7 Best Band Saw Reviews & Buying Tips

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At the end of this article, we’ll go through some basic features one should consider before buying any band saw.

Now we’ll review some of the best band saws available in the market.

We shall reveal the basic features of these devices and why any handyman should consider choosing these tools.

In this band saw review, we’ll look at the 5 best band saws that will work effectively for anyone that’s looking for high performance and accuracy.


1. WEN 3962 Band Saw

WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, 10"

If you’re dealing with complex cutting projects, then WEN 3962 model is a perfect choice.

As a professional woodworker, you don’t want to miss this amazing tool, it is one of the top band saws that are available in the market. It comes with a throat that has a cutting capacity of up to 9-3/4 inches. This allows the device to cut different materials with ease.

It is driven by a 3.5-amp motor which is powerful enough to cut through any hard material that comes into its way.

It has 2-speed controls. This means you can cut both hard and soft materials that require different speeds.

It also comes with a strong and durable table which is 25-inches. This dimension helps the user to make bevel cuts of up to 0-45 degrees.

The weight of the WEN 3962 is 70-lbs. It’s not considered a heavy device, and you can enjoy a solid performance with this high-quality tool.

You’ll enjoy better accuracy.

The device is ideal for both newbie and professional workers that are looking for simplicity and high performance.

The WEN 3962 is portable, meaning it’s easier to transport from one place to another.

It has variable speeds at 2 different levels which make the device more versatile.

The lower speed can be used to cut delicate materials with ease and still get a smooth finish, while the higher speed is used for cutting dense and thick materials, the variable speeds are at 1520 and 2620.

Together with the WEN 3962, you’ll get a lot of accessories that increase the performance of the device.

It comes with a flexible work light that gives the user more visibility. It also has a dust collection port that will collect all the debris generated by the device. You also get a strong aluminum fence and a miter gauge for optimum performance.

Verdict

The WEN 3962 is a good option for anyone that’s dealing with small and medium cutting projects in the workshop.

It’s a 10” saw and within its category, you’ll hardly find a band saw that can beat this model. The WEN 3962 offers good value for the money you have spent on it.


2. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Band Saw

JET JWBS-14DXPRO 14" Deluxe Pro Bandsaw Kit (710116K)

The next band saw is the JET JWBS-14DXPRO.

This is also a well versatile saw that can add to the good collection of your toolbox.

The JET JWBS-14DXPRO isn’t only capable of cutting wooden materials, but can also cut other materials like plastic and metal sheets.

It comes with a strong and sturdy iron frame. It has a width cutting capacity of 13.5” and 12” cutting height.

You can re-saw of up to 12”.

Another important feature of this device is that has a retractable blade guard.

The JET JWBS-14DXPRO comes with a 1.25 HP motor that is capable of dealing with cutting through hard materials in the workshop.

When you compare the device with other 14” band saws, the motor is placed at the bottom. While in this JET JWBS-14DXPRO the motor is in lower saw housing. This makes the device have more storage space for a lot of the accessories that come with the device.

Replacing the blades and handling the tensioning system is also easier because you’ll only be dealing with the tension release handle.

When changing the blades you only need to push the handle so that it releases the tension. When you’re done with replacing your blades, you then pull the handle down until it’s locked in place.

The JET JWBS-14DXPRO also features high-quality wheels that are made with strong iron. Even if you’re working on thick materials, you’ll experience less vibration while working with the device.

The wheels are durable because they’re made with polyurethane. They can work for long hours without a breakdown.

Verdict

The JET JWBS-14DXPRO is among the top band saws in the market today and it weighs 258-lbs.

It’s a heavy device, but that’s because it offers more stability and performance than other band saws out there.

It has enough power to deal with any cutting project you have in the workshop.

The JET JWBS-14DXPRO model has a good re-sawing capacity when compared to other devices


3. GRIZZLY G0561 Band Saw

Grizzly Industrial G0561-7" x 12" 1 HP Metal-Cutting Bandsaw

The GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is equipped with a 1 HP motor.

It’s a horizontal band saw that’s designed to cut various metal sheets with ease. It comes with a compact design and it provides more comfort.

It has amazing features that will captivate anyone’s attention.

It comes with an automatic switch-off feature and hydraulic feed control.

The GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is a device you can rely on for your cutting needs. Not only metal sheets, but it’s also capable of cutting other materials that are up to 7” thick.

Features

Automatic Switch Off

The GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is one of the safest devices to work with.

It’s the best tool for newbies and professionals when it comes to safety. This band saw is built with an automatic switch-off feature that stops the device immediately when you finish cutting your working pieces. That’s to say the blades are very sensitive to detect when the device isn’t acting on any material.

This feature helps to prevent unwanted accidents that could arise. Immediately when the top arm finishes cutting the material you’re working on, the band saw automatically switches off.

Another amazing feature of the GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is the coolant system. This feature increases the lifespan of your blades and also enhances their performance. The coolant tank can hold up to 2.5 gallons of fluid at a time.

Depending on your choice you can control the fluid that moves out of the tank. Besides increasing the lifespan of your blades, it also helps the user to obtain precise cuts consistently. The only problem is that you have to buy the coolant fluid separately, it doesn’t come with your package.

The GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is a heavy-duty saw that that is built from an iron cast. The saw bed, wheels, and frame are all crafted from an iron cast.

It is a heavy-duty saw that offers more stability, it weighs around 300 lbs, and the GRIZZLY G0561 band saw will not wobble around no matter how long you’re using the band saw.

If you’re looking for a durable saw that will last for years, the GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is a perfect choice.

Verdict

The GRIZZLY G0561 band saw is so far one of the best horizontal saws to buy when it comes to metal sheet cutting. You’ll hardly find a better product that will beat this product within its category.

This saw can handle any small or medium size cutting tasks in the workshop and can be used by both newbies and professionals.


4. GRIZZLY G0555LX Band Saw

The GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw is also among the top band saws that are currently available in the market.

One of the best things about this product is its affordability. Within its own category, it’s the best deals you’ll ever get.

The GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw comes with 2 adjustable speed controls at 1800 and 3100 RPM. The blade cutting capacity ranges from 1/8” to ¾”, blade length is about 93.5”. The GRIZZLY G0555LX is a 14” saw with a cutting capacity of 13.5” and can make a re-saw of up to 6”.

The previous model we talked about comes with durable wheels, but this GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw is even better because its wheels are designed with a superior iron wheel. Wheels are fitted with rubber to ensure smooth operation. They’re balanced to provide more stability and comfort. The wheels also absorb more vibrations during operation to give you more comfort when operating the device.

The table it comes with is a heavy one that’s made from an iron cast. This offers long-term durability and also gives a good fusion of smoothness. The table is 43” long, this makes it viable, and the table can be tilted to 45-degrees on the right and 10-degrees to the left side.

A miter gauge is included in the purchase package together with an aluminum fence.

There is also a separate handle which is at the front side to help the user adjust the position of the fence. If you don’t need the fence you can remove it with ease.

The GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw comes with an effective dust collection mechanism that helps absorb and reduce flying dust. A lot of tools out there have a dust port but most of the time it doesn’t collect much dust. The dust collection system of this machine is a superior one.

Most band saws come with 2” dust port, but this tool comes with 4” dust port. Despite being a cheap device, it comes with a larger dust collection bag than other devices.

Verdict

The GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw is a professional-grade band saw that doesn’t cost much out of your pocket.

It weighs about 247 lbs. When compared to other heavy-duty saws it’s not that bulky. It is a variable speed band saw that has 2-speed controls, that’s why it’s considered a versatile machine since it can cut different materials with ease.

If you want an affordable product with good features, you should definitely try out this GRIZZLY G0555LX band saw.


5. DEWALT DCS371B Band Saw

DEWALT DCS371B 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Band Saw, Bare-Tool with 20V MAX XR 5.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery, 2-Pack and 24 TPI Portable Band Saw Blade, 3-Pack

You can hardly find a professional woodworker without DeWalt products in his toolbox.

They’re one of the best manufacturers of power tools. DeWalt is one of the most popular brands in the world of power tools. They have been supplying the power tools industry with high-quality products that meet the needs of professional woodworkers and DIYers.

The DEWALT DCS371B model isn’t left behind when it comes to quality and performance. This DeWalt model can be used by professionals, DIYers, and contractors like plumbers, electricians or any other woodworker that’s looking for a good cutting saw to add to the toolbox.

DEWALT DCS371B is a cordless device that comes with a powerful battery that can last for long hours. When it’s fully charged you don’t need to worry about plugging the device into a power source.

The DEWALT DCS371B band saw comes with powerful 20 V lithium-ion batteries. This battery is better than most batteries in other cordless band saws because it has better output. The lifespan of the battery is long. It can work for long hours before it is exhausted. This means that you don’t have to worry about working with the device for longer hours because it has a decent charge capacity.

There is one thing to note, the DEWALT DCS371B band saw doesn’t come with the battery during purchase. You have to buy it as an extra accessory. Even the charger isn’t included in the package, you have to buy it separately.

This is definitely a downside to the tool. If you’re on a budget you won’t benefit from these features.

The DEWALT DCS371B band saw is easier to handle because of its good ergonomic handle. The handle is equipped with a soft grip that allows the user to work comfortably with the device. You won’t experience fatigue or tiredness when working with the device.

The DEWALT DCS371B band saw is a portable device that weighs only 10 lbs. It’s easy to move it from one place to another, and it’s a simple device that’s easy to operate even for a newbie.

The DEWALT DCS371B model comes with a LED light that helps illuminate your working area. You can work with the tool indoors even if it is dark.

The blades of this DEWALT DCS371B band saw last for a very long time. Any band saw user knows that blades are expensive and most woodworkers and craftsmen find it difficult to change the blades on a consistent basis. But the tracking mechanism of these blades is superior. This feature helps to extend the lifespan of the blades and make them last for years.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a band saw with high value and affordability, you should try out the DEWALT DCS371B band saw.

You’ll really enjoy working with the device especially if you bought the 20 V lithium-ion battery. Using this cordless device will save you more time and will provide a smooth finish to your workpieces.


6. Rikon 10-324 Band Saw

RIKON 10-347 18" Professional Bandsaw featuring 19" Resaw Capacity, Tool-less Guide System and Powerful 4HP Motor

The Rikon 10-324 band saw is a major player in the woodwork industry. It’s been used by professionals all over the world. It’s absolutely among the best-rated band saws and is a beautiful band saw to work with.

The Rikon 10-324 band saw is 14” band saw and has 2 variable speeds at 1445 and 2950 rpm and is equipped with fast release blade tension. The blade guard it comes with allows the user to see through the cutting material clearly so that he obtains accurate results.

It comes with a 16 x 21-inch table that allows the user to work on wider projects. A dust port is available to minimize flying dust for more visibility and accuracy.

The Rikon 10-324 band saw has a storage cabinet to allow you to store your important accessories closer to you.

A rip fence is available for making bevel and miter cuts with ease.

This Rikon 10-324 band saw is really a good model because it has earned a lot of positive feedbacks from Amazon. Rikon power tools are becoming popular because of their exceptional quality and it’s time to test out this product and you’ll be amazed by the performance of this device.

Features of Rikon 10-324 Band Saw:

  • It has a cutting capacity of 13”.
  • It has 2 variable speeds at 1445 and 2950 RPM.
  • It comes with a wide table that deals with large materials.
  • It comes with a 4” dust port.
  • It’s equipped with strong iron wheels that are well balanced to help the user get the best precision.
  • It has a fast blade release tension.
  • Storage cabinet for storing different accessories.
  • The blade guard is transparent for more visibility on the cutting material.
  • It comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • It has a good ergonomic design.
  • The blade changing system is really easy to use.
  • The working table is very smooth and is easier to work with.
  • The bearing guides have exceptional qualities.

Cons

  • The Rikon 10-324 band saw consume a lot of time during setup.
  • The mechanism requires some alignment before you start using the tool.

7. Shop Fox W1706 Band Saw

Shop Fox W1706 14" Bandsaw with Cast Iron Wheels & Deluxe Aluminum Fence

When it comes to a budget, the Shop Fox W1706 band saw is one of the best choices.

It’s a band saw that comes with advanced features and offers a lot of value to the user and at the same time doesn’t cost that much.

The Shop Fox W1706 band saw isn’t the cheapest band saw in the market, but at least it has good money to value ratio.

It’s a powerful and sturdy saw. It’s a perfect tool for DIYers that want to take the working experience to the next level and aren’t ready to spend huge money out of their pocket.

Shop Fox W1706 is a durable device. The blade wheels are made from iron-cast and this makes the tool stand out from other products within its category. It’s easy to operate and it gives the user smooth results.

This is the best band saw a user can work with without spending thousands of dollars on a band saw.

The working table it comes with is sufficient to be used for larger projects. It comes with a 14” x 14” worktop that’s made from cast iron, and it’s really smooth and durable.

The Shop Fox W1706 band saw also comes with a miter gauge and a fence. This allows you to make bevel and miter cuts with ease.

With the Shop Fox, W1706 band saw you get a lot of value for the dollar spent on the device. It’s equipped with a fast-release knob to release the blade tension and also has ball-bearing guides.

The Shop Fox band saw comes with a 1- HP motor and it drives the machine at 3200 feet per minute. This is powerful enough to deal with most of the cutting projects in the workshop. With this speed, it can cut any hardwood and thick stock.

With the right blades, you can do a lot of cutting jobs with this Shop Fox band saw.

Lastly, the Shop Fox W1706 band saw comes with a 2-year warranty. You can test the device for 2 years and if there is something wrong with the device or there are faulty parts, you will be qualified for replacements.


Band Saw Comparison

Before you start hunting for any band saw there is a need to know how you want to use the saw and the type of job you want to do with it. Knowing exactly how to use them and the cutting capabilities will help anyone to decide on the right band saw and the one that’s more applicable to your project.

When it comes to power tools in general, there is no best tool for everyone. The best tool for you depends on your project requirements. Even a smaller tool can be the best tool for you as long as it can take care of your projects.

After you’ve found the right band saw, there is a need to make a comparison with different brands. Visit workshop owners that offer renting so that you can test the device first. You can even consider buying refurbished band saws.

This way you can see if the product is good and ensure that you’re comfortable working with it before buying a new one. If you don’t want to buy a refurbished model, consider renting it for a few days which shouldn’t cost more than $50. If you’re OK with the device you can then move ahead and invest in a new band saw.

Compare the various features of each band saw against another saw so that you get the most value for your money.

If you’ve been wandering around trying to find the best band saw for your projects you’re in the right place.

Woodworkers face a lot of challenges when it comes to choosing the right band saw for their projects, that’s why in this article we’ll discuss band saws in general, how to choose the best band saws, the features to look and then move on to review the best band saws available in terms of performance and budget. We’ll provide you with all the proper guidance you need when choosing a band saw.

If you’re dealing with different materials other than wood, you’ll definitely need a band saw because it provides more accurate cuts than most cutting devices out there.

There are different types of band saws in the market to choose from and each has unique features that are suitable for a particular project.

The band saw is a powerful tool because it can cut non-wooden materials such as copper, steel, plastic, metals, galvanized pipes, and a lot of other materials you can think of.

Band saws are ideal for contractors that deal with different materials when it comes to installations.

Band saws are the most versatile devices any woodworker or contractor can work with due to their different uses.

Band saws have a higher cutting depth and can make both straight lines and curved cuts.

They consume less space than other cutting devices and they come with a different set of blades that allow users to switch between projects.

Saw blades aren’t hard to replace and can be found easily in most tech stores.

Rip and cross-cutting are a lot easier with band saws. You can make different cuts including curves, bevels, tenon, veneers, circles, and cheeks.

The band saw is one of the most versatile devices you can work within the workshop or at the construction site.

Uses Of Band Saws

Like it’s been said earlier band saws aren’t designed for wood cutting only. It can cut other materials like plastics and metal sheets.

Band saws can be used in different professions. Some of the uses of band saws include:

  • They’re perfect for cutting any type of hardwood, this includes crosscutting, rip cuts, and much more.
  • They can be used in restaurants for slicing meat.
  • They’re ideal for cutting thin strips and curves on different materials.
  • Band saws can make cuts on tenons and rabbets.
  • A band saw can make cuttings faster than other power tools devices.

Types Of Band Saws

Just like every other cutting tool, band saws are of different types and the type you choose depends on your project needs.

Basically, there are 2 types of band saws – benchtop and cabinet band saws. Let’s look at each of them and their benefits.

Bench Top Band Saw

These are the smaller units and don’t consume much of your space.

The benchtop band saws can be used in tight spaces and are mounted on a bench or a stand that can hold the device. You’ll find a lot of models within this category.

Who Should Buy This Type Of Saw?

These types of saws are ideal for woodworkers or DIYers that mainly stay at home and require precise cuts. It can be used to cut different materials but the cutting depth might not impress professional workers.

Pros

  • Ease of mobility; because of their smaller size, they’re easier to move to different locations and can fit in small spaces.
  • They’re versatile; they’re versatile enough to be used in different projects and can make slant cuts.
  • Firm grip. Since they have a small size, you can hold the grip firmly for more comfort, they come with a knob so as to offer a more firm grip to the user.

Cons

  • These saws are not durable because they don’t come with a protected casing.

The Cabinet Band Saws

These are the advanced band saws and are used by professional workers from different industries. These types of band saws can stand without bench support because they come with a cabinet that serves as the workbench.

Cabinet band saws consume more space than benchtop band saws, they’re also more versatile and can handle difficult tasks for any cutting project you might have.

Who Should Buy Cabinet Saws

This is the perfect tool for professional woodworkers; you must have enough space in your workshop before going for this type of band saw. It comes with a sturdy casing and has a lot of advanced features that are not available in benchtop band saws.

Pros

  • This type of band saw is safer to use because it has a key button that prevents the device from unwanted start-up.
  • They can handle bigger projects; they can deal with fifty pounds of stock.
  • It can be used to Re-saw great strides and this can save a lot of time for contractors.

Cons

  • Since it is a powerful device it must come with a powerful motor and this motor sometimes gets overheated, which affects the efficiency of the device.

Now that you have seen the types of band saws, it’s now your decision to choose the type you want to work with, keeping in mind that for simpler projects you don’t need to spend much on expensive band saws that come with advanced features.

If you’re a professional worker, the simple tools aren’t for you; you have to look for band saws with advanced features.

Whichever type you choose, they have their own advantages and disadvantages, they also have their limitations. Understand your needs and then choose the right one that is designed to meet your needs.


Features To Look For In Any Band Saw

Since there are so many products in the market there is a need to look out for some important features before making a purchase.

We’ll make things easier for you by revealing the basic features which every handy band saw should possess.

Since we’ve talked about the types of band saws it’s now time to look at the features you should be looking for before investing in any band saw.

Cutting Depth

The depth of the cuts you need will determine the size of the band saw you choose. It is the distance between the upper blade guide and the table surface. The typical band saw has a cutting depth ranging from 6-36 inches.

Motor size

The motor is the heart of any power tool and must be considered before buying any band saw.

There is the need to choose a band saw with a motor that is powerful enough to cut the different materials you want to work with.

A less powerful motor working on hard materials will cause the blade to cease or damage the working pieces.

The motor shouldn’t only be powerful, it should also come with a cooling mechanism to avoid overheating. Band saws for industrial use or heavy-duty jobs must have this feature.

The power of band saws depends on the strength of the motor they come with. The benchtop band saws come with a smaller motor while the cabinet model has a motor with higher cutting capacities.

A good band saw should have a variable speed for increased accuracy and precision. Some materials require a slower speed and if you can adjust to the speed you’ll get more accuracy than a device that runs with only one speed.

Throat

Considering throat capacity is also a must when buying any band saw. The cabinet band saws come with a higher throat than the benchtops.

If you’re working on large projects you should consider buying the cabinet models because they’re more effective. It’s ideal for professional woodworkers that work with wider materials. For those DIYers or anyone that’s working on small projects, a small throat might be enough.

Band wheels

The motor power is transmitted through the blade with the help of the band wheels. You need wheels that are balanced and can minimize vibration so that you can track the blades accurately.

Band saws designed for small jobs have wheels made from cast alloys and are balanced by hand.

While bigger saws for industrial use have more balanced wheels that can stand on their own and still give the user the balance he needs. They’re mostly made from strong iron. These wheels offer more cutting performance and absorb most of the vibration released. They’re strong enough to resist the tension forces for larger blades.

Frame

A good band saw should come with a frame that’s made from folded and welded steel sheets.

This offers a more strong and rigid framework that will resist any stress that’s released by the blade tension. If the frame isn’t strong it will probably distort under high load.

Blades

When it comes to blades you should always choose a blade that can match the type of materials you’re working with.

In summary here is what you should know before choosing any blade:

  • Narrow blades are capable of making tight cuts better, but they’re not good when it comes to making straight cuts that are very long.
  • Wide blades can’t turn properly like the narrow blades; this means the wider blades are good at making straight lines that are long.
  • The blade tip will determine the speed at which you’ll cut through different materials such as stock, high TPI provides a more smooth work finish, while low TPI cut through faster but will give you rough edges.
  • Steel blades don’t cost much and are good for cutting softwood and will eventually dull faster when used on the hardwood.
  • Bimetal blades are more effective than steel blades, they’re capable of cutting thin metal sheets, and they’re also made from steel but are more powerful, the steel used in these blades is more powerful than normal steel.
  • Carbide blades; these blades are more popular among professionals and are more expensive because they’re more effective. Carbide blades are sharper and are more durable than other blades types. Obtaining carbide blades is a must for industrial users because they can withstand working for longer hours without breakdown and they produce a smooth and more fine work finish than other blades.

Blade Tension

Most bands saw buyers don’t give attention to this feature, but it’s really important to consider blade tensioning properly before making any purchase especially if you’re working on complex and wider projects.

Blades with poor tension cannot produce uniform and straight-line cuts. This is the spring that holds the blade, and it should be strong enough to withstand a force of up to 20000-psi or even 30000-psi for bigger projects.

The frame of the saw should also be strong enough to resist any force and shouldn’t break down under high pressure.

Blade Guides

The blade guide is important no matter what. Without a blade guide, it’s difficult for a band saw user to obtain accurate cuts. The blade guide helps to prevent the blades from twisting during operation.

You should choose a band saw that comes with an effective blade guide that allows you to make precision cuts with ease.

The blade guide should be adjusted so that it’s closer to the blade and should make the barest contact with the blade.

If possible find a band saw that cast the blade’s shadow on your cut markings. This is so far the best type of blade guide you could ever get.

Table

The table is also a very important feature because without the right table you won’t have comfort and stability when working with any band saw.

You need a strong and durable table that offers more stability and is very smooth to allow you to place working materials properly. It should have a flat surface and also absorb some of the vibration released.

Fence

The fence is important when it comes to making angle cuts.

If you want to get accurate cuts you should definitely choose a band saw with a rigid fence. You’ll obtain more accurate straight line cuts with ease.

The band saw that’s adjustable is better. The fence should be adjustable so that is aligned with the table.

Blade Width

All cuttings are done with the blade. If the blades are not powerful you can’t do your job properly.

If you’re doing scrollwork, the narrower blades are the most used blades.

On the other hand, if you want to make a re-saw you must look for wider blades that can make the cutting task easier. Wider blades work faster and they give more accurate cuts even on thick materials.

The point is whichever blade width you choose to work with, you should make sure that it can handle your working pieces smoothly.

The blades should have a good TPI ratio. Higher TPI means the blades will be slower but will provide more accurate cuts and this makes them a good option for scrollwork.

While blades with low TPI are perfect for rip cuts because they make cuts quickly but they don’t give accurate results. They end up leaving marks on the work finish. In short high TPI, blades give more clean work than low TPI blades.

Depending on the type of cut you want to make you should choose your blades wisely. When you buy a band saw and you’re not satisfied with the blades you can consider replacing them with good ones that will meet your needs. Most professionals have this habit of replacing blades that come with a new band saw because most of the time they’re not effective enough to deal with hard materials.

Accessories

You need a band saw that comes with lots of accessories so that you don’t end up spending more money buying these important accessories.

The extra features you should look for in-band saws include rip fence and miter gauges. They’re beneficial when it comes to re-sawing, rip cuts and crosscutting. You need a band saw with a sturdy table that doesn’t allow the working material to slip. It should be strong and durable. You should choose the ones made of aluminum or iron steel.

Most of the modern band saws available come with basic features, but most of the time they come with other accessories that are useful to the user. These accessories differ with different products.

Once you determine your project needs you can then figure out the type of accessories you might need. You need to look at the important ones first before moving to others that are less useful.

You’ll find a lot of accessories when it comes to band saws to the extent that you’ll find most of them to be of no use to you.

If you’re new to band saws and you’re working on small projects there is no need to stress too much on accessories because most of them you won’t even know how to use them.

Even if the accessories you’re looking for aren’t included in the model you’re buying, you should make sure that the device accepts such accessories before you buy it.

Like I said a newbie doesn’t need those extravagant features, but as you improve your skills you can add any accessories you might need.

Accessories come with a lot of advantages. They help improve the versatility of the band saw and improve its performance. Some of the important accessories you will need include:

  • Height extensions; they’re useful when it comes to cutting thick stock; they help raise the saw guide and allow it to cut thicker materials.
  • Rip fence; this will help the user achieve straight line rip cuts.
  • Sanding loops are used for sanding rough surfaces.
  • Attachments for circle cuts.
  • Tilting tables, they’re useful when it comes to making bevel cuts.
  • Miter gauges, they also help in obtaining accurate angle cuts.
  • Height extenders; they’re important when you’re dealing with thick woods and other hard materials.

Why You Should Choose A Band Saw Over A Jigsaw?

Band saws and jigsaws are somewhat similar when it comes to performance.

One of the main differences between them is that jigsaws move up and down when cutting materials, while band saws work in a continuous loop.

Band saws are definitely considered to be better than jigsaws when it comes to performance.

A jigsaw produces a lot of vibration during operation which can interfere with the smoothness of your cut, while band saws give more accurate and smooth cuts than jigsaws and that’s why they’re better to work with than a jigsaw.


Bench Top Vs Floor Model Band Saws

As a rule of thumb, the benchtop models are ideal for non-professional users, even though they can still be used by professionals when they’re dealing with simple projects and it’s difficult for them to transport the floor models.

The bench model is best for a newbie who is just starting out and are executing a few projects at home.

The benchtop models are compact and portable. They can be used laterally on your table or any stand that can hold it. They provide easier movement which makes it ideal for contractors that deal with small projects such as plumbers.

For those that work in the woodwork industry and spend most of their time every day doing various cutting projects, floor models are the best way to go. They come with advanced features you’ll ever need in a band saw. They’re more powerful and stable, they perform well when it comes to heavy rip sawing and can be used for decorative work that involves thick stock. They come with a powerful motor that doesn’t stick when using the device.

Since you know the basic features to look out for in any band saw it is now easier for you to make a buying decision.

A band saw is a must-have for any beginner or professional woodworker. It’s certainly the first tool every workshop owner should include in his or her workshop.

The first important thing to consider before buying a band saw is your project requirements. When you sort that out you can then select features that might help you achieve your desired results.

After getting all the features you want in a saw it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice before investing your money.

As a newbie, you should take advice from professional woodworkers so that they can help you to decide on the right band saw.

Marc Anthony
Marc Anthonyhttps://eyeoftheday.org
Hi, I am glad you made it here to know more about me. I am an RV travel blogger. I have been on the road for more than five years, met some extraordinary people, and I have gathered one hell of a piece of information about the tools to build a house in the woods, our own camper van and more!

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