IanMaude":11mhrn99 said:
Well as it is my first ever bandsaw and came without a blade, it would seem prudent to read a manual before attempting to set it up, would it not?
Ian
The manual does indeed contain some detail which might not be immediately apparent even to the most seasoned of users...the vari-speed function (if you have that model) is one mechanism that comes to mind.
I've had this model for many years and as a mid-range machine for light hobby use...it is very good and reliable if maintained. In fact..I did my annual strip down and service job on mine only last night.
When I first got it brand new even with the manual to hand...it was not set up for optimum use and for a number of years I used it under the assumption that it was and was not that impressed.
I was advised on this very forum to get hold of
Steve Maskery's Bandsaw Essentials DVD and using this and his online videos...I set up the saw following the exact sequence he prescribes to the letter.
I can only say that the saw turned from a mediocre machine to a precision tool which I use to do most jobs up to heavy ripping. You need an industrial machine to go further with larger stock and blades.
There is one thing that is critical to the cleanness and ease of cut and that is of course the blade. If you put the stock blade in even if it's new...you will not get the maximum out of the machine. For this you need a quality blade. I think it is universally accepted that the best value and quality blades are supplied by a member here...
Ian at Tuffsaws. Using a quality blade will transform your saw. Get two and when one is worn or breaks (not often!) then you simply put the spare on and order another as a spare. That way you are never without the machine to use when you most need it.
Throw away the plastic table insert..it's useless. You need to make a ZCI...(zero clearance insert) which will present a much more stable platform for the workpiece and prevent small offcuts being dragged into the gap and jamming the blade.
If you follow these three tips in order...you will have a diamond machine which will serve you well for many years to come!
This is some oak strip I made to face a shelf:
I try not to use thin blades on this saw...preferring to leave this for straight cuts with a 1/2" or 5/8" blade.
For curves I use the Burgess with a 1/4" blade left in it ready to go.
For most hobby use..these two saws make a useful arsenal for most cutting needs as long as you are aware of the limitations of both and know when to go from one to the other.
If you need any guidance along the way...post on here. There are a number of members far more qualified than I to help you.
Cheers
Jimi