Minimum HP requirement for bandsaw to cut 4-8 inch hardwood

[Kev]

Proper blade, sharp blade, rate of feed, bearings, alignment, etc. All come into play. Lots of other factors too!

More horsepower will result in a more consistent cut if you're using your band saw (or any saw) near it's limits.

My thinking is an 18" 3HP is the max I'd ever dream of using ... outside of that I wouldn't have the broad material handling capability.

 

[sumantamandal]

Own Jet 14" Bandsaw

• Built-in 12" resaw capacity for cutting larger pieces of wood
• Maximum Saw Blade (W/in.): 3/4 inch
• Motor HP: 1-1/4

• Last night did some resawing on 8/4 lumber(Oak) of 10 inch width.
• This morning resawed 8/4 lumber(Oak) of 7 inch width.

I'm happy with the performance of the bandsaw, With wider board, I felt the need for a taller fence.

 

[grbmds]

I would think any of the bandsaws suggested would work. As I said, mine only has 1 1/2 HP. The only thing you will be getting with a 2HP or 3HP is possibly the capability to resaw faster; a good thing if you are building furniture for a living or are in some sort of production situation. For me, the big leap was truly the setup of the guides and centering of the blade's back on the wheel. A sharp good blade is also key; most recommend 1/2" (not necessarily 3/4" because it draws some power from the motor to drive the wider blade and it's not needed). I've even seen resawing done with a 3/8" blade. There is a jig from Stockroom Supply which is meant for resawing and it is great (but I don't feel I need it). Some improvement due to tensioning but that really wasn't the big factor. The Carter booklet/DVD really outlines the setup well, but I'm sure there are other sources out there. Once I followed the steps in Carter's book, the resawing results were the best I've ever had.

 

[Tinker]

Tannewitz.  Any one.

Darcy,
Is that one of your "small" toys that you hauled in on a low-boy?
Tinker