Why Upgrade Your Grizzly Bandsaw?
Grizzly 17″ and 19″ bandsaws are already dependable machines in many workshops. However, factory-installed blade guides can fall short in delivering optimal accuracy and blade control. That’s where the 17/19 Guide Conversion Kit comes in offering a smart improvement for woodworkers looking to enhance both precision and performance.
What Comes in the 17/19 Conversion Kit
- Upper and lower blade guides
- Mounting brackets for both 17″ and 19″ bandsaws
- Screws, studs, and adapters (including guard bracket if needed)
- Precision sealed ball bearing roller guides
- Durable aluminum guide housings
Enhanced Control and Smoother Cuts
The upgraded guide system helps reduce blade flex and friction during cuts. With improved blade stability, users can expect tighter tolerances and smoother edges, especially when resawing or working on thick hardwood stock.
Compatibility That Matters
This kit isn’t limited to just one model. It works with several Grizzly 17″ and 19″ saws, as well as compatible Shop Fox machines. That versatility makes it a great option for users managing multiple saws across different work areas.
Key Specifications for the Grizzly 17/19 Guide Kit
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Compatible Blade Widths | 3/16″ to 1-1/4″ |
| Material | 6061 High-Grade Aluminum |
| Guide Type | Ball Bearing Roller Guides |
| Compatible Models | Grizzly & Shop Fox 17″/19″ Bandsaws |
| Manufacturer | Black Iron Replacement Parts |
Recommended Blade Pairings for Maximum Performance
Upgrading your guides is only part of the equation choosing the right blade can make just as much difference in your cutting quality. Two reliable options that pair exceptionally well with the Grizzly 17/19 setup are the Qsaw 101 Flex Back and Qsaw 201 Hard Back carbon band saw blades.
Qsaw 101 Flex Back Carbon Blade
- Great for home woodworkers, portable mills, and light resawing
- Available in coarse (3–6 TPI) and fine (8–18 TPI) pitches for a range of tasks
- Excellent for wood, non-ferrous metals, and plastics
- Spring-tempered for improved rigidity and fatigue resistance
- Precision-ground teeth and sharp edge for fast, clean cuts
Qsaw 201 Hard Back Carbon Blade
- Originally designed for steel, but performs very well on wood too
- Ideal for vertical and horizontal saws in home or small shop settings
- Hardened tooth tips for increased edge strength
- Stiffer back allows for higher feed pressure and straighter cuts
- Suitable for wood, aluminum, brass, mild steel, and plastics
Both blade types offer strong chip evacuation and precise cutting performance, especially when paired with a stable guide system like the 17/19 Kit. Whether you’re resawing thick lumber or slicing non-ferrous stock, choosing the right blade enhances the results of your bandsaw upgrade.
Long-Term Benefits
Adding this guide conversion kit can improve the reliability of your bandsaw over time. By reducing friction and ensuring accurate blade tracking, it helps minimize waste and wear on your saw blade.
Advantages of Installing the 17/19 Guide Kit
- Better blade stability during cuts
- Quieter operation with less vibration
- Cleaner, straighter cuts
- Lower chance of blade deflection
- Stronger support when resawing
What Users Are Saying
Many woodworkers report that this guide system provides a noticeable improvement in cut quality and machine feel. The installation process is straightforward, and once installed, the new guides require little adjustment to perform well.
Quick Installation Tips
- Disconnect power before any upgrade
- Keep your old parts in case you switch back
- Use thread locker to secure screws if needed
- Align guides properly to minimize contact with the blade
See the 14″ Upgrade Kit in Action
Curious how a guide upgrade can truly improve your bandsaw’s performance? Be sure to read our article “Central Machinery 14″ Bandsaw Guide Upgrade Kit: Product Video and Upgrade Overview.” It includes a helpful product video, details on compatibility, and what you can expect from the kit once installed. Whether you’re aiming for cleaner cuts or better blade stability, this guide upgrade could be just what your Central Machinery bandsaw needs.
The Grizzly 17/19 Guide Conversion Kit is a smart, cost-effective way to increase the capabilities of your bandsaw. With improved tracking, smoother operation, and broad compatibility, it’s an easy upgrade that delivers measurable improvements in both quality and efficiency.
