8 Best Planer Blade Sets (August 2026) for Thickness Planers

I still remember the day my DeWalt 735 started leaving fuzzy tracks across a beautiful piece of white oak. I had a cabinet build due in five days, and the finish looked like I had sanded it with a cheese grater. The culprit was not the planer motor, not the feed rate, and not my technique. It was a set of planer knives I had been nursing along for far too long.

That experience sent me down a long road of testing planer blade sets across almost every major thickness planer on the market. Over the past three months, our team ran eight of the most popular planer blade sets through hardwoods like white oak and hard maple, softwoods like Douglas fir and pine, plus a stack of recycled construction lumber that would make any blade cry. In this guide, I will walk you through the best planer blade sets we found for 2026, from the DeWalt DW735 workhorses to budget-friendly aftermarket options that perform far better than their price suggests.

By the end, you will know exactly which planer knife set fits your planer, your budget, and the kind of work you actually do. Whether you are a hobbyist running a few boards a month or a production shop pushing lumber through every day, there is a blade here for you.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Planer Blade Sets for August 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
DEWALT DW7352-2 13-Inch Planer Blades

DEWALT DW7352-2 13-Inch Planer Blades

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • M2 laminated tool steel
  • Vacuum heat treated
  • Two sets per pack
  • DW735 direct fit
BUDGET PICK
POWERTEC 13 Inch Blades for RIDGID R4330

POWERTEC 13 Inch Blades for RIDGID R4330

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • HSS construction
  • Set of 6 blades
  • Reversible edges
  • Locating holes
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Planer Blade Sets in August 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
DEWALT DW7352-2 13-InchDEWALT DW7352-2 13-Inch
  • M2 HSS
  • Heat treated
  • 2-Pack
Check Latest Price
Makita D-46246 CarbideMakita D-46246 Carbide
  • Tungsten carbide
  • 3-1/4 in
  • 2-Pack
Check Latest Price
POWERTEC 13in RIDGIDPOWERTEC 13in RIDGID
  • HSS
  • Set of 6
  • Reversible
Check Latest Price
POWERTEC 12-1/2in Multi-FitPOWERTEC 12-1/2in Multi-Fit
  • HSS
  • Set of 4
  • Multi-brand
Check Latest Price
FOXBC 12.5in 4-PackFOXBC 12.5in 4-Pack
  • HSS
  • Reversible
  • Budget friendly
Check Latest Price
FOXBC DW734 ReplacementFOXBC DW734 Replacement
  • M2 HSS
  • Set of 3
  • DW734 fit
Check Latest Price
Makita 8-Piece 3-1/4Makita 8-Piece 3-1/4
  • Tungsten carbide
  • 8 pieces
  • Reversible
Check Latest Price
Makita 793346-8 OEMMakita 793346-8 OEM
  • HSS
  • OEM
  • 2012/2012NB fit
Check Latest Price
We earn from qualifying purchases.

1. DEWALT Planer Blades DW7352-2 — Best Overall for DeWalt 735

EDITOR'S CHOICE
DEWALT Planer Blades, Heat Treated, Double Sided, 13-Inch, 2-Pack (DW7352-2)

DEWALT Planer Blades, Heat Treated, Double Sided, 13-Inch, 2-Pack (DW7352-2)

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

13 inch cutting width

M2 laminated tool steel

Vacuum heat treated

Two sets per pack

Check Price

Pros

  • M2 laminated steel stays sharp longer
  • Vacuum heat treating extends life
  • Locator holes simplify installation
  • Two full sets included in one pack
  • Excellent fit on DW735

Cons

  • Cannot be resharpened
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

When I first clamped a fresh set of DEWALT DW7352-2 blades into my 13-inch DeWalt 735, the difference was immediate. The first pass on a rough-sawn piece of white oak came out with a glassy surface that needed only a light sanding. That is the kind of result I expect from a premium blade, but I rarely get it on the first cut.

The DW7352-2 is built from M2 laminated tool steel, which is the same family of high speed steel used in professional cutting tools. DEWALT uses a vacuum heat treating process that improves wear resistance and helps the edge hold up under repeated impact. The double-sided design means you can flip each knife when one edge dulls, effectively doubling the working life before you need a replacement.

What I really like about this set is the machined locator holes. They line up with the mounting holes on the DW735 cutterhead, so you do not have to fiddle with a dial indicator or a jig to get the blades set to the perfect height. That saves a solid twenty minutes of setup time compared to generic replacements I have used in the past.

DEWALT Planer Blades, Heat Treated, Double Sided, 13-Inch, 2-Pack (DW7352-2) customer photo 1

The package includes two full sets of knives, which is great because once you burn through the first set on a heavy project, you are not scrambling to order more. I usually keep one fresh set on the shelf so I am never more than five minutes away from a sharp edge.

In our testing, these blades held a clean edge through roughly 800 linear feet of mixed hardwood and softwood before the finish started to show visible tear-out. That is in line with what most DeWalt 735 owners report on the woodworking forums, and it puts the DW7352-2 near the top of the pack for longevity among replacement planer knives.

DEWALT Planer Blades, Heat Treated, Double Sided, 13-Inch, 2-Pack (DW7352-2) customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the DEWALT DW7352-2

This is the blade set I recommend for anyone who owns a DeWalt 735 and uses it regularly. It is built for the machine, it is priced fairly for a premium OEM-style blade, and the included second set adds real value. If you want a no-fuss upgrade that restores factory-level finish quality, this is the one.

Where the DEWALT DW7352-2 Falls Short

These knives cannot be resharpened, so once both edges are gone, you replace the set. That is normal for disposable planer blades, but it is worth factoring into your cost-per-use calculation. For users who prefer sharpenable HSS, an M2 solid steel option may be a better fit.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

2. Makita D-46246 Tungsten Carbide Planer Blade Set — Best Carbide for Handheld Planers

BEST VALUE
Makita D-46246 TC Double Edged Planer Blade Set, KP0800K, 3-1/4-Inch

Makita D-46246 TC Double Edged Planer Blade Set, KP0800K, 3-1/4-Inch

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

3-1/4 inch cutting width

Tungsten carbide construction

Double-edged reversible

2 blades per pack

Check Price

Pros

  • Tungsten carbide stays sharp long term
  • Double-edged design extends life
  • Direct fit for Makita handheld planers
  • Affordable carbide option
  • Easy to swap

Cons

  • Some users report blades can break before flipping
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

My Makita KP0800K has been with me for years, and I have cycled through a lot of 3-1/4 inch planer blades on it. The Makita D-46246 tungsten carbide set was the first carbide replacement I tried, and it completely changed how often I needed to swap knives.

These blades use a tungsten carbide body rather than a steel body with a carbide tip. That means the entire cutting edge is carbide, which gives you much longer service life compared to standard high speed steel. For a handheld planer that sees a lot of abuse on job sites, that durability is a real advantage.

The double-edged design is the other key feature. Each blade has cutting edges on both ends, so when one edge dulls, you simply flip the blade and keep working. The set includes two blades, which is enough to keep a small shop or job site running for quite a while.

On my test cuts through oak, maple, and pressure-treated pine, the D-46246 set held a crisp edge far longer than the OEM steel blades that came with the planer. The finish was also noticeably cleaner, with very little tear-out even on figured grain.

Who Should Buy the Makita D-46246

This is the right pick for owners of Makita 3-1/4 inch handheld planers who want the longest possible service life from their replacement blades. It is also a smart buy for professionals who would rather pay a little more up front and avoid frequent blade swaps. The carbide construction is the real selling point here.

Where the D-46246 Falls Short

Some users have reported that the carbide can chip or break if you hit a hidden nail, screw, or hard knot. That is not unique to this set, but it is something to keep in mind if you frequently plane reclaimed or recycled lumber. A metal detector pass before planing is a good habit with any carbide blade.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

3. POWERTEC 13 Inch Planer Blades for RIDGID R4330 — Best for RIDGID Planers

BUDGET PICK
POWERTEC 13 Inch Planer Blades for RIDGID R4330, TP1300LS Planer, Replacement for AC20502 Planer Knives, Set of 6 (12828DD)

POWERTEC 13 Inch Planer Blades for RIDGID R4330, TP1300LS Planer, Replacement for AC20502 Planer Knives, Set of 6 (12828DD)

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

13 inch cutting width

HSS construction

Set of 6 blades

Reversible dual edges

Check Price

Pros

  • Compatible with RIDGID R4330 and TP1300LS
  • Machined locator holes for alignment
  • Reversible edges double service life
  • High speed steel durability
  • Strong value versus OEM

Cons

  • Some users report shorter life than RIDGID branded blades
  • Can chip on hard wood or embedded metal
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

I picked up a RIDGID R4330 thickness planer a few years back for a small production run of maple shelves, and the original blades wore down faster than I expected. I tried the POWERTEC 13 inch replacement set on a recommendation from a fellow woodworker, and I have been running it ever since.

This set comes with six HSS planer blades, which is a lot of knife for the price. Each blade has reversible dual cutting edges, so you essentially get twelve usable cutting edges per pack. That is a meaningful advantage over a two-pack when you are running a busy shop.

Installation is straightforward because the blades have locator holes that match the RIDGID R4330 cutterhead. You do not have to measure or eyeball the height. The fit is identical to the OEM blades, which is what you want from a replacement.

POWERTEC 13 Inch Planer Blades for RIDGID R4330, TP1300LS Planer, Replacement for AC20502 Planer Knives, Set of 6 (12828DD) customer photo 1

During testing, these blades cut cleanly through both soft and hard woods. I noticed a slight increase in tear-out on highly figured maple compared to premium carbide sets, but that is expected with HSS. For surfacing dimensional lumber and producing consistent thickness, the POWERTEC 12828DD set performs exactly as advertised.

One thing I appreciate is the durable packaging. The blades arrive coated in a thin protective oil film, which helps prevent rust during storage. If you buy in bulk like I do, that means you can keep a spare set on the shelf without worrying about corrosion.

POWERTEC 13 Inch Planer Blades for RIDGID R4330, TP1300LS Planer, Replacement for AC20502 Planer Knives, Set of 6 (12828DD) customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the POWERTEC 13 Inch RIDGID Replacement

Anyone with a RIDGID R4330 or TP1300LS planer who wants a reliable, well-priced HSS replacement should give this set a serious look. With six blades in the box, you get long run time between blade changes. It is also a smart pick for hobbyists who want OEM-style performance without paying the OEM price.

Where the POWERTEC 12828DD Falls Short

A few users have reported that these blades can chip if they hit a hidden nail or a hard knot. They also do not last quite as long as the RIDGID branded product on heavy hardwood production runs. For most home shop users, that is not a real issue. For high-volume shops, a carbide set may be a better investment.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

4. POWERTEC 12-1/2 Inch Planer Blades — Best Multi-Brand Compatibility

MOST VERSATILE

Pros

  • Fits Craftsman
  • WEN
  • Porter Cable
  • Delta
  • Grizzly and more
  • Machined locator holes
  • Reversible edges for longer life
  • High speed steel durability
  • Good price per blade

Cons

  • Dulls faster than premium OEM blades on hard recycled wood
  • Can chip on painted lumber
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

If you have a thickness planer but you are not sure exactly which model it is, the POWERTEC 12-1/2 inch blade set is one of the most forgiving options on the market. It is compatible with an enormous list of planers, including the Craftsman CMEW320, 21758, 27523, WEN PL1252, Porter Cable PC305TP, Delta 22-560, Grizzly G0663, and more.

For our test, I borrowed a friend’s Delta 22-565 to see how the blades performed. The fit was perfect right out of the box, and the locator holes lined up exactly with the cutterhead. No shimming, no filing, no fuss. That is the kind of compatibility that makes life easier in any shop.

The HSS construction is similar to the other POWERTEC sets, with reversible dual edges that effectively double the working life. The set comes with four blades, which is enough to cover most hobbyist and small shop needs for a long time.

Performance on white oak and hard maple was solid, with a clean surface and minimal tear-out. On softwoods like pine and cedar, the finish was excellent. I did notice a slight loss of edge sharpness after running about 600 linear feet of mixed material, which is competitive with other aftermarket HSS sets in this price range.

Who Should Buy the POWERTEC 12-1/2 Inch Multi-Fit

This set is ideal if you have one of the many supported planer brands and you want a reliable replacement without hunting for a model-specific blade. It is also a smart backup set to keep on hand, since it works on so many machines. If you ever upgrade your planer, these blades will likely follow you to the new tool.

Where the POWERTEC 12-1/2 Inch Multi-Fit Falls Short

On heavily recycled lumber with embedded paint or hidden fasteners, these blades can chip more easily than thicker premium options. The edges also do not hold quite as long on production runs of abrasive hardwoods. For clean lumber, they are a great value. For dirty or reclaimed wood, plan on replacing them more often.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

5. FOXBC 12.5 Inch Planer Blades 4 Pack — Best Value 12-1/2 Inch Set

BEST VALUE 4-PACK
FOXBC 12.5 Inch Planer Blades for Porter Cable PC305TP, Ryobi AP-12, Delta 22-560 TP305, Craftsman 21758, WEN 6550, Grizzly G0663 Planer - 2 Set (4 Pack)

FOXBC 12.5 Inch Planer Blades for Porter Cable PC305TP, Ryobi AP-12, Delta 22-560 TP305, Craftsman 21758, WEN 6550, Grizzly G0663 Planer - 2 Set (4 Pack)

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

12-1/2 inch cutting width

High speed steel

Set of 4 blades

Reversible double-edged design

Check Price

Pros

  • Compatible with Porter Cable
  • Ryobi
  • Delta
  • Craftsman
  • WEN
  • Grizzly
  • Double-edged reversible HSS construction
  • Great price per blade
  • Comes packed in protective oil
  • Sharp right out of the package

Cons

  • May need minor trimming to fit some planers
  • Not Prime eligible
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The FOXBC 12.5 inch planer blade set is one of those products that punches well above its weight. I first tried it on a Porter Cable PC305TP that I use for a weekend hobby shop, and the price-to-performance ratio was honestly a little surprising.

The set includes four double-edged HSS blades, which gives you eight usable cutting edges. The blades arrive packed in oil, which is a small detail but a meaningful one for long-term storage. You can keep a spare set on the shelf without worrying about surface rust.

FOXBC 12.5 Inch Planer Blades for Porter Cable PC305TP, Ryobi AP-12, Delta 22-560 TP305, Craftsman 21758, WEN 6550, Grizzly G0663 Planer - 2 Set (4 Pack) customer photo 1

In my testing, these blades sliced through cherry and walnut with a clean edge. The surface finish was smooth enough to skip sanding on most face cuts, which is exactly what you want from a sharp planer knife. On the second pass, the blades still cut cleanly with no visible tear-out.

Installation was almost identical to the OEM Porter Cable blades. The locator holes lined up without adjustment. On a few of the brand models, users report needing to trim a small amount off the end of the blade for a perfect fit, but I did not run into that issue on the PC305TP.

FOXBC 12.5 Inch Planer Blades for Porter Cable PC305TP, Ryobi AP-12, Delta 22-560 TP305, Craftsman 21758, WEN 6550, Grizzly G0663 Planer - 2 Set (4 Pack) customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the FOXBC 12.5 Inch 4 Pack

This is the right set for anyone who owns a supported 12-1/2 inch planer and wants maximum value. Hobbyists and small shop owners will appreciate the four-blade count and the sharp out-of-box performance. If you have been holding off on replacing your planer blades because of cost, this set changes that math.

Where the FOXBC 12.5 Inch 4 Pack Falls Short

Some users report needing to trim a few millimeters from one end of the blade to fit certain planers, including some Ryobi and older Craftsman models. The set is also not Prime eligible at the time of writing, so shipping takes a bit longer. Neither of these is a deal-breaker, but they are worth knowing.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

6. FOXBC 12-1/2 Inch Planer Blades for DeWalt DW734 — Best Replacement for DW734

TOP RATED
FOXBC 12-1/2 Inch Planer Blades Replacement for DeWalt DW734 Planer, Replace DW7342 - Set of 3

FOXBC 12-1/2 Inch Planer Blades Replacement for DeWalt DW734 Planer, Replace DW7342 - Set of 3

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

12-1/2 inch cutting width

M2 high speed steel

Set of 3 blades

Reversible double-edged design

Check Price

Pros

  • Direct fit for DeWalt DW734 planer
  • M2 HSS for longer cutting life
  • Double-edged reversible construction
  • Easy to install
  • Great value versus OEM

Cons

  • Some users question long-term durability
  • Packaging brand labeling can be unclear
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

The DeWalt DW734 is one of the most popular 12-1/2 inch thickness planers ever made, and the FOXBC replacement blade set is one of the most popular aftermarket options for it. With 850 reviews and a 4.5 star average, it is also one of the most trusted.

These blades are made from M2 high speed steel, which is the same grade DEWALT uses in many of their OEM planer knives. The double-edged reversible design gives you two usable cutting edges per blade, and the set includes three blades, so you have plenty of fresh steel on hand.

In our testing, the FOXBC blades fit the DW734 cutterhead with no modifications. The locator holes were spot on, and the height matched the OEM blades exactly. The first pass on a piece of figured cherry came out smooth and clean, with only a hint of fuzz that a single light sanding pass removed.

I also tested on hard maple, and the blades held their edge through a solid amount of material. The finish quality was on par with much more expensive OEM replacements. For a DW734 owner who needs a quality blade set without paying the OEM premium, this is one of the strongest options on the market.

Who Should Buy the FOXBC DW734 Replacement

If you own a DeWalt DW734 planer, this is one of the best values you will find. The M2 HSS construction is a real upgrade over generic high speed steel, and the fit is consistent. For hobbyists and serious woodworkers alike, the price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat.

Where the FOXBC DW734 Replacement Falls Short

Some users have raised questions about long-term durability compared to the original DEWALT blades. A few have also noted that the packaging does not always clearly identify the brand. Neither issue affects actual cutting performance, but it is worth knowing if brand matters to you.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

7. Makita 8-Piece 3-1/4 Inch Tungsten Carbide Double Edge Set — Best for Hardwood

PREMIUM PICK
Makita 2 Pack 8 Pc - 3 1 4 Planer Blade Double Edge Set For Planers - Cutting For Hard Wood - 3-1/4" Tungsten Carbide | 2-Piece Blade

Makita 2 Pack 8 Pc - 3 1 4 Planer Blade Double Edge Set For Planers - Cutting For Hard Wood - 3-1/4" Tungsten Carbide | 2-Piece Blade

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

3-1/4 inch cutting width

Tungsten carbide

8 blades total

Double-edge reversible

Check Price

Pros

  • Tungsten carbide stays sharp long term
  • Double-edged reversible design
  • Fits multiple Makita models
  • Built for hardwood planing
  • Professional grade construction

Cons

  • Requires a setup tool for proper alignment
  • Manufactured outside Japan
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

When I am working on a hardwood project like white oak, walnut, or hard maple, I do not want to stop and change blades every hour. That is why I reach for the Makita 8-piece 3-1/4 inch tungsten carbide double edge set. It is hands down the most durable handheld planer blade set I have tested.

The set includes eight tungsten carbide blades, which is more than most competing options. Each blade has double edges, so you are effectively carrying sixteen usable cutting edges in one package. For a cabinet shop or trim carpenter, that is a long time between blade orders.

Tungsten carbide is significantly harder than high speed steel, which translates directly to longer edge life. In our testing, these blades ran through hundreds of feet of hard maple without showing any visible degradation in finish quality. On figured cherry, the cuts were nearly tear-out free.

The blades fit the Makita KP0800K, KP0810, XPK01Z, XPK02Z, N1900B, and other 3-1/4 inch Makita planers. They also fit several competitor models, which is a nice bonus if your shop has a mix of brands.

Who Should Buy the Makita 8-Piece Tungsten Carbide Set

This set is ideal for professional woodworkers and serious hobbyists who run a lot of hardwood through their handheld planer. If you are tired of replacing steel blades every few projects, the carbide construction will save you real time and money over the long run. It is also a smart pick for trim carpenters who need a clean edge on premium lumber.

Where the Makita 8-Piece Tungsten Carbide Set Falls Short

You will need a setup tool or template to align the blades correctly, which is a small extra cost if you do not already have one. Some users also note that the blades are manufactured outside Japan, despite the Makita branding. Performance-wise, that has not been an issue in our testing.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

8. Makita 793346-8 Planer Blade for 2012 and 2012NB — Best OEM Replacement

OEM QUALITY
Makita 793346-8 Planer Blade for Model 2012 and 2012NB

Makita 793346-8 Planer Blade for Model 2012 and 2012NB

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

12-1/4 inch cutting width

High speed steel

OEM factory part

Factory specifications

Check Price

Pros

  • Original Makita factory quality
  • Double-sided design
  • Perfect fit for 2012 and 2012NB
  • Long lasting sharpness
  • Easy to swap

Cons

  • Higher price than aftermarket options
  • Single blade per package
We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

There is something reassuring about installing an OEM factory blade. The Makita 793346-8 is the original replacement blade for the Makita 2012 and 2012NB thickness planers, and the fit and finish are exactly what you would expect from a genuine Makita part.

This is a high speed steel blade built to Makita’s factory specifications. The steel is hardened and ground to the same tolerances as the blade that came with the planer, so you get consistent cutting performance with no surprises. For a 2012NB owner, that matters because the planer is known for its precision.

In my testing, the 793346-8 cut through both hard and soft woods cleanly. The finish was on par with other premium HSS blades, and the blade held its edge through a respectable amount of material. Most users report getting several hundred board feet of clean cuts before needing to flip or replace.

The downside is that this is a single blade, and it costs more than most aftermarket multi-packs. For a 2012NB owner who wants factory-spec performance, that tradeoff is worth it. For someone running a high-volume shop, the higher per-blade cost adds up quickly.

Who Should Buy the Makita 793346-8

This is the right choice for Makita 2012 and 2012NB owners who want a true OEM replacement. The factory quality, exact fit, and consistent performance make it the safest pick for users who value reliability over price. If you have invested in a premium Makita planer, pairing it with the OEM blade is a smart move.

Where the Makita 793346-8 Falls Short

The single-blade packaging and higher price make this set less appealing for high-volume users. You will spend more per blade than you would on an aftermarket multi-pack, and you will replace blades more often as a result. For a hobbyist or precision woodworker, however, that tradeoff is usually worth it.

Check Latest Price on Amazon We earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Planer Blade Sets?

Picking the right planer blade set is not just about brand or price. It is about matching the blade material, the machine fit, and the cutting style to the work you actually do. In this section, I will walk you through the key factors that matter most when choosing a planer knife set.

HSS vs TCT vs Solid Carbide: What the Differences Actually Mean

Most planer blade sets fall into one of three material categories, and the differences matter.

High speed steel, or HSS, is the most common planer blade material. M2 and M42 grades are typical, with Rockwell hardness values in the 62 to 65 range. HSS blades are tough, can take light impact without chipping, and can be resharpened in some cases. They are the right choice for most home shops and small production runs.

Tungsten carbide tipped, or TCT, blades use a steel body with a carbide cutting edge brazed on top. They hold an edge longer than HSS, but they can chip if you hit a nail or a hard knot. TCT is a good middle ground for users who want longer life without the cost of solid carbide.

Solid tungsten carbide blades are the most durable option. The entire cutting edge is carbide, so they last far longer than either HSS or TCT, especially on abrasive hardwoods. The tradeoff is cost, and the fact that carbide will chip rather than dull when it hits something it should not.

Machine Compatibility Is the First Check

The fastest way to waste money on a planer blade set is to buy one that does not fit your machine. Always check the cutting width, the mounting hole pattern, and the OEM part number before you order. Most aftermarket sets list the planer models they fit right in the product description.

The most common sizes are 12-1/2 inch, 13 inch, and 15 inch for portable thickness planers, plus 3-1/4 inch for handheld planers. The DeWalt 735 uses 13 inch blades, the RIDGID R4330 uses 13 inch blades, and most 12-1/2 inch planers use the same set across brands like Delta, Porter Cable, Craftsman, and WEN.

Edge Angle, Hardness, and Finish Quality

Most planer blades use a 42 to 45 degree edge angle. A steeper angle like 45 degrees tends to last longer but cuts slightly less cleanly. A shallower 42 degree angle cuts more aggressively but may dull faster. For fine finish work, look for blades that are advertised as double-ground or precision-honed.

Rockwell hardness is another spec worth understanding. HSS blades typically sit in the 62 to 65 Rockwell C range, while carbide blades can hit 70 or higher. Higher hardness means longer edge life, but also more brittleness. The right balance depends on whether you are cutting clean lumber or recycled material.

Cost Per Use Beats Sticker Price

The cheapest planer blade set is rarely the best value. To get a true sense of value, divide the price by the expected number of board feet you will plane before the blades need replacement. A premium carbide set that costs more up front but lasts three times as long is usually the smarter buy.

For a hobbyist running 200 to 400 board feet a month, an HSS aftermarket set is hard to beat. For a production shop pushing several thousand board feet a week, a carbide set pays for itself in saved downtime and replacement labor.

Helical vs Straight Knife Cutterheads

Most thickness planers use a straight knife cutterhead with two or three blades. Some newer and higher-end machines use a helical cutterhead with multiple carbide inserts arranged in a spiral pattern. Helical cutterheads produce less tear-out, run quieter, and are easier to maintain because you can rotate individual inserts instead of changing the whole blade.

If you are shopping for replacement planer blade sets for a straight knife planer, this guide is for you. If you have a helical cutterhead like a Shelix or an Infinity by Byrd, you will be shopping for replacement inserts rather than knives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Planer Blade Sets

What types of planer blades are available?

The three main types of planer blades are high speed steel (HSS), tungsten carbide tipped (TCT), and solid tungsten carbide. HSS is the most common and affordable, TCT offers longer life at a mid price point, and solid carbide provides the longest edge life for high-volume or hardwood work. Some helical cutterheads use indexable carbide inserts instead of full blades.

HSS vs TCT planer blades – which is better?

HSS blades are tougher and less likely to chip if you hit a nail or hard knot, and they cost less up front. TCT blades hold a sharp edge significantly longer, especially on hardwood and MDF, but they can chip on impact. For most home shop users HSS is the better value, while high-volume shops benefit from the longer life of TCT or solid carbide.

How long do planer blades last?

Most HSS planer blades deliver clean cuts for 400 to 800 linear feet of mixed hardwood and softwood before the edge dulls noticeably. Reversible blades effectively double that by giving you a second edge. TCT and solid carbide blades can last several times longer, often 2000 feet or more, depending on the wood species and feed rate.

What are the best planer blades for DeWalt 735?

The DEWALT DW7352-2 is the most popular replacement blade for the DeWalt 735, offering M2 laminated tool steel, vacuum heat treatment, and a two-pack format. Aftermarket brands like POWERTEC and FOXBC also produce well-reviewed 13 inch blades that fit the DW735 at lower cost. For a helical upgrade, the Shelix cutterhead is a common swap.

How do you sharpen planer blades?

You can sharpen HSS planer blades using a dedicated planer blade sharpener, a bench grinder with a jig, or by sending them to a sharpening service. The process involves re-establishing the original edge angle (usually 42 to 45 degrees) and removing the minimum amount of material to create a fresh edge. Disposable planer blades are not designed to be resharpened and should be replaced instead.

Final Verdict on the Best Planer Blade Sets

After running eight of the most popular planer blade sets through their paces, my top recommendation for most woodworkers is the DEWALT DW7352-2 for DeWalt 735 owners, the POWERTEC 12828DD for RIDGID R4330 users, and the Makita D-46246 for anyone with a Makita 3-1/4 inch handheld planer. Each of these sets delivers strong cutting performance, good value, and reliable fit.

If you want the longest possible service life on hardwood, step up to a solid carbide set like the Makita 8-piece tungsten carbide double edge set. If you are working with a tighter budget, the FOXBC 12.5 inch 4 pack is hard to beat on price per blade.

No matter which planer blade set you choose, the most important thing is to replace your blades the moment you see tear-out or fuzzy tracks on the surface. A sharp set of planer knives will save you time on every project, and the right replacement set for 2026 is one of the best upgrades you can make to any thickness planer shop.

Leave a Comment