The 10 Best Band Saws 2023

Are you a carpenter, mason or any other skilled technician? You definitely want a good band saw as part of your tools collections.

You have indeed landed on just the right page because we are here to guide you in acquiring and utilizing a band saw.

10 BEST BAND SAWS REVIEWS

#1: WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, 10″

For medium tasks, you want to take advantage of a band saw that is similarly medium in strength. This is the band saw to think of. It is strong and reliable enough for such kinds of tasks. You will generally be assured maximum compliance and benefits.

3-in-1 Dust Port

It is fitted with a variety of dust-collection hoses. They basically suck in dust from the worktop to bring about a clean working surface and outcomes indeed. The ports can fit a variety of hoses and in the process, provide you unbridled convenience.

Two-Speed Operation

With this saw, you have the pleasure of setting the speed as per your expectation. You can set it to either 1,520 or 2,620 feet per minute. This allows you to meet the precise needs of any project you might have at hand.

Bevel Cuts from 0° to 45°

Other than the speeds, you may also set the angles of the cuts. You have the choice from 0° to 45° for your consideration. These have the attendant side effects of creating angled cuts that are up to 6 inches deep from the surface.

PROS

• Easier to assemble and elevates the worktop appropriately
• Does not interfere with the workspace at all
• Manufactured by a reputable brand
• Backed by a generous 2-year warranty
• Serviced by a network of skilled service technicians

CONS

• Prone to frequent fidgeting
• More prone to injuries
• Requires some muscle power

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#2: Rikon 10-305 Band saw with Fence, 10-Inch

For your maximum convenience, you definitely have to acquire a saw that can guarantee you all the features and benefits of the ideal worktop. This is the model to think about if all you want is unhindered convenience. It has all the features of the ideal band saw.

Edge-facing Thrust Bearings

It does have some thrust bearings that transfer the load in the direction of the axis of the shaft. The bearings of the sawn face towards the edge. As such, they are comprehensive as they leave no portion of the worktop left out.

1/3HP Motor

The torque of the saw is generated by the powerful 1/3 horsepower motor. This awesome horsepower output provides the power necessary for cutting the pen blanks and the bowls. It also minimizes the muscle power necessary besides saving you some time.

4-5/8 Cutting Capacity

Lastly, the cutting capacity of the saw is awesome. It has the ability to pierce up to 4-5/8 inches beneath the surface. This is great as it ensures maximum outcomes and unconstrained operations of the saw at all times including on those hard surfaces.

PROS

• Large cast iron table for placing materials
• The optional stand allows for upright working positions
• Variable working blades (from 1/8 inches to ½ inches)
• Possesses a steel frame which is very durable
• Stronger than most plastic frames of other saws

CONS

• Quite bulky to handle with ease
• Requires some prior expertise to effectively engage
• Calls for plenty of mounting space

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#3: Grizzly G0513X2 Band saw with Cast Iron Trunnion, 2 HP, 17-Inch

Commercial cutting tasks are usually fast-paced. They require responsive saws which are easier to engage and take the least amount of time to operate. As you are about to see, this saw is the one that fits these descriptions well.

Blade Tension Indicator

Topping the charts of its features is the blade tension indicator. With this feature, you get to monitor the tension of the blades and determine their suitability for the task of cutting at any given time. A blade tracking window also keeps you posted of the same.

Quick-change Blade Release and Tensioner

You will also enjoy the rare privilege of being able to release the blades and set their tension. This is made possible by the quick-change bade release and tensioner. In the course of this, you will save yourself some time.

Computer-balanced Cast-iron Wheels

The computer-balanced cast-iron wheels close the list of its topnotch features. Being computer-balanced means that you will generally spend less energy, time, and focus to do so on your own. This results in stable work surfaces at the least efforts possible.

PROS

• Extremely heavy duty and reliable
• Allows for the execution of most applications
• Has some durable and reliable cast iron wheels
• Generates awesome cutting power courtesy of the 2HP motor
• Higher maximum cutting capacity of around 12 inches high

CONS

• Quite expensive to afford
• Higher power consumption and utility bills
• Greater operational expenses

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#4: Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw, Tool Only

Do you wish to go and cut materials in remote locations? This is the band saw to look up to if you answered the question in the affirmative. It is light, battery powered, and hence suitable for use remotely.

High Cutting Speed

It does have a Makita-built motor. This delivers faster cutting speeds which are also variable. You may vary them from 275-530 feet per minute. You will not have to spend too much of your time or wait for too long to achieve the desired ends.

Effective Controls

You will also enjoy controlling the various parameters of the saw well. This is because the saw has some variable speed control dials which are placed conveniently within your easy reach. They enable you to match the application with the right speed.

Maximum Safety

To prevent accidental powering of the saw, you have some trigger switch and lock-off features for your use. They basically require you to engage both of them at a time to power the saw on. This means chances of injuries are kept to an absolute minimum.

PROS

• Has a thick protective rubber bumper for enhanced durability
• The built-in LED lights brighten your work areas for enhanced visibility at night
• More comfortable courtesy of the rubberized soft grip handle
• Externally accessible brushes allow for greater serviceability
• The onboard wrench storage enables quick and easy stopper plate adjustments

CONS

• Less comprehensive in scope
• Has some delicate components
• Performs fewer uses on the whole

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#5: WEN 3959 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw

Do you have less cash at your disposal yet you want to enjoy the advantages of a reliable band saw? Consider leveraging this particular saw if in such a circumstance. It does perform simple tasks with ease and is therefore great for starters also.

Spacious Work Table

A spacious work table that measures 12-1/4 inches long by 11-7/8 inches wide is the first of the major elegant features of the saw. You may bevel this table to an angle of around 45°. It is, therefore, both convenient and spacious at the same time.

2.5-ampere Motor

Next comes the 2.5-ampere motor. This includes a blade that measures ¼ inches and rotates at a full speed of 2,500 feet per minute. The power output is so awesome that it can handle even the heaviest and thickest of materials.

High Cutting Power

With this saw, it is possible to cut through surfaces that are as deep as 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide. This is thanks to the high cutting power of the blades of the saw. In light of this, you have the benefit of limited muscle power to expand.

PROS

• Both compact in size and lighter in weight
• Ensures smooth cutting operations at all times
• Delivers years of dependable service
• Backed by a generous two-year warranty
• Has a fence that creates straight cuts

CONS

• Quite weighty and difficult to lift
• Not for remote use
• Requires some prior experience to engage well

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#6: Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw Kit

If you are a person spends too much of his time outdoors, you yet again have this saw for your consideration. It is also lighter in weight, battery powered, simple to comprehend and reliable for outdoor applications.

One-Handed Cuts

Due to its sheer scope and construction, the saw allows for one-handed operations. It is compact in size, lighter in weight, cordless, and simpler to engage. You, therefore, have the pleasure of unhindered use and applications at all times.

Excellent Surface feet-per-minute (SFPM or SFM) Rating

At any given time, the saw can pierce up to 280 feet of materials per minute. This is large enough considering that it is small, compact and exudes less power output. You, therefore, have the pleasure of spending less to do the job.

Certified for Safety

The band saw is certified for safety. This is because it meets the standards that are stipulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. You may, therefore, be certain to be safe from the common problems that such tools bring about.

PROS

• Highly durable and long-lasting
• Highlights the cutting light for greater accuracy and minimal errors
• Has adjustable blade tracking for greater agility
• Performs a wide range of applications
• Backed by a generous 5-year warranty

CONS

• Not for extremely tough jobs
• Has a relatively shorter lifespan
• Requires frequent repairs and maintenance

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#7: DEWALT DWM120K 10 Amp 5-Inch Deep Cut Portable Band Saw Kit

You can never gamble if the tasks before you are daunting and professional. Indeed, such high-quality tasks also call for precise tools that are very precise. This is the saw of choice for such professional applications. It is very precise and way very reliable.

Variable Speed Controls

You have the pleasure to determine the pace at which you undertake your cutting chores. This is thanks to the variable speed controls which allow you to set the pace from 100 to 350 feet per minute. It gives you some control over the wood cutting process.

Greater Cutting Depth

It has the ability to incise well over 5-inch deep cuts for circular cuts and 5 inches by 4-3/4 inches for rectangular cuts. This means you will achieve so much more by placing your bet on this particular saw. You will key in less effort yet yield much.

Ergonomic Handle Design

Lastly, the ergonomic handle of the saw will enable you to easily manage it during the cutting process. It eliminates any strains you might normally experience while engaging the various aspects of the saw. This makes it suitable for prolonged usage and applications.

PROS

• Handles tough applications with ease
• Allows you to cut lines with ease and greater accuracy
• Accommodates numerous attachments at a time
• Comes along with a three-year limited warranty
• Backed by a generous 90-day money back guarantee

CONS

• Weighs a whopping 15 pounds (6.8 kg)
• Quite large in size and cumbersome to handle
• The high power consumption of over 120 volts

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#8: Delta 28-400 14 in. 1 HP Steel Frame Band Saw

For frequent and repeated applications, you want a band saw which is strong, stable, and heavy duty. This is to slow the pace of wear and tear and also allow for reliable operations at all times. This indeed is the band saw that guarantees this kind of applications and needs.

Heavy-duty Steel Frame Design

Its frame comes in the form of the heavy-duty steel frame. This design is pretty strong, firm, and way very reliable. It reduces any flexing and fidgeting. In the course of so doing it brings about a stable working surface.

Aluminum Trunnion Table Support

You will enjoy unconstrained support while working on the table of the band saw. This is made possible by the Aluminum trunnion table support. It is strong enough to allow for frequent and repeated applications over time. It is also durable enough.

Two-speed Pulley

A two-speed pulley system closes the list of the topnotch features. It basically makes it possible for you to easily tension the blades and other cutting mechanisms. This way, you get to enjoy the best cutting outcomes on the whole.

PROS

• Durable aluminum construction
• Precision-balanced for tracking of the superior blade
• The precision-ground cast-iron table offers stable working surface
• Tilts 3° left to 45° right for varied angular cuttings
• Cuts both wood and non-ferrous metals

CONS

• Less powerful motor
• Cutting capabilities
• Handles fewer applications

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#9: DEWALT DCS374B 20V Max Deep Cut Band Saw (Tool Only)

Do you sometimes work at night? You want a saw that has an illumination mechanism if you responded in the affirmative. This is because the saw is fitted with the lighting mechanisms as well as other features that allow for night time use.

5” Cutting Capacity

The 5-inch cutting capacity tops the list of the awesome features of this particular band saw. This simply means that its blades can pierce through and incise cuts that measure up to 5 inches deep. You, therefore, will save some time yet receive more in return.

LED Illumination

It is fitted with an LED lighting mechanism as stated. This basically allows you to work at night by being able to illuminate the workspace. It works with a 20-second delay to effectively illuminate dark work surfaces. This gives accurate cutting outcomes.

Integrated Hang Hook

Lastly comes the integrated hang hook. It lets you hang the saw without necessarily damaging the front handles or base. You will thus access the saw and its components with ease whenever and wherever you might want to.

PROS

• Variable speed feature for versatility and controls
• Tool-less blade-changing mechanism loosens the blade tension
• Generates awesome torque power for optimal performance
• Cuts various materials well
• Battery powered for great outcomes

CONS

• Only for light duties
• Less value for money
• May not be so reliable in the long run

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#10: SKIL 3386-01 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Band Saw

If you like working at night or in areas of low illumination, you yet again have this saw for your consideration. It is fitted with an LED lighting mechanism to brighten your path ad work surface. You may be sure to be free of strains and other issues that come along with unclear work surfaces.

6-TPI Band Saw Blade

A sharp and powerful blade tops its reliable features. They basically let you cut through a variety of wood materials. Being sharp, they call for less effort on your part, take shorter to cut through materials, and also deliver accurate outcomes.

Articulating LED Work Light

The articulating LED work light exists to illuminate your worktops. They hence allow for better views of the workpiece and the cut-line. In this manner, they minimize inaccuracies and other forms of inconsistencies that might bedevil you.

Rack and Pinion Table Adjustment

You will enjoy the pleasure of being able to adjust the rack and the pinion table. This is due to the ability of these two parts to change their sizes, shapes, and orientations. In the course of so doing, you will be able to accrue greater outcomes of cuts.

PROS

• Eliminates dust during the cutting process
• Uses the same motor power for both wood and metal materials
• Delivers straight and accurate cuts
• Pairs with other devices as well
• Lets you easily align the blade for accurate cuttings

CONS

• Only for smaller and lighter tasks
• Inflicts higher utility bills
• Not so great a brand

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WHAT IS A BAND SAW?

A band saw is a kind of a cutting device that is long and possesses sharp serrated blades.

These blades are fixed on a continuous band of toothed metal that is stretched between two or more wheels.

When activated, the blades cut through wood, metal, or hard plastics.

WHO NEEDS A BAND SAW?

Even though just about any other person will find the band saws vital and applicable to their needs, the following kinds of technicians will find them more useful:

Carpenter

Carpenters badly need band saws to cut the wood to desired shapes and sizes. They also come in handy while generating some designs on the wood. This stems from their precise nature as well as great ease of use.

Plumber

These are persons who install and repair the plumbing mechanisms of the typical homes. The band saws play the role of cutting precise pieces of wood and metal for the sake of expedited installations and repairs.

Mason

During the constructions of homes, the frames and other raw structures are fixed onto the house. The band saws also come in handy at such times. They use the band saws to cut precise kinds of materials and thereafter install them on the raw structures of the building.

Lumber

Lumbers are persons who cut down trees. Some of these band saws are operable in remote locations by reason of being portable and battery-powered. They can, therefore, cut down trees conveniently and eliminate the need to invest too much muscle power.

General technicians

General technicians are persons who carry out general repair and maintenance works. These include fixing the drainage, unclogging the sewage and restoring some household furniture and fittings. They require the band saws from time to time for these needs.

BENEFITS OF USING A BAND SAW

Cuts Several Materials

Generally speaking, the band saws can cut through almost all materials. These include metal, wood, hard plastic, hardened clay, and light concrete among others. They are therefore very convenient to use as they reduce the hassles ordinarily confronted while handling such kinds of materials.

Makes Straight Cuts

Perhaps no other kinds of cutting materials are well able to generate straight cuts better than the band saws. This is because they contain some amazing features like the miter gauge and the rip fence. The pleasure of accurate outcomes is indeed yours to leverage as a result of this.

Eliminates the Need for Too Much Muscle Power

Owing to the fact that they are powered, they require less muscle power from you on the whole. You are thus spared from unnecessary fatigue that many technicians confront as they work their materials. This also makes your task of cutting materials enjoyable.

Brings about better Outcomes

These saws to generate comparatively better outcomes than most alternative kinds of saws. This is mainly due to their extremely sharp and universal blades. They pierce through the materials at amazing speeds and are also agile enough for greater precision.

Have Sharper Blades

Lastly, their blades are generally sharper and more responsive than most other kinds of saws. These blades are further equipped with glide rollers, are adjustable, and more advanced in nature. The combination of these factors makes them perform much better than others.

HOW TO USE BAND SAW

The exact method to use the band saws varies from purpose to purpose. However, you will have to follow the procedures below regardless of the exact purpose you may have in mind:

Draw out the shapes and designs

Start off by drawing out the shapes and the designs of the final outcomes on the materials you have at hand. These shapes and designs shall act as guides along which you will cut the later. You may employ a professional designer for the job.

Determine the relevant blade size

Next, determine the relevant size of the blade necessary for the job. The size of the blade depends on the exact shapes and designs of the final ends. Be very accurate and keen to avoid any unnecessary distortions on the whole.

Select the most relevant twist drill

Now select the most relevant twist drill that is handy and relevant for the job. This drill should be equal or greater in size than the diameter of the width of the band saw blade. It is these drills that bore holes in materials and expedite the cutting process.

Drill the holes appropriately

After selecting the relevant twist drill, proceed to drill the holes appropriately. Start out on each corner of the pattern and proceed to the other segments of the materials. Be sure that the holes are located within the sections of the materials which are to be removed later.

Cut the material

Finish off by cutting the unwanted materials. Exercise great caution here as the consequences are often irreversible. Follow the lines and patterns that are drawn meticulously to avoid any unnecessary issues and inconsistencies.

USING TIPS AND TRICKS

Acquire the relevant Expertise

You can never hope to use these devices well without the appropriate expertise. You must, therefore, go for the appropriate training to get the relevant skills. You also want to enlist the support of an expert to help you out especially if you are a starter.

Take care of your Safety

These devices are potentially injurious. They are particularly prone to inflicting cuts, pickles, and other forms of injuries. To avoid these issues, you want to put in place an appropriate safety regime. This can only happen if you acquire and put on the relevant safety gears and observing some safety rules and standards.

Employ the relevant tool for the job

On the whole, the band saws are used to make different kinds of cuts. Be sure to employ the right kind of saw for the right job. This is to prevent any inconsistencies that might inflict injuries on you or compromise the final outcomes.

Exercise great caution in times of Use

Exercise great caution indeed in times of the use of these saws. As stated repeatedly, these saws are potentially injurious. You do not want to harm yourself or lose any portion of your limbs. Be slow and meticulous for added safety.

Store them accordingly

The storage of these saws is just as important as the use and applications. When accessed by small children or any other unskilled users, they also inflict the same injuries they would when used recklessly. You want to lock them as safe and inaccessible as possible.

SAFETY FEATURES & MAINTENANCE GUIDE

While handling these saws, be sure to adhere to the following safety tips and maintenance guides:

Keep your hands as far away from the saw blade as you can while operating them. This is to prevent your hands from being bored, pierced, or cut in the course of operations. It is also to keep your health and wellbeing in the best shape and form.

Disconnect the power supply before the installation or removal of the blades. There is usually the risk of electrocution or shocks. You do not want to go to the grave before your time, do you? To be sure of yourself, switch off the mains electricity supply.

To further safeguard your hands and fingers insist on using the work-holding jaw devices, miter-guide attachment, and the wooden blocks for pushing the metallic pieces into the blades of the band saws. Never use your hands at all in the process.

While removing or installing the band saws, do exercise great gentleness. These blades may turn disastrous when not engaged with the care they deserve. Be slow and attentive to be able to do a better job on the whole.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK WHEN CHOOSING A BAND SAW

The following are the various factors to consider while on the lookout for the right band saws for the job:

Intended Application

As stated, these band saws are designed for different kinds of applications. Some are for circular cuts yet others are for straight cuts. Others cut wood yet others are for cutting metals, and so on. Match the intended use with the kind of saw to avoid any discrepancies or errors.

Expertise or Skill Level

Just like the intended applications, these saws also vary in expertise. To be assured of a good job, you want to settle for one whose expertise or skill level matches yours. Be sure to ascertain your own skill levels before proceeding to find one that suits you.

Location of Use

In all, these saws may be used both indoors and outdoors. If you plan to use them outdoors, ensure that they are battery powered, foldable/collapsible, and light enough to be carried around with ease. The heavier ones will do just fine in the indoor locations.

Operational Mechanism

Some band saws are automatic yet others are manual. The automatic ones are faster and easier to use. They, however, require some great expertise to manage, unlike their annual counterpart. To be on the safe side, find one that matches your skill and experience.

Brand

Lastly, pay attention to the brand as well. This is because not all brands may yield you the same degree of satisfaction. Some brands to think of are Jet, Grizzly, WEN, DEWALT, Shop Fox, Milwaukee, Delta, and Makita. They have been tried and tested to be very reliable.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of a band saw?

They generally cut lines, materials, and designs on all kinds of surfaces and materials.

Q2. What does a band saw operator do?

The band saw operator generally engages the band saw for the sake of cutting through materials. He raises the saw, positions the materials to be cut underneath the blade, and then turns on the saw. He also monitors the progress to see to it that it follows the drawn-out designs.

Q3. Why is a band saw so-called?

They maintain the path of the blade stationary while the materials to be cut are moved through them. This is what earns them the designation of the band saw.

Q4. Are band saws really safe?

Not really. Their blades are sharp and their powered nature makes them all the more dangerous. As such, you ought to exercise great caution as you engage them to prevent any injuries and dangers.

Q5. Are band and scroll saws one and the same things?

NOT really! The band saw is mainly used for straight lines whereas the scroll saws are used for cutting curves. Beyond these minor differences, these two are pretty much similar in almost all other regards.

CONCLUSION

MY FAVORITE IS the Delta 28-400 14 in. 1 HP Steel Frame Band Saw. As you may see, it is great for repeated and frequent applications.

It is, therefore, your best bet as it performs optimally at all times. Given its strong and durable construction, it also requires fewer repairs and maintenance on your part on the whole.

The Team That Worked On This Review