Top-8 best band saws 2020

What is the best band saw?

The band saw is an indispensable tool at any construction or production site. The best models are capable to perform various cuts, from straight to the most intricate ones, up to 16 inches deep. While operating the band saws, material waste volume (metal chips or wood dust) is considerably lower in comparison with a circular saw. Besides, using the advanced models it is easy to produce the most accurate and clean cut. In majority of cases, the latter does not require any further finishing.

More than that, despite the power and hefty components of the professional-grade machines, they will be very quiet in operation. That is especially important if your workshop is located nearby to a residential area. And, the Delta 28-400 demonstrates the best features of the state-of-the-art band saw.

Why have I chosen this model? This Delta
28-400 is a high-performance machine which is suitable for many applications, including professional use. It is proved by the ability to withstand severe conditions even of a large-scale project. Of course, it will not withstand a mass production, but only due to its design peculiarities, as the capacity and performance are on the highest level.

This band saw is made of high-quality and reliable materials which ensure its durability. In other words, this machine will successfully serve you long in case it is properly operated and maintained. Overall, even this saw is offered at a slightly higher price in comparison with the similar models, it’s a great investment which will pay off you very soon.

Band saw types

There are several types of band saws. Each of them is designed to perform specific operations. You should pay a particular attention to this issue to get the money's worth. Primarily, the types of these machines are distinguished by the material to be processed. It is the material type which determines the load rates on the saw blade. And this, in its turn, influences on design features and capacity of a band saw. Thus, when dealing with occasional cuts of smaller pieces at your home workshop or garage, you would most likely prefer a compact and light-weight model, capable to handle your cutting tasks. On the contrary, floor-standing cabinet models are typically designed for professional and industrial-grade applications. Let’s consider these types in more details.

Portable

Portable band saws are small and lightweight units. They can be mounted on a benchtop or a stand. Such tools feature two side handles designed for convenience and better stability during operation. They would better suit regular craftsmen dealing with various DIY jobs like making different pieces of furniture, construction or renovation of a house, etc. Besides, they can be extremely useful when working at height. Some portable units are quite powerful and capable to deliver more than 500 W.

Corded band saws run by a regular 110 V power source. The advanced models are quite efficient due to powerful motors they are equipped with. This feature is especially important when operating a unit during extended periods of time. The
DEWALT DWM120K with its 10 Amp motor is a clear evidence of it.

However, the corded portable band saws are restricted by the length of a cord which has to be plugged in some power outlet. So, you will either need to be close to the power source or use a lengthy extension cord. The latter may be a real muss during the work, as it will be constantly get in your way.

Battery powered band saws demonstrate an absolute portability. It is free from any cable or cord, so you can always carry them around and use at any location both inside and outside with no need in power outlet. The
DEWALT
DCS374P2 will make you happy with all beneficial features of a cordless model and the power it demonstrates.

The flip side of it is in the fact that all, even the most advanced lithium-ion batteries have to be recharged. Thus, there is dependence from the battery life, and you have to adapt to it. The best solution to overcome this issue is to have at least two batteries with you when dealing with some bigger jobs. Thus, you will ensure a continuous and almost uninterrupted cutting process by using the spare battery while the empty one is recharging.

Stationary

The stationary band saw is a large floor-mounted machine used for medium and heavy-duty cutting projects in small workshops and large-scale production facilities. Also these machines differ from portable models in performance. The
Delta
28-400 is one of the advanced professional-grade models. Being the extra powerful machines, for instance, industrial-grade band saws are capable to withstand an extended operation and cutting up to 11 in thickness bars. They will tackle cutting of the hardest materials like frozen and stained wood, and thick metal workpieces. Thus, typically they are heavy-weight and large machines that require plenty of space to be operated and maintained.

The most advanced professional and industrial-grade models can deliver more than 1500 W and run by 220 V power source.

Also the stationary band saws are classified by shape. In particular, they can be offered in a horizontal or vertical design.

Horizontal band saws consist of a basement with a movable frame and a sawing blade. Thus, a workpiece is not moving while cutting. It is the frame that lowers in order to start cutting. The horizontal design of band saws is typical for metalworking industry.

Vertical band saws consist of a solid basement, a horizontal worktable, upper and lower wheels with a cutting blade installed in-between. With a vertical band saw, the workpiece is moved through the blade. In this way, it is possible to make straight, angled, shaped and other intricate cuts. Cutting is performed at high speed rates, thus soft materials like wood, plastic and others are cut quickly with such saw.

What to look for when buying a band saw? | Buyer's Guide

• Cutting depth. This parameter means the cutting capacity of a saw, showing the maximum thickness
  of a stock which can be cut by means of a particular model. The band saws which are designed for light-duty
  purposes can cut the material with up to 6 in thickness. The more advanced and expensive options feature up to 11 in
  cutting depth. High cutting depth allows cutting of even large solid woods to boards and laths.
• Throat. This parameter determines the maximum width of workpieces which can be cut at a band saw.
  The throat of the common benchtop models for a home-based workshop varies from 4 to 8 in. If you plan to cut wider
  boards, for instance, you should think about semi-professional option of a smaller size to be arranged easily at
  your working area.
• Motor. Before choosing any model, you should realize which materials you will work with and the
  frequency of saw usage. These considerations will determine the right choice. For instance, most residential models
  feature a ¾ to 1 HP motor. And this will be enough to handle from light to medium-duty sawing. Besides, such band
  saws are not bulky. They won’t require too much space in your workshop. Overall, these machines are perfect for any
  home-based DIY projects. On the contrary, the professional models are offered with larger and more powerful motors
  enabling variable speed control.
• Blade speed. It can be also called like cutting speed. The blade speed is measured in feet per
  minute. Metal cutting requires lower speeds with adjustment within the preset ranges. The higher speed rates are
  recommended for wood cutting.
• Band wheels. Almost all band saws are equipped with two band wheels. The lower one is driven
  directly by the motor. However, several models feature three band wheels to enlarge the throat.

You should pay closer attention to the material of the band wheels, whether they are made of aluminum or cast iron. If you are looking for a lightweight benchtop model, choose the one with aluminum wheels. They are light enough but still reliable for light and medium-duty cutting tasks.

Cast iron wheels are heavier, but demonstrate enough stability during heavy-duty applications like sawing hard or thick stock.

Best Band Saws

1. Delta 28-400

Delta was founded in 1919 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin as a manufacturer of small tools for home workshops and later became the light industrial machinery supplier. Nowadays, the company designs, manufactures and distributes power woodworking tools worldwide.

The Delta 28-400 is a heavy duty band saw with a dual voltage TEFC 1 HP motor. The latter delivers an extra power to operate the saw with 2 speed rates of 1,620 and 3,340 RPM. Thus, this model can handle even the most challenging re-sawing or other applications for any woodworking and metalworking project.

This model comes with upper and lower ball bearing blade guides contributing to cutting accuracy. Its large 15 ¾ in. x 18 7/8 in. cast iron work table can be tilted 3 ° left and to 45 ° right with a positive stop at 90 °. The table support is mounted on a robust steel frame ensuring its reliability during operation.

Features

• Power source: Electric-corded
• Rotation speed MAX (RPM): 3340
• Cutting capacity: 13-5 / 8 "wide x 6" deep
• Weight (lbs): 165
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 45 x 18 x 21

The Delta 28-400 is highly recommended to those looking for a reliable and high-performance band saw. The tool can be successfully used for both DIY and professional-grade cutting projects.

Delta: Check the current price

2. Grizzly Industrial G0622

Grizzly Industrial Inc. is the U.S. based company with almost 40 years of experience on the market. Currently it is considered to be one of the leading machinery companies in the country. Their equipment is highly demanded for woodworking and metalworking industries. However, the company offers a wide range of machines and tools which are applicable for residential and professional use.

This Grizzly G0622 metal cutting band saw uses a powerful ¾ HP motor and run by a standard 110V power supply. It features three cutting speeds allowing its efficient use for cutting both soft and hard metals. It comes with a blade in the package of 64-½ "x ½" x 14 TPI size. Its cutting capacities vary from 4-½ ”for circular and 4-½” by 6 ”for rectangular materials. With its vertical cutting attachment this band saw is suitable for woodworking and metalworking applications, as well.

This model grants great portability as its wheels attached to a steel base. Besides it has side handles to move it easily around. The automatic shut-off function switch the saw off as soon as the cut has been completed, thus enhancing the safety of an operator.

Features

• Power source: Corded - Electric
• Blade speed MAX (FPM): 180
• Cutting capacity MAX (in): 4-½ x 6
• Weight (lbs): 120
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 14 x 39 x 15

I would recommend this portable horizontal type band saw for those who deal mostly with metal cutting. However with its vertical cutting attachment this unit becomes highly versatile and suitable for various jobs like metal, wood, or even plastic cutting.

Grizzly Industrial: Check the current price

3. WEN 3962 $ 283

This band saw features a 3.5-amp motor and two-speed control of up to 2620 FPM depending on a purpose of its application. The cutting capacity amounts to a 9-¾ inch wide and up to 6 inches deep. Besides, it is possible to create angle cuts by swiveling the 14 x 12-½-inch table up to 45 °.

Its ball-bearing mechanism ensures smooth operation and durability. The band saw is mounted on an easy-to-assemble stand thus considerably reducing the footprint.

More than that, this model comes with a 3-in-1 dust port to fit various sizes of dust collection hoses. The band saw also has a fence for making straight cuts, and a miter gauge for angled cuts.

Additional benefit will be a set of additional accessories included.

Features

• Power source: Electric-corded
• Rotation speed MAX (RPM): 2620
• Cutting capacity: 6 "deep and 9-¾" wide
• Weight (lbs): 73
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 20 x 25 x 58

Being the budget option, the WEN is equipped with less powerful motor. However, this model is able to tackle a wide range of jobs making high precision cuts. Thus, the WEN 3962 is the best value for money, as it's the perfect balance of quality and price.

WEN: Check the current price

4. DEWALT DCS374P2

DEWALT is a highly recognizable company on the global market for manufacturing a large variety of high-quality reliable power tools and accessories to them. They offer the products both for regular customers and for different branches of industry.

The cordless DCS374P2 features a brushless motor which extends the life of both the tool and the lithium-ion battery. This model is equipped with variable speed trigger due to which the blade can run up to 490 FPM. The speeds can be switched depending on a type of material to be cut. This band saw is capable to cut up to 5 inches on rectangular objects and 4-¾ inches on round objects.

It has built-in LED lights to improve visibility during operations at the low light conditions. Its integrated hook is designed to perform any jobs at height safely. Besides, the DCS374P2 is delivered in a kit box with numerous accessories like a charger, batteries and 18TPI blades.

Features

• Power source: Battery
• Blade speed Max (FPM): 490
• Cutting capacity Max: 5 '' x 4-¾ ''
• Weight (lbs): 14
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 22.1 x 7.9 x 17.8

It's an extra powerful and truly reliable cordless band saw among other counterparts in its class. Besides, this model comes fully equipped so you can start any project immediately after you’ve got it at any locations with no worries about availability of a power outlet.

DEWALT DCS374P2: Check the current price

5. DEWALT DWM120K

The next noteworthy model from Dewalt features a powerful 10 Amp motor which allows to perform round and rectangular cutting of stock up to 5-inch deep. Its variable speed dial allows selecting the right mode for different materials and applications.

This model has a solid design with its steel shroud and rubber bumpers to protect the tool from any damage at the jobsite thus making it highly durable.

With its additional useful features like an on-board LED light, an adjustable front handle and an integrated hang hook make this tool extremely convenient and safe in use.

Features

• Power source: Corded-electric
• Blade speed Max (FPM): 350
• Cutting capacity Max (in): 5 x 4-¾
• Weight (lbs): 15
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 14.2 x 23.5 x 7.9

I bet you can rely on this portable band saw in terms of performance and precision of work it can grant. This model is powerful enough to handle cutting through thick and hard stock, making it a versatile tool. Besides, it is made of the sturdy materials ensuring its long-lasting and trouble-free service life.

DEWALT DWM120K: Check the current price

6. DEWALT DCS374B

And one more model from the reliable Dewalt which deserves a closer look is the DCS374B cordless band saw with a brushless motor which grants the performance and durability to the extent you may expect from this manufacturer. This tool can be run by any DEWALT 20V MAX or FLEXVOLT batteries which can be highly convenient for those who owns cordless tools from this range.

It has enough cutting capacity and blade speed control to tackle various cutting applications.

The convenience and safety of its use is increased by an integrated hang hook, LED light and a durable stable base.

Features

• Power source: Battery
• Blade speed Max (FPM): 490
• Cutting capacity Max (in): 5
• Weight (lbs): 12.4
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 24.4 x 13 x 8.3

It is an awesome choice if you need a durable and efficient band saw. This cordless model is capable of carrying out numerous jobs and ensuring reliable operation at any remote locations.

DEWALT DCS374B: Check the current price

7. SKIL 3386-01

Skill is a well-known brand of high-quality products. This model is not among the most powerful machines, but it offers numerous applicable features and precision. Besides, it can process different types of materials, soft and even hard stock, like metal pipes or bars.

The 3386-01 is very compact and lightweight. Its aluminum work table can be tilted from 0 to 45 degrees, and moved to adjust the suitable height.

Features

• Power source: Electric-corded
• Rotation speed Max (RPM): 2800
• Cutting capacity: 3-1 / 8-inch deep and 9-inch wide
• Weight (lbs): 16.3
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 31.1 x 16.2 x 12.7

This model is a good solution for many craftsmen and DIYers due to its compactness, reliability and accuracy.

SKILSAW: Check the current price

8. Makita XBP03Z

One of the most trusted power tool manufacturers, Makita offers its 18 V lithium-ion cordless band saw for various applications even at the hardly acceptable areas. It becomes possible due to the compactness and lightweight of this model.

The XBP03Z features the motor delivering high speed rate of a blade for effective and fast cutting of thin metal stock, as the cutting capacity of this model is below than the average one.

Features

• Power source: Battery
• Blade speed Max (FPM): 630
• Cutting capacity (in): 2-½
• Weight (lbs): 11
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9.2 x 19.5 x 11

It is a durable and user-friendly cordless band saw, which will be handy at any hard-to-reach places especially when dealing with overhead cuts or similar.

Makita: Check the current price

What is a band saw? Basics

Band saw is the equipment designed for cutting of metal, plastics and wood. It can be successfully used for cutting small pieces of stock as well as for sawing large logs. The powerful models are capable to cut metal workpieces like blooms or bars for further machining.

As the name says, these machines are equipped with a continuous metal band, positioned on two wheels in the same plane, rotating at high speed rates. The latter is typically called a blade which consists of multiple sharp teeth for precise cutting. Depending on the type of the teeth and the width of the band, the band saw can be used for straight, irregular or curved shape cuts. Different models can be powered by electric power or batteries.

As you’ve mentioned there are many peculiarities to be considered while choosing the right model for your needs. So, let’s sort out this issue to facilitate the selection process and make it effective and pleasant for you.