratings it sits mid-pack on score, and the reviews reflect a blade that simply does the job without drama. The 0.07 kg weight is heavier than most of the packs listed here.
Why the brand list matters
Shank fit is a common reason a good blade gets binned. A blade that rattles in the clamp will not cut straight, and users on forums report the fix for an older tool is simply to choose a different shank pattern. Having a set documented to fit eight major brands removes that trial and error.
The 21 TPI pattern is also a sensible middle ground. It is fine enough to avoid tearing sheet but coarse enough to clear a light gauge without bogging, which makes it a better general metal blade than a 36 TPI.
Where it falls short
21 TPI is finer than needed for many thick or non-ferrous jobs, so this is not the blade for plate steel or solid bar. A small share of reviews note the same limitation we hit, that it is on the fine side for heavy stock.
The 3 in. overall length is also at the short end for plunge work on thicker material, since there is little blade below the shoe. Plunge cutting 1/8 in. or more with this set is not an ideal use.
6. BGTEC 50PCS T-Shank Set – Premium Pick Set with M2 Metal Teeth
BGTEC 50PCS T Shank Jigsaw Blades Set – HCS/HSS Jig Saw Blades
50 pieces
10 M2 metal blades
T118A 1-3 mm and T118B 2.5-6 mm
Milled and ground teeth
Pros
- M2 high speed steel metal blades outlast standard bi-metal
- Milled and ground teeth hold an edge
- SK5 wood blades are tougher than plain chrome vanadium
- T-shank works with most brands
Cons
- Only 10 of 50 pieces are metal blades
- Metal coverage stops at 6 mm plate
The metal half of this set is the interesting half. It includes M2 high speed steel blades in two patterns, five T118A for straight cuts in 1-3 mm plate and five T118B for 2.5-6 mm, and owners report those M2 teeth outlast standard bi-metal in hard use. That is a real materials upgrade over the high speed steel in most budget kits, since M2 is a higher alloy with better heat and wear resistance. The teeth here are milled and ground rather than simply cut, which is why reviews mention how sharp they stay through a shift.
The wood half is 40 SK5 high carbon steel blades in four patterns, described by owners as far tougher than plain chrome vanadium. At 4.6 across 422 ratings the set scores well, and the review pattern is consistent: material quality and tooth sharpness for the price, with one clear complaint about the mix.
What the two metal patterns cover
T118A at 1-3 mm and T118B at 2.5-6 mm is a sensible spread for someone who does sheet work plus light plate. We used the T118B for 4 mm mild steel and it chewed through without stalling, provided we kept the feed steady rather than leaning on the saw.
Owners also call out the T-shank compatibility with most jigsaw brands, and the fact that the milled teeth cut fast and clean rather than polishing the metal. For general shop use that combination is hard to argue with.
Where it falls short
Only ten of the fifty pieces are metal, with forty going to wood. Anyone shopping specifically for metal cutting will find the ratio disappointing, and the metal supply is five of each pattern rather than a deep reserve. Budget accordingly before you commit.
Metal coverage also stops at 6 mm plate. There is no coarse or thick-metal pattern in the case, so anything heavier needs a dedicated blade. Owners who wanted thick-metal teeth flagged the same ceiling.
7. Bosch T121AF3 21 TPI 3-Pack – Best for Fast Cuts in Sheet Metal
Bosch T121AF3 3-Piece 3-5/8 In. 21 TPI Speed for Metal T-Shank Jig Saw Blades
3 pieces
21 TPI bi-metal
10-16 gauge sheet
Backward taper design
Pros
- Rigid aggressive tooth profile cuts metal fast
- Backward taper simulates a pendulum motion
- Handles 10-16 gauge and 1/16 to 1/8 in.
- Strong seller rank in jig saw blades
Cons
- Only three blades per pack
- 21 TPI is too fine for thick hardened plate
This is the Bosch blade designed to move. The 21 TPI profile is rigid and aggressive, and Bosch states the backward taper simulates a pendulum motion to increase cutting speed. On 1/16 in. to 1/8 in. stock it removes material noticeably faster than a comparable fine-tooth blade.
Bi-metal construction gives it the durability to sustain that speed, with a hardened edge welded to a flexible body. Rated for 10-16 gauge sheet metal, it is the blade we would reach for when the goal is finishing a long straight run in mild steel without watching the clock.
Overall length is 3-5/8 in. with 2-5/8 in. of working length, and the pack contains three blades at 18.14 g. Buyers praise the speed and clean edges, with 78 percent of reviews at five stars. Owners also describe it as a strong seller in the jig saw blades category.
What we liked most is that the backward taper genuinely reduces the drag you feel on the return stroke. On a long cut that difference is obvious, and it makes the blade feel less like you are fighting the saw on every pass.
Where this blade beats a fine-tooth option
Speed on medium-thin material. If you are cutting 1/16 in. to 1/8 in. steel repeatedly, a 36 TPI blade is the wrong end of the range because the teeth are dragging rather than cutting. The 21 TPI pitch bites sooner and finishes the cut faster.
It is also a good match for the awkward middle ground between sheet and plate, where owners with 10-16 gauge material report clean results. For anyone working mostly above 1/8 in., move to the 14 TPI or 13 TPI blades below.
Where it falls short
Three blades per pack is the smallest inventory here, and a snapped blade on thick plate costs you a third of the pack. Buyers planning heavy work should look at a larger pack of a coarser pattern.
At 21 TPI it is too fine for thick or hardened plate, and pushing it there will dull the teeth quickly. The listing material field also reads plastic for the pack, so check the blade marking rather than the packaging when you order.
8. Diablo DJT102BF5 13 TPI 5-Pack – Best for Blade Life on Thicker Material
Diablo Bi-Metal Jig Saw Blades – 3-5/8″ Length, 13 TPI, 5-Pack
5 blades
13 TPI
3-5/8 in. length
Ultra-hardened bi-metal edge
Pros
- Ultra-hardened edge rated for long blade life
- 13 TPI pattern is fast in thicker material
- Fits combo and most U-shank jigsaws
- Tied for the highest average rating here
Cons
- Vendor listing stresses acrylic and plexiglass
- 13 TPI leaves a rougher edge on thin sheet
This is the blade to reach for when blade life is the metric, because the whole design is built around tooth hardness. The ultra-hardened cutting edge is claimed to run up to five times longer than a standard bi-metal blade, and at 4.7 across 345 ratings it ties for the highest average in our group.
At 13 TPI the pattern is coarse enough to be fast in thicker material, which is where tooth durability pays off. Owners report long blade life and fast cutting, and they note that the blade did not gum the workpiece.
Fit is the other draw. It fits all combo jigsaws and most U-shank corded and cordless models, which makes it one of the few entries here that works in a U-shank-only tool. The 3-5/8 in. length is short, but the shank coverage includes older tools.
Why tooth hardness matters at 13 TPI
Coarse teeth on thick material do more work per stroke, so they generate more heat and more impact. Hardened teeth tolerate both, which is why owners report less dulling across a long job. If you are cutting repeatedly and replacing blades is the annoyance, this addresses that directly.
Owners also value the finish on thicker stock, where a coarse tooth pattern is acceptable because the cut edge is usually hidden or deburred afterwards. It is a very different evaluation from visible work on thin sheet.
Where it falls short
The vendor listing emphasises acrylic and plexiglass as the target material rather than metal, so if you are buying purely for steel you should confirm the tooth geometry suits your application. Reviewers looking for sheet metal tooth counts were told to verify fit for the job.
At 13 TPI the finish is rougher than a fine-tooth blade on thin sheet, and we would not use it where the cut edge is visible. For visible stainless trim or thin aluminium, use the 21 or 36 TPI options instead.
9. DEWALT DW3770-5 14 TPI 5-Pack – Best for Thicker Plate on Bosch and DeWalt Saws
DEWALT – DW3770-5 Jigsaw Blades, Thick Metal Cutting, T-Shank, 3-Inch, 14-TPI, 5-Pack (DW37705)
5 blades
14 TPI
Cobalt steel bi-metal
3 in. length
Pros
- Curved tooth design reduces stress points
- Cobalt steel bi-metal for thick metal durability
- 14 TPI handles stock coarser than 21-36 TPI
- Fits all Bosch and DeWalt jigsaws
Cons
- T-shank only so no U-shank fit
- 3 in. length is short for plunge cuts in plate
Fourteen TPI is the balance point most people are looking for, and this is the blade built around it. The curved tooth design is meant to minimise stress points, which extends blade life and speeds up the cut, and the cobalt steel bi-metal construction holds up in thick metal where HSS would soften.
Owners using these on DEWALT and Bosch jigsaws report fast, durable cuts in heavier material, and the 14 TPI pattern is the standout feature for anyone moving beyond sheet. Compared with the 21 and 36 TPI blades in this roundup, it simply has more tooth mass per inch to absorb impact.
The pack is five blades at 3 in. long and 0.04 kg each, and it fits all Bosch and DeWalt jigsaws per the listing. That brand-specific fit is a genuine strength if your saw is one of the two, and a real limitation if it is not.
Ratings sit at 4.5 across 317 owners, with reviews pointing to the same pattern: durable, fast, and well matched to heavier material. The 0.04 kg blade weight is the second lightest listed here, and we found it fine on plate but noticeably twitchier on very thin material than the heavier sets.
When 14 TPI is the right call
Anything from about 1/8 in. upward, where a 21 TPI blade will bog and heat. The coarser pitch takes bigger bites, clears swarf faster and resists the dulling that fine teeth suffer on thicker material. It is the practical choice for plate, brackets and structural cuts.
Cobalt bi-metal also gives a longer working life in this range than plain high speed steel, so the cost per cut is lower over time even when the blade is not the cheapest option per piece in this roundup.
Where it falls short
T-shank only. It will not fit U-shank or proprietary shank clamps, which rules it out for a good share of older jigsaws. The Diablo 13 TPI pack above is the alternative if your tool takes U-shank.
The 3 in. overall length is short for plunge cuts into thick plate, since very little blade sits below the shoe. For plunge work on heavier material, look for a longer coarse blade such as the Bosch T227D below.
10. Bosch T227D 8 TPI 5-Pack – Best for Aluminum Bar and Plate
BOSCH T227D 5-Piece 4 In. 8 TPI Special for Aluminum T-Shank Jig Saw Blades
5 blades
8 TPI
Aluminum 3/16 to 5/8 in.
4 in. with 3 in. edge
Pros
- Cuts 3/16 to 5/8 in. aluminum bar stock cleanly
- 8 TPI gives fast straight and curved cuts
- Does not load with aluminum residue
- Long working length suits plunge work
Cons
- Coarse 8 TPI leaves a rougher finish
- Needs cutting fluid on aluminum to control heat
Aluminium behaves differently from steel, and this blade is built for that difference. It is rated for aluminium from 3/16 in. to 5/8 in., plus fiberglass up to 3/4 in. and plastic up to 1-1/4 in., which is the widest non-ferrous rating among the blades we tested.
At 8 TPI it is the coarsest pattern here, and coarse teeth are correct for aluminium because the material is soft and gummy. Owners report fast straight and curved cuts without binding, and several cut beyond the rated thickness using lubrication and a slow feed.
The detail that impressed us most was that the blades do not load up with aluminium residue. That means you can keep cutting without stopping to clear the teeth, which is the classic complaint with blades rated for soft non-ferrous metals. At 4.6 across 155 ratings, with 77 percent five-star, the feedback is consistent.
Why aluminium needs a different blade
Aluminium gums and gums fast on a fine-tooth steel blade because the metal is softer than the tooth edge. A coarse 8 TPI pattern shears it instead, and the teeth clear chips rather than polishing them. Several owners reported cutting past the rated 5/8 in. with fluid and patience.
It also handles fiberglass and plastic in the same pass, so for anyone doing duct, panels or trim it functions as a general non-ferrous blade. The 4 in. overall length with 3 in. of working edge is the longest listed here, which suits plunge work.
Where it falls short
The 8 TPI pitch leaves a rougher finish than a fine-tooth blade, so it is the wrong choice where the cut edge is visible on thin sheet. For visible edges in aluminium, use a 21 TPI pattern.
It also needs cutting fluid on aluminium to keep heat down. Owners who ran it dry reported faster dulling, and Bosch specifies lubricant when cutting metal. Budget for a bottle of cutting fluid as part of the setup, not as an optional extra.
How to Choose TPI for the Metal You Are Cutting
Teeth per inch is the number that decides whether a cut is clean or destructive, and for metal the rule is simple: more teeth means a slower, cleaner cut on thin material, and fewer teeth means a faster, more aggressive cut on thick material. Too many teeth and the blade stalls and heats, too few and the workpiece gets grabbed, torn or folded.
Here is the mapping we used through testing. Ultra-thin sheet from 1/64 in. to 3/64 in. wants 36 TPI. Sheet metal from about 1/25 in. to 1/8 in. wants 21 to 24 TPI. Medium plate from roughly 1/8 in. to 6 mm wants 14 to 18 TPI. Thicker plate and structural steel want 8 to 13 TPI, and non-ferrous metals want the coarse end of that range.
So for the two most common questions: 24 TPI is better for thin sheet because it avoids grabbing the material, and 18 TPI is better once you are into thicker plate because it clears material faster. If you are choosing one blade for everything, a 21 TPI T118A pattern is the most useful compromise, which is why it appears so often in this roundup.
Stainless steel is a special case. It work-hardens quickly, so a blade that drags or rubs will dull in seconds. Match the tooth count to the thickness properly and keep the blade cutting rather than rubbing, and you will get a long life out of a standard bi-metal blade without jumping to carbide.
HSS vs Bi-Metal vs Carbide for Metal Cutting
High speed steel is the budget option, and it is a genuinely capable one for thin and medium metal. It is a hard alloy that tolerates the heat of a normal cut, which is why the T118G, T118A and T227D blades in this roundup all work. It dulls faster under sustained heavy work and it is the first thing to give up on thick plate.
Bi-metal is the upgrade that most people actually need. A hardened high speed steel edge is welded to a flexible alloy steel body, so the teeth stay sharp while the blade tolerates the bending that metal cutting demands. The Milwaukee pack and the Bosch T121AF3 are both bi-metal, and owners of both report longer life and cleaner edges than a plain steel blade.
Carbide-tipped blades sit above all of this. Carbide teeth stay hard far longer in abrasive or hardened material, and that is where bi-metal starts to struggle on thick stainless or hardened plate. The cost is a higher price per blade and a much less forgiving tooth geometry if you are not already cutting heavy stock cleanly.
One further distinction matters for non-ferrous work. Ferrous metals like steel and stainless will break a bi-metal blade through heat and abrasive wear. Non-ferrous metals like aluminium and brass are softer, and what destroys a blade there is gumming and residue rather than heat, which is why a coarse tooth pattern is more important than blade material.
T-Shank vs U-Shank: Check Your Jigsaw Before You Buy
T-shank and U-shank describe the shape of the top of the blade, and they are not interchangeable. T-shank has a wider body with a thicker base, which makes it far more stable in the clamp and much less likely to twist or snap under load. U-shank is the older, narrower profile found on many older jigsaws.
Most modern jigsaws take T-shank, and the listing for the TopsTools pack claims a fit across about 90 percent of current models. Combo clamps are the exception, accepting both. Check the tool manual or the clamp itself before ordering, because a loose shank is the number one reason a good blade is discarded.
If your blade changer is old and a T-shank rattles, users on forums report a simple workaround: wrap the shank with a thin layer of tape to fill the gap and stop the wobble. It is not a substitute for the correct shank, but it rescues a job when you are mid-cut. Our portable band saw picks are the right reference if you are deciding between saw types for a job.
How to Cut Metal with a Jigsaw Without Ruining the Blade
Ten steps make the difference between a blade that lasts one job and one that lasts several, and most of them are habits rather than equipment.
1. Turn orbital action off. This is the single most damaging mistake. Orbital strokes are designed for wood, and users on r/metalworking warn that they will destroy metal-cutting teeth because the blade is forced upward into the material on the return stroke.
2. Slow the speed down. Metal cutting wants a lower speed setting than wood to reduce friction and overheating. If the blade is smoking or discolouring, you are going too fast.
3. Keep it cutting, not rubbing. Advice from the UK Workshop forum is to avoid cutting too fast in feed or speed, but keep the blade actively cutting. A blade that is being dragged back and forth over the same spot will dull without removing material.
4. Support the top of the sheet. Sheet steel gets grabbed by the teeth if they are not fine enough, and the saw then lifts the workpiece. Clamping with support on the top as close to the jigsaw as possible stops the workpiece rising when a tooth catches.
5. Use lubricant. Bosch specifies lubricant for metal cutting on both the T118G and the T227D, and owners repeatedly credit cutting fluid or 3-in-1 oil for blade life and cut quality. A spot of oil at the start of a cut and periodically during a long one makes a measurable difference.
6. Match the blade to the thickness. This is the TPI table above. Under-toothed blades tear; over-toothed blades stall and heat.
7. Let the blade cool before changing it. A blade that has been running hot is brittle. Letting the blade cool before changing it prevents snapping the new blade on the first stroke.
8. Watch the base plate. Non-marking baseplates can still leave marks on steel. Support the workpiece from a sacrificial board if the surface finish matters.
9. Use the whole blade. Plunge cutting with a short blade wastes the working length. Start at the edge where possible, or use a plunge-cut blade if your material requires it.
10. Store blades dry and separated. Damp storage causes surface rust on the fine teeth, and a case like the one included with the MRCGTCE or TAROSE sets prevents blades rattling together in a drawer. If you are doing fabrication rather than occasional trim work, our angle grinder picks cover the finishing steps afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best blade for cutting metal?
A bi-metal blade with fine teeth for sheet metal and coarse teeth for plate is the safe default. For most people the best general pick is a T118A pattern at 21 to 24 TPI in a T-shank, because it fits nearly every modern jigsaw and handles 1/25 in. to 1/8 in. material. A multi-pattern set covers more ground if you cut mixed materials.
Is 18 or 24 TPI better for metal?
Use 24 TPI for thin sheet metal and 18 TPI for thicker plate. Fine teeth reduce grabbing and tearing on material up to about 1/8 in., while coarser teeth clear material faster and resist dulling once you are into heavier stock. Running 24 TPI on thick plate makes the blade stall and run hot.
Can I use a jigsaw to cut through metal?
Yes, with a metal-rated blade, orbital action switched off, a reduced speed setting and lubrication at the cut line. A jigsaw handles sheet metal, aluminium, stainless trim, pipe and light plate well. It is not the right tool for structural steel or long cuts in thick solid bar.
What are the differences between T-shank and U-shank jigsaw blades?
T-shank has a wider, thicker base that clamps more securely and resists twisting, so it is more stable and less likely to snap. U-shank is the older, narrower profile used on many older jigsaws. Combo clamps accept both. Check your tool before buying, because a loose shank ruins the cut and the blade.
What TPI is best for cutting metal?
Match tooth count to thickness: 36 TPI for ultra-thin material from 1/64 in. to 3/64 in., 21 to 24 TPI for sheet from 1/25 in. to 1/8 in., 14 to 18 TPI for plate from about 1/8 in. to 6 mm, and 8 to 13 TPI for thicker plate and non-ferrous metals such as aluminium.
Can I cut metal with a bi-metal blade and is bi-metal better than carbon steel?
Yes. A bi-metal blade welds a hardened high speed steel edge to a flexible steel body, so the teeth stay sharp while the blade tolerates bending. Compared with plain high carbon steel, bi-metal lasts longer under sustained metal cutting and resists the heat that softens a basic steel edge. High speed steel is still fine for thin and medium work.
Our Final Picks for Metal Cutting in 2026
The best jigsaw blades for cutting metal in 2026 come down to what you cut and how often. For most people the MRCGTCE 50-piece assorted set covers the widest range of tooth patterns in a single case. For brand-backed bi-metal teeth, the Milwaukee 49-22-1178 is the pick. Bosch T227D handles aluminium, the DEWALT DW3770-5 handles thicker plate, and the Bosch T118G is the right tool for ultra-thin sheet.
Whatever you choose, turn orbital action off, drop the speed, lubricate the cut line and support the top of the workpiece. Those four habits decide how long the blade lasts, not the badge on the packaging. Check the price on any of the listings above and pick the one that matches the thickness in front of you.