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Bandsaw blades are an essential component of any woodworking shop, and choosing the right one can greatly impact the quality and efficiency of your work. In this 2023 buying guide, we’ll discuss the different types of bandsaw blades, how to determine the right size, and the best TPI (teeth per inch) for cutting wood. Let’s dive in!
These are the top recommendations based on suggestions from our community of metallurgists and the latest customer sentiment data:
2 Best Bandsaw Blades:
| | 👑 BEST OVERALL | 🛠️ BEST FOR BUDGET |
|---|---|---|
| | DEWALT DW3984C | BOSCH BS6412-24M |
| |  |  |
| TEETH 👩🔬 | 24 TPI | 24 TPI |
| MIN GPM 📏 | Matrix II high-speed steel edge | Premium-grade steel |
| TOOTH HARDNESS⚖️ | Rc 65-67 | N/A |
| PROS 👍 | Alloy steel backer ensures fatigue resistance | Optimized tooth geometry for the best cutting performance |
| CONS 👎 | blade too flexible for certain applications | longevity to be shorter compared to higher-priced options |
| PRICE 💵 | $20.31 | $12.80 |
What kind of blade do you use for a bandsaw?
The type of blade you choose for your bandsaw depends on the material you’re cutting and the desired outcome. A blade with a medium tooth count (around 4-6 TPI) and a versatile tooth geometry (e.g., hook or skip tooth) is ideal for general-purpose woodworking. You’ll need a blade with a higher TPI and a different tooth geometry for metal cutting, such as a bi-metal or carbide-tipped blade.
Three types of bandsaw blades
Regular tooth blades: These blades have evenly spaced teeth and are suitable for general-purpose cutting, such as crosscutting and ripping softwoods and hardwoods. They work best at slower speeds and provide a smooth finish.
Hook tooth blades: Featuring a deeper gullet and a positive rake angle, hook tooth blades are designed for aggressive cutting in thicker materials. They’re ideal for resawing and cutting green (unseasoned) wood.
Skip tooth blades: With widely spaced teeth and a shallow gullet, skip tooth blades are perfect for cutting softer materials and providing a smooth finish. They’re also great for cutting non-ferrous metals like brass and aluminum.
How to determine the right size bandsaw blade
You’ll need to consider the blade’s length, width, and thickness to find the correct size bandsaw blade for your saw. First, consult your bandsaw’s user manual or the manufacturer’s specifications to find the recommended blade length.
For blade width, consider the type of work you’ll be doing. Wider blades (3/4″ to 1″) are great for resawing and cutting straight lines, while narrower blades (1/8″ to 1/2″) are perfect for cutting curves and intricate shapes.
Finally, consider blade thickness. Thicker blades are sturdier and less prone to bending or breaking, but they may not be suitable for cutting tight curves. Thinner blades are more flexible and can navigate tight curves but may wear out more quickly.
What is a good bandsaw blade for wood?
A good bandsaw blade for wood should have a versatile tooth geometry, such as hook or skip tooth, and a medium TPI (4-6 TPI). This ensures a smooth cut with minimal tear-out. Popular brands for woodworking include Timber Wolf, Laguna Tools, and POWERTEC.
What TPI is best for cutting wood?
The best TPI for cutting wood depends on the type of cut and the material’s thickness. A TPI of 4-6 is ideal for general-purpose woodworking, as it balances cutting speed and finish quality well. For finer cuts or cutting thin materials, a higher TPI (8-14) is recommended. Conversely, a lower TPI (2-3) may be more suitable for cutting thicker materials or resawing.
Top 4 Bandsaw Blades in 2023
1. Best Overall: DEWALT Portable Band Saw Blade
The DEWALT DW3984C Portable Band Saw Blade is our top pick for the best overall bandsaw blade in 2023. This blade offers a perfect balance of quality, performance, and value, making it suitable for hobbyists and professionals.
Key features of the DEWALT DW3984C include its Matrix II high-speed steel edge, designed for heat and wear resistance, and its 8% cobalt content, which adds durability and wear resistance. With an Rc 65-67 tooth hardness, this blade can withstand increased wear and maintain its sharpness longer. The alloy steel backer provides fatigue resistance, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable blade.
Customers have praised the DEWALT DW3984C for its excellent cutting performance on various materials, including metal. Its 24 TPI configuration allows for smooth and precise cuts, and the 3-pack offers great value for the price.
Number of Teeth: 24
Tooth Hardness: Rc 65-67
Material: Matrix II high-speed steel edge, 8% cobalt content, alloy steel backer
Pros:
- Heat and wear resistance, thanks to the Matrix II high-speed steel edge
- Added durability and wear resistance due to the 8% cobalt content
- Alloy steel backer ensures fatigue resistance
Cons:
- Some users may find the blade too flexible for certain applications
The DEWALT DW3984C Portable Band Saw Blade is a top choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, versatile bandsaw blade with exceptional performance and durability.
2. Best Premium: LENOX Tools Portable Band Saw Blades
The LENOX Tools Portable Band Saw Blades are our choice for the best premium bandsaw blades in 2023. These blades offer superior cutting performance, durability, and longevity, making them ideal for professionals and serious woodworking enthusiasts.
Key features of the LENOX Tools Portable Band Saw Blades include high-speed steel teeth that provide a strong, long-lasting cutting edge. The bi-metal construction of the blade ensures it’s shatter-resistant, allowing it to bend and resist breaking, extending its life. Additionally, the Tuff Tooth design reinforces the tooth for even longer blade life.
Number of Teeth: 14
Tooth Hardness: High-speed steel teeth
Material: Bi-metal blade with Tuff Tooth design
Pros:
• High-speed steel teeth provide a strong, long-lasting cutting edge
• Shatter-resistant bi-metal blades bend and resist breaking, extending blade life
• Tuff Tooth design reinforces the tooth for longer blade life
Cons:
• Higher price point compared to other options on the market
The LENOX Tools Portable Band Saw Blades offer exceptional cutting performance and durability, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a premium bandsaw blade.
3. Best Budget: BOSCH BS6412-24M Metal Bandsaw Blade
The BOSCH BS6412-24M Metal Bandsaw Blade is our top pick for the best budget bandsaw blade in 2023. This affordable blade offers excellent performance and durability for those seeking a cost-effective option without compromising on quality.
Key features of the BOSCH BS6412-24M include its construction from premium grade steel, which resists heat build-up for a longer life. The blade also features optimized tooth geometry for the best cutting performance on various materials, including wood and metal.
Number of Teeth: 24
Tooth Hardness: Alloy steel teeth
Material: Premium-grade steel
Pros:
• Made from premium grade steel for durability
• Resists heat build-up for a longer life
• Optimized tooth geometry for the best cutting performance
Cons:
• Some users may find the blade’s longevity to be shorter compared to higher-priced options
The BOSCH BS6412-24M Metal Bandsaw Blade offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly bandsaw blade without sacrificing performance and durability.
4. Best Compact: Milwaukee Sub-Compact Band Saw Blade
The Milwaukee 48-39-0572 Sub-Compact Portable Band Saw Blade is our top pick for the best compact bandsaw blade in 2023. This blade is perfect for those who need a compact and portable option for precise cutting tasks in tight spaces or on-the-go projects.
Key features of the Milwaukee 48-39-0572 include its Matrix II high-speed steel teeth, which deliver maximum durability and cutting performance. The alloy backing steel design ensures extended blade life, and the precision-formed teeth enable fast, clean cuts on various materials such as iron, metal, and copper.
Number of Teeth: 18
Tooth Hardness: Matrix II high-speed steel teeth
Material: Alloy steel backing
Pros:
• Matrix II high-speed steel teeth deliver maximum durability
• Alloy backing steel design provides extended blade life
• Precision-formed teeth enable fast, clean cuts
Cons:
• Some users may find the blade less suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks
The Milwaukee 48-39-0572 Sub-Compact Portable Band Saw Blade is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, portable bandsaw blade focusing on precision cutting and durability in various materials.
Key Takeaways
Our top picks for the best bandsaw blades in 2023 include the DEWALT DW3984C for the best overall, LENOX Tools 8010738PW145 for the best premium option, BOSCH BS6412-24M for the best budget choice and Milwaukee 48-39-0572 for the best compact blade. Each blade offers unique features and benefits to cater to different requirements, budgets, and preferences.
When deciding, consider factors such as the number of teeth, tooth hardness, material, and the specific cutting tasks you’ll be performing. With the right bandsaw blade, you can confidently and precisely tackle your woodworking and metal-cutting projects.