Bandsaw

[dart]

I made 4- 1/4" square steel guide blocks for my small 9" Delta bandsaw. I adjusted it to fit the blade I have been using for about a year. It still did not track. So I took it off and installed a new Craftsman Sears 3/8" bandsaw blade. After adjusting it I thought that it would not work well either. But so far it has worked great! I am keeping my fingers crossed tho. Hammer

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Get you some of those "soft blocks". They will save your blades. Also, make sure you use 4TPI skip tooth blades. They really eat the wood and will turn a sharp radius. 3/8" is a pretty big blade, I'd suggest 3/16", that's all I ever use.

[dart]

I had the smaller 3/16" blade on it and it was miserable to use. Wandered all over the place. Also the Delta blocks were similar to the "coolBlocks" that are advertised in many woodworkers magazines. They would not work on this bandsaw. What I have now works great compared to what I had before. I think every tool has its own devilish personality. Just have to find out what works and stick to it. I'll know more after I use it more. I cut a really hard piece of Mulberry with it today and it didn't even slow down. The other blade bogged down so much that I had quit using the bandsaw altogether. Never know tho, it may work for awhile then go on the blink too?

[Lynn O. Doughty]

If this is a new saw I would seriously consider taking it back. I have never hear anything but negative comments about these small, workbench top units. To really operate as a bandsaw should it should at least be a 12-14 inch model.