Bandsaw Blades

About Bandsaw Blades

Bandsaw blades are essential consumable components designed for portable and stationary bandsaws, enabling precise cutting across materials including metal, wood, and plastics. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks replacement blades compatible with all major cordless and mains-powered bandsaw models from leading manufacturers including Milwaukee, Makita, DeWalt, and Bosch Professional. Available in various tooth configurations, widths, and material compositions, these blades are engineered for specific applications—from fine-toothed metal cutting blades (14-24 TPI) for steel and aluminium pipework, to aggressive wood-cutting blades (3-6 TPI) for rapid stock removal in timber.

Modern bandsaw blades typically feature bi-metal construction, combining high-speed steel cutting edges with flexible spring steel backing for durability and breakage resistance. Most replacement blades are sold in convenient multi-packs, offering excellent value for professional tradespeople and ensuring spare blades are always available on site. With blades specifically designed for popular cordless platforms such as Milwaukee M18, DeWalt DCS series, and Makita 18V systems, maintaining peak cutting performance across your tool collection is straightforward.

Applications

Bandsaw blades are indispensable consumables across numerous trades and industries:

• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Cutting copper pipes, steel radiator pipes, and plumbing materials on site
• Electricians: Sectioning cable tray, conduit, and steel containment systems during installations
• Metalworkers and Fabricators: Precision cutting of steel sections, angle iron, and metal stock in workshops
• Carpenters and Joiners: Cutting timber and manufactured boards where portability is required
• Maintenance Engineers: General cutting tasks across facilities management and plant maintenance
• Steel Erectors: Cutting structural steel, rebar, and metal fixings on construction sites
• Motor Vehicle Technicians: Cutting exhaust systems and chassis components during repairs
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects requiring accurate cuts in various materials

Choosing The Right Bandsaw Blades

Compatibility: The most critical factor is ensuring blade compatibility with your specific bandsaw model. Blade length and width are precisely engineered for each tool, so always verify your model number (such as Milwaukee M18 CBS or DeWalt DCS377) and select blades designed for that machine.

Material Type: Different materials demand different tooth configurations. Metal-cutting blades feature high TPI counts (14-24) for smooth cuts through steel, aluminium, and copper. Wood-cutting blades have fewer, larger teeth (3-6 TPI) for rapid stock removal in timber.

Material Thickness: Match blade TPI to material thickness, aiming for at least three teeth in contact with the material simultaneously. Higher TPI suits thin-wall materials, whilst lower TPI with larger gullets provides better chip clearance for thick sections.

Blade Construction: Bi-metal blades offer the best balance of durability and flexibility for professional use, combining wear-resistant high-speed steel teeth with flexible backing that resists breakage.

Pack Quantity: MyToolShed.co.uk offers multi-packs providing better value and ensuring spare blades are readily available, preventing costly downtime during jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a bandsaw blade last?

Blade lifespan depends on application, material hardness, cutting frequency, and lubricant use. Professional tradespeople cutting metal regularly might replace blades every few days of intensive use, whilst occasional DIY users may achieve months of service. Replace blades showing slow cutting speed, rough edges, excessive heat, or unusual vibration.

Can I use wood-cutting blades for metal or vice versa?

No—wood and metal blades are specifically engineered for their respective materials and should never be interchanged. Metal-cutting blades feature fine teeth for harder materials, whilst wood blades have aggressive tooth patterns for softer materials. Using incorrect blade types results in poor performance and dangerous blade failure.

Do I need cutting fluid with bandsaw blades?

When cutting metals, appropriate cutting fluid significantly extends blade life, improves cut quality, and reduces heat buildup—particularly important for stainless steel or thick sections. Wood cutting typically doesn't require lubricants. Professional metalworkers consider cutting fluid essential for maintaining productivity and controlling consumable costs.