Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised Jun 27, 2026

Resaw

A resaw is a large band saw optimized for cutting timber along the grain to reduce larger sections into smaller sections or veneers. Resawing veneers requires a wide blade – commonly 2–3 in (51–76 mm) – with a small kerf to minimize waste. Resaw blades of up to 1 in (25 mm) may be fitted to a standard band saw. Many small and medium-sized sawmills use 1–1.5 in (25–38 mm) to band saw blades.

Last revised
Jun 27, 2026
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Resaw blades used in a sawmill. source ↗

A resaw is a large band saw optimized for cutting timber along the grain to reduce larger sections into smaller sections or veneers.1 Resawing veneers requires a wide blade – commonly 2–3 in (51–76 mm) – with a small kerf to minimize waste. Resaw blades of up to 1 in (25 mm) may be fitted to a standard band saw. Many small and medium-sized sawmills use 1–1.5 in (25–38 mm) to band saw blades.

Timber mills use larger resaws to ripcut large planks into smaller sizes. A typical mill sized resaw blade is eight inches wide and made with 16 gauge steel. Resaw blades can be identified by their straight back, as opposed to headsaws and doublecut blades, which have notched or toothed backs.

References

References

  1. "29 CFR 1910.265 – Sawmills, Subpart B – Definitions". Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved 2026-03-01. Resaw means band, circular, or sash gang saws used to break down slabs, cants, or flitches into lumber. (29 CFR 1910.265(b)(32))