Band saw blades are cutting tools designed for use with band saw machines. Band saws are versatile power tools commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and other industries for making straight and curved cuts in various materials.

Here are some key features and characteristics of band saw blades:

1. Blade Types: Band saw blades come in different types to suit specific cutting applications and materials. Common blade types include regular tooth blades, skip tooth blades, hook tooth blades, and variable tooth blades. Regular tooth blades have evenly spaced teeth and are suitable for general-purpose cutting in wood and some metals. Skip tooth blades have widely spaced teeth that help reduce clogging when cutting softwoods. Hook tooth blades have deep gullets and aggressive tooth angles for fast cutting in thick materials. Variable tooth blades have a combination of tooth sizes and spacing for versatile cutting performance.

2. Blade Width and Length: Band saw blades are available in various widths and lengths to fit different band saw models. The blade width determines the minimum radius of the cuts that can be made, while the blade length determines the cutting capacity of the band saw. It's important to choose the right blade size that matches the specifications of your band saw.

3. Blade Material: Band saw blades are typically made from high-carbon steel, bi-metal, or carbide-tipped. High-carbon steel blades are suitable for general-purpose cutting in wood and non-ferrous metals. Bi-metal blades have a high-speed steel cutting edge welded to a flexible alloy steel back, offering enhanced durability and the ability to cut through a wider range of materials, including ferrous metals. Carbide-tipped blades are designed for cutting hard and abrasive materials like hardened steel, ceramics, and composite materials.

4. Tooth Configuration: Band saw blades have different tooth configurations, including the number of teeth per inch (TPI) and the tooth shape. The tooth configuration affects the cutting speed, finish, and the type of material the blade is best suited for. Blades with fewer TPI are suitable for faster, rough cuts, while blades with more TPI provide smoother, precise cuts. Some blades have special tooth shapes, such as hook teeth or raker teeth, for specific cutting applications.

5. Blade Set: Band saw blades can have different tooth set configurations, including regular, raker, and alternate set. The tooth set determines the width of the cut and the ability to clear the material's chips. Regular set blades have teeth set in a regular pattern for general-purpose cutting. Raker set blades have groups of teeth set to the left and right alternately, providing a wider cut and efficient chip clearance. Alternate set blades have teeth set in alternating directions, allowing for smoother cuts in harder materials.

When selecting band saw blades, it's important to consider the material being cut, the desired cutting speed and finish, and the specific cutting application. Choosing the right blade will ensure efficient and accurate cutting performance. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding blade installation, tensioning, and maintenance for your specific band saw model.