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Band saw – Opinions, Analysis and Comparison in 2022
On numerous occasions, very precise cuts need to be made, following patterns, to very hard materials such as wood and metal, so that they are perfectly cut, which is why a band saw is usually used due to the great power offered by this machine.. Among the most outstanding is the FEMI 780XL, an ideal band saw for cutting metal that incorporates an 850W electric motor. On the other hand, if you are looking for a model that has an ideal performance for cutting wood with a power of 230W and that reaches a high cutting speed of approximately 15m/s, we recommend the Cevik CP28-182 band saw.
The best band saws on the market
If you do not have much experience with these tools and do not know which band saw to buy, we recommend you read the following section, where we mention the most outstanding models on the current market.
band saw for metal
Femi 780XL
The Femi 780XL metal band saw stands out for its electric cable motor, powered by 230V and with 850W of power with two speeds, which allows the work to be carried out efficiently. In addition, it is one of the most compact saws with dimensions of 35 x 55 x 50 centimeters and weighs 7.71 kilograms.
This product includes a replacement and cleaning kit for the cutting blade, so you can keep the tool in better condition.
You will be able to work rectangular metallic materials of 105 x 93 millimeters, circular of 105 millimeters in diameter and 102 millimeters in squares. On the other hand, with a 45 degree tilt, you have the possibility to work with 70 x 60 mm, 72 mm and 68 mm materials.
If you are interested in acquiring the best band saw, you need to know all the negative and positive features of this and each model on the list.
Pros
Power : This tool is equipped with an 850W motor that offers efficient operation and two speeds.
Kit : This product includes a blade replacement and cleaning kit that will help you preserve the useful life of the saw much better and for longer.
Weight : Thanks to the low weight of 7.71 kilograms, you can easily transport this tool to work anywhere.
Material : This model is specially designed to cut metal thanks to its powerful motor.
Cons
Heat : When in operation, the motor of this tool can become quite hot.
Bosch GCB18VLINCG
Bosch is considered the best brand of band saws thanks to the benefits provided by its products. This band saw has a 73.3-centimeter blade and a cutting depth of up to 63.5 millimetres.
Its light weight of approximately 3.38 kilograms will allow you to move around easily and take this tool anywhere. In addition, this metal band saw includes a case to carry out this task.
You will be able to carry out repairs with this tool at home or in the workshop thanks to the working speed reached by its electric motor of up to 162 RPM and powered by a 4.0 Ah 18-volt Li-ion battery.
To choose the best band saw of the moment, take into account the use that you are going to give it and look at the important characteristics of each model. Here are the pros and cons of this band saw.
Pros
Mobility : This is one of the most compact models on this list, as well as being a very light device, weighing only 3.8 kilograms, so you can carry this saw comfortably and without exhausting yourself.
Blade length: This saw has a blade with a total length of 73.3 centimeters, which will allow you to cut large objects.
Depth of cut : Although it has a small size, it offers an excellent depth of cut of up to 63.5 millimeters.
Cons
Utility : This can be a limited utility tool, so depending on the job you’re doing, you’ll need to look at another model if you need more power.
band saw for wood
Cevik CP28-182
If you are looking for a band saw for wood, we recommend you look at this model with a 230W single-phase motor that allows efficient cutting work on this type of material. In addition, you can make cuts with a width of up to 20 centimeters and a maximum height of 8 centimeters.
The diameter of the pulley is 203 millimeters and it reaches a cutting speed of up to 15 m/s, allowing you to comfortably cut the chosen material. This model comes with the tape already mounted, as well as including screwdrivers, screws and keys to adjust.
On the other hand, it has a weight of 15 kilograms and dimensions of 35 x 27.5 x 72 centimeters, making it ideal for placing it in a workshop. It also includes a parallel guide that will help you make the cut accurately and cleanly. This model connects to a plug to work, so it does not work with a battery.
If you are making a comparison between the best band saws of 2022, you should be very attentive to all the outstanding aspects of this model.
Pros
Cutting height: Get professional and clean cuts thanks to this tool with a cutting height of up to 80 millimeters.
Speed: This tool reaches a cutting speed of up to 15 m/s, allowing you to work quickly.
Motor : It incorporates an electric motor with a power of up to 230W that will let you work with wood easily.
Cons
Metal : This model is made specifically for cutting wood, so if you’re looking for a band saw that cuts metal, you’ll need to choose another tool that can cut that material.
MSW MSW-BS350
This band saw for wood is among the cheapest alternatives on this list but it offers good cutting results thanks to its high-performance 350W motor.
On the other hand, it has a work surface of 30 x 30 centimeters that can be tilted up to 45 degrees to achieve specific cuts. Also, with this tool you can make cuts with a maximum height of 90 millimeters and it supports cutting thicknesses of up to 23.3 centimeters.
This equipment generates a noise level of 67 dB and has a 2.15 meter power cable. In addition, it has an IP20 protection class, reaches a speed of 415 RPM and the dimensions of the saw band are 1570 x 6 millimeters.
If you are interested in choosing the best value for money band saw, we recommend that you look carefully at the positive and negative characteristics of this complete model.
Pros
Cutting height: With this tool you can comfortably cut a variety of materials thanks to its cutting height of up to 90 millimeters.
Width : Likewise, it offers a cutting width of 233 millimeters that allows you to work with various objects.
Speed : Thanks to its powerful motor, this band saw achieves a speed of 415 RPM or 12.7 m/s.
Cons
Autonomy : This saw works by connecting it to a power outlet, so if you are looking for a model that gives you autonomy, the ideal thing for you would be to buy one with a battery.
Makita band saw
Makita LB1200F
This Makita band saw stands out for its professional operation thanks to the powerful 900W motor and powered by 230V. In addition, it includes four models of replacement blades that are easy to replace and with which you can cut different types of materials.
This product has approximate dimensions of 77.5 x 61.5 x 160 centimeters and weighs about 81.2 kilograms, so it is advisable to take a good look at the place where you are going to install it.
It has a modern design with a strong and professional tool look in black, blue and silver colors. It is an ideal product for users who require the best performance when performing cutting work on a wide variety of materials.
If you are not sure which is the best band saw, it is very important that you make sure you know the most important functions of each model, which is why we will present you the positive and negative aspects of this one later.
Pros
Power : This tool stands out for its powerful 900W electric motor, which allows for optimal work.
Accessories : With the purchase of this product, you will receive 4 spare blades, which have a different function.
Versatile : You will be able to cut different types of materials such as metal and wood, making it a piece of equipment for professional use.
Cons
Vibration : This band saw can vibrate a bit when it is running, so make sure you place the tool on a flat surface.
Metabo band saw
Metabo BAS 318
It may be that, in your case, what you need is a professional saw due to the hardness of the material you have to cut, so we recommend you take a look at this Metabo band saw with great power and precision. This model is equipped with a silent 900W motor powered by 230V.
This model stands out for having a smooth and controlled ride thanks to its rubber-coated steering wheel. It incorporates a practical precision guide composed of three fully adjustable HSS rollers.
You will be able to make precise and inclined cuts thanks to its 560 x 400 mm work table that can be tilted from 0 to 45 degrees. On the other hand, it has a quick clamping lever that allows maintenance work and blade change without any type of tool.
A good option is to choose a model that gives you professional results. This ensures you can work with any material. Take into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of this model to make a better decision.
Pros
Height : A powerful tool with which you can work with materials up to 170 mm high to make the cut.
Width : In the same sense, this tool has a cutting width of up to 307 mm.
Speed : It incorporates a powerful motor that allows a cutting speed of up to 410 or 880 m/min.
Cons
Price : Like any professional tool, this band saw model has one of the highest prices on this list. However, its quality makes it worth it.
Einhell band saw
Einhell TC-SB 200/1
Known as tools that offer high quality at very affordable prices, Einhell brand saws stand out in the market. This Einhell band saw is equipped with a motor with a power of 250W and a speed of 1,400 RPM.
Work comfortably thanks to its 300 x 300 mm tilting work table, plus you can avoid heating up with this friction-free tool.
On the other hand, it has a band saw of 1400 x 7 mm and, thanks to the inclination of the work table up to 45 degrees, you will be able to obtain cuts with a maximum height of 45 mm. It has a cutting guide that will help you make straight and precise cuts.
If you are looking for one of the cheapest and most efficient models on the market, it is important that you take into account all aspects of each saw. This model has a series of positive and negative characteristics that make it a good purchase option.
Pros
Push Stick : This equipment incorporates an insertion lever that helps to carry out a safe work with the band saws.
Guide : Get the best results with this tool, since it has a practical guide that will help you achieve a straight and precise cut.
Stabilizer : Features a fully adjustable blade stabilization system that dramatically reduces vibration.
Cons
DIY : This tool is ideal for DIY work, so if you are looking for a model that allows you to carry out professional work, we recommend choosing another product.
Band Saw Accessories
band saw blades
Einhell 4506156
If you have a band saw for wood and you need to replace the cutting blade, it is important that you make sure you look carefully at what type of material you are going to cut and if the product is compatible with your tool, since each blade is designed to cut certain types of material.
These wood band saw blades are compatible with the TC-SB 305 U, 200, 200/1, BS 200, YPL 202 and BM 200 band saws and their measurements are 1,400 x 7 x 27 millimeters. This product has 6 teeth of 25 millimeters and weighs approximately 18.1 grams.
Guide to compare band saws
Choosing an efficient band saw that perfectly suits your needs implies that you take into account a series of recommendations and suggestions before making your purchase. Mainly, band saws are classified into two main types: band saws for cutting wood and for cutting metal, so it is essential to know what type of material you are going to work with. In addition, given the different alternatives offered by the market, it is important that you take into account a series of aspects and characteristics before making your choice. That is why we have taken the initiative to make this guide to buy the best band saw and thus be able to help you make a good purchase.
Shopping guide
Engine type and model
In any comparison of band saws, the motor plays a key role when choosing a new tool, so it is an aspect that you should take into account first, since, obviously, this component will determine the quality and working power. You have to ask yourself if you need to cut wood or metal, in addition to knowing how often you will use this tool, since it is not the same to cut several times a day or a couple of times throughout the month. However, the power of the motor directly affects the price of the device, so if you are looking for a good and economical alternative, look carefully at this aspect.
To work with hard materials, you may need a motor of 1 horsepower or more. On the other hand, for simple DIY jobs, choosing a model with 0.5 to 0.75 horsepower may be enough. Keep in mind that motors tend to work harder when they are less powerful, as well as overheating due to friction, affecting the components of the tool. If your job is to do DIY tasks at home, a low-power motor will suffice. However, if your job is to work hard materials professionally, it is advisable to invest in a more powerful motor. If you are interested in knowing how much the band saw costs, look at this aspect before choosing.
The frame of the saw
The part that is responsible for holding all the other internal components of the tool together is known as the frame of the band saw. Consider that equipment with a frame made of wood or plastic, in addition to being lighter and less resistant, will easily bow if the pulleys it incorporates are too large and heavy. Professionals recommend that for frames made of plastic, the pulleys used should not exceed 12 inches, as any larger pulleys will be too heavy for these types of frames.
On the other hand, there are frames made of cast iron, which are much heavier and more resistant than plastic or wood models. As a recommendation given by professionals, make sure that the sheet metal of the frame has at least a double layer or, failing that, two frames that are separated. In addition, it is advisable to take a good look at the gauge of the sheet metal and its weight, since the heavier the frame, the greater the precision and cleanliness of the resulting cuts.
Blade guides
Another factor that you should not overlook is the guide, which will allow you to make a straight and precise cut following a pattern, ideal for serial work. Keep in mind that the blades on these types of tools differ from traditional rigid and solid blades in that they are completely flexible, so cutting guides at each end of the machine are used to maintain a clean cut. The thrust bearing is installed at the rear of the belt and is responsible for preventing the belt from moving while the wood is moving.
Both thrust bearings and guides are usually made of metal. In addition, they have two guide blocks, one above the table and the other below. Many professionals and experienced users replace guides made of metal with other parts such as synthetic laminate blocks with a graphite plate, which generate a much lower level of friction, preventing the tool from heating up.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to make a homemade band saw?
Handy users have developed a way to make a homemade band saw using 3D modeling software like SketchUp, which will help you get an idea of what the design you have in mind will look like. Even on the net you can find ready-made patterns to make the structure of the saw. For this project, sheets of birch plywood, MDF, are used, which must be cut following the patterns and, finally, they are assembled together like a puzzle in the way that the plan with the design used would indicate.
Q2: How to sharpen band saw?
There are several ways or procedures to sharpen a band saw without having to disassemble it and remove it from the machine, so that it is an activity that you can do yourself when it is convenient. Keep in mind that on the net you will easily find step-by-step instructions that you can follow in case you have difficulties. One of the procedures most used by users is entirely by hand and is carried out using guide blocks together with a file. Another of the most widely used manual methods of sharpening band saw blades is using an inexpensive grinder that uses a 4-inch disc.
Q3: How to tension a band saw?
Most models of band saws incorporate a small knob or screw that is responsible for adjusting the tension on the bottom and top of the tool. It’s important to make sure the blade is tight enough so it doesn’t slip or deflect when you make the cut, however, if you over-tighten the saw blade, you risk damaging the motor of the tool itself. whole. The way to know if the tension is within the correct range is to raise the blade guide to its maximum height and press on both sides of it. It should move approximately 3mm when a given amount of pressure is applied to it.
Q4: What materials can be cut with the Metabo band saw?
Metabo brand band saws stand out for offering very efficient operation against materials such as wood, since they incorporate a fully adjustable three-roll HSS guide system that adjusts the blade at the top and bottom, which helps you maintain a higher level of precision in your cuts.
Q5: How to make circles with a band saw?
First of all, you will need to calculate the required distance. For example, if you have to cut a 60 cm circle, you will have to use a distance of 30 cm that goes from the center of the piece to the end. When you get to a point on the guide that you have previously marked in the form of a circle, turn on the tool and begin to go very carefully along the guide until you reach the end.
How to use a band saw
Band saws are presented as an excellent alternative when it comes to needing a tool that helps you cut very hard materials such as wood or metal and following a pattern to do it in series. Although you know the use of traditional saws perfectly, it is important that you read a couple of tips that will help you use this tool correctly and you can avoid any problem or even possible accidents. Here is a brief explanation of how you can use your new band saw.
Initial settings
It is highly recommended to take the time to look at the instructions that the factory provides with the purchase of the tool, in addition to the safety information that is often included with this type of product. Remember to adjust the saw to a comfortable height for cutting jobs. Many users find that just above the waist is a comfortable height.
Choose the correct blade and its tension
Keep in mind that each project uses a specific type of blade, so there are two criteria when making this distinction: teeth per inch DPI and width of the blade. The DPP is a value that is responsible for determining the effect and quality of the cut on the material you are working on. The higher the DPP number, the cut will be much smoother, but it will do the cutting job with a smaller range. However, the lower the DPP, the more coarse the cut will be, although it will be done much faster.
Next, adjust the blade tension following the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, this type of tool incorporates a screw or knob that allows you to easily adjust the tension. Remember that in order for the blade not to slip or deflect while cutting, you will need to make a precise adjustment. One way to tell if the tension is set correctly is to lift the blade guide to its full height and then press your fingers, applying a little pressure, to the sides of it. When doing this, the blade should move about 3mm.
adjust the table
To make a square cut perpendicular to the table, you can use a block of wood to visually check the alignment of the blade. Also, if your band saw is pre-set with the angle indicator at 0, you will be able to vary this value up to the angle that your particular equipment allows.
Mark, connect and cut
Before you start cutting with your new band saw, make sure you have marked out the shape you are going to work on so that the guide can help guide you through the cut. You can mark the drawing on the piece of wood that you are going to use clearly with a pencil or marker. Make sure you have enough room to move around while you make the cut. Proceed to connect the equipment and turn on the saw. In the end, make sure to unplug the saw from the power outlet to avoid any accidents.
7 steps for the maintenance of a band saw
Band saw care
If you want to know how you can keep a band saw always ready to work and extend its useful life in general, then you will be able to know the steps most recommended by experts in the field. Thus, when you have in front of the best band saw (check some purchase options in this link), you will know what to do to prevent its wear and malfunction.
1. Remnant cleaning
This is one of the main steps in maintaining a band saw. As mentioned, the constant cutting of materials creates debris that can accumulate in the gaps of the band saw.
If you want to avoid any obstacles when using it, it is important to use a vacuum cleaner to remove remains of wood or plastic, for example. While, if the saw is used to cut metal, you can make use of brushes and handheld vacuums to help you with the task.
Be sure to check each of the spaces and nooks and crannies, as well as the gap where the saw crosses to remove any debris that may have been left behind after the job. It is advisable to carry out this task after each regular use of the band saw.
2. Review of guidelines
The guides are the components determined to keep the saw in its position, thus guaranteeing a clean and smooth cut when passing the piece through the machine. When performing maintenance it is necessary to check that the positioning of the saw guides is correct.
To verify this, you should check that the guides only rub against the body of the saw. In case the guides have lost too much thickness or are very tight, you will have to decide whether to change them or add sheets that compensate for wear. This will keep the band saw reliable and stable for accurate cuts.
3. Component Alignment
The flywheels are another of the pieces that must be taken care of to guarantee a good performance of the band saw. These work as a backing for the main piece and must be aligned with it in order to offer support.
If you come across flywheels that are not in the proper position for the saw, you will need to adjust and align them until they are even so that they can both hold and hold the saw in place in conjunction with the guides.
4. Voltage check
According to some experts, the tension of the saw used in the machine should always be kept within a range of 25,000 psi to 32,000 psi in order to ensure a clean cut while in motion.
If you want to check the tension of the saw, you can use a dynamometer to measure the displacement that occurs when applying direct tension on the piece and thus you can obtain the result. With this data you can determine if the saw needs to be adjusted or not.
5. Pressure of the presses
The presses are the tools designed to hold the material you want to cut and thus provide you with extra support in case you need to make straight or geometric cuts.
In order for a band saw to work properly, these clamps must remain with a certain level of adjustment and firmness in order to hold the cut piece in place. It is recommended that, when placing the piece, check that it supports lateral pressures to avoid accidents.
6. Check saw advance
To perform this check, the band saw must be turned on and in use. Here you should observe if, when cutting, the saw presents any irregular movement or excessive vibrations. If so, it is advised to adjust the part or replace the piston.
7. Review of soluble flux
Just as it was indicated, some materials require lubrication to be cut without obstacles and some band saws include automatic application systems, which must be checked to verify that they do not have leaks or blockages that prevent the adequate exit of the liquid.
