Top Rated Best Band Saws – Your Ultimate Guide

Woodworking gets better with the best band saws. These tools boost the quality and speed of your work. Whether you do woodworking for fun or as a job, choosing the right band saw is tricky. There are so many options. This guide will show you the best band saws, offer band saw reviews, and share tips on picking one when you buy band saw online.

We’ll talk about top picks like the Grizzly G0513ANV, which offers great value. And the pricier, high-quality Laguna models. Whether you have a tight budget or can spend a bit more, we’ve got options.

Brands like Powermatic and Rikon are on our list too. We’ll highlight important features, performance, and what buyers think. We will mention special tools like Highland Woodworking’s Wood Slicer® and Laguna’s Resaw King blades. Their use in tasks like resawing, cutting curves, and more will be covered. This ensures you pick wisely.

Let’s dive into finding the best band saws to upgrade your woodworking skills.

Introduction to Band Saws

A band saw is a key tool in woodworking. It features a flexible blade that spins around two wheels. This design lets it do many tasks, from resawing to cutting curves. Both hobbyists and professionals find a band saw to be crucial. We’ll look at what band saws are, their types, and why they’re great for woodworking.

What is a Band Saw?

A band saw is a powerful tool for woodworkers. It uses a long, toothed metal band to cut. This setup makes for precise and smooth cuts, perfect for detailed tasks. Look for a strong frame, big worktable, and versatility when choosing a band saw. Knowing these features helps you pick the best one.

Different Types of Band Saws

There are many band saws to suit different needs:

• Stationary Band Saws: These come in vertical, horizontal, and combo models. Vertical ones are great for wood and metal sheets, while horizontal saws cut metal.
• Benchtop Band Saws: These smaller saws work well for those who woodwork now and then and have little space.
• Portable Band Saws: Good for job sites, they cut metal or plastic pipes, rebar, and conduit well.

Why Choose a Band Saw for Woodworking

A band saw boosts your woodworking in speed and precision. Making complex cuts becomes easier with less effort. Key things to look for include a stable and large table, angles for your table to tilt, stands that adjust, and ways to collect dust. These help in choosing the best saw for hobbyists or pros.

Band Saw Comparisons: Look at the frame material, the maker’s reputation, and important extras, like blade tensioners. Books by Lonnie Bird and the Iturra catalog offer more insights. They help you find a good band saw.

Band Saw Type	Features	Usage
Stationary Band Saws	Vertical, Horizontal, Combination	Cutting wood, metal
Benchtop Band Saws	Compact, Ideal for small spaces	Hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts
Portable Band Saws	Versatile, Mobile	Jobsites, Cutting pipe, rebar

Best Band Saws for Woodworking

Choosing the best band saw for woodworking means looking at top models loved by both pros and hobbyists. The Rikon 10-326, Laguna 1412, and Grizzly G0513 are favorites, each with special features for different needs.

Top Picks for Hobbyists and Professionals

The Rikon 10-326 and Laguna 1412 are great for those watching their budget, priced under $1000. They both have strong motors starting at 1.5 HP and ceramic guides, making them suitable for big projects. The Rikon 10-324TG is also a good choice, offering plenty for about $850. For just a bit more, at $1079, the Laguna 1412 adds more features without extra costs like shipping.

• Rikon 10-326: Perfect for those wanting ceramic guides and durability.
• Laguna 1412: Excellent for its reliable function and wide blade selection.
• Grizzly G0513: An affordable option with a large 17″ cut capacity and powerful 2 HP motor.

Key Features to Consider

When comparing band saws, several features stand out.:

• Motor Power: The Grizzly G0513’s 2 HP motor gives it top-notch cutting ability.
• Blade Quality: Rikon and Laguna saws offer many blade choices for different project needs.
• Durability: Rikon’s 5-year warranty shows its confidence in lasting a long time. Laguna and Grizzly have 2-year and 1-year warranties, respectively.
• Precision: The Rikon 10-326’s ceramic guides mean more accurate cuts.

The Rikon 10-305 stands out for its $299 price, making it a great budget pick. Even at this price, it efficiently cuts through 8/4 oak and comes with features like standard bearing guides. The Rikon 10-3061, at $599, provides even more, offering upgrades for those with bigger needs.

For the best band saw in woodworking, consider these options. They mix performance, durability, and value well.

Top Band Saw Brands

Choosing a band saw means going for brands that stand out in quality and dependability. Brands like Laguna, Powermatic, Grizzly, and JET are at the forefront. They offer excellent band saws for both hobbyists and pros.

Leading Manufacturers

Each leading brand brings its own special features:

• Laguna: Known for top quality, Laguna band saws meet the needs of serious woodworkers. They offer precision and are built to last. Even if pricier, their performance makes them worth it.
• Powermatic: With innovative designs and strong construction, Powermatic saws are great for complex projects. They include advanced technologies for better cuts.
• Grizzly: Grizzly band saws offer great value, like the G0513ANV. They’re chosen by newcomers and seasoned users alike. Grizzly combines affordability with high performance.
• JET: JET caters to various woodworking tasks. Their offerings, like the Jet DXPRO with accessories such as Carter Products MagFence, are highly versatile.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Looking at customer feedback and ratings helps understand a band saw’s effectiveness and user satisfaction. Here, we highlight some standout reviews and ratings:

Band Saw Model	Strengths	Customer Review Rating
Laguna 14|12	High precision, durable	4.8/5
Powermatic PM1500	Advanced features, smooth cuts	4.7/5
Grizzly G0817	Great value, easy adjustments	4.6/5
JET DXPRO	Versatile, excellent for resawing	4.5/5

When reviewing customer feedback, consider power, durability, and user-friendliness. Models like the Grizzly G0817 and Shop Fox W1849 are notable. They handle wide cuts well and make adjusting the blade easy. This customer insight is valuable for making a smart choice.

Affordable Band Saws

Looking for a good band saw without spending too much is possible. You don’t have to sacrifice quality or dependability when choosing affordable ones.

Best Value for Money

Finding a band saw that gives you a lot for your money is key. The Craftsman BAS230 is a low-cost model that doesn’t skimp on quality. It has balanced wheels and is well-made. For those on a budget, the Skil 3386 is also a smart pick. It’s light, with an alloy frame, and comes with an extra rip fence for easier use.

Comparison of Budget Models

Comparing affordable band saws helps in making the right decision. Below is a summary of some budget-friendly band saws:

Model	Power Rating (Amps)	Weight (lbs)	Price
Craftsman BAS230	2.8	46.5	$200
Skil 3386	2.5	37	$150
Rikon 10-305	3.0	68	$300
Grizzly G0803	2.8	61	$200

When looking at band saws, consider that most projects won’t need cuts over 8 inches. The Grizzly G0803 excels in cutting strength. And for harder woods or bigger pieces, the Rikon 10-305 is highly recommended.

High-Performance Band Saws

When choosing high-performance band saws for work, look for top features and reliable performance. They have strong frames, powerful motors, and precise guides for tough cuts.

Advanced Features for Professionals

Professionals often pick high-performance band saws like the Grizzly G0513ANV. It has a 2 HP motor and cuts up to 17 inches. Another good choice is the ALPHA HW615P from Harvey Woodworking. Priced at $2,299, it offers a 3 HP motor, a big cast iron table, and safety features.

Let’s compare top models:

Model	Motor	Cutting Capacity	Price
Grizzly G0513ANV	2 HP	17 inches	$1,095.00
ALPHA HW615P	3 HP	15 inches	$2,299.00
DeWalt DWM120	10 Amps	4.75 inches	$299.00
Milwaukee M18 Fuel	18V	5 inches	$429.00

Consistent and Reliable Performance

JET and Powermatic models are known for their steady performance. They work well even with heavy use. The Grizzly G0817 and Shop Fox W1849 are great for cutting 14″ wide pieces without losing speed, with less than .010″ off in cuts.

Choose saws that are well-built, with good tensioning and dust collection. This ensures your saw meets professional band saw standards for reliability and durability.

Benchtop Band Saws: Compact and Efficient

Benchtop band saws mix portability with power. They’re great for woodworkers short on space but need efficiency. Top models like the Craftsman BAS230 and the Ryobi BS903 offer a nice balance. They are compact but still really powerful. Let’s look at some top models and compare them.

Best Benchtop Models

The WEN 2.8 Amp 9-inch and the Rikon 10-3061 are highly recommended. The WEN is good for light to medium tasks with its 2.8 amps. The Rikon, however, has 5.5 amps, great for tougher jobs. The Craftsman BAS230, though small, struggles with hardwoods over 3/4″ thick.

Performance and Features Comparison

Compact band saws can be surprisingly powerful. For example, the Rikon 10-305, at $300, can cut through 4-5/8″ red oak. This is comparable to larger band saws. Then there’s the Grizzly G0803 for $200. It cuts 3-5/8″ red oak smoothly and is a great deal. However, the Porter-Cable PCB330BS, while strong, has issues with the blade bending or going off track.

Model	Power (Amps)	Size (Inches)	Weight (Pounds)
WEN 2.8 Amp 9-inch	2.8	9	46.5
Rikon 10-3061	5.5	9.625	86
Grizzly G0803	2.5	9	74

When looking for a good band saw, consider dust collection and how easy it is to adjust. The Porter-Cable PCB330BS has nice adjustments but is bad at collecting dust. The Grizzly G0803 needs a special adapter for its dust port. But, it’s good for heavier cutting.

For tips on keeping your band saw blades in top shape, check out this guide on how to measure band saw blades. Taking care and measuring accurately keeps your saw efficient and durable.

Portable Band Saws: Mobility and Convenience

Portable band saws are great for woodworkers on the move. They combine mobility with the power you need. No need to sacrifice power for the sake of portability anymore.

The Milwaukee 2629-20 M18 Compact Band Saw is light and easy to handle. It weighs just 10.25 pounds and is 18 inches long. For an even lighter option, the Ryobi P590 18V Cordless Compact Band Saw Kit is just 7.35 pounds. It offers top-notch lightweight maneuverability for cutting.

The DEWALT DWM120K Portable Band Saw is powerful with its 10 amp motor. It can make deep cuts up to 5 inches in various materials. The Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw is great for metal. It has variable speed control for effective cutting.

For beginners, choosing the right band saw means looking at power, weight, and extra features. The WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band is a good choice. It adjusts blade speed for different materials, optimizing performance.

Another good option is the Trajan 125 1.35hp 1010W Portable Band Saw. It lets you adjust speed for efficient cutting. The BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw is also versatile. It runs on 120 volts and works with long blades, adding to its flexibility.

Portable band saws are perfect for precise cuts and easy transport. They are much easier to use than stationary saws. Both experts and beginners prefer these handy tools for their woodworking projects.

Model	Weight	Cutting Capacity	Power Source	Features
Milwaukee 2629-20 M18	10.25 lbs.	Compact	Cordless	Easy Maneuverability
Ryobi P590 18V	7.35 lbs.	Compact	Cordless	Lightweight
DEWALT DWM120K	15 lbs.	5-inch Deep Cut	Corded	10 Amp Motor
Makita XBP02Z 18V	14.3 lbs.	Varies	Cordless	Variable Speed Control
Trajan 125	13 lbs.	Varies	Corded	Variable Speed
BOSCH GCB10-5	14.5 lbs.	Compact	Corded	Deep Cut
WEN 94396 10-Amp	14.5 lbs.	5-inch	Corded	Variable Speed

Band Saw Buying Guide

When you decide to buy a band saw, consider several important factors. This will help you pick the best one. It’s all about finding a band saw that improves your woodworking.

How to Choose the Right Band Saw

To choose wisely, first know what you need. Small benchtop models are good for basic tasks. However, if you’re tackling bigger projects, go for stronger, industrial band saws. Choosing a durable band saw brand means getting a tool that covers 95% of your woodworking tasks with a 14″ bandsaw. If you need more power, 16″ bandsaws cut with less vibration and more capacity.

Band saw motors vary from ½ to 1 ½ HP, aiming for cutting speeds around 3,500 feet per minute. Think about the blade too. A ½” 3 TPI hook tooth blade works for many re-sawing jobs. A riser block can boost re-sawing even more. Tools made in Taiwan are often very well-made. The evolution from cast iron to stronger designs means they last longer and cost less over time.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Consider blade type, motor power, frame quality, and table size. Band saws usually work quietly, except when cutting wood. Good dust removal systems are essential for safety. Also, a heavier flywheel, like those made of cast iron, keeps the saw steady. It’s smart to choose a saw with a brake for extra safety.

Key considerations for buyers:

• Think about what motor horsepower you need
• Choose blade sizes and tension for your work
• Look at brand durability and user reviews
• Check for extras like dust collection and guides
• Consider warranty options for peace of mind

Looking at all these points carefully will greatly improve your woodworking. Make sure the band saw you choose matches your needs well.

Model	Price	Key Features	Motor Power	Resaw Capacity
Grizzly G0513X2	$1750.00	High resaw capacity, cast iron wheels	2 HP	6″
Jet JWBS-14SFX	$1599.00	1.75 HP motor, sturdy frame	1.75 HP	13″
Laguna 18BX	$2000.00	Excellent precision and stability, brake included	3 HP	16″
Harvey Ambassador C14	$1715.00	Solid construction, efficient dust collection	2 HP	12″

Choosing the right model is about balancing features and your budget. This band saw buying guide helps you find a saw that’s durable and precise.

Conclusion: Finding the Best Band Saws for Your Needs

When looking for the best band saws, think about their features, how they perform, and your budget. If you’re into woodworking or enjoy it as a hobby, knowing the difference between band saws for wood and metal is important. Woodworking band saws usually have bigger teeth and run faster. Metalworking band saws have more teeth and go slower. This affects what materials they can cut best.

How much room you have and if you need to move the saw are key factors too. Benchtop band saws are great for small spaces. But, if you have bigger projects, a floor-standing band saw might be better. They sometimes come with wheels for easy moving. Also, the motor’s power and the blade’s width matter a lot, especially for cutting thick pieces. A strong motor and a wide blade make cutting easier and more precise.

Don’t forget to check the safety features of band saws. Blade guides keep the blade straight, which is very important. Reading reviews from other customers can help you learn how reliable and effective the saw is. For more info on how to pick the right band saw, like looking at the throat capacity and what you’ll use it for, check out this detailed guide. Matching what you need with the saw’s features, from how much space it takes to the type of blade, helps you make a smart choice. By doing this, you can find a top-notch band saw that’s a great addition to your woodworking tools.