Need Some Bandsaw Help

[Jerry Bruette]

I'm trying to cut some 2 1/2 inch circles on the bandsaw with a circle cutting jig and a 1/4 inch 10 TPI blade. The blade binds up and the saw bogs down. Would I have better luck using a coarser blade?

The stock I'm cutting is 3/4 inch poplar.

[Shawn Crane Davies]

Make sure the center point of your circle jig is lined up with the leading edge of your bandsaw blade, not the center of the blade or too far forward or too far behind the blade. Your pin/center point should be in line with the teeth tips in the front of the blade, this way you're pushing (turning) material directly in front of the blade, head on.

Too far back or forward you'll bind up the blade because you're cutting at an angle.

Good luck!

[Phil Thien]

How old is that blade? If it has been around a while, I'd suggest trying a new, 6-TPI blade.

[Jerry Bruette]

Blade has very little use and it's an Olson brand.

Maybe I need a new jig, I've been wanting to make one but I've been hobbled after having my knee scoped 2 weeks ago. Maybe next week I can get to making the new jig and making sure the pin is properly aligned with the blade.