How to Measure Your Bandsaw Blade
This guide is provided for informational purposes only. Before attempting to measure your bandsaw blade or access any part of your bandsaw machine, always ensure the machine is switched off, unplugged from the mains power supply, and has come to a complete stop. Never attempt to measure a blade while the machine is running or connected to power. Always follow the safety instructions provided by your machine manufacturer. SawMaster LTD (trading as bandsawbladesstore.co.uk) accepts no liability for any injury, loss or damage arising from the use of this information. By following this guide you agree that you do so entirely at your own risk. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for full details of our limitation of liability.
Method 1 — Measuring an Existing Blade
The easiest and most accurate way to find your blade length is to measure your existing blade directly.
- Switch off and unplug your bandsaw machine and wait for it to come to a complete stop.
- Carefully remove the existing blade from the machine following your machine manufacturer's instructions.
- Lay the blade out flat on the floor in a large loop or straight line.
- Using a tape measure, measure the total length of the blade from one end to the other (if straightened out), or measure the full circumference of the loop.
- Note the measurement in millimetres — this is your blade length.
If your blade is already broken or you do not have an existing blade to measure from, use Method 2 below.
Method 2 — Measuring Around the Wheels
If you do not have an existing blade, you can calculate the blade length by measuring the blade path around your bandsaw's wheels.
- Switch off and unplug your bandsaw machine.
- Open the blade guards and wheel covers following your machine manufacturer's instructions.
- Take a piece of thin string, cord, or a cloth tape measure.
- Loop the string around both bandsaw wheels, following the exact path the blade would travel.
- Mark the point where the string meets itself to complete the loop.
- Remove the string and measure its length from the start to the mark — this is your blade length.
- Note the measurement in millimetres.
Method 3 — Check Your Machine Manual or Plate
Many bandsaw machines have a data plate or label on the body of the machine that states the recommended blade length. Check the side, rear or inside of the blade guard door for a manufacturer's label. Your machine manual will also typically state the correct blade length in the specifications section.
If your manual states the blade length in inches, you can convert to millimetres by multiplying by 25.4. For example, 98 inches × 25.4 = 2489.2mm, which you would round to the nearest millimetre.
Tips for Getting the Right Length
- Always measure in millimetres where possible for the most accurate result
- If you are between two measurements, order the longer size — most bandsaws have wheel tension adjustment to accommodate slight variations
- Double check your measurement before ordering — all our blades are made to order to your exact specification
- If you are unsure, feel free to contact us at sawmasteruk@hotmail.com and we will be happy to help
Ready to Order?
Once you have your blade length, head to our order page to configure your blade. Enter your length, choose your width and TPI, and we will cut your blade to your exact specification with free delivery on all UK orders.