Bandsaw performance limits

[Positive]

Hi. Every now and then I consider buying a bandsaw. For example for my latest project I need 6 feet/2.4 m long piece of pine approximately 4"/100 mm x 1/8" /3 mm. If I should have a 1" x 4" (25 mm x 100 mm) to start with would it be possible to cleanly cut the needed piece with an average band saw? Only with a high end saw equipped with proper blade? Not at all?

Would this be pushing the envelope or everyday routine? As You can see I have no experience with band saws. I am a hobbyist so the time used is not my primary concern.
P

 

[Mr Ed]

Welcome to the forum.

The cut you want to make is entirely possible with the right machine. A small hobby bandsaw will not do it, but a mid size saw will be fine. Exactly which model is difficult to say; I know my Scheppach Basato 3 wouldn't have done it, but my Axminster AP5300 would eat that. Something in between the 2 would therefore be OK.

Ed

 

[Shultzy]

Positive, remember to cut 6ft you need at least 13ft of space and you need good support over this length otherwise it will be difficult to control the wood.

 

[Steve Maskery]

Hi Positive, welcome aboard!
Yo ca do what you want with the most basic of bandsaws, if it is equipped with the right blade and set up correctly. It will, of course, be easier with a quality machine - it doesn't have to be Top Of The Range.

You talk of a "prope" blade. This is crucial, and it will come as no surprise. But BS blades are no expensive and will last a long time. They may ALL the difference between a machine performing OK and singing. You do need a good blade but you also need to set the machine properly. There is loads of stuff on the Internet and both Mark Duginski and I have produced DVDs on the subject. quite possibly others as well.

If you can get a mate who knows his BS to show you how to set it up, even better.

Such a long cut is not going to be easy to achieve consistently. But it is not impossible either. I does need care and the right blade. It's not an impossible task, but it is challenging if yo are new to the BS.

Good luck
Steve

 

[RogerS]

One point that no-one has yet mentioned is what type of finish are you after because a bandsaw will leave cut marks which may or may not be acceptable.

I'd also be prepared to waste a lot of material in the early stages because over that sort of length and that thickness it is easy for your eye to wander and go offline. Is this a regular requirement? Is there someone near you who could do it for you? Would be cheaper than buying a bandsaw!