Best Band Saw Blades

[tvandeventer]

Just tried to order 111", 3/4" bi-metal band saw blades from my old tried & true Sunbelt Industrial Supply, only to be told that they are closing down.

How about some tips? I'm cutting 1 1/2" bars of annealed damascus while making mosaics. Any preferences on brand or tooth configuation/number?

What company do you prefer?

Thanks! TV

 

[D.Mirabile]

I use the Lenox Bi Metal blades, 3/4 x .035... 6/10 tpi

I get mine from Mark Knapp here on the forums.
Great prices, and quick service.

 

[Karl B. Andersen]

Terry, if you go through a lot of blades, it's worth your while to just buy a roll of blade and get your own blade welder.
That way, you're never without blades, and you'll save a ton of money.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I thought Karl has an excellent point.......and then I fact checked it.

A 100' roll of Lenox Die-master II Bi-metal stock -1/2, .025,10TPI,standard tooth is $314.71, from Cyber Woodworking Depot ( they carry metal blades,too.
http://www.toolcenter.com/bi_metal.html
That would make ten 120" blades.You will have to weld them up yourself.
On made to order blades they sell the stock by the inch for the same price as a roll. They add $6.80 for each blade weld. That makes a 120" blade $38.30.

So, there actually isn't much reason to keep more than two or three spare blades hanging on the wall. If I went through more than twenty blades a year, maybe...but if I cut that much steel, the time to weld them up wouldn't be worth $6.80 a blade.....I'd let the pros do and make damascus instead of welding band saw blades.

For those who want to try welding a broken blade, use your wire welder set at 5amps. Practice on some old blades and before long you will realize why most everyone lets the pros do it.