November 18, 2021

What Size Bandsaw do you need for Resawing?

What to consider when picking bandsaw size

When selecting a bandsaw size, there are several features to consider. The two most important factors are the depth of the cut and the throat size. The depth of the cut refers to the distance between the table and the upper blade guides, and it determines the thickness of the material you can cut. The throat size, on the other hand, is the distance between the blade and the vertical frame of the saw, and it determines the width of the material you can cut. Other factors to consider include the motor power, blade speed, and blade width, which can all affect the sawโ€™s performance and capabilities. Considering these features and specific needs, you can choose the right bandsaw size for your woodworking projects.

Related Article >>Best Bandsaw for Resawing.

It tells the buyer how thick the stock is using the band saw. However, some saws have a six-inch depth of cut bur with an optional riser added to the unit, it extends the depth from six inches to twelve.ย 

The throat is the distance from the blade to the vertical frame section body of the saw, and it tells you the width of the cut completed on the bandsaw. The term 18-inch Band Saw on an advert represents the throat measurement to which the manufacturer is referring.

Consider the size of the motor. Home-level models use a 3/4 to 1 horsepower motor, whereas professional models have larger motors with variable speeds. Band saws have a cast-iron, steel, or aluminum alloy table, which tilts up to 45 degrees for angled cuts.

Look for band wheels with tires with cleaning brushes to keep the wheels clean. A built-in dust collection port that connects to your shop vacuum keeps your workplace clean. A rip fence and a miter gauge are for ripping, resawing, and crosscutting.

Pay attention to the adjustments for the band saw to cut. Failure to follow these instructions decreases performance. The adjustments involve setting the blade tension and adjusting the blade guides, thrust bearing, and side bearings.

Consider a clear manual so that it helps you set up your saw with ease. You become familiar with the proper methods for safely cutting with your saw. Although a band saw is a safe power tool, set it up before use.

Pick a band saw of sufficient power. Motors smaller than 1hp limit effectiveness and performance. Use a point fence to swing your stock left or right to correct for blade drift. You can use a standard fence, but when slicing off a ยผ inch of hardwood, your blade drifts toward the fence, and you become powerless to correct it. Use the rule of thumb for resawing. The wider, the better.

Why does the size of your bandsaw matter for resawing

  • The size of your bandsaw matters for resawing since it gives you a better feed rate.ย 
  • Knowing the size of your bandsaw gives you the size of the stock you should run on the saw machine.ย 
  • It allows you to match the size of your bandstand and saw blade.

How do you cut a veneer on a bandsaw?

Consider using the 1/2 โ€“ ยพ inch blade with 3-4 Teeth Per Inch, big gullets, and a minimal set. Make sure your bandsaw is running correctly to make the work easy. Check on the tires on the wheels and replace them if they are not in good condition.ย ย 

Replace the original guides with Carter roller-bearing guides and upgrade the fence to pivot a few degrees. That way, you are allowed to adjust for the bladeโ€™s drift. You can always rip the plank into narrower pieces, resaw it and rejoin the veneerโ€™s edge to edge.

You can use silicon-carbide hook-tooth blades, ยฝ in. or ยพ in. wide. The teeth come in a raker-5 pattern, making them alternate left, right, left, right, and have an unset raker tooth. Bimetal blades also work well on abrasive woods. However, they are for cutting metal at slower speeds and are more than twice the price of standard saw blades.

Tune up and set up the bandsaw. Use a fresh blade and align the fence to the bladeโ€™s drift. A high saw fence provides full support, and it should be at least as high since the veneer will be wide.ย 

Prepare the plank by milling both faces and edges. Add several inches to the longest veneers you need when cutting the plank to length. Sometimes you need extra length if you put the veneers through the planer.ย 

When cutting the plank to width, stay closer to the finished width of the veneer. Mark a triangle on the end or edge of the plank so that the sliced veneers can easily be restacked in order. Machine your plank for the show veneer and prepare material to use as a backer on the veneered panels.

Use a steady feed rate and keep the plank tight to the fenceโ€”Smoothen between slices. Use your block to support the cut and keep your fingers off the blade. Feed the wood slowly, and support the stock.ย 

You are allowed to glue down the surfaces. Bear in mind that the thickness of the veneer varies. Smoothen the pieces with a hand plane, but only if you can manage them. Do not use too much tape since it will be impossible to get.

Can you resaw on a 10 bandsaw?

Yes, you can resaw on a 10-inch band saw, and it comes with sufficient power and a significant depth of cut. A band saw with a motor smaller than 1hp and a depth of cut of fewer than 10 inches limits your effectiveness. A 10-inch band saw is compact and has to be well-made.ย 

It makes an excellent starter band saw for users on a budget, and it is also useful to owners of larger bandsaws. This saw could handle heavy-duty cutting like resawing. As you install the bandsaw, square up a piece of 4ร—4 poplar to resaw full-length slices from it.ย 

That is how the bandsaw performs precise cuts. It is used by owners of larger bandsaws looking to reduce the hassles of blade changes for separate cutting operations. It comes with a solid table built out of cast iron.

How do you set a bandsaw to resaw?

To set up your bandsaw for resawing, follow these steps:

  1. Choose the right blade: A resaw blade should be at least 3/4โ€ณ wide, have a low TPI (around 3-4), and be sharp.
  2. Tension the blade: Make sure the blade is properly tensioned for optimal performance.
  3. Adjust the blade guides: Adjust the blade guides so they are just behind the blade and close enough to prevent any side-to-side movement.
  4. Use a point block: Use a point block to guide your cut and keep the blade in the right position.
  5. Adjust the fence: Adjust your fence to the lead angle of the blade.
  6. Make a test cut: Make a short resaw cut to check your setup and adjust your fence to match how the blade twisted.
  7. Feed at the right rate: Feed your material through the blade slowly and steadily.
  8. Keep the blade clean: Make sure your blade is clean and free from pitch and debris.

Following these steps, you can ensure your bandsaw is properly set up for resawing and achieve accurate and smooth cuts.

What is a bandsaw riser block?

A riser block is an extension that fits between the base and arm of a typical cast-iron bandsaw frame. However, not all saws accept a riser block. Check your ownerโ€™s manual or ask your dealer if you have the option. The kit should include a longer guidepost, connector bolt, blade, and blade guards.ย 

How do you resaw without a bandsaw?

Resawing without a bandsaw can be challenging, but it is possible with patience and the right tools. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Size the board: Start by measuring and marking the board to the desired width.
  2. Cut in steps: Use a handsaw or jigsaw to cut into the board in multiple steps, following your marks.
  3. Clamp and start: Clamp the board down securely and make a starter cut to create a groove for your saw blade.
  4. Use a reciprocating saw: Use a reciprocating saw (such as a Sawzall) to cut the board along the groove. This may take some time and effort, so be patient.
  5. Remove excess pieces: Once the board is cut, remove any excess pieces from the clamp.
  6. Plane the pieces: Use a hand plane or sandpaper to smooth out the boardโ€™s surface.

While resawing without a bandsaw is possible, it can be time-consuming and requires some skill with hand tools. If you have access to a bandsaw, it is generally a more efficient and precise way to resaw.

David D. Hughes

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