I got a bandsaw this weekend!

[bicyclemonkey]

El-Cheapo from Harbor Freight

It was $299 and I got a two-year replacement warranty for $5 (which starts after the manufacturers warranty expires).  Now I just need to get my shop cleaned out and converted from storage space to woodworking space.

For roughing out a bow, what blade should I be using, one with the fewest teeth per inch?

[bjansen]

I have been using a 1/2" or 3/4" blade 4-6tpi...the 3/4 helps make nice straight cuts...

[bicyclemonkey]

Do you buy your blades at any particular store?

[Dave Bowers]

Nice I've been eyeballin one from ryobi.

[DCM]

What lenght blade?

I've been getting some 93 1/2" x 1/2" x .025" ( think, I know they a skose thicker), 3 tpi hook that are outstanding.  And I've been through several brands, inluding the more expensive bi-metal, etc.  These are welded out of bulk stock from an outfit in Alabama.  I think I'm in 'em to my door for inside of $10 a pop.  

Unfortunately they are not online.  I am very fortunate have a friend local to them who includes me when he needs blades and then ships 'em to me.

I think a lot of 1/2" blades are .022" thickness.  Seems to make a difference.  Might look into blade thickness when shopping around.

Blade and setup make a BIG difference.  Take time to learn to setup and run your saw, it will pay off in the long run.

[bicyclemonkey]

It looks like the replacement blades they have listed for this bandsaw are 93" blades.  The manual says it will take blades up to 3/4".

It came with a 6 TPI, 3/8"x0.5mm blade.

[Eric Krewson]

I pick up blades for David and myself at a place in Tuscumbia Al. Buy one for $13 each or buy 10 at a time for $9 each. About the best blades I have ever used and I have bought wood slicers for over $25 each.  

They will take orders over the phone. I can PM you contact info if you are interested.

I recommend buying 10 at a time, always nice to have a spare on hand when the one you are using gets dull or breaks.