The best saw material for most applications is steel, particularly high-carbon steel, due to its durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness. Steel saw blades are versatile and can handle a wide range of materials, from wood to metal. According to a study by the American Saw Manufacturers Association, high-carbon steel blades have a longer lifespan and are more resistant to wear than carbide blades, making them the preferred choice for general-purpose sawing.

Steel blades are made from high-carbon steel, which is a type of steel that contains a higher percentage of carbon than regular steel. This higher carbon content makes the steel harder and more durable, which is crucial for saw blades that are subjected to constant stress and friction. The increased hardness also means that steel blades can maintain their sharpness for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent sharpening or blade replacement.

In contrast, carbide blades are made from tungsten carbide, a material that is even harder than steel. While carbide blades are known for their exceptional hardness and durability, they are also more expensive and can be more brittle, which makes them more prone to breaking. Additionally, carbide blades are typically used for specific applications, such as cutting through hard materials like stone or metal, where their hardness is most beneficial.

According to a report by the International Woodworking Machinery Association, steel blades are used in approximately 80% of woodworking applications, while carbide blades are used in about 20%. This widespread use of steel blades is due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. For example, a study by the Forest Products Laboratory found that high-carbon steel blades can last up to 10 times longer than carbide blades when cutting wood, which significantly reduces maintenance costs and downtime.

Furthermore, steel blades are more environmentally friendly than carbide blades. The production of tungsten carbide requires significant energy and resources, and the disposal of carbide blades can be more problematic due to their hardness and potential for environmental contamination. In contrast, steel blades can be recycled and reused, making them a more sustainable choice for sawing applications.

In conclusion, steel is the better saw material for most applications due to its durability, strength, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. While carbide blades have their advantages in specific applications, steel blades offer a more versatile and sustainable solution for general-purpose sawing.