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Author: topstuf
Date: May 15, 2019

Buying Guide: How to Buy a Band Saw?

In terms of band saws, larger is often preferred but not always better. Bigger 16-inch band saws are less susceptible to vibration due to their mass, bigger cutting capacity and have greater power. Nevertheless, they cost more, are much heavier and take up more space in the shop. To help you choose the best models, here are some factors you need to bear in mind whenever you shop for a band saw.

  • CUTTING BLADE WIDTH

Most bandsaws available in the market today typically go utilizing a thin blade of 1/8-inch to accomplish detailed designs and make sharp cuts. As a result, if you prefer a sophisticated detailed work, which comprises of curves, you must for a thinner blade. However, if you are searching to create straight cuts thicker timber, choosing wider cutting blades are the perfect way to go.

  • BAND SAW TABLE

In order to carry out all your cutting tasks, you’ll require a table. The qualities of a great table possess is that it keeps completely stationary and stable during the operation, does not curve or bend at all and is made of strong heavy duty metal, normally aluminum or cast iron. For some reasons, specialists don’t suggest tables that are made of sheet metal as they can easily flex and bend easily that will cost you more in the long run.

  • FRAME STYLE

The majority of band saws feature a cast iron frame. Some of the recent models utilize welded steel frames that are often seen on bigger saws. Cast iron is a great option though. Take note to prevent steel frames on a single frame because the frames aren’t strong enough. The number of layers is easy to count and see, but ensure to check the quality of the welds and compare the thickness of sheet metal. Further, finish and overall fit is a sign of general quality, but an excellent paint job doesn’t pay for a weak frame.

  • WHEEL DIAMETER

Apart from the mentioned factors, it’s is also a crucial factor when buying a band saw to assess the wheel diameter. Simply put, the larger the wheels, the great the band saw. Larger wheels are more likely to keep straight and the chance of bending is less. On the flip side, smaller wheels are more likely to flex more often. This is the main reason why you must try to prevent band saws that come together in 3 wheels and just stick to the two-wheel grips. Moreover, band gears that have 3 wheels typically have smaller sized wheels as the smaller diameter tend to bend.

  • THROAT SIZE

The larger the neck dimensions, the larger the cutting skills of the band saw. Take note, a group saw with 15 inches of neck dimension has the ability to cut timber at least 15 inches in diameter. A lot of manufacturers utilize smaller wheels in their band saws to grow its cutting depth but you need to remember that the smaller the width, the lesser its lifespan would be. Thus, if you are searching for something that may cut bigger widths at the same time continues longer, always opt for the one that has a bigger diameter.

  • MOTOR SIZE AND CAPACITY

Unless you’re limited by other factors, always pick a larger sized engine as they do not burn as fast as their smaller counterparts. Aside from that, depending on the requirements, 1hp is the minimum you must strive for; however, for those moderate duty tasks, you must get something that supplies more than 2hp. You’ll always find band saws for sale available with more oomph but you won’t like them unless you’re going to perform some heavy duty work. Make sure to always try to choose the band saw, which comes with a motor bigger in size. A rule of thumb, take note that between 2 motors utilizing the same power motor, the larger one will always perform more reliability and will last longer.

Top Band Saw Review

So now that you are fully aware of the different factors to consider when buying band saws, it’s time to find out the top band saws available on the market today.

GRIZZLY G0513 2HP BAND SAW

Grizzly G0513 2 HP Bandsaw, 17-Inch
14 Reviews
Grizzly G0513 2 HP Bandsaw, 17-Inch
  • Blade sizes available 1/8-Inch - 1-Inch • Standard blade length: 131 1/2-Inch • Blade...
  • Motor: TEFC capacitor start induction 2 HP single-phase/60 Hz 110V/220V • Amps: 20/10 •...
  • Made in United States

The first on the list is the Grizzly G0513 band saw. If you’re on the journey of a potent 17 inches band saw, which will easily deal with bigger pieces of timber devoid of straining, then this is the ideal option for you. This band has been one of the best power tools since the 1980s and claims more than 200 various band saws in its fine array. Though this band saw isn’t perfect for those persons who have a limited budget, you will receive a mite gauge and fence provided free and the overall quality is superb. The good thing about it is that its 2HP motors work on single-phase electricity so you can utilize it at home without any hassles. Further, you will be able to slide wood up to a maximum power of 12-inch while its 16 ¼ inches throat is enough for the majority of applications. It’s also worth noting as well that the big table is cast-iron whereas the fence is made from strong aluminum. Moreover, the sealed bearings are lubricated offering you great performance without the helper maintenance. You will also receive a miter gauge hence all bases are included. The wheels are made of cast-aluminum and computer-balanced. The tires are made from polyurethane and covers are pre-formed steel.

While you do receive a blade supplied, it is not effective because supplying low caliber freebies such as this is worse than including none at all.

Pros

  • -Great 12 inches cutting power to ideal for bigger projects
  • -Geared table constructed from precision-ground cast iron along with micro-adjusting functionality is extremely durable and user-friendly
  • -Strong 2 horsepower denotes you can undertake ambitious tasks with total confidence

Cons

  • -Relatively slow blade speed may be a hassle if you want to cut big amounts of lumber to limited timescales
  • -Blade supplied is not good quality
  • -Costly compared to other rivals in the markeе

SKIL 3386-01 BAND SAW

SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw with Light
720 Reviews
SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch Band Saw with Light
  • Rip fence for straight, accurate cuts; 6 TPI band saw blade cuts through a variety of wood...
  • Articulating LED work light for better view of work piece and cut line
  • Features a 1-1/2 inch dust port that keeps work area clear of dust
  • Rack and pinion table adjustment for quick angle and height adjustments

The SKIL 3386-01 band saw is an excellent saw for those hobbyists and home repairs. Compared to durable table saws, it provides a good midway alternative to scroll saws, which aren’t strong enough to deal with bigger pieces of timber or horn and table saws as well, which overpower smaller slices or wood to the point of turning them into dust. This product comes with a complete motor that is speedy and strong enough to cut through wood, plastic and metal materials, and even pinion or rack table adjustment option to enable for angle and height adjustment. Stability is topmost with this band saw. Even though the casing is might from a sturdy but lightweight alloy, its base is fashioned from a heavier cast-iron. This combination of weight offers a significantly rigid experience and denotes there’s no need for you to connect the saw to a table. In addition, if you are slicing, this light picks out the cutting line if you’re working, even if it is in a gloomy or dull workshop. Mixed with the dust port, you can kick back and concentrate on your woodworking devoid of being niggled by sawdust or straining your eyes. However, its 2.5 amp isn’t capable of producing the power needed for prolonged commercial cutting. As with every power tool, a significant part of your purchasing decision must be an honest appraisal of your requirements.
Pros

  • -Fast angle and height adjustments with pinion and rack table
  • -The 1 ½ dust port guarantees that the workspace is clear of dust always
  • -It cuts accurately and straightly thanks to the rip fence

Cons

  • -Some unit doesn’t come with a rip fence as marketed
  • -Too flimsy and light for a stationary saw
  • -You shouldn’t forget to register the item within 30 days or else the warranty will be invalid

 WEN 3962 TWO-SPEED BAND SAW

WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, 10'
525 Reviews
WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, 10"
  • 3.5 amp motor creates cuts up to six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide
  • Uses 72-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 1/2 inches in size
  • Spacious 14-1/8 x 12-1/2 inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees
  • Operates at two speeds of either 1520 or 2620 FPM

Last on the list is the WEN 3962 Two-speed band saw. This is mostly intended for metal fabricators and wood workers and for standard construction worker. It is also utilized by those employed in the timber cutting, steel mills industry and so forth. It appears plenty of use when cutting down the conduit, long rails on the roof or industrial pallet racking and anything as long as they are work pieces you can carry over to the units versus tubes and pipes, which are already set up. This band saw won’t shake over the place as you do your cuts. One of the key benefits of using WEN 3962 band saw is that it features over table saws is the insufficient kick back once you used it. You need to be more cautious when utilizing a table saw to slice your work piece into quarters or half.

However, stationary band saws like these with stands provide the same firmness as table saws than its power tool equivalents.

Furthermore, to make short work of conduit, pipes and wood work pieces, you must look for a model with better blades and a decent volume of speed. In terms of decent volume of speed, this band saw has you covered along with its twin-sped motor, which can go around 1,530 fpm to 2,620 fpm. Also, it comes complete with a work light, 3-in1 dust port, fence, and miter gauge. Another good thing about this is that the manufacturer offers a 2-year limited warranty, which denotes you can purchase this band saw with a total peace of mind. You will also take advantage of their superb customer care service if required. If you are residing in the United States, you can afford of their extensive network of technicians at your disposal to repair any issues.
Pros

  • -The unit uses 72 inches that is anywhere between 1/8-1/2 inches in size
  • -You are guaranteed of the cleanest cuts because of the cut capacity of the unit of 9 ¾ inches wide and 6-inch deep
  • -It offers 2-year warranty combined with US-based specialists and committed helpline for an excellent care package

Cons

  • -Reported concerns with light reflecting back off its table
  • -Not cut out for any professional purposes
  • -Making adjustments can be time consuming and awkward

Do I Need Band Saws?

If you considered making curved cuts on woods, buying a band saw is perfect. You can re-saw or rip lumber into smaller chunks with comfort. They come into their own cutting irregular sizes. Precise, capable of taking most different blades and smooth, band saws are the best multi-tasking tools for you. Therefore, whether you wish to make relief cuts or cross-cuts, to construct chair legs, to cut off square edges, there a bit to rival a band saw. For commercial or residential use, you will surely find a band saw to fit your situation and budget. To sum up, we hope that you have found this best band saw buying guide and reviews with your purchasing decision. Remember, getting the top band saw at the most affordable price is really not so hard if you will take your time, assess your needs and do enough of research. Happy shopping guys!

Also check out our portable saw buying guide.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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