# Band Saw

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**Information:**&#x20;

The vertical wood bandsaw is a versatile woodworking tool used for making both curved cuts and straight cuts as well as resawing wood. It is a continuous loop of a toothed metal band (the blade) that runs between two wheels. This design is particularly useful for cutting curves, circles, and irregular shapes in wood. It's commonly used in woodworking, furniture making, and general carpentry for a wide range of cutting tasks.

The Jet vertical wood bandsaw in the AMS workshop has a 13-1/2" throat depth, which determines the distance from the blade to the vertical frame of the saw. This allows for cutting wider pieces of material. It also has a 6" cutting capacity, which is the maximum thickness of material the saw can cut through.

**Safety Basics:**&#x20;

The bandsaw can be dangerous if used incorrectly. All of the following MUST be done while operating the saw:

* **Personal Safety:**&#x20;
  * Wear safety glasses at all times
  * Take off any jewelry or other loose clothing items
  * Roll up your sleeves
  * Never wear gloves
* **Environmental/Ventilation Safety:**&#x20;
  * Ensure the ventilation system is activated
  * Sweep up any sawdust created afterwards
* **Operational Safety:**
  * Keep fingers at least 3 inches away from the blade at all times
    * Use push sticks whenever applicable to avoid fingers being too close to the blade&#x20;
  * Never force the material through the blade
  * Have a trained AMS mentor present with you in the wood room

**How to Use:**

1. Make sure you are following ALL the safety basics.
2. Using the handle (pictured below) adjust the upper blade guide assembly to about 1/4" above the thickness of your workpiece.

<figure><img src="https://534630495-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fls4bmqATUsulARRMDSZT%2Fuploads%2F1SaWzd8RADRlLxlDVCcX%2Fmiter%20saw%20handle.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=7860bd01-81a9-4107-94f5-122e237c9880" alt=""><figcaption><p>Bandsaw height adjustment handle</p></figcaption></figure>

3. Place your stock on the table surface. For straight cuts, use the fence as a guide. For curved cuts, draw your cutting line on the workpiece.
4. Turn on the bandsaw using the power green button (pictured below).

<figure><img src="https://534630495-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fls4bmqATUsulARRMDSZT%2Fuploads%2F1ZV9NiMLdp4sT598FRIU%2Funnamed.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=71e27e9a-f796-49bf-a0d7-8f9a3ed7f75f" alt=""><figcaption><p>Bandsaw power buttons</p></figcaption></figure>

5. Guide the material smoothly through the blade, following your cutting line or the fence, while putting some pressure downwards on your piece while you slide it forward.
6. Once the cut is complete, turn off the saw and wait for the blade to come to a complete stop before removing your workpiece.

After use, clean any dust from the table and surrounding area. Make sure the blade tension is released if the saw won't be used for an extended period of time.

**OEM Manual:**

&#x20;[Jet 13-1/2" Vertical Wood Bandsaw Manual](https://content.syndigo.com/asset/fbc4662f-b62a-452a-9e68-00daf7f8126f/original.pdf)

**Specifications:**

* Motor: Typically 1 to 1.5 HP
* Throat depth: 13-1/2 inches
* Cutting capacity (height): 6 inches
* Table size: Approximately 16" x 16"
* Blade length: Typically around 105" (check manual for exact size)
* Blade width range: Usually 1/8" to 3/4"

Remember to always refer to the specific machine's manual and follow all safety guidelines provided by AMS when using this bandsaw.
