Metal cutting bandsaw for wood?

larry1096

larry1096

Joined
Mar 7, 2002
Messages
181
Perhaps this has been covered, but how will a very low speed metal cutting band saw work to cut wood? My other hobby is luthiery, and I often have to cut ~2" thick pieces of hard maple or mahogany, and I'm wondering if anyone's tried to use a metal cutting band saw on wood. If it works, (though possibly slowly?), it would be easier to justify the space for one.

Thanks for any input,
Larry
 
Larry, it works fine. Just use the proper wood cutting blade. The only difference will be the speed. The metal cuttting saw just takes slightly longer to cut the same stock as a wood cutting saw.
I used one of those horizontal/vertical, metal cutting bandsaws for years on wood, with no problem at all. I still use it on occasion, with stuff like Ironwood, etc. I use a metal cutting blade for that application though. Good luck.:)
 
Mike,
Thanks very much for the info.I assume it'll be just the ticket for micarta and g-10, then, too?
Larry
 
Larry, I don't even change the blade. I use the same one for everything from wood to titanium, no problem. I buy Ellis Manufacturer bi metal blades and they last for ever. The one on my saw has been in use for over a year now. They're only $16 and some change. You can order em online at Metal Mart.
 
Larry
as the others say.. OK.
the problem is the other way around
using higher speeds on steel as in a wood ban saw..
to fast makes to much heat and takes the
temper out of the teeth causing the blade to fail.
along with the TPI less on wood and more on steel.
 
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