Alexandra Ramirez
That was our top criteria for selecting the best band saw.
If you want to cut to the chase the Jet’s 14” Deluxe Pro Band Saw Kit scored high marks in all categories, making it our top pick.
Band Saw Reviews
A band saw might look intimidating, but in reality, it’s one of the easiest woodworking tools that you can use. And the safest. There are countless band saws out there, and that makes it a little daunting when you are narrowing down your search. Asking yourself key questions such as how you’ll be using the tool, what size cuts you want to make, and how much space you have, will help you to get closer to finding the band saw that you need. We’re going to give you a head start by sharing the top rated band saws on the market, while also highlighting the key features and design elements that make some models stand out from the rest.
No matter what band saw you choose, it cannot be emphasized enough that to get the most out of the tool, you have to be knowledgeable about its design. Educate yourself about how to properly set up, use, and maintain your band saw, and you’re going to see that this is the smart way to get the most out of your purchase. There’s really so much that this remarkable tool can do, so get yourself ready to experience a whole new level of precision, ease, and enjoyment in your woodworking.
1. Jet JWBS-14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Band Saw Kit
Best Overall Band Saw
5/5 Product Rating
This blade saw is all about giving you the features you crave, and the design elements you need, such as the new upper and lower cast iron frame for increased rigidity and strength. There’s an easy to view blade tracking window that allows for optimal precision and safety, as well as blade guide post with rack and pinion adjustment. The upper and lower ball bearing guides help to reduce friction, and this adds to longer blade life, while the quick-release blade tension enhances the convenience of using this blade saw. All in all, this is a top rated blade saw because it manages to outperform the rest. Experience for yourself why customers universally agree this is one of the best saws on the market.
– Darius Spieth
2. Jet 714000 JWB-10 Open Stand Band Saw
Best Budget Band Saw
4.8/5 Product Rating
This band saw can tackle even the toughest jobs. If you think that your work is simply too hard for a band saw this compact, then you’re mistaken. You’re going to see pretty early on that there’s simply no reason to get a bulkier band saw with a model like this that gives you such high performance. This is a top rated band saw because it provides users with a proficient cutting tool that features a smart design. It is constructed from the most durable materials, and gives you the results that you crave whether on the job, or at home in your shop.
– Darius Spieth
3. Rikon 10-346 Band Saw
Best High End Band Saw
4.6/5 Product Rating
One of the top rated band saws on the market, Rikon has proved yet again with this 18 inch model that they know how to deliver performance, and that comes in a size that is convenient. The durable construction of the saw ensures that you’re going to get great use out of it for years to come, and the intuitive design makes it easy to operate, even for those who aren’t familiar with using a band saw. Perfect for any professional or residential work shop, this band saw will quickly become a welcome member to your tool arsenal.
– Darius Spieth
Band Saw Buying Guide
What is a Band Saw?
Band saws are used to cut precise curves in wood, and quite frankly, there is no better tool in the world for this specific task. However, a quality band saw will do much more than this. They are also designed to cut tenons and some smaller rabbets, as well as for ripping small pieces of stock and re-sawing thin strips from extra large pieces of wood. There are literally countless types, sizes, and options when it comes to band saws, so this can make it hard to decide which is just right for you. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore what options are out there for you, so you can make the right decision, and purchase the saw that perfectly suits your needs.
Types
There are really only two types of band saws on the market. Each of these is designed to suit different needs and requirements.
- Floor-Standing Cabinet Models: These models are typically built for professional use. They tend to have more features and larger motors, and they are constructed with a stronger frame for more consistent cutting. Due to the advanced nature of these saws, they’re going to be more expensive to own.
- Bench Top Models: These units tend to be smaller and shorter, and they are mounted on either a stand or bench. These band saws are better suited for home-based work, as opposed to professional. Keep in mind, however, that you can get professional results from a bench-mounted band saw, and they tend to be less expensive in price.
Main Features
There are many things to consider when purchasing a band saw, but the two main things are depth of cut and the throat of the saw.
- The depth of cut refers to the distance from the table to the upper blade guides. You will find this measurement of depth on the packaging of the saw, as this is one of the main marketing specs of this kind of tool. This is meant to tell the prospective buyer what thickness of stock can be cut using the band saw. In instances where a saw only has a 6”depth of cut, you have the option of adding a riser to the unit to extend the depth by as much as 12”. This allows you to enhance a less expensive saw so that you can cut thicker stock.
- The throat refers to the distance from the blade to the vertical frame section of the body of the saw. The distance of the throat will determine the width of cut that is possible with your band saw. The cabinet band saw will have a larger throat, reaching 12 to 14 inches, while a bench top model will be smaller than this.
Motor Size
It’s important to consider the size of your band saw’s motor. Typically, home-level models come with a 3/4 to 1 HP motor, but professional band saws will have much larger motors that feature variable speeds. If you’re a woodworker, then having variable speeds on your motor will be obsolete, as this is used for cutting metals and hard plastics.
Additional Features
- Table: Always make sure that your band saw has a steel, cast-iron, or aluminum alloy table which can tilt up to 45°for angled cuts. This table will generally be about 16 inches in length and width, and features a miter track.
- Tires: It’s best to get a band saw that has tires with cleaning brushes, as this keeps the wheels clean. You also want tires that are built to move smoothly and efficiently.
- Dust Port: Many band saws have a dust collection port which connects to your shop vacuum. This is a wonderful added bonus and helps to keep your shop clean more effortlessly.
- Rip Fence and Miter Gauge: These are great features that you can add to your band saw, and they will greatly enhance your ripping, re-sawing, and cross cutting.
Saw Set-Up
It’s important to always read the instructions before you attempt to set up your band saw. There are tons of fine adjustments that are quite necessary if you want the band saw to cut properly. If you fail to follow these directions, which include rules for setting up the blade tension and making adjustments to blade guides, side bearings, and thrust bearings, this will decrease the overall performance of your saw and will put you at risk for breaking your blade.
Safety Considerations
Not only is learning about proper set up essential, but you also want to learn the proper methods for safely cutting with your new band saw. Even if you think you know, it’s best to brush-up your skills and learn more. Working with a band saw is one of the safest in terms of power woodworking tools, but it really is important that you set the tool up properly. Band saws can be quite fun to work with, but that is only true when you are using it correctly.
Conclusion
Owning and operating a band saw is essential for woodworkers, but there’s so much that a band saw can do besides cutting curves in wood. These remarkable tools can serve a number of functions, and the best band saws on the market today are built for durability, precision, and safety. If you’re on the market for a band saw, then you might be overwhelmed by all the choices that are out there, but take heart. Finding the right saw for you is easier than you think, and comes down to knowing how you work and what you need. The above mentioned top rated band saws are going to be a great choice for most home woodworkers, but should you desire to explore other options, then the buyer’s guide should assist you in narrowing down your search.
Once you know all about these remarkable tools, and how to get the most of them, then you’ll be well on your way to the easiest, most efficient woodworking you’ve ever experienced. Whether you’re a professional, or just a home craftsman, you’re going to be delighted by what these remarkable tools allow you to accomplish.
Resources
- Jet: http://www.jettools.com/
- Jet 10 inch: http://www.jettools.com/
- Rikon: http://www.rikontools.com
