Is this the right tool for your job?
✕CHOOSE A DIFFERENT TOOL WHEN
- Not a reason to override a spec in either direction — if a buyer’s process calls for the 2, this BG349 is the wrong string, exactly as the reverse is true; the whole point of the pattern number is that it’s matched, not substituted casually.
- Not light-stock cutting — springy garment-weight material wants the flexing 20-gauge 2 (57060).
- Not hot or abrasive high-rate work — that is the HSS blades’ territory (57200 / 6522M 57230), where a carbon edge rounds from friction heat.
- Not contour work — swept curved lines want the curve point extension blade (57320).
- Not a handheld knife — a one-owner riveted knife is the bevel point knife (60300); this is a station consumable.
Jobs this tool does
EXACT JOB METHODS FOR HYDE №57170✓ Job guideHow to Slit and Trim Dense Stock at a Cutting StationOPEN JOB GUIDE →✓ Job guideStandardize a Cutting Room’s Blade PatternOPEN JOB GUIDE →
For these jobs—use this instead
THE JOB, THE REASON, AND THE BETTER TOOL✕ Light, springy stockSpringy garment-weight material wants the flexing 20-gauge 2 (57060). BETTER TOOL Bevel Point Blade (2), 20 Gauge 57060 →✕ Hot or abrasive high-rate workThat is the HSS blades’ territory (57200 / 6522M 57230), where a carbon edge rounds from friction heat. BETTER TOOL Bevel Point High Speed Blade (2), 18 57200 →✕ Contour cuttingSwept curved lines want the curve point extension blade (57320). BETTER TOOL 20-Gauge 4-3/4″x3/8″x.035″ Curve Point 57320 →✕ Handheld one-owner useA one-owner riveted knife is the bevel point knife (60300); this is a station consumable. BETTER TOOL Double Bevel Point Knife (BG268) 60300 →
How the pros run it
01
Set the extension for the cut
As with any mounted mill blade, how far the blade extends from the handle sets reach and working stiffness. A stiff 18-gauge blade at moderate extension gives controlled cutting; more extension adds reach and reduces rigidity. Match the spec, then use it like the 18-gauge blade it is. Handle the BG349 like the Hyde 2: use its stiffness on dense stock; for light, springy material, use a 20-gauge blade that follows better. Honing. High-carbon steel re-takes a keen edge on a stone; hone the bevel, strop the burr, extend as it wears, replace when spent. Rust. Carbon steel — wipe it dry after wet or adhesive cutting.
