Tension Bandsaws without a Gauge

Q:

My small bandsaw has no tension gauge. How can I tell if I’ve tightened the blade enough?

Jim Mitchell, Raleigh, NC

A:

Even if your bandsaw has such a gauge, it is probably inaccurate. That’s OK, as you can still find the proper tension just by pressing on the blade. Unplug the saw and raise the guides to their highest position. Then adjust the tension and press on the blade as shown at right. This is more than enough tension for a sharp bandsaw blade. If you still get blade drift or bad cuts after that, you need a new blade or a coarser one (3 tpi is right for woodworking). This method works for any 14-in. bandsaw or smaller and blades up to 1⁄2-in. wide. With the guides raised all the way, press in the middle of the blade. If you can deflect the blade 1⁄4-in. without your fingertip turning white, the tension is good.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw

With enough power to slice through thick hardwoods, the Makita makes smooth, chip-free cuts in all materials.

Buy at Amazon

Festool Rotex FEQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander

The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.

Buy at Amazon

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon