Independence high production bandsaw blades, Independence II and EXS, bridge the gap between traditional bi-metal blades and carbide tipped blades. Utilizing an innovative microstructure, the line combines performance, speed steel cutting edge with a high fatigue backer. This increases durability and productivity, resulting in a lower cost per cut. The II series of blades utilizes a tooth configuration designed for multi-purpose sawing, including production cutting of small to medium solid steel and a combination of structural steels. The EXS incorporates a tooth geometry specifically designed for hard to machine solid metals. These blades are a choice for production cutting of exotics, stainless steel, and large, solid shapes. The cutting edge utilized in both new blades has achieved a hardness of Rc-70 for wear resistance and longer blade life in different metal sawing applications.