Best Metal Bandsaw: Well, in this post, I would walk you through the various aspects of the best metal band saw to help you make an informed buying decision.
Not only that but also I would throw light on important buying parameters in order to help you in narrowing down on the options as well as finding the right metal band saw for you.
Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to the “best metal band saw review” to clear all your doubts so that you can buy a bandsaw that not only caters to your needs but also falls within your budget.
But before that, it would be great if you could answer a few of our questions.
Does it make sense?
So, what is your favorite band saw brand?
What is the amount that you’re willing to spend on your favorite metal band saw?
Do your research and gather information about the products before buying them.
Which is the best metal band saw for the money?
To be honest, all the metal band saws that were made to our list are of high quality and worth the investment.
However, we @izzysmarthomeguide.com recommend our clients opt for the product that NOT only caters to their requirements but also falls well within their budget.
Trust me, the cheapest metal bandsaws aren’t always the worst, and the costliest counterparts aren’t always the BEST.
Best Metal Band Saws Review
Well, without wasting any time, let’s discuss some of the best metal band saws available on the market right now.
WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch | Best Benchtop Metal Band Saw
So, here I present to you the WEN 5-inch metal-cutting benchtop bandsaw which is great at cutting metals such as brass, aluminum, copper, steel, etc.
The WEN 3975T is capable of cutting pipes up to 5 inches in diameter as well as rectangular materials up to 5 x 4-7/8 inches in size.
Moreover, the WEN 3975T comes with variable speed and thus allows you to rotate the blade anywhere from 125 to 260 feet per minute which would help you to make a cut on a variety of sizes and materials.
Definitely, the portable nature of this little beast would grab your eyeballs as you can use this powerful metal bandsaw for both the job site and home.
Not only that but also the machine is compact and uniquely designed to consume less storage space.
With the help of a bevelling blade, you can easily create angled cuts anywhere from zero to 60 degrees.
Rest assured, the WEN 3975T has a longer lifespan and the credit goes to the ball-bearing blade guides.
Even its contribution towards reliable and smooth operation can’t be ignored.
It goes without saying that tweaking between the jobs and easy adjustments can be well taken care of with the help of blade tension and tilt knobs.
All in all, a “value for money” 5-inch metal-cutting benchtop bandsaw that you’ll NEVER REGRET investing into.
Does it make sense?
Features
- Weighs 54.6 lbs
- 5-inch metal blade saw
- Comprises of variable blade speed that falls in the range of 125 to 260 feet per minute
- For circular material, the bandsaw is capable of making 45-degree cuts up to 3-1/8 inches in diameter
- For square material, the WEN 3975T is capable of cutting 3-1/8 x 3-15/16 inches
- Features a pre-installed 56-1/2 inch x 1/2 inch blade
Pros
- Affordable
- The metal-cutting bandsaw is backed by a two-year warranty
- Comprises a powerful 4.5 amp motor that generates sufficient power leading to the cutting of a wide range of metals
- Newbie-friendly, compact, uniquely designed, and portable
Cons
- The adjustment levers are made of plastic
Milwaukee 6232-21 Deep Cut | Best Metal Band Saw For The Money
The Milwaukee 6232-21 is yet another high-quality metal bandsaw that made our list, and definitely, for good reasons 🙂
It’s a unique blend of performance and reliability and if your requirement of a bandsaw is for industrial metalworking then definitely, you should opt for this little beast.
To enhance the rugged protection, the 6232-21 comes with crush zone barriers.
Not only that but also the metal direct drive gearing system delivers a longer tool life as compared to a chain drive which is definitely something to brag about, isn’t it?
Moreover, you don’t have to worry about debris at all, as the new debris protection system not only removes debris during use but also provides a longer pulley life.
Secondly, the high-impact forces caused by blade lock-ups are absorbed by the gear-protecting clutch in order to extend gear and motor life.
The variable speed is really nice and definitely something that will grab your eyeballs.
And, the trigger action is also smooth.
However, it also comes with some flaws like other power tools.
For me, it’s the capability to cut something up to 4.5 inches in diameter is really worrisome, and might be a point of concern for you as well.
Furthermore, if you’re planning to buy this metal bandsaw then my advice would be to buy an extra pack of blades and keep them in a case with the saw.
Features
- Electric-powered metal band saw
- 7.07 x 21.44 x 14.39 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 21.9 lbs
- 11 A Port band saw
- Manufactured in China
Pros
- Portable metal band saw
- Powerful, great features, highly adjustable, and helps you with accurate cuts
- Good customer service
- Newbie-friendly and smooth operation
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a blade
Klutch Bandsaw | Best Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw For Home Use
To be honest, Klutch is yet another metal-cutting band saw that I promote heavily, and the credit goes to the positive feedback that I’ve received about this little beast from my clientele.
The electric-powered bandsaw comprises all the essential elements and features that you might be looking for in your favorite metal-cutting bandsaw.
Well, to start with, it comprises of Bi-metal blade that is capable of delivering variable speeds in the range of 130 and 288 FPM.
Moreover, in spite of you being a newbie, you don’t have to worry at all about dealing with unprecedented situations anymore as the automatic shut-off feature would do the trick for you.
With a powerful 1-1/2 HP motor and cutting capacity of 3.3 SFPM, the Klutch bandsaw is bound to deliver high performance.
Furthermore, the workpiece is securely held in an ideal cutting position with the help of a quick-positioning vise feature resulting in a smooth and hassle-free cutting.
Not only that but also the bandsaw is equipped with precise miter-cutting capabilities.
All in all, a great metal-cutting bandsaw that you would never regret investing in.
Features
- 130-288 FPM variable speed
- 26 inches x 12 inches x 26 1/2 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 48 lbs
- Powerful 1-1/2 HP 120 V motor
- Electrically powered bandsaw
- Supports angled cutting up to 45 degrees
Pros
- Comes with miter-cutting capabilities
- Quick-positioning vise helps in securing the workpiece in the ideal cutting position without any deviation
- Includes bi-metal that delivers variable speeds of 130-288 FPM
- Robustly constructed, uniquely designed, and all the controls are intuitive
- A perfect metal bandsaw with ample power to help the fabricator achieve an optimum result
Cons
- You might face some difficulty in cutting very small lengths because the vise is a bit far from the saw
Grizzly Industrial G0561-7″ x 12″ 1 HP | Best Grizzly Metal Cutting Bandsaw
Well, to be honest, Grizzly G0561 is one of the most powerful metal-cutting band saws available on the market.
With its capability to cut 7″ round and 7″ X 12″ rectangular stock, the bandsaw is bound to cater to even complex project requirements.
Just for your information, the bandsaw is manufactured in an ISO 9001 factory and comes with idiosyncratic features such as hydraulic down feed control, coolant system, blade brush, etc to help you with smooth and hassle-free cutting operation.
The quick-release vise feature prevents the workpiece from deviating from the ideal cutting position thus negating the element of error that might be caused due to the workpiece’s deviation from its cutting position.
Needless to say, the machine has the ability to expedite vertical cutting operations with ease.
Moreover, adjustable blade guides keep track of the functioning of the blade and ensure that the optimum performance is achieved.
The coolant nozzle feature definitely helps in dealing with the bandsaw overheating.
At the same time, we’ve got an auto shut-off feature to deal with unprecedented situations.
The cast-iron wheels with heavy-duty ball bearings add to the stability and durability quotient.
All in all, a great metal cutting bandsaw for industrial uses.
Features
- 104-1/2″ x 1″ x 6 TPI blades included
- 158, 213, 308 FPM gear step blade speeds
- Heavy-duty all-steel one-piece base
- 1 HP, 110V/220V, single-phase, wired 110V powerful motor
- Weighs 343 lbs
- 18.5 x 51.25 x 42.25 inches product dimensions
Pros
- Worm gearbox with hardened ground gears
- Adjustable blade guides
- Coolant nozzle
- Adjustable hydraulic down feed
- Auto shut-off
Cons
- Expensive
Grizzly Industrial Metal Cutting BandSaw Comparison Chart
| Check the Current Price On Amazon | G0561 | G9742 | G0613 | G0614 | G9743 |
| Size (Inches) | 7″ x 12″ | 5″ x 6″ | 7″ x 8-1/4″ | 6″ x 9-1/2″ | 7″ x 12″ |
| Horsepower (HP) | 1 HP | 1/2 HP | 1 HP | 1-1/2 HP | 1-1/2 HP |
| Speeds (FPM) | 90, 135, 195, 255 FPM | 80, 120, 200 FPM | 314 FPM | 170, 314 FPM | 158, 213, 308 FPM |
| Blade Size (Inches) | 93″ x 3/4″ | 64-1/2″ x 1/2″ | 82″ x 3/4″ | 97-5/8″ x 1″ | 104-1/2″ x 1″ |
| Shipping Weight (lbs) | 343 LBS | 168 LBS | 460 LBS | 548 LBS | 464 LBS |
WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch | Best Portable Bandsaw For Metal Cutting
So, here I present to you one of my favorite and most versatile metal cutting band saws that can also be used for cutting plastic, rebar, pipes, etc.
In spite of WEN 94396 being portable, it doesn’t sacrifice power which is definitely something to brag about.
Moreover, the variable speed bandsaw gives you the flexibility to take on a wide range of workpieces, and the credit goes to not only the 10-amp motor but also the 94396 cutting capacity of 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep.
It also comprises an onboard variable speed dial that is responsible for running with an FPM that falls in the range of 60 and 420.
Since the beast weighs as little as 14.5 lbs so you can easily move it from one place to another with ease.
It also includes a high-quality metal blade that measures 44-7/8 by 1/2 inches in size (1140 by 12.5 mm), with 10/14 teeth per inch, and would definitely, help you with a smooth and hassle-free cutting experience.
Lastly, the WEN 94396 comes with a 2-year warranty.
So, what are you waiting for?
Features
- 20.25 x 13 x 8.25 inches product dimensions
- Weighs 14.5 lbs
- Portable metal-cutting bandsaw
- Cutting capacity of 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep
- Included metal-cutting blade measures 44-7/8 by 1/2 inches in size
Pros
- A great metal-cutting band saw for the money
- User-friendly and smooth operation
- 2-year warranty
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- The blade might move off the bearing when the tool runs
- The manual lacks information regarding wheel alignment adjustment
POWERTEC BS900 9 Inch | Best Benchtop Metal Cutting Bandsaw
Well, if you’re a woodworker and looking for a benchtop bandsaw that would cater to most of your needs then definitely, you’ve landed in the right place.
Today, I would be walking through the various aspects of POWERTEC BS900 which is a benchtop band saw miter gauge combo and is known to take care of most of the woodworking cuts requirements with ease.
Whether it’s ripping lumber into thinner pieces or cutting irregular shapes, the BS900 is bound to deliver high performance.
Since the 9-inch benchtop bandsaw is equipped with a miter gauge so you can expect the machine to expedite precise and accurate cuts with the support of features such as angle stops and incremental control.
On top of it, the BS900 is also capable of high-precision crosscuts and angled cutting to help you achieve an optimum result.
Furthermore, if you deal with very diverse and complex woodworking projects then definitely I’ve got a piece of good news for you.
The 9-inch bandsaw comes with a rack and pinion table that would be of great help when it comes to quick and accurate angle and height changes which are the prerequisites of any complex woodworking project.
On top of it, the patented blade guard system helps you with quick and safe adjustment of cutting depth.
Even though you’re the one who is just starting out you’ll not face any problem in either tracking or aligning the blade and the credit goes to the easy view window feature.
Anyone can change the blade without any hassle with the help of the patented quick-release blade tension lever.
All in all, a great bandsaw for woodworking projects but at the same time, you can also use it as a metal-cutting bandsaw which depicts the versatility that the little beast possesses.
Do you still want me to convince you to buy the POWERTEC BS900?
Features
- Weighs 44 lbs
- A maximum throat capacity of 9-inch
- 1/2 HP 2.5 amp induction motor
- 11-3/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch aluminum die-cast table
- 2-inch depth of cut at 45 degrees
Pros
- Patented blade guard system to help you with safe adjustment of cutting depth
- Precise angle cuts can be easily done with the help of a tilting table that is capable of beveling between zero and 45 degrees
- The blade-changing process is smooth and can be expedited with ease with the help of a patented quick-release blade tension lever
- Tracking and alignment of the blade can’t be easier than this and the credit goes to the easy-view window
Cons
- Some of the users have raised the issue related to belt tracking
- Might not be the best choice for the woodworkers whose project demands a very powerful band saw
JET 414459 HVBS-7MW 7-Inch 3/4-HP | Top Rated Bandsaw For Cutting Metal
Well, the JET 414459 is a 7-inch bandsaw that is packed with idiosyncratic features to help you achieve an optimum result.
To start with, safety is something the HVBS-7MW considers a top priority and that can be easily seen from the inculcation of features such as automatic shut-off and coolant safety.
This little beast comes with a capacity of 7 x 12 inches, and thus, is capable of handling materials from aluminum to steel.
On top of it, the vise capability to swivel up to 45 degrees and the throat depth of five inches gives you an upper hand when it comes to dealing with complex projects by enhancing versatility and control.
It also comprises a 3/4 HP, 115-volt powerful motor that wouldn’t only enhance the performance but also help you to operate on a series of speeds such as 85, 130, 180, and 285 feet per minute.
Needless to say, the machine is highly durable and the credit goes to the cast iron construction and ground worm durability.
Similarly, the precision is well taken care of with the help of adjustable roller blade guides and material stops.
It also includes a chip tray that is part of a roller tray to help you keep your workspace clean by easily removing debris and dust.
Lastly, the 286 lbs HVBS-7MW is backed by a 2-year warranty.
Features
- 3/4-HP Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw
- Weighs 286 lbs
- 50.5 x 40.1 x 17.8 inches product dimensions
- Blade speed can be manually set at 85, 130, 180, 285-Feet per minute
- 5-inch throat depth
- 3/4 HP, 115-volt motor
Pros
- The HVBS-7MW is backed by a 2-year warranty
- Automatic shut-off would help to deal with unprecedented situations in a better way
- Cast iron construction enhances the overall stability of the bandsaw
- An effective coolant system is in place to tackle overheating in a better way
- Comprises of ground worm gear for superlative durability
- Includes hydraulic down feed for smooth and hassle-free operation
- Capable of handling a wide range of metals
Cons
- Some users have complaint that the coolant drips off the blade and goes through the cover onto the floor and leaves a puddle
WEN 3962 Two-Speed | Best Budget Bandsaw For Cutting Metal
Unlike the last one, the WEN 3962 falls under the “affordable category”.
With WEN’s capability to cut six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide, it is meant to match your expectations.
The worktable is spacious and also capable of beveling up to 45 degrees to help you achieve an optimum result.
The only thing that bothers me is the availability of two operation speeds, that is, 1520 or 2620 FPM.
Needless to say, more operational speeds help you to operate on a wide range of metals and other materials as well.
Since it comes with an optional stand so it can be used either as a floor-standing bandsaw or a benchtop bandsaw.
To deal with dim light situations, the WEN 3962 comes with a work light.
In order to keep the worktable free from dust and debris, the WEN bandsaw comes with a built-in 3-in-1 dust port to help you connect to an effective dust collection system.
Moreover, a fence, a miter gauge, and a 3/8-inch blade (6 TPI) are some additional features that would definitely help you to enhance your cutting performance.
Lastly, the 73 lbs WEN 3962 comes with a 2-year warranty which shows the trust of the manufacturer in its offering.
Features
- Weighs 73 lbs
- 20 x 25 x 58 inches product dimensions
- 14-1/8 x 12-1/2 inch worktable
- 3.5 amp motor
- Uses 72-inch blades anywhere from 1/8 to 1/2 inch in size
- 3/8-inch blade (6 TPI)
- 3-in-1 dust port
Pros
- Dealing with the dim light working conditions can’t be easier than this and the credit goes to none other than the flexible work light with an independent power switch
- 25-inch stand adds flexibility and convenience
- Ball bearings not only help in smooth operation but also enhance the lifespan of the band saw
- 2-year warranty
- Capable of expediting the angled cuts up to six inches in depth
Cons
- May not be the best band saw for tight cuts
- Some users have a complaint about the drive pulleys making unwanted noise
SKIL 3386-01 120-Volt 9-Inch | Best Metal Cutting Band Saw With Light
So, are you looking for a bandsaw that could rip lumber into thinner pieces with ease?
Moreover, are you a novice woodworker looking for an affordable bandsaw?
Well, if that is the case, then stay tuned because I’m here to help you buy the best bandsaw.
Does it make sense?
Alright!
Well, the new 3386 SKIL 9-inch band saw with light is definitely a “value for money” bandsaw that would allow you to easily cut through a variety of wood materials with ease.
For helping you with quick angle and height changes, the bandsaw has included a rack and pinion adjustment table.
Furthermore, the alignment of the blade is made easier with the help of EZ view blade tracking.
With the help of SKIL 3386, you can expedite both straight cuts as well as crosscuts.
The dust port is yet another important thing that comes with this little beast and is very helpful in cleaning the work area.
With a 9-inches throat capacity and 3-1/2 Inches maximum cutting capacity, the SKIL 3386 is bound to deliver high performance.
Moreover, the worktable is spacious enough to accommodate a wide range of workpieces.
All in all, a portable and affordable bandsaw worth investing in.
Features
- Corded electric power source
- Weighs 16.51 lbs
- 31.15 x 16.25 x 12.75 inches product dimensions
- 12 x 11-3/4 Inches worktable dimension
- 9-inches throat capacity
- 3-1/2 Inches maximum cutting capacity
- 2,800 no-load SFPM
Pros
- LED work light would be of great help when it comes to dealing with the dim light situation
- Rack and pinion table adjustment will help you in making the right angle quickly as well as height adjustment hassle-free
- Miter gauge makes the crosscuts hassle-free
- 3-year limited warranty with registration
- Affordable and value-for-money band saw for the woodworkers
Cons
- The power of the motor might not be enough for complex and big projects
Grizzly Industrial G0668-20″ 2 HP | Best Vertical Metal Bandsaw
The last and one of my favorite metal-cutting bandsaws is none other than G0668.
It goes without saying that the 20 inches vertical metal-cutting bandsaw is packed with all the essential ingredients required for a high-quality metal-cutting bandsaw.
The thing that I really like about the G0668 is its ability to cut the blade, feed it through the workpiece, and weld it back together again, and you know what, all these can be made possible only with the help of a built-in blade shear, welder, and grinder.
In case, the blade gets heated during the cutting process then it is cooled during the process itself with the help of an onboard air compressor and air nozzle.
It goes without saying that the Grizzly bandsaw is capable of cutting a wide range of metals with ease and the credit goes to the variable blade speed.
The entire cutting operation is expedited without any hassle and the contribution of cast-iron wheels can’t be ignored.
Not only that, but the bandsaw also comes with an emergency stop button and key-lock power switch to enhance the safety quotient as well as deal successfully with the unprecedented situation.
As per my knowledge and experience, the Grizzly Industrial G0668 is one of the best industrial metal-cutting band saws that you’ll never regret investing in.
Remember, a high-quality product will charge a premium price in most cases, isn’t it?
Features
- 1/8″ – 3/4″ blade size range
- 154-1/2″ – 159-3/4″ blade length
- 19-3/4″ throat capacity
- 12-5/8″ maximum cutting height
- 2 HP, 220 V, 3-phase, 1725 RPM, 6.6 Amps motor
- Blade variable speed 105 – 2102 FPM
Pros
- Digital RPM indicator and variable speed control help in cutting a wide range of metals
- A compressed air coolant system cools the blade that gets heated during the cutting process
- Fully-balanced cast-iron wheels help in smooth operation
- Emergency shut-off button to deal with unprecedented situations successfully
- Work light to tackle the dim light situation successfully
Cons
- Expensive
Band Saw Synopsis
Well, let’s have a quick look at some of the important points related to the band saw that might help you in the long run.
- A bandsaw can be compact, cordless, or corded, and is commonly found in free-standing, and benchtop form
- Whichever type of bandsaw you plan to buy some of the common features that you’ll find is a blade, motor, and blade tension/tracking
- Some of the common types of band saw blades are hook-teeth, skip-tooth, and regular tooth blades
- A band saw blade speed is measured in FPM – feet per minute
- Some of you might not be aware of the fact that broken blades can be welded with the help of the correct equipment
Band Saw Safety Measures
- It is highly advisable that you should know the exact location of the start and stop switches
- Always ensure that the doors are closed and the blade is adjusted correctly before you start using the machine
- Select the right blade as per the thickness of the material being cut, and also, ensure that there are at least three teeth for the thickness of the material
- It is highly advisable that you shouldn’t run the machine faster than the recommended speed for the specific material
- Ensure that the blade sharp enough to cut the material with ease
- Also, make sure that all the guards are in place before the expedition of the process, and also, ensure that the upper guide/guard assembly should be placed within 1/4th of an inch of the workpiece
How can I use a horizontal or a vertical metal band saw?
Trust me, a band saw is one of my favorite woodworking tools and has helped me to successfully complete quite a few of my projects.
At the same time, I can’t negate the fact that the machine can become a risky affair if you’re NOT using it properly or mishandling it in some or another way, and this sort of problem mostly arises with newbies.
Nevertheless, today, I would be helping you with some of the steps that you need to follow to mitigate the risk of using a metal band saw.
Does it make sense?
Well, I hope so…
- First and foremost, you need to mark the preferred cut line on your workpiece using the appropriate tools. Well, I would suggest you should use a digital height gauge to locate accurate distances along your workpiece. Moreover, you can take the help of a scriber to make visible cut lines
- The selection of the right blade is very essential and failing to do that may impact the final outcome drastically. The blades are packed in the form of tight coils and I would highly recommend you should wear protective gear to protect your eyes and hands during the recoiling process
- Furthermore, you need to disconnect the handsaw from the power source before installing the saw bands. A quick tip would be to align it with the guide bearing and tighten the tension until it’s firmly held in place
- Moving further, you need to select the preferred angle of the vise and mount your stock, making sure it’s safely secured to prevent it from slipping during the cutting process
- At the same time, you also need to ensure that the appropriate positioning of the material on which you’re about to work, and this can be easily achieved by simply inspecting the blade guide’s alignment
- You also need to lower the saw head until it’s just above the stock while checking the descent rate
- Also, connect the machine to the mains and ensure that the emergency button is disengaged and also the feed rate is zero at this point
- Then, you need to press the power button in order to start the spinning of the blade and activation of the coolant system
- Now, with the help of control, you can easily set the speed for the metal type and desired cut type. Also, you need to push the band saw head towards the piece so that the blades slice through about a quarter-inch
- The feed rate must be adjusted properly to obtain sufficient pressure in order to cut through the material. It is highly advisable that you place your hand near the emergency stop, in case of an emergency, but at the same time, refrain from hitting it unnecessarily
- If you want to operate your favorite band saw in vertical mode, all you need to do is to raise the bow to an upright position and then follow the guidelines issued by the manufacturer in the form of a manual. During vertical operation, you’ll push the material through the blade, unlike in horizontal mode, where the blade is pushed through the workpiece
- Furthermore, the automatic shut-off system turns off the machine once the blade completes the cut. Now, press the emergency stop and pick up your workpiece when the machine stops running
- You’ll find burr which is usually left on one side of the workpiece, and you need to remove it using a file or else you can flatten it by hitting it against a metallic surface
Why should I buy a horizontal/vertical metal band saw?
To be honest, you’ll find a good number of reasons to buy a metal band saw.
I’ll highlight some of the reasons that might highlight the importance of a band saw and why one should have it in his kitty.
- For me, the versatility of the machine is of utter importance as it allows you to cut a wide range of projects on the same machine
- In case, you’ve opted for a horizontal/vertical band saw then you can expedite both the horizontal as well as vertical cutting on the same machine
- The band saw is ideal for large volumes with some models coming with programmable functions to handle repetitive tasks with ease
- Not only that but also they are equipped with a handful of safety measures such as automatic shut-off, coolant system, and blade guard in order to prevent injuries as well as unprecedented events
- Needless to say, band saws can be used to cut large metal workpieces to size and not forgetting their ability to cut different metal types such as copper, steel, brass, aluminum, etc
Do I really need a metal cutting band saw?
Many of my clientele have argued time and again that a hacksaw would be more than enough for them to take care of their metal-cutting needs.
Well, if you also have the same feeling then please go ahead with the hacksaw.
However, if your projects involve sizing large amounts of metal, then definitely, you should try a metal-cutting bandsaw.
Not only will it enhance the speed, precision, and accuracy, but also, will reduce the exertion to a large extent.
So, if you’re convinced that you should opt for a band saw, then definitely, the next thing that comes to your mind is whether you should opt for a horizontal or a vertical band saw, right?
Should I buy a horizontal or a vertical bandsaw?
To be honest, a vertical bandsaw is mostly associated with woodworking, but at the same time, I can’t negate its presence in an engineering workshop.
Workshops that most handle intricate or curved work usually possess a vertical band saw.
Usually, a vertical band saw has smaller footprints and is in demand in small workshops.
On the other hand, horizontal bandsaws are definitely the talk of the town in case you deal with a wide range of metal-cutting projects.
They aren’t as good as vertical band saws when it comes to expediting intricate-shaped work.
On the other hand, they have an upper hand in terms of accuracy as compared to a vertical metal-cutting band saw.
Now, the choice is yours…
What are the key considerations for buying a metal-cutting bandsaw?
Well, if you’re a first-time buyer then definitely you should have a quick look at the key considerations that I’m going to pen down in some time.
- The amount of work is definitely an important parameter that would help you to decide whether you need a band saw or NOT. If your project involves very little cutting work then would you be willing to spend a good lump sum, and is it really needed? Secondly, it would help you in deciding the size/power of the model that you would be interested in buying
- The other deciding factor could be the workshop space. Depending upon the space available in your workshop to accommodate the metal-cutting band saw you can easily narrow down the options
- At the same time, the size of your job would definitely impact the size of the machine that you might be planning to buy, isn’t it?
- Meanwhile, you shouldn’t also ignore the importance of the type of jobs that you’re mostly involved in as it would play a key role in deciding whether you should opt for a horizontal or a vertical bandsaw. Curved or intricate work would require a vertical bandsaw and straight cutting would require a horizontal version
- Easy use is also a deciding factor when it comes to buying a power tool. For example, a fabrication shop would most likely opt for a saw with a hydraulic down feed and cut-off switch
- Last but not least, the budget also plays a crucial role when it comes to buying a metal-cutting bandsaw. Needless to say, the bigger your budget the larger and more powerful machine you would be able to afford
Buying Guide
Well, in this section, I would be discussing all the key features that you need to look for while buying a metal-cutting bandsaw.
It is my humble request that you shouldn’t skip this section as it is full of information that will not only help you in narrowing down the options but also would help you with a smart buying decision.
Does it make sense?
Variable Speed
It is quite obvious that different materials would require different speeds for optimum cutting and I hope you’ll agree with it as well.
Some metal-cutting bandsaw models comprise a belt drive and generate 3 to 4 speeds which are good to go.
But, variable speed is definitely a better option wherein you have got the flexibility of using a wide range of materials as well as easy speed changing.
Overall benefits include a longer lifespan of metal-cutting bandsaw blades.
Mitre or Dual Mitre Cutting
Well, this feature is the sole reason for a bandsaw taking an edge over a powered hacksaw.
Moreover, a lot of processing especially in the fabrication workshop will need to be angled and so miter cutting is a necessity.
An accurate miter cutting with a precise scale would do the trick for you.
Moving further, dual miter cutting is another great feature that you can think of having in your metal-cutting bandsaw.
If your projects involve a multitude of cutting on non-symmetrical material then definitely you should opt for a miter cutting.
In case, you’re looking for a vertical bandsaw then this could be easily done with a standard miter fence.
Rigid Construction
Throughout my bandsaw product review, I’ve emphasized the rigid construction as it not only adds to the longevity of the bandsaw but also helps the machine to withstand the cutting forces put on it.
Moreover, rigid construction also contributes to the vibration-dampening qualities that would definitely aid the accuracy of the cut.
Desirable Features
If today I would’ve to buy a metal-cutting bandsaw then definitely I would be looking for the below-mentioned features.
Let’s have a quick look at each one of them.
- It is highly recommended that the bandsaw model that you’re planning to buy must possess an effective coolant system to prevent the machine from getting overheated. Especially, for the larger machines performing bigger cuts, an effective coolant system must be in place in order for the blade to have a longer lifespan
- Always look for the bandsaw models that come with an effective hydraulic down feed. These are preferred over the basic spring systems which are generally found on smaller machines.
- For miter cutting, some bandsaw models come with swivel vices instead of swivel heads. Although they don’t work in a good manner still they might not match the accuracy of swivel-head alternatives
Blade and Accessories
Needless to say, the blade plays a crucial role when it comes to evaluating the overall performance of a metal-cutting bandsaw.
Moreover, most of the metal cutting blades come with a standard tooth count (6, 10, 14) TPI.
Well, there isn’t any doubt that these blades would do a good job but if you’re looking for a superlative performance then definitely, you should look for a variable pitch tooth (6-10 TPI) or (10-14 TPI).
The good thing about the variable teeth is that it allows you to cut through almost any material.
You might be wondering, how is it possible, right?
Well, the finer teeth do the cutting and the coarser teeth clear away the swarf resulting in reduced heat build-up.
Well, if you own a larger workshop then definitely, the other great accessory that you should look for is a roller stand.
When cutting stock, it is known to provide a stable structure that supports the weight of the material.
And, also makes it easy to feed into the vice.
On the other hand, if you’re doing round bar or tubular materials, I would suggest you should go for a V Roller stand.
At the same time, don’t forget the importance of putting coolant on to the work as it would NOT ONLY in achieving a great finish but will also prolong your tool life.
Warranty
I’ve seen people often ignoring the warranty when it comes to buying power tools.
Trust me, I tried a lot but couldn’t figure out the reason behind it.
I always recommend to my clientele to give high priority to the machine that comes with a longer warranty.
In other words, a metal-cutting bandsaw with a longer warranty period depicts the trust of the manufacturer in its offering so always look for at least a 2-year warranty period.
FAQs
As promised to my readers, in this section, I would be responding to the queries related to the best metal-cutting band saw to help you make an informed buying decision.
In case, you also have doubts related to the best metal-cutting bandsaw, feel free to ask us in the comment section.
What is the main difference between a metal and a wood bandsaw?
Well, as per my knowledge and experience, the main difference between the two is that the metal-cutting bandsaw has a robust construction, tighter blade tension, runs slower, and also uses different type of types of blades.
What does a 14″ bandsaw mean?
Well, in layman’s language, it is a quick reference to the size designated to a bandsaw.
In other words, a 14″ bandsaw should’ve got close to 14″ of cutting capacity between the blade and the column.
What is the main difference between Band Saw vs. Chop Saw?
Well, to be precise, chop saws are not only quick but dirty as well.
Compared to a bandsaw, a chop saw does the work faster for you.
The thing that I really don’t like about the chop saw is that you’ll have to touch up the cut with a grinder or sander.
To add to it, the work done by the chop saw can be a mess as the accuracy and cleanliness of the cut might suffer.
On the other hand, the bandsaws are cleaner, slower, and more accurate.
And, if you’ve invested a good amount of money in your bandsaw then definitely it will possess a very fine blade that will need nothing more than a file to clean up the cut.
It’s A Wrap
So, here comes the conclusive part of this comprehensive buying guide on the best metal-cutting bandsaw.
First of all, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.
Moreover, I along with my team have tried to the best of our capabilities to come up with the most informative article on the topic best metal-cutting bandsaw.
It is you who have to decide how successful were we in our effort.
Last but not least, share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.
After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?
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