Let’s Talk About Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar
Resawing, the process of cutting a board lengthwise to produce thinner boards, can be a game-changer in any woodworker’s shop. However, it can also be a source of frustration if the blade drifts, resulting in uneven cuts and wasted material. That’s where the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar comes into play, promising to be a reliable solution for maintaining consistent, accurate resawing. Grizzly Industrial is a trusted name in woodworking machinery and accessories, and this drift bar aims to uphold that reputation.
My own need for a reliable drift bar stemmed from a recent project involving a large quantity of thin veneer. The amount of waste material was unacceptable. I needed something to help me cut accurately and efficiently. I had used shop-made jigs in the past, but they were always fiddly and inconsistent. The promise of a purpose-built tool from Grizzly Industrial was very appealing.
Upon receiving the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar, my first impression was one of robust simplicity. The bar itself felt solid and well-made, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of regular use. It wasn’t flashy, but rather appeared to be a no-nonsense tool designed for a specific task.
There are other drift compensation options out there. The Microjig Matchfit Dovetail Clamps and the Kreg Multi-Purpose Shop Stand immediately spring to mind. However, those felt either too expensive or too cumbersome for my specific needs. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar struck me as a more direct and potentially more accurate solution.
My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could such a simple device truly make a significant difference in my resawing accuracy? Time, and a lot of wood, would tell. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar took place in my small woodworking shop, primarily working with walnut and cherry lumber. Humidity was relatively low, and the shop was adequately ventilated. I was using a 14-inch bandsaw with a new 1/2-inch resaw blade.
The difference with the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar in place was immediately noticeable. Instead of constantly fighting the blade drift, I could focus on feeding the wood at a consistent speed. The bar allowed me to compensate for the drift, resulting in a much straighter and more consistent cut.
The setup initially took some fiddling. However, once dialed in, the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar performed admirably. The first few cuts were a learning experience. Fine-tuning was required to achieve optimal drift compensation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar on various projects, my confidence in its reliability has grown. It has become an indispensable tool in my shop. The bar consistently helps me achieve accurate resawing results.
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar shows no signs of wear and tear. Despite being subjected to considerable pressure and friction, it remains perfectly functional. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth has been sufficient to maintain its performance.
Previously, resawing was a tedious and often frustrating process. I spent considerable time correcting errors and cleaning up uneven cuts. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar has greatly improved my efficiency and reduced material waste. It definitely outperforms my previous, makeshift solutions.
Breaking Down the Features of Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar
Specifications
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is designed to help compensate for blade drift during resawing operations on a bandsaw. It is intended for use on a bandsaw fence.
Its dimensions are approximately 12 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. These dimensions allow for sufficient leverage and stability while resawing. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is constructed from a durable material to withstand the forces involved in resawing.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the tool’s ability to effectively compensate for blade drift. A robust design and appropriate dimensions are essential for achieving accurate and consistent resawing results.
Performance & Functionality
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar performs its intended function admirably: compensating for blade drift during resawing. It allows the user to maintain a straight and consistent cut. This is achieved by providing a stable reference point against the bandsaw fence.
The primary strength of the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s straightforward to set up and use. However, the only weakness would be that it requires fine-tuning for different blades and wood types. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a drift compensation tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar boasts a simple yet functional design. It consists of a solid bar, typically metal or a very hard plastic, that is easily affixed to your fence. It feels substantial and well-made in the hand.
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is quite user-friendly. It has a minimal learning curve. After a few test cuts, the operator can quickly adapt to the tool.
Durability & Maintenance
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is built to last. It is constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of a woodworking shop. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar should be good for years of regular use.
Maintenance is minimal. It simply requires periodic cleaning. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is unlikely to require any repairs under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar itself doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. It is a standalone tool designed for a specific purpose. There are no customization options.
Compatibility with accessories from other brands is generally limited. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is designed to work directly with your bandsaw fence.
Pros and Cons of Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar
Pros
- Significantly improves resawing accuracy.
- Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Reduces material waste.
- Affordable solution compared to more complex jigs.
Cons
- Requires fine-tuning for different blades and wood types.
- May not be suitable for very small or intricate resawing tasks.
Who Should Buy Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar?
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is perfect for woodworkers of all skill levels who frequently resaw lumber. This includes hobbyists, furniture makers, and cabinetmakers. Anyone looking to improve the accuracy and efficiency of their resawing operations will benefit from this tool.
Those who primarily work with very thin materials or complex shapes might not find the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar as useful. Also, those who rarely resaw may find the purchase unnecessary.
A good bandsaw fence is a must-have. Beyond that, no other accessories are required. A little patience is helpful during the initial setup.
Conclusion on Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar
The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar is a simple yet highly effective tool that delivers on its promise of improved resawing accuracy. It is durable, easy to use, and offers excellent value for the price. Grizzly Industrial has once again produced a winner.
The price is absolutely justified. The time and material saved far outweigh the cost of the tool. The Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar will quickly pay for itself.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar to anyone looking to improve their resawing skills. It is an essential addition to any serious woodworking shop. Get yourself a Grizzly Industrial Resaw Drift Bar and say goodbye to frustrating blade drift.