Freud SD512: 12" Super Dado Sets

I'm very pleased with the way this dado set is working out. I was concerned with using an 8" stack with a 1-1/2 hp delta contractors saw, but so far it's working out great--even with all the blades installed. I don't have any experience with other dado stacks, but to my eye the cuts from the SD508 are superb. Clean, flat bottoms and sides. No chip out at all. The only thing that is a hassle (not unique to Freud) is that it IS a dado stack. Putting the both cutters and the chippers together for a cut can be a chore. Now I know why Bill Hylton says avoids using a dado stack in favor of using a router to make dados in some of his books. :-) Other reviewers said that they had a hard time judging which chipper is which. There are 4 in the set. Two 1/8", one 3/32" and one 1/16". I found that looking at them carefully from the side made it easy enough for me to determine the widths without resorting to using a dial caliper or other measuring device. The box the blades come in is nice, sturdy and protects the blades well. Just make certain the tabs to hold it closed are secure. Otherwise there's the potential for all your blades to fall out if you aren't careful. There's a dvd with an intro on how to use the dado, as well as a chart that tells you which cutter and chipper combos will produce a certain size dado/groove, that comes with the set. The dvd is specific to the dial-a-width product and really doesn't cover much other than the 'basic of basics' on how to use the dado. It also has a plan on it for a dado sled. One other thing. Using any saw blade can be dangerous; using a full dado stack the first time can be VERY intimidating and dangerous if you aren't careful. Make sure all your safety gadgets are in place so you can deal with the intimidating part so you don't 'accidently' experiance the dangerous part of while using it. That said, after making a full depth, clean bottomed dado in one pass, all I can think to say is "sweet"! Feeling intimidated by all those spinning blades quickly fades to healthy respect.

Used on softwood, works just fine.

Easy to use, very sharp. And cuts super even. Zero ridges in the cut. Also zero tearing when cutting oak plywood cross grain. Wouldn’t even think of buying a cheaper one. But this one and and be done.

This is an excellent Dado Set that produces very clean grooves. I received it about 2 months ago and have used it for precision work in soft- and hardwoods. Less expensive than other dados I could locate for 1" arbors, it comes with a sturdy and very functional storage case that I will continue to use. Pricey compared to smaller dado sets, but cheaper when one has to bore out many blades to fit the larger arbor.

I used ona 14" RAS, I love it. Beautiful dado at 3/4" deep and wide. No worries about *climbing" due to negative hook angles and blade design. Has some weight, so coast-down s substantial, but a non issue. Excellent finish on all blades and a great case.