What is the term for the blade's ability to resist deflection and resistance?

The term that best describes the blade's ability to resist deflection and resistance is known as band strength. Band strength refers to the structural integrity and robustness of a cutting blade, particularly in applications where the blade is subject to bending forces during operation. A blade with high band strength is less likely to flex or distort when cutting materials, which can lead to better precision and cleaner cuts.

In the context of cutting tools, having adequate band strength is critical for maintaining the blade's effectiveness, longevity, and overall performance. Blades with lower strength may experience excessive deflection, which can affect the quality of the cut and the lifespan of the blade.

Flexural strength, on the other hand, refers specifically to a material's ability to resist deformation under load, but it is a broader term not strictly limited to the characteristics of a blade in this context. Blade durability generally relates to how long the blade can last under normal operating conditions, while cutting force pertains to the actual force required to perform the cutting action, which is a different concept altogether.