The band saw is one of the stationary and the most crucial tool in a workshop; some people have even claimed that the band saw is more important than the table saw. It is a freehand tool that is much used for freehand cutting making it the most efficient for cutting curves for chair seats, arched trims, and round tabletops. To do it, all you need to get the best band saw from the market.
A Band saw is efficient for compound cuttings. For example, compound cuts required for the formation of curved furniture legs are arranged into several pieces and cut through with a band saw. Thus giving you identical parts saving the time you could have used cutting the pieces using a hand saw.
A band saw can be significantly used for thinning extensive stocks and lumbers that are very thick. The blade of this tool is shaped like a ribbon, which is a closed steel loop that circles two wheels one above the other and the lower wheel is driven by a motor through pulleys or gears.
The blade is housed in a metal case, visible when the cutting is done. Two sets of blade guides keep the blade aligned, one of the set is fixed below the tabletop and the other one can be adjusted to variable heights above the table.
Top 10 Best Band Saw Reviews
1. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Pro Band saw kit
This saw is built in a 12 inch resaw capacity used for cutting larger pieces of wood. The band saw is driven by a system of 2-speed poly v belt. The strength and firmness of this tool have been increased in the new design of the lower and upper cast iron frame. This is the top band saw for resawing also.
It is also very easy to view the blade tracking window. The band saw has the high cutting capacity and an inbuilt retractable blade guard for flexibility.
Features
- The blade guide post rack and pinion adjustment.
- It is effortless to view the blade tracking window.
- A new design of the upper and lower cast iron frame has increased strength and firmness.
- The band saw is built in a 12 inch resaw capacity for cutting large pieces of wood.
What We Liked
- It has an enclosed stand for better organization.
- It has upper and lower ball bearing that reduces wearing out.
- The tool has a huge table for a wide range of applications.
- It has a cast iron stand that makes it very powerful.
What We Did’t Like
- It is very expensive because the user has to buy some of the accessories separately.
- The machine lacks a practical instruction manual.
2. WEN 3966T Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Work-light
The WEN 14 inch two-speed band saw could work as a perfect addition to any workshop because of the power it comes with and what it delivers for the user. The best thing is that you will get a sturdy and good band saw under $1000.
This tool has a 9.5 AMP motor and a 13-inch long cutter that digs deep into bards to produce the perfect cutting that the user wants. This tool has a speed that allows either 1420 t0 3280 feet per minute.
Not all band saws have this feature that is why the wen band saw is unique because it has a flexible work light to provide enough light for the workplace. The tools also have got very distinct features which include; a dust port to fit a variety of dust extractor hoses, a sawdust collection drawer, a fence for creating straight cuts, and a miter gauge for angled cuts.
The machine also boasts a two-stage fast clamp system that intensifies fast tool-free conversion.
Features
- A very powerful 9.5 AMP motor that creates 8 inches deep cuts and 13 inches wide cuts.
- The tool can operate at two different speeds.
- It has a dust collection drawer.
- The tool has a work light that illuminates the workplace.
What We Liked
- The tool is relatively cheap compared to the quality.
- It is the best band saw for the beginners.
- It is best for smaller projects.
- It is very easy to assemble.
What We Did’t Like
- If the correct instructions are not followed blade problems can arise.
- Replacing the blade at times can be a challenge.
3. Shop Fox W1706 Band Saw
This tool is made up of very great features that are not just impressive but they also serve the interests of the user amazingly. Some of the features that capture the eye and attention of the user include.
Extruded aluminum fence and rails that help in getting the most perfect cuts, quick-release blade tension, miter gauge that gives the best-angled cuts.
Again upper and lower ball bearing blade guides that prevent tear and wear of the tool, enclosed cabinet stand, hinged wheel covers, a four inch dust port, a one horsepower motor that delivers power for the tool a cast-iron frame and table. This is the perfect band saw that will be a great addition to your workshop under $1000.
Features
- Cast iron blade wheels, frame, and tables.
- A one horsepower motor that delivers 1725 revolutions per minute to deliver power.
- Cutting capacity of 13.5 inches and a maximum cutting height of 6 inches.
- A working table of 14 inches by 14 inches.
What We Liked
- The tool has some convenient storage in the base.
- It has cast iron wheels with tires that are already installed.
- The tool has a solid miter fence.
- It is a tool that delivers very good quality.
What We Did’t Like
- Several cases of the rip fence not locking down solidly. So it demands the user to use the clamps an auxiliary fence at the time of resewing.
- The trunnion knobs are very hard to put on as the attaching bolts are free-floating on the table.
4. SKIL 3386-01 Band Saw
This skil band saw under $200 is a very flexible band saw that is very small compared to the other versions of band saws. It is designed for smaller home projects and basic wood ripping.
It comes along with all the power that you may need for all the basic tasks combining with the other unique features that are designed to give you the most accurate cuttings and faster adjustments too.
The tool runs on a 2.5 amp motor that can operate on 120 volts. It provides the most decent power needed to make various cuts while using very little effort.
The tool also has got a very impressive cutting capacity that gives the user an extended range to accommodate the different sizes of work-pieces. The tool also comes with a very versatile blade to have you start your work immediately.
Features
- The tool is made from a very premium grade of steel.
- It is also heat resistant to make it last longer.
- The teeth are arranged in a very unique geometry for quality cutting performance.
- It has a variety of all sizes and types offered to cover wood and metal applications.
What We Liked
- The tool does not stall while cutting.
- The solid metal alloy used to create the tool is very durable and long-lasting.
- The working table of this tool can be tilted for angular cuts.
- The tool comes with a variety of accessories including a miter gauge and a metal rip fence for cutting straight lines.
What We Did’t Like
- Several cases of the motor being very weak and delivering only a third horsepower of the power.
5. Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Band Saw
This tool is an updated version of the G0555 band saw. The tools come with more advanced features of; computer-balanced cast iron wheels, a very intact fence designed in the shape of the letter T.
The computer-balanced cast iron wheels have rubber tires and the very strong elongated T-shaped aluminum fence offers a fence scale with a magnifying window and a miter gauge.
The fence can also be adjusted for blade lead. The frame of this band saw is also very strong made from cast and iron, the stand is a deluxe heavy duty that is coated with powder paint to carry out plenty of lumber ripping, curve cutting, and many other irregular-shaped cuttings.
It also contains the lower and the upper bearing guides, and a rack and pinion guide for the upper blade guides.
Features
- The tool contains all ball-bearing construction to reduce friction and tear and wear.
- It has a cast-iron frame.
- It also has a rack and pinion guide post adjustment for upper blade guides.
- It has a 4-inch dust port.
- The tool has got an open frame stand.
What We Liked
- It is very easy to assemble the tool.
- It has a dust collection facility.
- Compared to the services it offers it is relatively cheap.
- The construction of the tool is composite and accurate.
What We Did’t Like
- Several cases of the blade breaking have been reported.
- The trunnion beneath the table is poorly restrained against lateral movement hence it can easily slip out of alignment.
6. Laguna Tools MBAND1412-175 Band Saw
This is a 110 volt saw but from the power it delivers and how it works a person may confuse it for a 220 volt saw.
It has very unique features which include the pyramid-shaped spine, a 1.75 horsepower motor, a quick-release tension, 115-volt outlet, and a very well-polished 21 by 16 table that is mounted onto an oversize trunion paired with aluminum high and low fence.
The solid wheels are, well balanced, and fitted with polyurethane one-piece tires designed to run cooler and last longer than other tires. The tool is also fitted with smooth worm gear and pinion that are designed to have the least flex even when they are extended.
The double windows available in this tool allows you to check both tension and tracking while the machine is running.
Features
- The tool is CSA certified and has an illuminated on and off direct start switch with a safety key.
- The frame of the tool is made of steel.
- It has cast iron wheels.
- The table of this tool is micro-polished.
- The table of this tool can tilt in different directions.
What We Liked
- The tool is constructed from very durable materials.
- The parts of this tool are very easy to use.
- It has great safety components.
What We Did’t Like
- The tool has a very small door that requires you to remove a certain bolt to use it consuming a lot of time.
- The lower guide knob is positioned awkwardly.
7. POWERTEC BS900 Benchtop Band Saw
The Powertec benchtop band saw was designed and engineered to deliver very precise cuts, cutting of irregular shapes and ripping lumber into very thin pieces.The brand of this tool has been in the market for over 25 years and because of its quality and durability, people are still looking for its services.
Considering the services that it offers to the user it is effective and efficient but it is also very cheap as it does not come with a lot of demands.
The tool can also cut materials very and also cuts irregular shapes very because it has got the power and the appropriate quality for all these works. The tool runs on a 2.5 amp motor that delivers 1725 revolutions per minute.
Features
- The tool has a blade tracking window.
- The tool comes with a 12 months warranty from the day it was purchased.
- The tool has a miter gauge.
- It also has patented blade guard adjustments that enable quick and easy blade replacement.
- The tool is very powerful.
What We Liked
- The Band Saw is a portable model of the band saw.
- The tool is very affordable and cost-saving.
- The tool is very light and works well even with complex shapes.
What We Did’t Like
- People that are much into cast iron tools seem not to like it because most of the parts of this tool are made of plastic.
- The blade guides are sometimes hard to adjust.
8. Delta 28-400 Steel Frame Band Saw
The delta band saw is a 14-inch band saw that is designed and made by the delta company.it is a heavy-duty tool that runs on a 1 horsepower powerful motor and it also comes in a more advanced look than the previous band saws from the delta company.
The tool is composed of a heavy-duty steel frame design that reduces flexing and features a superior finish and aluminum trunnion table support for durability.
It also has a two-speed drive system that features a tool-less belt tensioning. The spoke wheels are durable because they are made of aluminum, rubber-coated in both the upper and the lower.
They are all nine in number. The precise ball bearing upper and lower blade guides ensures that there is consistent tracking for accurate cutting performance.
Features
- The tool has a heavy-duty durable steel frame that reduces flexing.
- The tool runs on a one horsepower motor that delivers the power needed to perform all the applications.
- The two-speed drive system that has an easy tensioning system.
- It has a very large working table.
What We Liked
- The tool is of very high quality.
- The tool itself is not complex and complicated.
- The tool delivers very great power.
What We Did’t Like
- The tool lacks a miter gauge.
- It also lacks a rip fence.
9. RIKON Power Tools 10-324 Open Stand Band Saw
This is a 14-inch band saw that provides the woodworkers with a very wide cutting capacity at a very low price. The tool runs on a dual 1.5 horsepower motor that has two blade speeds of 2950 or 1445 feet per minute.
This motor provides the coolest power for standard cutting and re-sawing of every type of wood. The tool also can work with several other materials which include metals, plastics, solids, and foam.
Features
- The tool has a rear 115 volts power outlet which is very efficient for plugging in lights, radios and other electrical appliances.
- It has an extra tall rip fence.
- It contains the upper and the lower ball bearings blade guides that reduce friction.
- It has a rack and pinion guide that helps the user adjust the cutting depth.
What We Liked
- The tool is made from cast iron solid.
- The tool has a good re-saw capability.
- The tool has got plenty of power.
- The tool brings along excellent quality.
- It is very easy to adjust.
What We Did’t Like
- Several claims that the manual is poorly written.
- The blade that the tool comes with is not long-lasting.
10. ShopSeries RK7453 Band Saw with Light
The shopSeries 9 inch band saw is a very powerful bench-top band saw because it features a 2.5 amp motor that brings all the power necessary for all the cutting applications.
It also has a ribbed aluminum table that has tilting adjustments which range from 0 to 45 degrees. The tool is also attached with a mobile lamp that increases the visibility and it also as a miter gauge.
The tools are even made more interesting by the fact that it comes with a 2-year warranty that protects all the accessories and even the user using the tool.
The manufacturer also considered the safety of the user and installed the tool with a safety switch that prevents accidental starting and offers the operator with the necessary security.
Features
- It has a powerful 2.5 amp motor that delivers the power needed for the applications.
- The tool has got a built-in flexible light lamp to offer enhanced visibility.
- The tool has got a micro-adjustments rack.
- The tool has a 2-year warranty for both the accessories and the user of the tool.
What We Liked
- The tool has a very powerful motor.
- The tool is relatively quiet.
- It has got a flexible lamp.
- It has good control for precise cuts.
What We Did’t Like
- It is not ideal for heavy projects or applications.
- There are several claims of a faulty switch.
- The tool has been blamed for giving poor customer services.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Band Saw For The Money
For the people who feel that they have been needing a band saw for their professional use or even their personal use but they feel stuck on deciding or even knowing what exactly they will be shopping for, there are a variety of options that you may be needed to analyze and choose between.
Some of the choices that you might be required to make are; whether you need a cordless or a corded band saw, the more features that you want to the band saw you need to have, the budget you have set aside and the prices of the band saws in the market.
If by any chance you want to buy a band saw for your uses and find out that you are stuck between what you are going to shop for, worry no more because I am presenting the best buying guide. Highlighted below are some of the guides and tips for your shopping for the band saw:
Corded or Cordless Band Saw
Band saws are found in different forms that you may be required to choose between. Some of the forms include the cordless, the corded, the compact, the benchtop, the cabinet, and the free-standing. Now you are required to analyze these before looking for other features.
The Features
Away from the types of band saws, you are required to look at the features that come with the band saw. Some of the features include; the type of the blade the band saw uses, the motor it has, the tension tracking capacity and the size of the working table and its adjustments.
Types Of Blades
The common types of blades in the market. Some of the blade types include; the hook-tooth blade, the skip tooth, and the regular tooth blades. The other important thing you should know and this applies to even the people that are using the band saws even now.
The important tip is that broken blades can be welded if you have got the correct equipment but they won’t be durable like the original blades. This helps save your wallet.
The Speed
Consider the speed that the band saw works with. The band saw blade speed is measured in feet per minute.
Your Needs
The other vital thing that you have to consider is what you will be using the band saw for or whether you can get another tool to perform that particular task for you before purchasing a band saw.
Maintenance
You should be in touch with the maintenance practices that are needed in a band saw, the blades and the other band saw accessories.
Energy Requirements
Consider if you can use a band saw before purchasing one because it can be a challenge for the elderly to use a band saw. Check the warranty and the period it stands. You should know what to do in case the band saw is broken or the cases of wear and tear what are the necessary measures that you should take.
Also take look at energy required for different saw.
FAQs About Top Band Saw
What Size Of The Motor Should I Use For A Band Saw?
This depends on the purpose you want to use the band saw for. For ordinary cuttings running through a speed below 200 feet per minute, a 1/3 horsepower motor is recommended. If you are sure, you will do a lot of re-sawing and run the saw at high speed, a 1.5 horsepower motor is needed but also notes a sharp blade uses less power than a dull blade.
Is The Inner Tube Tires Of My Band Saw Keep Coming Off?
The most common causes of this are that the inner tube is too loose. In this case, you have to buy a tighter one or that you are running the band saw too fast, and in this case, the recommended speed is 2500 feet per minute. This will make sure you have a smooth and varnished surface on the outside edges of the wheels.
Can I Get The Sawmill Frame Plan For The 16-Inch Band Saw?
Only the 14-inch band saw is designed to go with the sawmill frame. The 16-inch model cannot be used as a sawmill.
Final Verdict
Due to the growth in re-sawing demands, it can be advisable for one to get a band saw to do all these works at the comfort of his workshop. These tools have been proven to provide the perfect and necessary power for the applications needing cutting, shaping woods into specific shapes and re-sawing of wood.
They do all these works while using less available energy and they save the time that you could have performed these duties without a band saw. If you don’t have the best band saw for the money in your workshop and the applications requiring the use of one are overwhelming plan on getting one today.