tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2807403883562053852.post2573925842419428390..comments2024-03-27T08:40:31.785-06:00Comments on Clayton Cramer.: Harbor Freight Bandsaw, Part IIClayton Cramerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03258083387204776812noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2807403883562053852.post-68390987585142442402016-06-05T22:27:58.138-06:002016-06-05T22:27:58.138-06:00Metal cutting generally requires a higher tooth co...Metal cutting generally requires a higher tooth count than wood.<br /><br />One of the defining characteristics of a metal bandsaw is a closely controlled blade. Guides with bearings are common, along with extending arms to keep the guide as close to the object being cut. The band is kept at a higher tension, IIRC, which is one of the reasons for the bearings that the blade touches. It's intended to make precision cuts, to save production costs in fabrication.<br /><br />I think that is also why they tend to have a blade welder mounted on the chassis. They break blades more often than wood saws do.<br /><br />The other difference is a wide speed control, as different metals can require radically varying speeds.<br /><br />Unless you stock extra copies of the blades you normally use, a blade welder is important, if the saw is used for business.Willhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00722792638246578812noreply@blogger.com