Best Bandsaw for Woodworking: In this post, I would be walking you through the various aspects of the bandsaw to help you make an informed buying decision.
Moreover, I would also be highlighting the features that you must NOT ignore in case you’re planning to buy a bandsaw for woodworking.
Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to the “best bandsaw for woodworking” to negate any confusion or element of doubt that is stopping you from buying your favorite bandsaw.
Does it make sense?
But, before we start reviewing the best bandsaw for woodworking, I would be needing your help.
WAIT…DON’T GO AWAY…
All I need is your answer to a couple of questions that I would be asking you in a while.
So, which is your favorite bandsaw brand?
Secondly, how much are you willing to spend on your favorite bandsaw?
Are you buying the bandsaw for woodworking purposes only?
Fervently, I would be waiting for your response to the aforementioned queries in the comment section as it would definitely help us to enhance the buying guide on the bandsaw for woodworking.
So, without further ado, let’s begin…
What Is The Best Bandsaw For Woodworking?
To be honest, all the bandsaws that made it to our list are of high quality and worth the investment.
However, the below-mentioned bandsaw is the one that has outperformed most of its competitors on a wide range of parameters in our evaluation process.
Moreover, we’ve been consistently receiving good feedback and reviews about it from our clientele.
Editor’s Top Pick
(Check the Current Price on Amazon)
Best Bandsaw For Woodworking
We follow a very strict method when it comes to evaluating the products.
All the parameters that we’ve considered for evaluating the best bandsaw for woodworking are mentioned in the buying guide section.
And, the process involves giving a certain weightage to the parameters and then finally summing up the marks given to them during the evaluation.
Anyways, cutting long-story-short, let’s begin our best bandsaw for woodworking review.
Grizzly G0555LX Deluxe Bandsaw
Well, the Grizzly G0555LX has a robust construction which adds to its stability.
Not only does it have a cast-iron frame but also it comes with a heavy-duty stand resulting in reduced vibration during the entire process.
Since the table is an iron one so you can expect it to take a lot of pressure.
The bandsaw is uniquely designed and packed with superlative features to help you achieve the optimum result for your woodworking projects.
But, unfortunately, the inclusion of a large percentage of iron in the Grizzly G0555LX body tremendously increases its weight which definitely takes a toll on its portability.
It weighs 247 lbs.
In short, the movement of this hulk is definitely a tedious and time-consuming task.
However, if you don’t have to move the bandsaw on a frequent basis then definitely it’s worth the investment.
In fact, it comprises wheels that are made of cast iron with rubber tires and are computer balanced which will definitely help you in achieving better precision.
Of course, the bandsaw comprises a powerful 1 HP motor to help you achieve success with your woodworking projects.
The T-Shape fence is made from aluminum.
Well, it comes with a magnifying window and is adjustable as well so that the user has a hassle-free and smooth operation.
It is also CSA certified meeting CSA C22.
All in all, the 14-inch bandsaw is worth the investment.
Features
- 45 x 21.5 x 18 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 247 lbs
- 93-and-a-half inches blade length
- 1800, 3100 FPM blade speed
- The worktable is capable of tilting 45 degrees right and 10 degrees left
Pros
- Since it is made from aluminum and iron so it is capable of handling huge pressure and also will last longer
- The 14-inch bandsaw is highly stable and vibrates less
- Newbie-friendly and smooth operation
- The set-up process is smooth and hassle-free
Cons
- Because of its heavy weight, the bandsaw falls under the category of “less portable bandsaw”
WEN 3962 Two-Speed Band Saw
Well, the 14-inch “WEN 3962″ is compact, robust, and comes with a 2-speed operation.
The WEN 3962 could be a great fit for your woodworking projects ONLY IF the materials that you’re dealing with don’t vary a lot in terms of thickness, etc.
Since the bandsaw comes with a limitation of two speeds so it wouldn’t be possible for you to cut a wide range of materials such as metal, plastic, etc.
But, if you’re a novice woodworker or even a professional one, the WEN 3962 could be a perfect fit.
You might be astonished to know this is the first model that I used when I was just starting out as a woodworker.
Trust me, the bandsaw possesses all the essential ingredients that you might be looking for as a novice woodworker.
Also, it is simple and easy to operate the little beast.
Even if you’ll compare this bandsaw with a professional and sophisticated high-end counterpart, you’ll find that the former possesses most of the essential ingredients and the best part is that the machine is available at an affordable price.When it comes to portability, the WEN 3962 scores really high, and all you need is a couple of people to move it from one place to another.
At the same time, it could be a great fit for your small workshop or home office because the bandsaw will not consume a lot of space.
Not only does the machine possesses a powerful 3.5-amp motor but also comes with a 9-3/4 inch throat capacity.
The bandsaw model is capable of cutting up to 8.85 inches deep and 3-3/8 inches wide.
Also, cleaning the worktable as well as the vicinity wouldn’t be a problem because the machine comes with a 3-in-1 dust port that can fit three different dust extractor hoses (1-3/4, 2-3/4, and 4 inches).
Not only the WEN model includes a fence but also a miter gauge, and as a result, you can easily expedite both the straight cuts as well as angled cuts.
Not to forget, the bandsaw also includes a safety blade guard that helps you with the smooth raising and lowering of the blade by simply moving the adjustment knob.
So, what are you waiting for?
Features
- Weighs 74 lbs
- 20 x 25 x 58 inches product dimensions
- Two speeds: 1520 or 2620 FPM
- 14 x 12-1/2 inches worktable dimension
- 9-3/4 inch throat
- 3.5-amp motor
Pros
- Newbies friendly and the best bandsaw for woodworking
- Comprises of work light to deal with dim light conditions
- 3-in-1 dust port to keep the worktable free from dust and debris
- Also, comes with a different blade option that allows you to choose from 100-3/4-inch blades from 1/8 to 1-inch
- Includes the bevel cut feature allowing you to expedite hassle-free angular cuts
- Relatively portable
Cons
- Moving from one speed to another is a tedious and time-consuming process
RIKON Power Tools 10-324 Open Stand Bandsaw
Do I really need to even talk about the brand RIKON and its offering?
Well, to be honest, if you would’ve done extensive research whether online or offline, you would’ve definitely found that the RIKON power tools are present in most of the woodworking shops big or small.
And, the same holds true with the “best bandsaw for woodworking” review posts as well.
If I’m not wrong most of the bandsaw reviews include the brand RIKON and its offerings, right?
Cutting long-story-short, I would be reviewing NOT one but two RIKON models in this post, interesting, isn’t it?
It goes without saying that the RIKON 10-324 is a powerful bandsaw model that can be used for both small and big woodworking projects with ease.
Not only does it comprises a powerful 1-1/2 HP, 115/230 V motor but also comes in two speeds, that is, 2,950 FPM or 1,445 FPM to help you deal with different types of materials.
However, if you’re looking for a bandsaw for metal crafting then definitely you should opt for a variable-speed model and NOT the two-speed model.
But, at the same time, I’ll not deny the fact that the RIKON 10-324 does a decent job when it comes to cutting metals.
Does it make sense?
With 13-5/8″ wide and 13″ high cutting capacity the bandsaw is bound to deliver high performance, isn’t it?
The bandsaw model is capable of accepting a blade that is 111″ long and the width varies from 3/16” to 3/4”.
Since the machine includes a rip fence that can be increased together with the re-saw bar by 6″ if needed adding to the flexibility.
On top of it, the upper and lower ball-bearing blade guides not only help in reducing friction but also give the tool a longer life while providing smooth cuts.
Lastly, the 215 lbs 10-324 comes with a 5-year warranty which definitely depicts the trust of the manufacturer in its offering.
Features
- Weighs 215 lbs
- 25 x 30 x 75 inches product dimensions
- 14-inch bandsaw for woodworking
- Cutting capability of 13-5/8″ wide and 13″ high
- 1-1/2 HP, 115/230 dual volt powerful motor
- 2,950 or 1,445 feet/min blade speeds
Pros
- 5-year warranty
- Comes with a rip fence that can be increased by 6″
- Accepts 111″ blade
- Bandsaw for professional woodworkers and the project demands it can even be used for metal-cutting
- Stable and user-friendly
Cons
- Doesn’t include a miter gauge
Delta 28-400 14 in. Steel Frame Band Saw
So, here I come with another great bandsaw for woodworking that not only comes with a powerful motor but also possesses a steel frame adding to stability and reducing vibration.
I know most of you would be aware of the fact that the brand “DELTA” is known for manufacturing high-quality and reliable power tools which can be easily depicted by the fact it is offering its product for more than 100 years now.
Trust me, the DELTA 28-400 isn’t an exception.
The bandsaw has a robust construction and is also designed uniquely, and also reduces flexing to help you achieve a better finish.
With a powerful 1 HP 115V/230V motor as well as 1,620 FPM and 3,340 FPM cutting speeds on offer, the bandsaw model is bound to deliver high performance.
Furthermore, the innovative and user-friendly tension system helps you to change the speed with ease.
Frankly speaking, the DELTA 28-400 is a professional tool and fits the requirements of a professional woodworker.
It wouldn’t be wrong if I’ll claim that this is the best bandsaw for professional woodworkers.
However, the final call is yours and I wouldn’t be interfering with that by any means.
To enhance accuracy, the manufacturer has inculcated highly efficient upper and lower bearing guides.
On the downside, this little beast comes with aluminum wheels which might start causing problems such as wobbling after a couple of years, and why I can claim this with confidence because a couple of my clients have highlighted this issue time and again.
However, wheels made from aluminum weigh less and thus make the bandsaw more portable as compared to the ones that come with steel wheels.
The ironwork table is unique in its own sense as it features a T-slot miter that allows the table to tilt three degrees left and 45 degrees right.
Well, 13-5/8” wide and 6” high cutting capacity is definitely something to boast about, isn’t it?
Though the appearance of a power tool doesn’t interfere with its performance in any way still I would say that the tool looks pretty well as compared to the aforementioned bandsaws that I’ve reviewed so far.
Lastly, the 165 lbs 28-400 comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
Features
- 45 x 18 x 21 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 165 lbs
- Corded electric power source
- 4-Inch integral dust port
- Capable of accepting 93 1/2-Inch blade
- 14-inch bandsaw with 1 HP motor
Pros
- Best bandsaw for professional woodworkers
- The bandsaw comprises heavy-duty steel and as a result, is relatively stable and durable
Rikon 10-3061 Deluxe Bandsaw
So, here I present to you the last bandsaw that made our review list of “best bandsaw for woodworkers”, and you would be delighted to know that the RIKON 10-3061 is packed with superlative features that definitely puts the machine into a different league altogether.
Does it make sense?
Well, to be honest, the RikonDeluxe 10-3061 is one of the best benchtop bandsaws that I’ve come across in my professional career, and it possesses all the essential ingredients of a high-quality benchtop bandsaw for woodworkers.
With a cutting capacity of 5” high and 9-5/8” wide and a powerful motor of 1/2 HP, the little beast is bound to deliver high performance.
Moreover, depending upon the density and size of the workpiece, you can select out of the two speeds, that is, 1515 or 3280 feet/min.
Whether you’re dealing with small woodworking projects or medium-sized, 10-3061 will never offend you.
The worktable is spacious and capable of accommodating large workpieces.
Not only that but also the table can be tilted 5 degrees left and 45 degrees right to help you achieve an optimum result.
Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced woodworker, you’ll not face any issues in setting the bandsaw blade tension.
Furthermore, the dust port would help you in keeping the worktable and the vicinity free from dust and debris by connecting the machine to an effective dust collection system.
All in all, a great product that you’ll never regret investing in.
Features
- 12.75 x 35.5 x 18.25 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 77.5 lbs
- 70.5 Inches blade length
- Comes with a cutting capacity of 5” high and 9-5/8” wide
- 1/2 HP powerful motor
- 12-1/4” x 2-3/8” fence size
Pros
- Stable and durable bandsaw
- The high-quality bandsaw has known for their precision and accuracy
- Capable of expediting the cutting on a wide range of materials such as wood, metal, etc
- Since the worktable is capable of tilting so angular cutting could be done with ease
Cons
- Expensive and might not be the best choice if you’re on a shoestring budget
Buyer’s Guide
I hope you would’ve found your favorite bandsaw for woodworking.
Well, if that is not the case, then be with us as we’re going to reveal the important parameters that you should NOT ignore when it comes to buying the best bandsaw for woodworking.
Power
It goes without saying that power is an important parameter that you should look for when it comes to buying a “value for money” bandsaw for woodworking.
So, the question that might flash into your mind would be related to the ways that can help you in figuring out the power that you should look for in your favorite bandsaw.
Well, allow me to explain everything in detail.
The unit used for measuring the power of a bandsaw is Horse Power (HP).
Trust me, always more power isn’t the best choice.
Let’s understand it this way.
It wouldn’t be a good decision to buy a very powerful bandsaw to use it softwood or other soft materials, right?
Simply, it would be a complete waste of money.
In short, if you’re looking for a bandsaw for woodworking projects then all you need is a 1 HP or 1-1/2 HP motor.
On the other hand, metal crafting projects need a more powerful motor such as 2 HP or 3 HP.
Even a 1-1/2 HP motor can expedite the tasks of powerful motors if you’re using the right bandsaw blades.
So, if you own a small workshop then definitely go for a bandsaw that comes with a 1-1/2 HP motor and trust me, it would be able to cut a wide range of materials if NOT ALL.
Weight
Not a very important parameter for buying a bandsaw still you can’t negate its importance.
You should be clear in your mind that whether you’re looking forward to going for a heavy bandsaw or NOT.
As per my knowledge and experience, it’s always good to choose the middle path, until and unless the requirement of your woodworking project is very specific.
I always suggest to my clientele to go for neither a very light bandsaw model nor very heavy rather maintain a balance.
I wouldn’t deny the fact that the heavier bandsaw models are more stable and vibrate less but at the same time, they have a portability issue.
On the other hand, the lighter bandsaw is portable but relatively less stable and vibrates more as compared to their heavier counterpart.
Wobbling is a very common problem with the lighter bandsaw.
Striking a balance would definitely be a win-win situation.
The high-quality bandsaw is made of heavy-duty steel so they are more stable and vibrate less.
Always refrain from buying a bandsaw that is made of plastic as it may not be highly stable and durable and would cause problems such as wobbling.
Table Tilt
If you’re buying a bandsaw for woodworking that involves mostly straight cuts then definitely table tilt wouldn’t be an important parameter to be considered.
On the other hand, if your woodworking projects involve largely angular cuts then definitely you should look for the bandsaw that comes with table tilting features.
The good news is that most of the bandsaw that we’ve reviewed so far comes with this feature.
Moreover, table tilt is of two types, that is, one can tilt both sides and the other can tilt only one side.
So, depending upon your requirements, you can choose the one that suffices to your cutting needs.
I prefer and recommend the table that is capable of tilting both sides as it saves a lot of time.
Ease of Use
Well, ease of use is yet another important parameter that you shouldn’t ignore at all.
To be honest, at times, power tools can be quite frustrating if you’ve ended buying the wrong model.
I highly recommend you should all the adequate information about the bandsaw model that you’re planning to invest your hard-earned money.
I’ve been using a bandsaw for quite a few years now and I can affirm that for me the hardest thing about using a bandsaw is changing its blade.
So, if you’ve bought a model where changing the blade would consume a hell of a lot of time then definitely you’ve created a problem for yourself.
Frankly speaking, cheap and affordable bandsaw models have the problem of changing the blade and might be a bottleneck in the long run.
On the other hand, if you’ve ended up buying a high-quality bandsaw which of course would’ve been a costly affair then definitely you would save a ton of your time and be relaxed and tension-free in the long run.
Now, it’s you who have to decide what really you want.
Uses
It goes without saying that different bandsaw models are meant for different needs.
So, it is very important that you should be aware of the fact what you really want your bandsaw to do.
Let’s make it more clear and simple.
For example, if you’re planning to buy a bandsaw for solely woodworking projects then definitely you don’t have to end up buying a 2 or 3 HP industrial bandsaw which is way costlier than the ones that would suffice all your woodworking project cutting needs.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bandsaw that would serve the metal-cutting requirement of your projects then definitely you need a powerful bandsaw.
So, knowing the job that you want your bandsaw to expedite would not only narrow down on the options but also help you to buy a “value for money” product.
Warranty
I’ve seen buyers ignoring the warranty and have paid the price in the longer run.
Tell me, honestly, have you ever ignored the warranty when buying a power tool?
In simple words, always look for the bandsaw that comes with a longer warranty as it depicts the confidence of the manufacturer in its product.
Buying a product that has no warranty or a warranty for a couple of months may not be the best decision.
Always, look for the bandsaw that comes with at least a 2-years of warranty.
Types
Mainly, two basic types of bandsaws are available on the market and you can choose any one of them depending upon your requirements.
However, it is equally important that you’re well informed about both types so that you can easily figure out the model that will cater to your project’s requirements in the best possible way.
Floor-standing Cabinet Model
The floor-standing cabinet models are quite popular among professionals and are mostly used for larger projects.
Moreover, they are heavy and capable of handling a lot of work and pressure without any difficulty.
They are good at cutting a wide range of materials including wood, plastic, and metals.
Needless to say, they are expensive and need a decent amount of investment.
So, if you’re looking for a bandsaw for solely your woodworking projects then you can go with other types that we’re going to discuss in a while.
Bench Top Model
The benchtop bandsaw is the ones that you cater to the needs of a hobbyist.
They are lightweight, portable, and fall under the affordable category.
The benchtop model can deal well with home projects both small and medium ones.
If you own a small workshop and have a scarcity of space then definitely you can opt for a benchtop model.
FAQs
In this section, as promised, I would be responding to the queries related to the best bandsaw for woodworking to help you buy the product that suffices to all your woodworking needs.
In case, you also have a query or doubt related to the “best bandsaw for woodworking” then you can ask it in the comment section.
What is the best bandsaw for the money?
To be honest, you can’t give a conclusive statement that a particular bandsaw model is best for the money.
However, as per my knowledge and experience, I can affirm that this particular model (check the current price on Amazon) would suffice most of your woodworking project needs if NOT ALL.
As a novice woodworker, should I buy a table saw or a band saw?
Well, the short and precise answer would be it DEPENDS.
However, we would be discussing some of the parameters that would help you to decide which tool would be a perfect choice for you.
Does it make sense?
Long Straight Cuts
If your woodworking projects mostly involve long straight cuts then definitely a table saw would be a better choice.
Scrolling Cuts
When it comes to scrolling cuts, I give full marks to a bandsaw as it allows you to make tighter radius curves as well as do more scrolling work.
Beveling
In the case of a table saw, beveling is done by tilting the blade against the workpiece.
On the other hand, the workpiece is tilted against the blade in case of a bandsaw.
Noise
Definitely, a bandsaw is quieter as compared to a table saw.
Versatility
Needless to say, a bandsaw is more versatile as compared to a table saw as the former can be used to cut a wide range of materials such as metal, plastic, wood, etc.
Kerf
Well, the kerf is nothing but the amount of material removed by the saw blade.
The bandsaw blades are no doubt thinner than the table saw blades and as a result, they will have a smaller kerf as compared to the latter.
What are some of the important parameters that I need to look for when choosing a bandsaw for my small woodshop?
This is a very prominent question and would definitely come to your mind in case you’re just starting your woodshop, right?
Let’s have a quick look at some of the parameters that you shouldn’t ignore at all when it comes to buying a bandsaw for your small woodshop.
- For a small woodworking shop, the recommended size of a bandsaw is 16″ and above. However, a 14″ would also do most of the work with ease
- For a bandsaw to be versatile, the minimum recommended resawing height is 12″
- Always give priority to the bandsaw whose frame is made from heavy, welded sheet steel
- A bandsaw with a 2 HP motor would be sufficient for your small woodworking shop
- Try to find the bandsaw with a worktable dimension of 16″ x 20″
- Look for the bandsaw that comprises of a heavy fence with a simple adjustment mechanism
It’s A Wrap
First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with me till the end.
Trust me, I along with my team have put loads and loads of effort to come up with a comprehensive buying guide on the best bandsaw for woodworking.
All the five bandsaws that were made to our list are of high quality and would perform really well irrespective of the size of your woodworking projects.
Needless to say, the bandsaws that made it to our review list
It would be great if you would help us with your feedback and how can we improve our posts in the future.
Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.
After all, sharing is caring!
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