A properly tuned bandsaw can handle everything from precise curved cuts to clean resawing, but issues like drift, burning, vibration, and wandering cuts often get in the way. The good news is that most of these problems are caused by a few simple setup mistakes — and correcting them can completely transform how your bandsaw performs.
In this video, Bandsaw Master Alex Snodgrass breaks down a reliable, repeatable method for tuning a bandsaw so it cuts accurately and consistently. These adjustments help eliminate drift, reduce blade wandering, and make the saw easier and safer to control. Whether your bandsaw is brand new, has been in the shop for years, or just hasn’t been performing the way it should, this method is designed to reset the saw to a true, predictable cutting path.
Alex walks through the key steps, including how to correctly install and track the blade, set the right blade tension, and adjust the guide bearings for proper support. He also covers how to square your table and fence to the blade, which is critical for straight resawing and repeatable results. Each adjustment focuses on accuracy, but also on simplicity — nothing complicated, no special add-on parts required.
A well-tuned bandsaw becomes one of the most versatile tools in your shop. With the right setup, it can handle joinery cuts, smooth curves, veneers, bowl blanks, and thick stock resawing with confidence and control. If you’ve struggled with drift or inconsistent cuts, or you just want to make sure your saw is working at its best, these techniques are a great place to start.
Watch the full guide to learn how to get more accuracy, smoother cuts, and better performance from any bandsaw — no matter the size or brand. Be sure to follow Alex on his various social media channels, and if you are lucky enough, you can also catch him teaching a class at your local Woodcraft Store!