Patsy, $60 is too much. I had a Crafstman, with two blades ( fine and medium) until it's blades broke - I used the fine the most, 17 TPI sounds about right. That one was about $25 US.

I replaced it with a Behr, from Home Depot, for about $20. I like the Behr better, as it's blade is about 1-1/2" wide, to the Crafstman ( Shark ) saw's 2-1/2 or 3". The narrower blade works it's way into smaller places easier. Unfortunately, when the first Behr wore out, I could find a replacement blade for it - I'm sure you can mailorder them - so I spent another $20.00. Each saw lasted about a year and a half, with medium to hard use. ( hitting a nail dulls the blade pretty quick ).

The finer teeth make a smoother cut, which is nice for trimming flush and cutting strips. The courser teeth cut faster, and are better for rouch cuts and for crosscutting dimension lumber. There is an even courser blade available, but that's for trimming trees. They are great saws, once you use one you'll never go back. I dont like the double-sided blades, it's handy to be able to grab the back side of the saw blade to help guide it and the teeth on there will do a real number on the fingers.

: OK, I'm going to need some help on this Japanese pull saw thing. I went to
: Woodcraft and they have about a dozen to choose from, most of which are
: well over $45. More like $60. The one that sounds right for what I'm doing
: is the Kataba 12" blade with 17TPI and 39" kerf. It's $60. Which
: one should I get if I'm trying not to spend more than I have to?

: Patsy