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Band Saw Blades 101: 7 Key Terms Explained

Band Saw Blades 101: 7 Key Terms Explained

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When it comes to cutting wood or meat, having the right band saw blade is a game-changer. Whether you're slicing through logs at the sawmill or trimming meat at the butcher shop, picking the perfect blade is all about knowing the basics. Let’s break down the key stuff you need to know about band saw blades for both wood and meat.

1. Blade Width

The width is the distance from the tip of the tooth to the back of the blade. A narrower blade is great for tight turns and detailed cuts, while a wider blade gives you more stability and lasts longer under tough conditions.

2. Thickness (Gauge)

This is basically how thick the blade is. Thicker blades handle heavier jobs better and are tougher overall. For lighter work, thinner blades are easier to handle and use.

3. Tooth Spacing

This is the gap between the teeth on the blade. Bigger gaps (fewer teeth) work well for fast, rough cuts. Smaller gaps (more teeth) are perfect for smooth, clean finishes—whether it's for wood or meat.

4. Rake Angle (Hook Angle)

The rake angle is how far forward the teeth lean. This affects how aggressive the blade cuts:

  • 10° Rake: All-around use—good for softer wood, smaller logs, or general meat slicing.
  • 7° Rake: For tougher materials like hardwood or frozen meat.
  • 4° Rake: Best for extremely tough materials like frozen wood or very dense meat.

5. Pitch (Teeth Per Inch)

More teeth per inch (higher pitch) means smoother cuts, but it’s slower. Fewer teeth (lower pitch) make faster cuts and are great for thick or dense materials.

6. Gullet and Tooth Height

The gullet is the space that clears out sawdust or meat scraps as you cut. The height of the tooth matters too—it affects how thick the material can be and how efficiently the blade cuts.

7. Tooth Set and Kerf

The tooth set is how much the teeth bend out from the blade body. This determines the kerf (the width of the cut). A wider kerf removes more material but requires more power, while a narrower kerf wastes less material.


Why This Matters

Whether you’re cutting planks or slicing steaks, knowing these blade specs means better cuts, fewer headaches, and longer-lasting blades. And hey, the right blade also keeps things safer for you and your crew.

With over 120 years of experience behind them, KASCO blades deliver straighter cuts, longer run times, and better yields. From sturdy wood blades to specialized meat band saw blades that are strong, precise, and built for the job.

Got questions? Hit us up—we’re here to help you cut through the confusion (and your materials) with ease.

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