Are you a woodworker or metalworker (or) simply a household DIYer? Then you definitely came through this bandsaw tool. It allows you to cut the material with highly uniform (shapes with either straight, irregular or curved). Also, it allows you to change the blade easily to meet the material type and to reach the desired cut, to achieve a perfect finish.
Although, finding the best band saws is not an easy task from various models with different price ranges in the market but don’t worry, keep these 3 main points in your mind while shopping for this bandsaw to grab the best one.
Power Source – In general, it has two power sources – Benchtop (corded, runs with constant supply of power through electric source) and Compact (cordless, runs with power generated through a rechargeable battery). Both have pros and cons, in which one has to select the bandsaw, as per their requirement.
Motor Speed – It provides the essential power for the blade to cut through the particular material. The speed of the motor is measured in terms of feet per minute (FPM). The higher the speed the more will be its capacity to work. So, check the speed of the motor while purchasing.
Blades – It is the large loop that are welded together with teeth at one side. The finish and the cut quality of the blade will be measured in number of teeth per inch (TPI). The higher TPI will provide the better-quality cut and the fewer TPI will result in faster cut but leaves a rough finish.
Apart from these 3 main points, one has to consider various factors, which are clearly explained in the below Comprehensive Buying Guide along with some best-selling bandsaws.
Scroll down to know more about band saws and select your best one.
Not knowing which one to choose from various bandsaw products available in the market. so, to help you minimize your searching / shopping time, we came up with a list of best bandsaws (after doing thorough market research on various products). Just go through them and select your best.
These are mostly electric powered bandsaws.
Best Band Saws Reviews
| Band Saw | Cutting Capacity | Power Source | Speed (FPM) | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wen Band Saw | 3 ½ inches | Electric Powered | 2500 | 2 years | Check the Price |
| Rikon Band Saw | 4 5/8 inches | Electric Powered | 2780 | 5 years | Check the Price |
| Skil Band Saw | 3 ½ inches | Electric Powered | 2800 | 3 years | Check the Price |
| Jet Band Saw | 13 inches | Electric Powered | - | 5 years | Check the Price |
| Grizzly Band Saw | 6 inches | Electric Powered | 1500 & 3200 | - | Check the Price |
| Dewalt Band Saw | 5 inches | Battery Powered | - | 3 years | Check the Price |
| Milwaukee Band Saw | 5 inches | Battery Powered | - | - | Check the Price |
| Makita Portable Band Saw | 4 ¾ inches | Battery Powered | 275 – 530 | - | Check the Price |
| Wen Band Saw | 4X6 inches | Electric Powered | 80, 120, & 200 | 2 years | Check the Price |
| Grizzly Band Saw | 7X5 (circular),7 X 12 (rectangular) | Electric Powered | 80, 130, 180 & 235 | - | Check the Price |
10 Best Band Saws Reviews
1. Wen Band Saw
The WEN is one of the best companies that manufactures best quality saw, including bandsaw. This 3959-model benchtop band saw is both powerful and compactable device, which comes with a cutting depth of 3 ½ inches and width of 9-inches. The powerful 2.5-amp motor will rotate at 2500 feet per minute for powerful and intricate cuts.
The spacious work table of about 12 ¼ X 11 7/8 inches will allow the user to get their job done properly with enough space and a bevel cuts (angle adjustment knob) from 0 – 45-degree. One can easily find a miter gauge, fence for creating straight cuts, onboard 2 ½ inch dust port (to collect the dust properly) and adjustable blade guard in this pack. This saw comes with a 2 years national warranty and weighs about 40 pounds.
Product Information:
- Amperage – 2.5 amps
- Speed – 2500 FPM
- Cutting Depth – 3 ½ inches
- Blade Length – 59 ½ inches
- Cutting Width – 9 inches
- Table Size – 12 1/4 X 11 7/8 inches
- Dimensions – 19 X 14.1 X 29 inches
- Weight – 40 pounds
- Blade Width – 1/8 to 3/8 inches
- Throat Size – 9 inches
- Warranty – 2 years
- Beveled Angle – 0 to 45-degrees
- Power Source – Electric Powered
Things we liked:
- It is well built quality product and one can assemble it easily.
- The spacious work table will allow you to get job done with enough space to stretch / cut the material properly.
- Its compact form will allow you to use this saw on any flat / sturdy surface with ease.
- The dust collection with 2.5-inch dust port will clear away all the saw dust and other debris from the work place effectively.
- It has anti-vibration feature that allows the user to cut the material without much vibrations.
Things we didn’t like:
- Not suitable for straight cuts.
- It works only when there is a sufficient power outlet and also it is small for wood workers (or professionals).
2. Rikon Band Saw
This 10-inches bandsaw will offer all the quality features which we found in larger bandsaws. It has a powerful motor of 1/3 HP (3.5 amps) with cast iron table and 4 5/8 inches of resawing capacity. It includes a rip fence (removed easily and allow you to do free hand work), and micro adjustable guide post (lower & raise the guide post height with the turn of a handle) separately.
A 2 ½ inch dust port (for shop vacuum hookup) in this device will clear all the dust and debris to keep the area clean and more visibility for your work. All these features will make it best to use by woodworkers, especially who won’t require any large cutting capacity and power for their projects.
It includes various features like tilting table angle, large blade tension knob, rip fence (2-inches tall), dust collection, & safety paddle on/off switch. Its reduced size will make it ideal for storing or transporting (when it is not using).
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 35.5 X 18 X 13 inches
- Weight – 76 pounds
- Speed – 2780 FPM
- Motor Power – 1/3 HP
- Throat Capacity – 9 5/8 inches
- Cutting Height – 4 5/8 inches
- Blade Length – 70 ½ inches
- Blade width – 1/8 to 1/2 inches
- Power Source – Electric Powered
- Warranty – 5 years
- Motor Power – 0.33 HP
- Voltage – 115 V
- Table Frame Material – Cast Iron Table
- Bevel Cut / Tilting Angle – 0 to 45-degree
- Table Size – 13 ¾ X 12 ½ inches
Things we liked:
- The solid steel design with steel plate frame will make it strong and durable.
- The spacious cast iron worktable will allow you to perform your work effectively.
- Powerful motor for cutting blanks and bowl.
- It comes with edge facing thrust bearings, safety paddle switch, aluminum cast wheels, & 2-inch tall aluminum fence will make it as powerful tool.
- It is small in size and easy to assemble
Things we didn’t like:
- Stand and miter gauge is not included
- A little bit pricey product
- The quality of the blade is not up to the mark.
3. Skil Band Saw
This SKIL bandsaw is widely used for cutting irregular shapes and ripping lumber into thinner pieces. The 6-TPI blade will allow you to cut various varieties of wood material. The rack and pinion adjustable table will let you change the height and quick angle easily and also the EZ view blade tracking will help to you align the blade easily.
It includes adjustable rip fence for straights & accurate cuts and miter gauge for crosscuts. The LED adjustable light provides a brighter view of the workplace and cut line and the dust port (1 ½ inch) will keep the workspace clean and free from dust and other debris.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 31.1 X 16.2 X 12.8 inches
- Weight – 16.51 pounds
- Power Source – Electric Powered
- Warranty – 3 years
- Speed – 2800 FPM
- Voltage – 120V
- Amperage – 2.5 amps
- Cutting Capacity – 3 ½ inches
- Throat Capacity – 9 inches
- Table Size – 12 X 11 ¾ inches
- Blade Width – 1/8 to 3/8 inches
- Blade Length – 59 ¼ inches
Things we liked:
- It is lightweight and compact device that one can carry it around.
- The anti-vibration feature will let the machine work with less vibrations.
- The LED light will illuminate the work area to ensure proper visibility over the cut line.
- The rip fence and miter gauge will allow you to make straight and cross cuts.
- Value for money.
- Won’t take much space but provides precision work.
- One-speed motor of this saw will cut wood and other metal materials.
Things we didn’t like:
- Adjusting blade guide is difficult and the upper guide is flimsy.
- Motor power tends to weaken after repeated usages.
- Not suitable for large projects.
4. Jet Band Saw
This Jet 14 inches SFX steel frame bandsaw redefines the line between affordability and functionality. The 360 sq.in cast iron work table will provide great work space and supports you while making deeper cuts. One can have visible measurements with the aluminum fence system to make accurate cutting.
This saw is equipped with easy adjustable blade guide system, resaw capacity of 13-inches, dual 4-inch dust port (for maximum cleaning), heavy duty base, tubular steel welded construction, and robust stamped steel pin hinges, which allows for durability and stability of the bandsaw.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 63.8 X 27 X 36.1 inches
- Weight – 300 pounds
- Color – White
- Power Source – Electric Powered
- Motor Power – 1.75 HP
- Voltage – 230 V
- Warranty – 5 years
- Table Size – 360 square inches
- Cutting Capacity – 13 inches
- Blade Length – 116 inches
- Blade Width – 1/8 to 3/4 inches.
- Wheels – Cast Iron
Things we liked:
- This bandsaw will come with all the essential features with superior performance.
- The high resaw cutting capacity will allow you to cut larger pieces of wood, cutting book matched panels and slicing veneers.
- The dual dust ports will clean the workspace effectively and thereby helps you to have a clear visibility of cut-line.
- It is strong, sturdy and durable device.
Things we didn’t like:
- Blades are not included and the user has to buy them separately.
- Wheels / caster not included.
- Very expensive product.
5. Grizzly Band Saw
This Grizzly G0555 bandsaw cuts various materials accurately and quietly. It not only used for crosscuts and resaw but also used to do circles, curved and decorative scroll cuts. It comes with various features like ball bearing blade guides & thrust bearings, precision cast-iron table along with cast iron frame, heavy gauge steel stand, and computer balanced aluminum wheels (with rubber tires). It includes aluminum t-shaped fence and miter gauge for straight and curved cuts.
The 4-inch dust port will clear away all the dust and debris from the workplace. It comes with a precision ground cast-iron table that allows you to have proper cutting of various materials.
Product Information:
- Motor Power – 1 HP (5.5 amps)
- Cutting Capacity – 6 inches
- Throat Capacity – 13 ½ inches
- Table Size – 14 X 14 inches
- Tilting Angle – 45-degrees (right) & 15-degrees (left).
- Blade Speed – 1500 & 3200 FPM
- Blade Length – 93 ½ inches
- Blade Width – 1/8 to 3/4 inches
- Floor to Table Height – 43 5/16 inches
- Dimensions – 44 X 20.8 X 19.8 inches
- Weight – 195 pounds
- Material – Steel
- Voltage – 220 V
Things we liked:
- Made with iron and aluminum to make the tool strong and durable, to withstand / hold a lot of pressure.
- The computerized wheels will help you to get proper control and better precision.
- The open frame stand with quick release blade tension lever will provide proper usage of this tool.
- Value for money.
Things we didn’t like:
- The product doesn’t come with any warranty.
- Poor customer support.
Portable / Compact Band Saws:
These bandsaws are battery powered in which one can use it easily in any difficult applications. They are compact and lightweight saws.
6. Dewalt Portable Band Saw
This DCS374B is a portable bandsaw that provides 5-inch cutting capacity to cut various materials like pipe, strut, plastic, angle iron, etc. It has an LED light with 20-second delay to illuminate your work place and allows you to have accurate cutting. The variable speed trigger and dial will provide control and versatility. The built brushless motor of this saw will provide excellent durability and performance.
This deep cut bandsaw is capable of 149 cuts with 14 TPI blade. One can easily hang this saw with its integrated hang hook without getting any damage to the front handle or base. The tool less blade changing lever will loosen the blade tension to have quick and easy blade changes. It is a bare tool that won’t come with battery.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 24.4 X 13 X 8.27 inches
- Power Source – Battery Powered
- Cutting Capacity – 5 inches
- Weight – 12.4 pounds
- Voltage – 20V
- Material – Metal
- Warranty – 3 years
- Blade Width – 1/2 inch
- Blade Length – 44 7/8 inches
- Blade Thickness – 0.20 inches.
Things we liked:
- It is lightweight, portable and easy to store anywhere with its integrated hanging hook.
- The variable speed trigger and dial will allow you to have proper control over the speed and its versatility.
- The LED light will help you to focus on the workplace with its brighter light.
- The brushless motor will enhance the longer life of the motor.
Things we didn’t like:
- The battery and charger sold separately (not included in this pack).
7. Milwaukee Band Saw
This battery powered band saw is made with metal and plastic and one can easily use and handle it effectively. The M18 fuel deep cut band saw will help you to cut various materials and it is lightweight that allows you to use it properly. It is highly durable device with cutting capacity of 5 inches.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 23.8 X 8.2 X 22.6 inches
- Weight – 25 pounds
- Battery Type – Lithium Ion
- Material – Steel & Plastic
- Power Source – Battery Powered
- Voltage – 18 V
- Blade Length – 44 7/8 inches
- Cutting Capacity – 5 inches
Things we liked:
- It comes with a battery, charger and plastic carrying case in which you can store it properly.
- Can do their work anywhere without the messy of wiring.
- It is sturdy and durable
Things we didn’t like:
- One has to charge the battery regularly to perform their operation effectively.
8. Makita Portable Band Saw
This bandsaw delivers cordless cutting power that range for various metal materials with its torque motor, lightweight and compact design. This tool line up with a powerful 18V lithium ion slide style battery that gets charging quickly. So, one can easily use this device why because the battery spends more time on the working while less time on its charging.
The tool hook will secure the tool when it is not in use. the accessible brushes will provide great serviceability and this on-board wrench storage will provide quick and easy stopper plate adjustment. The 6-setting variable speed control dial will deliver 275 – 530 FPM.
The adjustable foot will protect the material and thus provides excellent support for accurate cutting. This XBP02Z comes with an ergonomic shape will reduce the fatigue feel in operator and the built-in LED light will illuminate the work area to perform efficient work and has rubber bumpers and removable hook. Although, it is engineered for a range of metal cutting tasks, and thus makes it perfect for installation, metal building, HVAC, electrical, metal fabrication, plumbing, etc.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 14 X 22.4 X 10.7 inches
- Weight – 14.3 pounds
- Material – Metal
- Voltage – 18V
- Power Source – Battery
- Battery Type – Lithium Ion
- Speed – 275 to 530 FPM
- Blade Length – 44 7/8 inches
- Cutting Capacity – 4 ¾ inches
Things we liked:
- Used widely for fast metal cutting through all thread, Unistrut, channel, pipe, conduit, corrugated, square tubing, sheet metal, etc.
- It is equipped with LED light, thick protective rubber bumpers (for durability) and removable hook.
- The trigger switch that comes with lock off feature will allow you to have two actions to power on the device.
- Value for money
Things we didn’t like:
- Battery and charger are not included in this pack. One has to purchase it separately.
- It won’t come with a warranty period.
Metal Cutting Band Saws:
These bandsaws are particularly used for metal cutting and the listed bandsaws are corded one, which works with electric powered.
9. Wen Metal Cutting Band Saw
This 4X6 inch metal cutting band saw will cut various metals like aluminum, steel, copper, brass, etc. It effectively cut pipes up to a diameter of 4 ½ inches whereas for rectangular materials, it cuts up to a size of 4X6 inches. It works with 3 different operating speeds like 80, 120 & 200 FPM to achieve perfect cut on various sizes & materials.
Its durable stand with a collapsible handle and two 4-inch non-flat wheels will help to elevate and transport this bandsaw. The bevel angle will let the saw to create angled cuts from 0 – 60 degrees and 45-degree cuts in 3 ½ inch diameter (in circular material), 3 ½ X 3 ½ inches (for square).
If you don’t want horizontal cutting then simply swift the bandsaw to vertical position. The ball bearing blade guide will extend its longer lifespan and reliable operation. The auto-shut off mechanism will stop the saw when once you done the cutting. For easy adjustments, you can use onboard blade tension and tilt knobs. It suits best for uniform cutting of the metals.
Product Information:
- Dimensions – 16.5 X 36 X 38 inches
- Weight – 123.2 pounds
- Speed – 80, 120 and 200 FPM
- Motor Power – 4.6 amps
- Warranty – 2 years
- Tilting Angle – 0 to 60-degrees
- Cutting Capacity – 4 X 6 inches
- Blade Length – 64 ½ inches
- Blade Width – 1/2 inch
Things we liked:
- It comes with sturdy stand and powerful motor of 4.6 amps.
- The blade speeds up to 200 FPM and has beveling angle of up to 60-degree
- It has automatic shut off which is safety concern while using this saw.
- Comes with 2 years warranty on any manufacturing defects.
- One can operate this band saw in either horizontal or vertical positions.
Things we didn’t like:
- The blade guide lock gets stuck and motor bearing failed after a few repeated usages.
10. Grizzly Industrial Metal Cutting Band Saw
This is a metal cutting bandsaw that comes with a small footprint and designed to cut 7 inches round and 7X12 inches rectangular stock. It has features like hydraulic down feed control, blade brush, coolant system, quick release vise, vertical cutting operations ability, adjustable blade guides, and cast-iron wheels with heavy duty ball bearings.
It has a powerful motor of 1 HP that suits perfect for metal cutting. The auto-shut off mechanism will stop the saw when once you done the cutting, works as a safety feature.
Product Information:
- Motor Power – 1 HP
- Blade Speed – 80, 130, 180 & 235 FPM
- Blade Width – 3/4 inches
- Blade Thickness – 0.03 inches
- Blade Length – 93 inches
- Voltage – 110 to 220 V
- Dimensions – 18.5 X 51.2 X 42.2 inches
- Weight – 343 pounds
- Material – Steel
- Maximum Cutting Capacity (Circular) – 7 inches (90degrees) & 5 inches (45-degrees)
- Maximum Cutting Capacity (Rectangular) – 7 inches (90-degrees) & 4 ¾ X 4 ½ inches (45 degrees)
Things we liked:
- Value for money
- Suitable for accurate metal cuttings (specially for straight cuts).
- Comes with auto shut off safety feature.
- Have 4 levels of speed controls.
Things we didn’t like:
- A little bit pricey product
- Won’t have any warranty on the product.
Buying Guide for Band Saws – How to Choose the Best One:
Searching for a band saw for either personal household or professional usage. Got stuck with various options available to choose the best band saw. So, here we are providing a buying guide with all the essential information about the band saw. This will guide you properly and let you purchase the best one, that suits perfect for your requirement. Let’s get started…
1. Band Saw
Band saw has the ability to carve interesting patterns and thus make it focus on the precision. It is a powerful tool than scroll saw and comes with the ability to cut various varieties of materials. It has special design of blade powered by the motor and travel through wheels and expose the blades.
2. Types of Bandsaws
In general, the bandsaws are categorized into two main types – free standing (or) benchtop bandsaw and compact bandsaws. Both of these types have with pros and cons and one should select the type depending on their purpose.
1. Benchtop / Free Standing Bandsaw
- This type requires a constant flow of power through any electric source / power outlet.
- One can find this corded bandsaw in either cabinet form or free-standing and the benchtop (attach to a bench or top).
- They are used for both personal and professional use due to its resawing ability and potential to work for a variety of projects.
- Also, keep your worktable clean and clear from any debris / any damages why because they affect the work quality and may damage the table.
- It is made with two different frame materials – cast iron and steel frames, in which both are durable and comes with a longer lifespan.
2. Compact Bandsaw
- It is a cordless and portable bandsaw that generates power through a rechargeable battery.
- One can easily use this type anywhere and anytime due to its versatility and compact design.
- They look like a miniature version (size) of the benchtop bandsaw.
- This type of bandsaw is strong, durable and long-lasting that can withstand any rough conditions and performs well by providing comfort to the user.
- The battery is the power source of this tool, as it allows to cut in various locations and under different working environments, without any plugged power source.
- Always remember to charge the battery properly to perform well in your working session.
- A few branded models come with an ability to share their batteries with another cordless tools, to allow you work uninterruptedly.
Things To Consider Before Buying This Bandsaw
Here we have listed some of the main points which the buyer has to take into account before buying. So, that they can grab the best quality and durable bandsaws to fulfill their requirements.
1. Motor
Motor is a vital component (or simply heart) of the bandsaw. Regardless of the bandsaw types, this motor power is measured in terms of amps. It provides the essential power for the blade to cut through the particular material. The motor’s speed is measured in terms of feet per minute (FPM), which is considered as the time taken for the blade to move in a minute, through the material. The higher the speed the more its capability to work.
The motors can be classified into two main types – brushed and brushless.
1. Brushed Motor:
- The most common type of motor found in various saw power tools and it is existed for a longer time.
- It comes with two main parts – brushes and commutator.
- The commutator is used to pass the energy within the motor to make the blade work properly.
- The carbon brushes may become worn and torn after sometime and thereby you lose out in effective output and quality as well.
2. Brushless Motor
- This motor comes with a small electronic circuit board rather than carbon brushes and commutator.
- This board won’t draw on all the energy, which it is created for the task and thus it can be adjusted accordingly.
- It is more powerful that provide constant flow of energy by eliminating the unnecessary friction.
2. Bandsaw Blades
The blades are considered as a large loop that are welded together with teeth at one side. The finish and the cut quality of the blade will be measured in number of teeth per inch (TPI). The higher TPI will provide the better-quality cut and the fewer TPI will result in faster cut but leaves a rough finish. Also, one has to consider the length and width of the blade along with this TPI to grab the best one.
3. Blade Tension, Tracking and Adjustment
Most of the models comes with option to track blade wear and tear along with adjusting the blade tension to the desired level. The blade tracking will help to monitor the lifespan of the blade and thereby gives a clear indication on the blade’s quality as well as point-out any damages. This allows the user to prevent these damages from occurring.
Blade tension is found in either lever or knob format to provide you a complete control over the blade tension. One has to adjust the thick spring (located behind the wheel and top of the frame) to maintain proper blade tension.
4. Throat Size / Capacity
It is term used to separate each and every bandsaw from other one. It is defined as the space behind the blade that reach out to the furthest point of the table (column). This is essential for benchtop/free standing bandsaw. The smaller tables have smaller throat size and larger table comes with larger throat size. It is ideal for tables, which work with larger pieces. For most of the free-standing models, the throat size will range from 9 – 21 inches.
5. Types of Blades
The bandsaw comes with a longest blade and it loop to form a band. Although, one blade won’t fit for all of the applications. Various jobs require different types of blades. Here are a few common bandsaw blades are explained.
- Hook-Tooth Blade – This type of blade is perfect for cutting various materials like thick woods, certain metals, hardwoods, plastic, etc. quickly with extreme ferocity. It comes with a larger teeth and deeper gullet. One can use this blade to cut an extremely quick pace.
- Skip-Tooth Blade – This type of blade comes with a more space between the teeth. This space will prevent the resin buildup on the blade, which may compile through regular usage. It is perfect blade that widely used for cutting non-ferrous materials, plastics and soft woods.
- Regular Tooth Blade – It is a common type of blade that makes it best to use for all applications. It performs well while cutting various materials which are thinner and finer than others. It comes with a universal acceptance, as they provide an excellent flexibility to use on various materials.
6. Bevel
The bevel /adjustment will refer to an angle in which the worktable can be tilted from either right or left. In general, the benchtops come with a bevel ability of 45-degree and the table with tilting option will definitely add some variation to the cutting and makes it perfect for angled cuts. It differentiates a straight rip to these cuts, where it makes cuts with more variation and flexibility.
7. Variable Speed
One need to cut different materials with different levels of thickness. So, a universal speed set is not perfect for all cuts. The bandsaw should come with variable speed triggers / dials option to get better control over the speed (2 speed settings). It is helpful for those people who work with a variety of materials by promoting the quality cuts.
8. Blade Guide
They are 2 sets of blade guides – upper and lower set below the table. They may sit right next to the blade and thereby ensures the blade stay in square or vertical without tracking or turning while cutting. Each set of this blade guide comes with three parts – two side supports and one thrust support behind the blade.
Here the side supports will prevent side – side movement & twisting and whereas the thrust support will prevent the blade from being pushed backwards in any tough cuts. Also, the bearing guides are made with sealed bearings and ceramic guides. So, this guide will help you to keep the quality of cut and control over the blade while working at high level.
9. Table Frame
The frame of the bandsaws comes in two styles – cast iron and welded steel, in which the steel frame will resists vibration under heavy cutting load than cast iron frames. The steel saw will enable the cutting capacities without reducing the strength and deflection. The steel one comes in various sizes that range from 12 – 24 inches. The cast-iron frame is perfect for daily bandsaw operations even if their cutting capacities have limited operations.
10. Wheels
The quality steel frame saw comes with heavy cast-iron wheels to provide a strong and steady cut. The weight of the wheels will matter, so a cast aluminum is lighter than cast iron and the heavier wheels will provide more inertia. The bandsaw blade tracks on rubber tires on the wheel rims and they are flat. It helps to track the blades with 1-inch or more in width is suitable for heavy resawing, whereas the crowned wheels of the 14-inch cast iron bands won’t do well.
Additional Features
Here are a few additional features that helps to enhance the quality of this bandsaw work.
- Adjustable LED Light – It not only provides brighter light for the surrounding but also helps to make your work with more visibility, especially while working on various applications. Most of the LED lights can be adjusted (adjustable) while a few are fixed.
- Base – A sturdy base will definitely help to control vibrations. There are 4 common base styles like floor base, closed base, open base and panel base models, in which the floor and closed base are sturdier and control vibration better than open or panel base models.
- Motor Power – A motor of 3/4 -hp is considered as better one for most of its operation, that comes with cutting thickness of 3-inches and in case, if you’re performing regular cuts/resawing then choose at least 1 ½ -hp motor power. For resawing larger exotic hardwood/bowl blanks from a log cuts, choose a saw with 2 ½ to 3-hp motor.
- Riser Blocks – It increases the cutting capacity of the blade from 6 inches to 12 inches. It is an inexpensive option to use for resawing or cutting bowl blanks.
- Block Style Guides – This guide will allow the user to adjust the blade and use it easily. Simply, replace the stock metal guide blocks with synthetic blocks (cool blocks). One can adjust the blocks closer to the blade to get proper support and works well with any narrow blades (1/16-inches).
- Euro Style Guide – It is great for supporting wide blades and suitable for heavy works. It is difficult to use with the blade that are less than ¼ inches wide. Suits best with ¼ inches and wider blades.
- Wheel Covers, Switches & Tensioning Knobs – The column-mounted switches are more convenient to use while operating this bandsaw. Checking or changing the blade will become quicker with the wheel covers, which hinged other than removable. Tensioning knobs will extend above the top wheel housing (easy to reach). All these will make it easy to use by preventing the skinned knuckle.
- Height Adjustments and Guards – The height adjustment (lower or raised) will be easier on the machine that comes with rack and pinion guards. Whenever the locking knob gets loosen, this setup will keep the guard from crashing to table. Guards will come in various styles like 1-piece, telescoping and 2-piece, in which the 1-piece and telescoping are easy to use guards.
- Dust Collection / Dust Blower – Choose a dust port that comes with 2 ¼ inches that hooked up to a vacuum. In case, if you perform a lot of resawing then simply choose a bigger one and hook it to the dust collector.
- Table Size – One has to consider the size of their cutting table. In general, 16X20 inches will work well for large projects. However, one has to use a separate support stand and the table should be made with heavy cast iron set. It comes with an easy adjustable to any angle (up to 90-degree).
Tips for Maintaining Bandsaw Blades
The blade is a part that moves continuously until you stopped the device. So, it has to be taken proper care to prevent its damage or wear and tear, up on repeated usages. Here are a few tips that help you to maintain the blade properly.
- One has to check the blade tracking adjustment to replace, clean and make the blade perform well at high levels.
- Rust may occur overtime and if left untreated, the blade will be damaged. So, always check the entire blade regularly and clean the blade to have smooth and uninterrupted cuts.
- For cleaning the blades, wash them with a degreasing agent (or) simply soak in a soapy water (or) use oven cleaners to remove the built-up resin on the blade.
- Repeated usage of the blade will improve its quality of cutting, especially in certain materials.
- In some cases, broken blades may occur due to various reasons – negligence, general wear and tear of the blades. Rather than rushing to buy a replacement blade, you can simply fix them by yourself with proper welding by using correct tools.
- It’s always suggested to buy a replacement blade and store them, to overcome the situations where the blades get repaired.
- If you’re on a tight budget or floor space, then purchase a benchtop bandsaw, which comes with less sawing capacity yet they are fine for small projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of cuts can be made with this bandsaw?
Bandsaws are perfect for variety of cuts, which are given below.
- Resawing (reduces wood into thin blocks)
- Curved Cuts (even for the thickest piece)
- Irregular Cuts (with its flexibility and sheer power)
- Crosscuts
- Bevel Cuts
- Compound Cuts
- Miter Cuts
- Rip Cuts
2. What are the best brands of bandsaw?
Here are a few brands of bandsaws available in the market. Have a look at them and choose your best one.
- Skil
- Grizzly Industrial
- Rikon Power Tools
- WEN
- Laguna Tools
- Jet
3. Is it necessary to have a specific saw blade for cutting certain materials/for certain cuttings?
Yes, you definitely require proper blade for cutting material. Different kinds of material require different types of blades. For curved cutting and resawing, one has to use a bandsaw with widest blade, whereas the straight cutting requires a narrow blade.
4. What is the difference between bandsaw and jigsaw?
The bandsaws come with a blade that cuts in a continuous loop where the jigsaw goes up and down. The bandsaw is superior than jigsaw (up & motion) due to its vibration, as the bandsaw pulls in one direction. The ability to change blades and working in extreme narrowness of some jigsaw but not in bandsaws.
Conclusion
Among the above-mentioned list of best products, we pick a few as per the power source.
- For Electric Powered – We suggest WEN Benchtop Band Saw as first and best product. The reason is that it is powerful and compactable device with well built quality. it is easy to assemble and has long spacious worktable that allows the user to have proper cutting area with no noise while operating. Also, comes with speed of 2500 FPM and used for both straight, accurate and curved cuts.
- For Battery Powered – We select Dewalt Portable Band Saw as best product, why because this portable bandsaw has brushless motor that increase its durability and performance. Comes with LED light and easy to change blade option. It is lightweight and can be used in any difficult operation of cutting various materials and comes with 3 years warranty.
- For Metal Cutting – We advise you to choose WEN Metal Cutting Band Saw. The reason is that it has durable stand and used to cut various metals like steel, brass, aluminum & copper effectively. It has 3 speed levels and can work with either horizontal cutting or vertical cutting. It comes with an auto-shut off & ball bearing blade guide feature and has 2 years warranty.
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