The 14|12 bandsaw will accept ¼” up to ¾” blades on the stock ceramic guides that come with the saw. You can use blades smaller than ¼” when using the optional Mini Guides. Blades narrower than ¼” run out of sufficient beam area behind the teeth and gullets to properly support the blade. The Mini Guides use wearable phenolic insert rods that surround the blade (including the blade teeth). The rods are not harmful to the blade teeth and will gradually wear down during use. The rods can be turned and pushed in as they wear. Replacement rods are available for purchase.