Dangerous or What! (Uncoiling Band Saw Blades)

[HAP]

So, after reading all of the advice to ditch the stock blade of a new band saw, I picked up a new Lenox Bi-Metal today. After reading the instructions, I removed the twist tie from the new blade. Thinking that there clould be a lot of spring energy stored in the blade I tried to figure a way to control how it opened. Suddenly I was met with the blade right in the mouth and I was bleeding on my inner forearm. I was really pissed that it did no go as planned. Next time I think I will just throw it out in the grass and run... Anyone care to share your technique as to how you do it?

Regards,
HAP

[brian Rupnow]

Kinda like making love to a grizzly bear---Hang on tight and don't let go no matter what happens!!!

[ENTERPRISE LATHE]

We use between 28'-50' bandsaw blades they come in a box that is about 6" wide x 36' tall x 36" high, we lay the blade with the teeth towards the floor and use a long pair of cutters to cut the ties it works ok but the blade sometimes jumps about a foot in to the air

[Dr Stan]

Kinda like making love to a grizzly bear---Hang on tight and don't let go no matter what happens!!!

I like that.

One of the few times I'll wear gloves in the shop is when I'm uncoiling a band saw blade. The best I can tell you is that "it takes practice". Hard telling how many times I've done it and I still risk getting nailed each & every time. Hang on tight, keep control of the blade, and go as slowly as possible.

I have seen others toss the blade across the floor to cause them to uncoil, but that does create the risk of damaging the teeth.

[David Powell]

I hang on tight after I cut the last tiewrap, count to three, yell " Geronimo" and throw the damned things as hard and as far as I can letting go just at the end of my throw. So far the score has been a scratch on the workshop clock, one china mug, a very scared workshop cat and the odd bit of paint. I am sure they are out to get me! regards David Powell.

[Carld]

Over the years I developed my way. I hold the blade with one hand and remove the ties with the other and toss it like it's a firecracker and watch it bounce around. When it stops I put it on the saw. I haven't seen where it damages the teeth.

[MotorradMike]

Hmmmm:

Thanks.

I just got a new blade and had no idea they bite.
I'll open it in the morning using your suggestions/warnings.

[George Hodge]

I've noticed that when I open them,about half of them were assembled backwards and I have to coil them up again and give it another toss.

[MrDan]

Over the years I developed my way. I hold the blade with one hand and remove the ties with the other and toss it like it's a firecracker and watch it bounce around. When it stops I put it on the saw. I haven't seen where it damages the teeth.

+1 for close your eyes and toss.

[Your Old Dog]

I get my wife to do it.......usually just before we are due to go out to dinner. We've had to scrap quite a few dinner plans