I have used band saws from several other retailers. So far this TASK blade cuts faster, softer and stays sharper longer than any other blade brand I use regularly. I've been sawing mostly softwood, but I've cut a lot of small radius curved stock, and that comes up to 5 inches thick from stock. The blade follows precisely and cuts quickly. Some of the other blades I've used are difficult to set up and often vibrate when working. The TASK blade does not vibrate, which contributes to a smooth cut.