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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: bicyclemonkey on March 23, 2009, 12:18:00 PM

Title: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: bicyclemonkey on March 23, 2009, 12:18:00 PM

El-Cheapo from Harbor Freight (http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do?itemid=32208&CategoryName=&SubCategoryName=)

It was $299 and I got a two-year replacement warranty for $5 (which starts after the manufacturers warranty expires).  Now I just need to get my shop cleaned out and converted from storage space to woodworking space.

For roughing out a bow, what blade should I be using, one with the fewest teeth per inch?

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: bjansen on March 23, 2009, 12:27:00 PM

I have been using a 1/2" or 3/4" blade 4-6tpi...the 3/4 helps make nice straight cuts...

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: bicyclemonkey on March 23, 2009, 12:29:00 PM

Do you buy your blades at any particular store?

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: Dave Bowers on March 23, 2009, 12:30:00 PM

Nice I've been eyeballin one from ryobi.

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: DCM on March 23, 2009, 01:07:00 PM

What lenght blade?

I've been getting some 93 1/2" x 1/2" x .025" ( think, I know they a skose thicker), 3 tpi hook that are outstanding.  And I've been through several brands, inluding the more expensive bi-metal, etc.  These are welded out of bulk stock from an outfit in Alabama.  I think I'm in 'em to my door for inside of $10 a pop.  

Unfortunately they are not online.  I am very fortunate have a friend local to them who includes me when he needs blades and then ships 'em to me.

I think a lot of 1/2" blades are .022" thickness.  Seems to make a difference.  Might look into blade thickness when shopping around.

Blade and setup make a BIG difference.  Take time to learn to setup and run your saw, it will pay off in the long run.

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: bicyclemonkey on March 23, 2009, 01:45:00 PM

It looks like the replacement blades they have listed for this bandsaw are 93" blades.  The manual says it will take blades up to 3/4".

It came with a 6 TPI, 3/8"x0.5mm blade.

Title: Re: I got a bandsaw this weekend!
Post by: Eric Krewson on March 24, 2009, 10:14:00 AM

I pick up blades for David and myself at a place in Tuscumbia Al. Buy one for $13 each or buy 10 at a time for $9 each. About the best blades I have ever used and I have bought wood slicers for over $25 each.  

They will take orders over the phone. I can PM you contact info if you are interested.

I recommend buying 10 at a time, always nice to have a spare on hand when the one you are using gets dull or breaks.