What blade size to use?

[Cyrano]

I will be starting a project soon out of 1/2 inch oak, and I will be using a spiral blade. Normally I use FD 2/0 when working with 1/8 stock. Since I have never used a spiral on 1/2 stock, what size spiral would you recommend?

Thanks for the help!

[wood-n-things]

I don't have a clue.

When I spiral it's usually out of control,and usually ends with a thud. LOL

Somebody from the dark side will be by soon and answer that for you though.

[lucky788scroller]

I would stay with a 2/0 spiral blade. I have found that I have the best luck with a 2/0 spiral no matter what thickness or type of material I am cutting if it must be done with a spiral. I think the reason is because the size of the kerf from a larger spiral means your hogging out a lot more material, so its working harder to cut through than using a 2/0 spiral.Unlike a flat blade where going up a few sizes in thicker materials seems to help with control and ease the cutting, I feel that going to a bigger spiral when you go to thicker material is just compounding the amount of work involved to make the cut. So, I would say, stick with the 2/0 spiral, or switch to a flat blade in a # 3 size.

[Doc249HMCS]

All of my spiral cutting has been done on 1/8" wood. I am guessing a minimum of a #5. That would let you know weather you can move up or down without ruining your work.
Hope this helps.
Don