Replies

1. 
   bones | Sep 06, 2006 09:57pm | #1

   I bought from them and they are pretty good.  He did not try to sell  me the most expensive, but asked questions, and recommended a blade based on what I was going to do.  I would take his advise. 

2. 
   PeteBradley | Sep 07, 2006 03:49am | #2

   I'm sure Suffolk gave you a good recommendation based on exactly what you asked for. It depends whether you really need the smoothest finish possible. I use a 4PC for everything except really big resaws(logs or more than about 10"). A new 4PC with no bent teeth (be careful unfolding it and installing it) will give a surface finish in most hardwoods that requires only light sanding or scraping.

   Pete

1. 
   bankruptedbyNorm | Sep 07, 2006 05:54pm | #4

   Thanks.  I went ahead and ordered the 4PC after calling back.  I spoke with another rep and she recommended that blade.  She did not recommend the RK blade (it's intended more for plywood and composites) and was concerned that 8 teeth would risk burning the wood, saying 6 tpi was as high as she would recommend for a smoother finish.  I'm guessing the guy I spoke with yesterday has had good experience with the 8RK giving a finer finish on thicker woods, even though it is labeled for 3/4 to 1 1/2" hardwood.  Given my inexperience with feed rates and knowing I'll eventually use the blade for multiple applications it seems the 4PC will suit me best. 

   Thanks to all for your input.

1. 
   forestgirl | Sep 07, 2006 06:29pm | #5

   Did you order only one blade?  Hmmmmmm, it's a good idea to have 3 or so at least.  They bend.  They dull.  Shipping costs $$.forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 

1. 
   bankruptedbyNorm | Sep 07, 2006 09:02pm | #6

   Yeah, I know.  But take note of my handle.  Norm just keeps forcing me to buy another power tool.  No $ for accessories (kidding).  Actually I already have a  1/4" Timberwolf blade for cutting curves.  And with two small children (3 and 1) keeping me out of the garage, it will take me 2-5 years to wear out each blade.  The buy 3 get one free deal is tempting, but it's money better spent on several more accessories I need for my next project...router bits, bullnose plane, etc.  Golly, the hardward alone could run me over $100 if I go with quality reproduction hinges.   

3. 
   forestgirl | Sep 07, 2006 04:41am | #3

   "to get as smooth a finish as possible?  The speed of cut is not important to me as I won't be resawing, just squaring off the upper part of the leg. "  This is why he recommended the blade he did.  If you change your mind about how you want the blade to perform (finish v. speed) you'll get a different recommendation.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 
   

   
   

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   Edited 9/6/2006 9:41 pm by forestgirl

4. 
   vance | Sep 07, 2006 10:34pm | #7

   Sir,

   I use a 6 t.p.i. alternate rake.

   I use a 3/4 wide blade (3hp) and find the bandsaw doesn't work so hard as when usinging and 3 or 4 t.p.i. blade.

   You can find a wholesale blade dealer in your town I'm sure who will order you any length you need for less money.

   good cutting and watch your fingers.

   Vance

1. 
   bankruptedbyNorm | Sep 08, 2006 01:09am | #8

   Hmmm....I had considered 3/4 inch, but in the end I figured 1/2 would be sufficient for now and more versatile for other projects down the road.  More of an all purpose blade, if you will.  The timberwolf blade from the manufacturer is only $18.03 and about $5 for shipping, so I can't complain on the price.  Thanks for the heads up, though.