What band saw blades to buy?

[Kevin12]

Greetings, all! I'm sure the answers to my questions are buried somewhere in this forum, but I can't find them. (Actually, I'm a bit red-faced. Just read Rolf's bandsaw tune-up thread) I recently purchased my first bandsaw (it's on backorder); it's a Rikon 14" deluxe 10-325. 1.5 HP, 13" resaw capacity (without a riser block). The range of blade sizes listed is 1/8" to 3/4". My question is, what blades should I buy?

First, I plan to do a fair amount (quite a bit) of resawing. The manager at Woodcraft said that although you can install the biggest blade a manufacturer lists, it's better to back off from that so the teeth are close to the crown of the wheel. Therefore, from what I know, I would want a 1/2" 3 TPI hook tooth blade. Is that right, or am I missing something? Would a different blade be better? (From Rolf's thread, I think I'm right on track.)

Now, I may also want to do some more intricate work. (For example, I understand that JGR does most of her intarsia on the bandsaw.) So I'm tempted to go to the small extreme of 1/8", or would I be as happy with a 1/4" blade? 10TPI? 18? 32? And hook or another style tooth? (This question still stands)

Also, my impression is that Timber Wolf is a really good brand. Is that right, or are there better blades out there? (Guess the Laguna is better, but many more $$$)

Thanks, all. I understand a number of the facts involved (like more TPI means a slower but smoother cut - but how slow, and how smooth?), but I have exactly zero experience. That's where I'm calling on you. Thanks again!
Kevin

(edited after browsing instead of searching)

[minowevie]

Hi Kevin, I thought your question is worth some more looking at. so I am bummping you up. I too wish to know this. your friend Evie

[Bill Wilson]

Kevin,

I can't answer your questions specifically. Contact the good folks at Suffolk Machinery. Their customer service is excellent and they will recommend the proper blade for whatever application and saw you have.

http://www.suffolkmachinery.com/

[Barefoot1]

Kevin,

I am relatively new to re-sawing as well so I understand your questions! I just bought the Timber Wolf 1/2 for re-sawing and really like it. Remember to buy some cheap lumber to practice on before you throw an $80.00 piece of walnut through the saw. Also, I bought I book on the band saw, that has a lot of useful information in it. The Band saw Book by Lonnie Bird. There are several out there, I would recommend you get one and give it a read through. You will find there is more then one method to re-sawing lumber and you will need to evaluate them before deciding which one you want to try. You may want to try them all. Good Luck!