To test bandsaw blades for resawing, we selected 1/2-in.-wide blades, a size well suited to resawing on a 14-in. bandsaw. The same saw (Delta model 28-241) was used for all of the tests. When it comes to resaw blades, most woodworkers have only three demands: that the blade be reasonably fast and that the cut be both reasonably flat and reasonably smooth. To measure speed, we timed low long it took to cut through a section of  9-1/2-in.-wide soft maple, with short times equating to fast-cutting blades. To measure flatness, we measured the amount of barreling on the test block using a straightedge and a set of feeler gauges. To find the smoothest cutters, we measured how much sanding had to be done to remove the blade marks. The Jet BandPlus did well in the speed test.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Shop Fox W1826

The thick, felted bag on this Shop Fox is a plus and a minus. On one hand, it makes the unit much less expensive than collectors with canister filters, and also lighter and easier to hang on the wall. Without a separate plastic bag to catch chips, however, they stay in the felt bag, and the shortish zipper on the bottom makes it tough to shake them out. Otherwise, the W1826 is an excellent value.

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Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

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Rockler Dust Right 650 CFM

While all five of the smaller units will collect chips efficiently when deployed properly, the 3/4-hp Rockler was just a bit more powerful in our suction test.

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