Best Band saw Blade – Expert Reviews & Comparison

There’s an old adage about a craftsman only being as talented as his tools allow. There’s truth to this, especially when it comes to using a bandsaw. While an underpowered bandsaw, in general, will make even the easiest cutting jobs a hassle, you’ll likely find that a fragile or dull bandsaw blade to be a more persistent annoyance.

While many bandsaws come with their own standard blades, you’ll often find that these are weak and prone to falling apart in the short term. Pretty soon, you’ll need to buy a replacement bandsaw blade. If you’re like many craftsmen, you won’t immediately know which replacement bandsaw blade is best, nor which model provides the best compatibility with your existing hardware.

In order to streamline your shopping experience, I’ve created this handy guide covering 2023’s best bandsaws blades. This guide covers 10 of the best performing, most cost-effective replacement bandsaw blades that you can pick up today from your local hardware store or favorite online retailer.

While it may be easy to turn to replacement sawblades from your bandsaw’s manufacturer, it is fully worth your time to compare models from Timber Wolf, DeWalt, Skil, and more. Between these 10 high-performing models, you’ll find an option that meets both your needs and your budget.

Top 10 Best Bandsaw Blades Review

Based upon hours of industry-specific research, I’ve found that the following 10 bandsaw blades are the best performing in a variety of important categories. Each of the following detail-by-detail reviews will highlight specifications that set each model apart from the pack. From durability and size to compatibility and cost, each of these models offers something that you can appreciate as you replace your bandsaw’s worn out blade.

1. Timber Wolf Bandsaw Blade

Because of a bandsaw’s high-impact environment, it is essential to consider what a blade is made of in order to ensure it doesn’t crack under the pressure (literally). If you’re in search of a durable blade that will remain productive even after hours of cutting, then the Timber Wolf Bandsaw Blade is a perfect fit for your workshop bandsaw.

This blade is constructed from low carbide steel, a uniquely blended metal that allows for both flexibility and purposeful rigidity when put under high pressure. In addition, the teeth on this blade are covered with a silicon coating that keeps each individual tooth sharper for longer.

Speaking of teeth, this model only has 4 teeth per inch of blade. While this may immediately sound like a drawback, this wide spacing is primarily the result of this blade’s multifunctionality. In addition to resawing, this model is also capable of cross-cutting without putting the entire blade at risk of damage.

Overall, you’ll get the same feeling a good friend of mine got when he popped the Timber Wolf Bandsaw Blade into his favorite home bandsaw. He was so happy to proclaim, “it feels like a whole new machine!” That like-new feeling only comes with this special bandsaw blade.

Strengths:

• Silicon and low carbide steel construction for enhanced long-term sharpness
• Built for resawing, but can also be used for cross-cutting
• 4 teeth per inch
• Effective even in low horsepower hardware

Weaknesses:

• Expensive per blade
• Does not come in multi-packs

2. DEWALT DW3984 24TPI Portable Band Saw

In terms of performance, the DEWALT DW3984 Portable Band Saw Blade runs like most 24 TPI blades in its class. However, the difference between this blade and its competitors starts to show after many days of high-volume cutting.

Though you can’t see it, you’ll certainly feel the effects of this blade’s “Matrix II” high-speed steel edge. This proprietary technology provides enhanced heat resistance that cuts down on friction-based wear over time. This added resilience will really come in handy when you decide to use this blade for cutting through thin gauge metals, for which it is optimized.

Perhaps most noteworthy, this blade comes with a 30-day money back guarantee. That’s plenty of time to test it out for yourself and discover if this blade’s enhanced durability is the right fit for your bandsaw.

Strengths:

• Steel-cobalt construction for enhanced durability
• Proprietary “Matrix II” steel edging prevents wear resistance
• 24 teeth per inch
• 30-day money back guarantee

Weaknesses:

• Weak welds
• Extra friction when cutting stainless steel

3. SKIL 80151 Band Saw Blade Assortment 3 Pack

The most keen-eyed craftsman is always looking for a good deal, as long as it doesn’t come as a compromise for reliable performance. This SKIL 80151 Band Saw Blade assortment fits the bill for that kind of a good deal, as each pack comes with several different bandsaw blades to fit a variety of different cutting situations.

These SKIL 80151 3-packs are also available at a variety of local and large-scale hardware stores, making them one of the easiest models to keep in personal stock. Frankly, you’ll want to keep these blades in stock in your craft shed because of the way their unique tooth geometry cuts down of potentially harmful friction.

Interestingly, I also found that these blades – both the large and small teeth per inch arrangements – contained fewer weld points than comparable bandsaw blades. Fewer weld points mean sensitive weak points which are well known to be the bane of even the most expensive bandsaw blades.

If your bandsaw cutting habits often find you switching back and forth between several different density materials, you’ll find that this variety pack of 6 and 15 TIL band saw blades will help you simplify your diverse job list.

Strengths:

• Extra value in 3 pack
• Unique teeth geometry for decrease friction
• Produces less heat for safer continuous use
• Fewer sensitive weld points

Weaknesses:

• Maybe too thin for some cut types
• Two blades in the pack are 6 TPI

4. MK Morse ZWEP441418MC Master Cobalt

MK Morse is an up-and-coming name in bandsaw parts production that you should be paying more attention to. Case and point, their new line of bandsaw blades in a wide variety of arrangements and widths, each of which provide a great deal of durability and reliable performance.

Available in teeth per inch orientations from 8 all the way to 24, there is almost certainly a MK Morse ZWEP441418MC option to fit your bandsaw cutting needs. What’s more, many of these blade options come with standard, wavy, or pitched teeth, allowing you to get the precise kind of cut finish you desire.

Each of these blades are thoroughly reliable in terms of durability thanks in part to their cobalt-infused steel composition. This powerful durability is improved even further at each and every weld point, which has been fused using an electron beam to minimize fragile air pockets. This electron beam welding also preserves a degree of flexibility, allowing these blades to still gyrate efficiently during use.

As I said, you shouldn’t ignore this MK Morse bench saw blades for much longer. Whether for their durability or their wide assortment of size and orientation options, these blades are quickly becoming favorites of professionals and amateurs alike.

Strengths:

• Range of TPI options
• Available in wavy and raker configurations
• Cobalt infused steel to prevent degradation from metal cutting
• Electron beam welded for longer-lasting welds

Weaknesses:

• Prone to losing teeth
• Not widely available

5. Imachinist S6412121418 Bi-metal Band Saw Blades

While most craftsmen use their bandsaws to slice and chop wood and plastic materials, some craftsmen look to branch out and experiment with metal crafting. For those just getting into this pursuit, the Imachinist S6412121418 Bi-metal saw blade would make a great upgrade from a standard wood-only blade.

This blade is well targeted at novice metal cutters because it has been optimized for work with soft metals. While this may be a drawback for more committed metallurgists, new metal workers will find that these blades provide just the right amount of cutting potential when used at slow, introductory speeds.

That’s not to say this Imachinist blade moves slowly when in use, though. In fact, compared to some other metal cutting blades, this model moves swiftly. With a 0.025” blade width, this blade’s body hardly makes any contact with the material, leaving the teeth alone to create the productive friction needed to complete a cut.

With 14 and 18 TPI options available, you’ll also have some options when it comes to smoothing out your cut finish as you work through it. Simply put, this is the best bandsaw blade for new metal crafters.

Strengths:

• Available in 14 and 18 TPI options
• 0.025” thickness for decreased friction
• Cuts up to 1/2” steel without trouble

Weaknesses:

• Designed to cut soft metals
• Chinese made

6. Bosch BS6412-24M Metal Bandsaw Blade

This Bosch BS6412-24M Metal Bandsaw Blade is a prime example of a metal-focused option you may step up to once you are more comfortable with metal crafting in general. With some enhanced features, this model will have you cutting through some thick tubing and stock in no time at all.

First and foremost, this blade’s main body clocks in at 0.25”. While this may feel excessively wide after using an introductory metal-cutting bandsaw blade, you can rest assured knowing that this thicker size is far more durable than its diminutive competitors.

This blade’s wavy tooth pattern is worth noting for its ability to effectively and efficiently clear out cut channels without stopping the blade. With that quality of clear-cutting, you’ll certainly be able to cut into 3” and 4” square tubing– just like my work partner was this week while using this blade.

With 24 teeth per inch, this blade certainly provides an ample amount of contact space with which to slice through and modify metal. If that kind of metal craft has become your bread and butter, then this blade needs to become the new standard on your bandsaw.

Strengths:

• 0.25” thick for balance between flexibility and durability
• Wavy tooth pattern for cleaner cuts
• Can be used continuously without fear of warping
• 24 teeth per inch

Weaknesses:

• Unclear manufacturing origin
• Weld cracks are prevalent

7. AYAO 62 Inch Band Saw Blade 2 Pack

Sometimes you need a bandsaw blade that fits like a glove and minimizes impractical vibrations. If you’re operating a PowerTec, Harbor Freight, Craftsman, or Masterforce bandsaw, then this blade is optimally compatible with your equipment. AYAO designed this blade with those brands in mind, so you can count on it to make the most of those brands’ unique features.

This comes with a tradeoff though: this blade is not a great fit for other bandsaws. Still, it will complete your cutting jobs well, especially with its racker teeth arrangement. Even when used with a sub-optimal fit, this blade still able to output a decent level of wood cutting performance.

Unique from all other bandsaw blades I’ve ever used, this model is “blued.” This means that is has been coated with a special galvanizing layer that enhances its rust resistance. No other saw blade I’ve ever used before has had this protective layer, and I can whole-heartedly say that it is worth the extra cost.

Strengths:

• Optimized for several popular bandsaws
• 2 blades per pack for added value
• Racker teeth arrangement for balanced cutting performance
• “Blued” blade for rust prevention

Weaknesses:

• Awkward fit in non-optimized bandsaws
• Some ridges when cutting quickly

8. Makita B-40559 Compact Portable

When cutting metal, you can expect to go through a handful of bandsaw blades. Even if you take extra care, they’re bound to degrade faster than if they were used on wood. As such, it’s well worth it to invest in a 5-pack of these Makita B-40559 blades. They’ve been optimized for metal cutting and can really be handy when your previous blades wear down.

This metal cutting optimization goes a long way towards making quick work of sheet metal and metal pipes. Non-ferrous metal, cast steel, and stainless steel are all no match for these blades. In fact, these are the only blades I’d ever trust to cut through cast iron.

Need I say more? These are great metal cutting bandsaw blades that should become your go-to when you need to get serious about your metal crafting.

Strengths:

• Optimized for cutting metals
• 14 to 24 TPI range
• Can cut cast iron
• Ideal fit for Makita bandsaws

Weaknesses:

• Brittle tempering

9. Milwaukee 48-39-0539 Compact

With a width of just 0.020″, this Milwaukee 48-39-0539 finds itself squarely in the “compact blade” category. While some craftsmen detest this class as fragile, I believe they are a worthwhile investment if you need a go-to metal cutting blade that can be effectively implemented on rusty materials.

With this blade’s 24 TPI, your bandsaw will be able to tear into wood materials up to 5/32” thick and metallic materials up to 3/16”, a great range for both classes. This model excels with metal, however, making a no-sweat job out of copper tubing, threaded rode, and angle iron.

As noted, this blade simply may not be for every craftsman and that’s okay. I still recommend it as a worthwhile choice for the versatile craftsman who wants to work with a lot of metal and a little wood.

Strengths:

• Designed for wood and metal cutting
• Compact blade construction for increased speed
• 24 teeth per inch
• Can cut materials up to 5/32”

Weaknesses:

• The compact blade is more prone to tearing
• Slow delivery

10. Olson Saw FB23193DB Hook Saw Blade

If any one feature were to stand out on this blade, it would be its hook-angle teeth. Traditionally seen in other categories of woodworking saws, these teeth feature particularly elongated angles that are able to carry more shorn material out of the grove. This in effect keeps your cut clearer without the need to stop and blow out space.

These hooked teeth are a little larger than usual and need more space than their smaller counterparts. As such, there are only three teeth per inch on this blade. But as described, this decrease volume is exchanged for greater cutting capabilities.

Some specialty hardwood or plastic cutting jobs call for this type of deep gauge cut. If you have one of those jobs on your to-do list, then be sure to add this blade to your bandsaw kit before launching in.

Strengths:

• Can cut wood and plastic
• Most affordably priced for a single blade
• Hook teeth configuration for more complete passes

Weaknesses:

• Chinese made
• 3 TPI lower than average

Conclusion

If a craftsman is only as good as his tools, then you simply need to have the best when it comes to bandsaw blades. There are a wide variety of options available, each of which includes special features or construction that make them ideal for slicing through wood or chewing through metal.

In light of this wealth of great features, I have to conclude that the best bandsaw blade is the model best suited to your needs and budget. Take it from an expert – it’s worth your time and money to select a bandsaw blade that is made to cut your desired material, rather than the first one you see on the store shelf. Once you’ve found your ideal bandsaw blade, you’ll be ready to cut into a whole new class of woodworking and metal craft projects.