Have you always wondered how to coil a bandsaw blade to keep yourself, others, and the blade safe? Even the slightest wrong maneuver can cause the blade to bend or break. And coiled incorrectly can lead to injuries when put away or tossed out.
In this article, we will take you step by step to coiling a bandsaw blade like a pro, ensuring you get your blade packed up like when you first bought it.
Why Coiling a Bandsaw Blade Is Important
Before discussing how to coil the blade, let's discuss why knowing the proper way is so important. Why can’t you just take it off the saw and stick it on a shelf or in the trash?
The bandsaw blades are sharp and can be dangerous. Even when worn down or ruined, it is crucial to coil them to keep yourself and everyone else safe.
If you don’t coil your bandsaw blade properly, it can:
- Snap, bend, or rust
- Be complicated to transport
- Be harmful to yourself or others
Taking care of the blade is crucial to maintaining your tools and getting the most out of them while in working order.
Bandsaw Blade Coiling Safety
Even when you are not using the blade on the actual bandsaw, it can still pose quite a threat if you are not careful. There are a few safety tips to consider before coiling your blade.
- Wear safety goggles: If the blade gets loose, it can whip back and cut your eye.
- Wear thick gloves: Wearing gloves will ensure you won't cut yourself on the sharp blades.
- Stay away from other people: Coil the blade when no one is nearby to avoid hurting someone else.
- Take your time: Coiling a bandsaw blade shouldn’t be rushed. Take your time so you know it is done correctly.
When ready, follow the steps below to coil your bandsaw blade.
5 Steps to Coil a Bandsaw Blade
Folding a Bandsaw Blade with Paul Sellers- Watch this video for a great visual.
Now that you clearly understand why you should coil your bandsaw blades. Here are the steps to ensure you tackle the job like a pro every time.
Step 1: Position the Blades
The first thing to do is place the blades in an inward-facing position. This means having the teeth of the saw blade pointing directly at you. Once you master the skill, you can also do this with the teeth pointing away from you.
Step 2: Push Down and Twist
Hold the blade's end with one hand, grasp another section with the other, and push down firmly. This should encourage the blade to buckle and form a loop and overlap.
For the most part, your saw blade will take the lead and start to form loops on its own. You simply have to be there to help guide it.
Step 3: Continue Looping
Because bandsaw blades are so long, you must create multiple loops, typically three. These loops will overlap each other (think coiling a garden hose.)
Make sure to keep a tight grip on the loops; letting go can be dangerous and will also lead to starting the entire process all over again.
Step 4: Fasten the Coil
Once the sawblade is completely coiled, fasten the loops together to secure it. You can use durable, strong rope or binding wire to keep the loops from slipping.
You can fasten it in one spot or two to ensure the coil remains intact.
Step 5: Put your Bandsaw Blade Away
Now that your bandsaw is coiled up and ready to be put away, you can store, transport, or toss it out safely.
You can store bandsaw blades in various ways.
- You can hang them in a garage, latching them onto a loop or hook.
- You store them on a desk or workbench in a bandsaw blade holder. These look similar to folder or file separators.
- You can slide them into vertical paper holders in labeled slots.
- You can purchase a carrying case if you plan on traveling with a bandsaw.
People get very crafty when storing and organizing their bandsaw blades. Find a safe and reliable way that works for your situation, and go with it.
Once you get the hang of coiling a bandsaw, you will find other ways to do the job quicker and easier. Here is a video of someone that can quickly coil bandsaw blades using his foot or quick coiling methods.
Please remember, you should never toss the blade to uncoil it. While some may find this a quick and easy option, it can also be dangerous and damage your blade.
Uncoiling a Bandsaw Blade
So, now that we know how to coil up a bandsaw blade, we need to talk about uncoiling them. This action could be just as dangerous if not done the right way.
Luckily, uncoiling a bandsaw blade is the reverse of coiling them. Before starting, you should have on safety goggles and heavy-duty gloves. If the bandsaw blade is new, you may also have to remove the blade guard.
- Keep a tight grip on the coil. Ensure you are holding all the loops so they do not pop out before you release them.
- Remove the fastener from the coil.
- Hold the blade away from your body and let go of the coil, griping one loop and letting the others open up.
- Check the blade once it is unwrapped. Make sure it is in great condition and usable. If there is any damage, do not use it.
Ensure you are not near anyone else when uncoiling the blade to ensure the safety of everyone.
Can You Rebuild or Fix a Damaged Blade?
If you uncoil a bandsaw blade and realize it did get damaged in storage, you don’t necessarily have to throw it away. Some damage can be repaired, but a professional should always do so.
If your bandsaw blade snaps in half, it can be repaired easily with a TIG welder. You could also sharpen any dull teeth. You can sharpen these blades with a handheld metal grinding tool.
Final Thoughts
Coiling a bandsaw blade isn’t nearly as hard as many people believe it to be. Once you do it a few times, it should start to feel natural, and you will be more comfortable each time.
To ensure you are always safe and careful, follow the instructions above. This will keep your bandsaw blade in the best position for moving, storing, or tossing it in the trash.