"I live in a huge Metro area, but I have to mail order everything!"
Greg,
Check in your area for a sharpening service. Chances are they sell and make
up bandsaw blades with various selections of widths and tooth
configurations. These are usually a fraction of the price of someone's
premade stock blades. Chances are you can call ahead and pick up in less
than a couple of hours.
Example: A Timberwolf 3/8"x105 6tpi blade cost around $35 mail ordered.
Pro- lasts longer, claims to handle better Con- only 1 tooth
configuration for that width, cost 2-3 times as much and if it breaks you
need to have purchased a back up or wait.
A blade made up from sharpening service same size $13-$15 ($25 for a quality
bimetal). Pro- numerous tooth configurations available in each width.
Costs about 33% of what a Timberwolf costs. Usually they will have a couple
of grades to choose from. Limited amount of waiting. Expert advice for
various applications. You've located someone who can help you with several
needs. Con- might not last as long but you can buy 2-3 blades for the
price of 1 timberwolf.
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