Bandsaw efficiency

KDC · Post by **KDC** » Sat Jan 08, 2011 7:01 pm

I am buying a "newer" 1972-78 SS. It also comes with the SS bandsaw attachment.

How well does the bandsaw perform? Are there "best" blades to run in this machine?

Thanks!

nuhobby · Post by **nuhobby** » Sat Jan 08, 2011 7:53 pm

If your bandsaw is in tune, it will be ideal for your projects:D . There are many threads in the forum history about bandsaw tuning and/or troubleshooting. Of course you can ask us anything here too.

I like the rule-of-thumb that you want 3-4 teeth of bandsaw-blade per the thickness of your workpiece. So I seldom see a need for any more than 3-5 teeth per inch. If the piece is so small as to need more teeth, then I often use the scrollsaw instead.

The width of blade should be smaller for tighter turn-radius cuts. A 1/4" wide blade can do a lot of curves but isn't up to heavy resawing. Luckily, blades are pretty easy to change.

Enjoy your new toys!

curiousgeorge · Post by **curiousgeorge** » Sat Jan 08, 2011 9:15 pm

There are many "good" blades out there, but, IMHO, it's hard to beat Timber Wolf band saw blades. They last longer because they are a low tension blade.

cv3 · Post by **cv3** » Sat Jan 08, 2011 9:55 pm

I use my band saw more than the table saw. I cut a lot of hard woods pre-shaping carving project. I also like the wolf brand blades.