What is a Band Saw – Review

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what is band saw

Deciding to increase the workshop with a bandsaw, you may ask what is band saw and how does it work?

Basically a band saw is a cutting band suspended over 2 wheels, one wheel is driven, then the distance between them gives the cutting area.

So the cutting area is then determined by the length of the band saw, this in turn set by the manufacturer.

The benefits of a band saw it can cut shapes as well as straight lines.

I can also cut deep sections of wood that would be impossible on a table saw.

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A review of the following top rated band saws:

 

SKIL 3386-01 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Band Saw

This band saw is at the lower price range of the models being reviewed.

However it does have some of the attributes found in top rated band saws so can influence thoughts on which band saw to buy.

Some of the standard features of this model:

For straight and accurate cuts there is a rip fence

Better viewing the line of cut there is a LED work light.

To keep the area free of dust a 1.5” dust port does the work.

The work table has a rack and pinion adjuster for setting the angle and height

The single speed motor set for cutting wood and some base metals.

There are a selection of differing reviews and these appear to be from hobbyists and one commented on the work carried out on house repairs and was very pleased with the purchase.

There were some critical of the power of the band saw and that it vibrated excessively.

But if some would be purchasers had reviewed sites to see which band saw to buy they could have taken the hassle out of buying a band saw.

 

 

See the latest price of SKIL 3386-01 here…

 

 

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

This machine had some favourable reports from purchasers but some found minor faults but when rectified the machine worked very well.

Pros

It has a 3.5 amp motor operating at either 1520 or 2620 revs/min.

Can cut up to 6” in depth and 9.75” wide.

The work table bevels up to 45degrees and is 14.125” x 12.5”

A work light, miter gauge, fence, dust port and a 2 year warranty are all included.

It uses a 72” cutting band that can be from 1/8 – 1/2” wide.

Cons
Be prepare to make adjustments before the tool is in a workable condition, this compare with the low cast price worth taking on.

 

See the latest price of WEN 3962 here…

 

 

 

 

What is a band saw

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Grizzly G0513ANV 2 HP Bandsaw Anniversary Edition, 17-Inch

This is a special 30th Anniversary edition. As a result, created from two of the most popular band saw. Also given a new colour scheme.

It has a 2HP motor and a 16.25” depth capacity.

Pros:

  • A heavy duty miter gauge.
  • Deluxe fence.
  • Geared table that is micro-adjustable.
  • Dual dust ports.

Quick- change blade tensioner with a blade tension indicator.

These features certainly make this a top rated band saw.

 

 

See the latest price of Grizzly G0513ANV here…

 

 

JET J-8201VS 14-inch Wood/ Metal Vertical Variable Speed Bandsaw 1PH

What is a band sawThis model is a substantial built with a cast iron frame made be able to cut a variety materials.

So giving the machine good stability. Also hase a one piece base made of steel.

Has a conveniently positioned on/off switch.

The exclusive gear box design had a variable drive system. So that a variety of materials can be cut.

Cons:

  • The gearbox arrive with no oil.
  • The fence did not fir properly.

When buying a bandsaw it proves that it has to be checked over before using it.

 

 

See the latest price of JET J-8201VS here…

 

 

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

What is a band sawWhen buying a bandsaw this model certainly will rank amongst the top rated band saws.

It has some very good features:

The frame designed to reduce flexing built of heavy duty steel.

Has a aluminium trunnion support to have a long lasting durability

The dual voltage 115V/230V single phase motor has two operating speeds: 1,620 and 3,340 revs/min

The easy tensioning system on the 2 speed pulley.

The upper and lower 9 spoked precision balanced wheels and rubber coated for good blade tracking.

The precision ground cast iron table is large at 15.75” x 18.875”.

The table has a t-slot miter and capable of tilting 3degrees left to 45degrees right with a positive stop at 90 degrees.

Pros

The saw arrived with a blade installed and perfectly tracked and tensioned.

5 year parts and labour warranty

Cons

Adjustment on the blade guides has no micrometer settings.

Changing speeds is not an easy process.

 

See the latest price of Delta 28-400 14 in here…

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Conclusion: What is a band saw

Having decided, which band saw to buy, this will depend on what does a band saw do for my workshop and how much can I justify to spend. Is a band saw going to improve my workshop capabilities.

With that consideration the best machine would be the Delta 28-400 14 in. 1 HP Steel Frame Band Saw, should however if the usage is not sufficient to purchase one of the top rated band saws then settle for the WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Worklight, 10″

 

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