Replies

1. 
   forestgirl | Feb 24, 2004 08:17pm | #1

   Ryan, as you've probably gathered, I'm a Timber Wolf fan.  I'm also a fan of getting their advice, as it's the best.  However, since you asked, here's my take. 

   As for "type" I'd suggest you pick up at least one each of the PC and AS series, either 3/8" or 1/2".  With that Jet machine, you could even go to 3/4" on the PC. The PC series is designed to minimize sanding needed, but the feed speed will need to be a slower than the AS blade.  The AS series is intended for material 6-8" thick, gives you good speed, but won't be quite as smooth.  Only made in 3/8" and 1/2" x 3tpi.

   The PC would be the series to use for general shape-cutting, unless you're working in <1" thick wood and want a super finish.  Then go to the RK/HP's (ask Suffolk people).

   I think the rule of thumb for tooth-count is keeping 6-8 teeth in the stock.  My resaw blades are all 3 tpi.  If I went to 3/4" blades, I could get 2 tpi.  Higher tooth counts on blades used for shape-cutting in thinner material.

   Thanks for mentioning the sale.  I hadn't heard about it.  Sad thing is, I just bought 2 blades last month!  Oh well.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
   Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

   
   

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   Edited 2/27/2004 12:42:28 PM ET by forestgirl

2. 
   BG | Feb 27, 2004 03:32pm | #2

   Norm,

   I've just started using the bandsaw and with that buying of Timberwolf blades.  I'm focused on functionality of the blade and not the quality of the cut...that may be a mistake on my part.  I bought a 3/16" blade for tight turns...but now need to use it on cabriole legs...the TPI is a bit high for the thickness of the wood.

   Anyhow, my advice would echo FG's, Suffolk is quite knowledgable.  I think you need to figure out how you intend to use your bandsaw and ask others here what they used to make those cuts.  I also suspect bandsaw blades are like handplanes....you can never  have enough variety....but you need a lot fewer to function...
3. 
   nicobie | Feb 27, 2004 08:33pm | #3

   Hi Norm,

   I've found that a 1/4", 6 tpi, hook blade is about the best for all around use. I keep that on my saw 90% of the time. I even use if I am going to resaw small amounts (10' or less). I know most people here like the timberwolf bands but I much prefer bimetal blades. They really do stay sharper longer. Some claims say 10x as long. I don't know about that, but 5x for sure.

   When faced with having to do a lot of resawing I switch to a 1/2", .025 thick, carbide blade.