Bandsaw blade storage

[Fred Page]

How should a band saw blade be stored?
I have in mind the size for a Startrite 352 (112 inches I think). Should it be kept at the same radius as the band saw’s wheels (ie folded)? Or, should it just be allowed to hang out loosely? And, what about rusting? Would you give it a light oiling to avoid this or just ignore any rust since this quickly disappears on renewed use? Or doesn’t it matter what you do?
I’ve never been faced with this query before but having purchased a fine blade for tight curves etc I would like to store it in the best possible way - which is?
Fred

 

[jasonB]

I keep mine folded as they are less likely to get damaged, light spray with WD40 would not do any harm if you have a damp workshop.

Jason

 

[Grinding One]

Yep same as Jason B but one other thing I save the box it comes in and store them that way...also mark on the box the price I paid for it and day I bought it....Helps me to keep better records

 

[Escudo]

I have great trouble in folding bandsaw blades. No matter how hard I try I just haven't got the knack. Accordingly, mine hang loose on the wall and are always in the way.

I hope one day someone can show me how to do it.

Tony.

 

[Fred01]

I always fold mine. I usually try 2 or 3 methods. Get nicked 2 or 3 times(or more) but get it done in the end.

 

[Grinding One]

Ok here it is,put on some leather gloves with a long sleeve shirt on....take the blade in one hand and ,stand on the blade with your instep of one foot(the inside of blade)twist the blade right or left depending if your a right handed or left handed....while pushing it to the floor....it will coil itself up to a little loop.Put a couple of ties on it and put it away (ties,the kind they seal up bread with the plastic bags)piece of wire enclosed in two paper sides,at least we have them here.... your done!

 

[iajon69]

I have great trouble in folding bandsaw blades. No matter how hard I try I just haven't got the knack. Accordingly, mine hang loose on the wall and are always in the way.

I hope one day someone can show me how to do it.

Tony.

I've always found it easier to show someone how to fold a blade than try to explain it so if anyone is ever passing us in South Wales, just pop in and I will gladly show you how it's done - it's really easy once you've seen it being done

Ian

 

[OPJ]

I use either WD-40 or PTFE spray to help prevent the blades from rusting. I did buy some lightly-rusted blades from Dragon Saws once (don't worry, it was intentional and Ian did them for a good price!! :wink: ). A light spray as it was running and after a few cuts in some scrap softwood these blades were as clean as new! So, if ever you do get a rust problem, don't think about throwing them away just yet!

 

[Timmo]

I think one of the wood whisperer pod casts shows how he folds bandsaw blades...not sure which one....
Cheers
Timmo

 

[DaveL]

So, if ever you do get a rust problem, don't think about throwing them away just

post them off to me, if they are 88" long and 1/2" or less in width and I will look after them for you.

Well if you don't try ............................. :wink:

 

[p111dom]

Try this

 

[TrimTheKing]

I found this one the easiest to follow. 2-3 practices and I had it. I found that the first option he shows you seems to have less chance of nicking yourself.

Folding blades

HTH

Cheers

Mark