Band Saw BladesHow to measure your band saw blade: length, width and gauge
When a band saw blade wears out and has to be replaced, the first thing you need is its dimensions. In this guide we explain, in simple terms, how to get the length, width and gauge of your band saw blade, so you order the right blade and we deliver it welded to the size of your machine.
The three measurements you need
Every band saw blade is defined by three measurements, plus the tooth pitch:
- The length (or developed length): the total length of the blade, all the way around the loop.
- The width: how tall the blade is, from the back to the tooth tip.
- The gage (or thickness): how thick the blade is.
With those three measurements, plus the material you cut, we can now build the right blade for you.
The length (loop length)
The length, also called loop length, is the most important measurement and the one that raises the most questions. There are two ways to find it:
- If you have the old blade: it's the easiest and most accurate way. Open it, stretch it out on the floor and measure it end to end with a tape measure.
- If you don't have the blade: calculate it from your machine. Measure the diameter of the wheels (the wheels the blade runs over) and the distance between their centers, then apply this formula:
Length = (2 × center distance) + (3.1416 × wheel diameter). For example, with 16" wheels and a center distance of 40": Length = (2 × 40) + (3.1416 × 16) = 80 + 50.3 = 130.3 inches, approximately. This is a reference value; if you can, confirm it with the previous blade or with your machine's model.
The width
The width is the height of the blade, measured from the back (the smooth side) to the tip of the tooth. It is easy to measure with a caliper (vernier). The width is determined by your machine: each saw accepts a range of widths, and using the one the manufacturer specifies helps the blade cut straight and last longer. It is expressed in inches or millimeters (for example, 1", 1-1/4", 27 mm, 34 mm).
The gauge (thickness)
Gauge is the thickness of the blade, and your machine defines that too. It is measured with a micrometer or a caliper. The most common gauges run from .025" to .050" depending on blade width. The correct gauge keeps the blade from fatiguing and breaking early.
Tooth pitch
Besides the three dimensions, you need to specify the pitch, that is, the teeth per inch. The pitch is chosen according to the thickness of what you cut. We explain it in detail in our article on how to choose the band saw blade pitch.
If you have your old blade, bring it in or send us a photo and its dimensions; if not, tell us the make and model of your machine and the material you cut. With that we build the right blade for you, welded to size and ready to use.
In summary
- A band saw blade is defined by its length (circumference), width and thickness (gage), plus the tooth pitch
- The length is found by measuring the old blade laid out flat, or with the formula from the wheels
- Width and gauge are determined by your machine; they are measured with a caliper or micrometer
- With those measurements and the material, we make your blade welded to the exact length
Why buy your band saw blades at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience in the industry and ISO 9001 certified quality. We deliver the blade welded to the exact size of your machine, in the line you need: our own NATCUT or Starrett.
- Blades welded to the length of your machine
- We help you identify the right grade regardless of the standard, in the size and cut you need.
- Our own NATCUT line and the Starrett brand
- Bi-metal, carbide and carbon steel
- Backed by ISO 9001 certified quality
Tell us the dimensions of your blade or the model of your machine and the material you cut, and we will build it to size for you. Request your free quote.
Sources: NAT MAC Band saw blades catalog (NATCUT and Starrett); Starrett, Band Saw Blades; Starrett, Band Saw Blades Catalog 60.
