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Jigsaw Blade Cross-Reference Guide: Decoding Bosch, DEWALT, Makita & Diablo Numbers

Learn how to decode universal blade numbers (T101B, T144D, T118A) and cross-reference equivalent blades across top tool brands.

Published by: Sierras de CalarLast reviewed on 2 min estimated read
Assorted labeled jigsaw blades on a technical blueprint chart

The universal T-shank alphanumeric coding system originally created by Bosch has become the global benchmark for jigsaw blades. Understanding what each digit and suffix letter represents allows you to instantly select the right blade and cross-reference equivalents across manufacturers.

Table of Contents View sections
  1. Decoding the Universal Bosch T-Shank System
  2. Direct Manufacturer Cross-Reference Chart
  3. Frequently Asked Questions

Decoding the Universal Bosch T-Shank System

  1. First Letter (Shank Interface):
    • T: Modern universal T-shank with retention ears.
    • U: Vintage U-shank with rounded notch.
  2. First Digit (Overall Blade Length):
    • 1: Standard length (3” to 4” overall, cuts up to 2” deep).
    • 2: Medium or narrow scroll blade.
    • 3: Long blade (5” to 6” for timber framing).
    • 7 / 10: Extra-long deep demolition blade.
  3. Middle Digits (Material Substrate):
    • 01 / 02: Clean wood and laminates (Clean for Wood).
    • 11 / 14 / 24: Fast aggressive wood cutting (Speed for Wood).
    • 18 / 21 / 28: Sheet metal, aluminum, and pipes (Metal).
    • 30 / 41: Ceramics, drywall, and fiberglass.
  4. Trailing Suffix Letters (Tooth Size & Metallurgy):
    • A: Very fine pitch (21–24 TPI), thin sheet metal.
    • B: Fine pitch (10 TPI), chip-free clean wood cuts.
    • C: Medium pitch (8 TPI), general construction lumber.
    • D: Coarse set teeth (6 TPI), fast framing and green wood.
    • R: Reverse downward-pointing teeth, protecting top show surfaces.
    • F: Bi-Metal construction (spring steel body + HSS teeth) for double life.
    • X: Progressor variable tooth pitch for composite sandwich materials.

Direct Manufacturer Cross-Reference Chart

Application Bosch DEWALT Makita Diablo CMT
Fast Rough Wood (Framing) T144D DT2074 B-10 DJT144D JT144D
Clean Wood (Cabinets, Trim) T101B DT2075 B-13 DJT101B JT101B
Reverse Tooth (Laminates) T101BR DT2167 B-19 DJT101BR JT101BR
Scroll / Tight Curves T119BO DT2164 B-18 DJT119BO JT119BO
Sheet Metal (16–10 Gauge) T118A DT2160 B-22 DJT118A JT118A
Aluminum & Thick Metals T127D DT2162 B-21 DJT127D JT127D
Stainless Steel / Carbide T118EHM DT2056 B-47 DJT118X JT118E

Explore our full jigsaw blades catalog and read our TPI blade selection guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Bosch T101B mean?

"T" stands for T-shank; "1" indicates standard length (about 4 inches); "01" designates clean-cutting wood series; and the suffix "B" indicates fine teeth (approx. 10 TPI) for splinter-free cuts.

Can I use Bosch blades in my DEWALT or Milwaukee jigsaw?

Yes. Virtually all modern cordless and corded jigsaws feature toolless quick-release clamps built around universal T-shank tangs.

What is the difference between T144D and T144DP?

The added "P" stands for "Precision". A T144DP blade has a thicker 1.7 mm spine (vs. 1.25 mm on the standard T144D), resisting lateral flex for perfectly square 90-degree cuts in thick stock.

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