Updated: 04/22/2021 16:53:16
Expert: Andrey Nikolaevich Kuznetsov
*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.
Band saws are great tools for increasing productivity in carpentry and carpentry shops. With their help, you can process much more materials than using a classic hacksaw or jigsaw. In addition, they make cuts more even and are also suitable for figured cutting.
We have compiled a rating of the 7 best band saws that will find their use among both home craftsmen and professionals.
Tool Features
Band saws are used for making furniture and wooden decor, cutting pipes and metal blanks. Depending on the reliability and characteristics, the machine can be installed both in a home workshop and in serious production. Compared to other cutting tools, band saws have the following advantages:
- You can cut workpieces of large thickness, up to 300 – 400 mm;
- The cut is precise and narrow, which reduces the amount of waste and saves material;
- The working surface is positioned so that the risk of injury is minimized;
- The machine makes virtually no noise.
According to their purpose, band saws are divided into 2 groups: for wood and for metal. Let's take a closer look at the capabilities of each type of band saw.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any tool, a band saw can have its disadvantages and advantages. First, let's look at the advantages of this equipment:
- Versatility.
- Flexibility.
- Accuracy.
- Low heat transfer.
- High performance.
- Efficiency.
- Safety.
- Minimum cut size for material.
- Low noise.
There are few disadvantages and you can get used to them:
- The fragility of the saw material.
- The complex process of setting up the saw.
Band saw for wood
Saw a board lengthwise or crosswise, make a bevel, radius or figured cut - all this can be done with a band saw for wood. The canvas in such machines is located vertically. The workpiece rests on the table and is fed onto the canvas away from you with both hands. If you need a straight cut, you can install a guide.
The most common question that arises from amateur craftsmen is whether a band saw is needed if the workshop already has a circular saw? The answer depends on how the wood is processed. Let's list the advantages that a band saw has:
- Large cutting height: some models allow you to make cuts up to 400 mm;
- You can make a complex cut with roundings and smooth bends;
- The cut is thin and clean, minimal grinding is required;
- Convenient removal of dust and chips;
- The amount of waste is reduced;
- Energy consumption is lower than that of a disk tool.
Thus, a band saw is a thinner tool. It allows you to choose the shape and size of workpieces with greater freedom. Using a band saw, you can cut a 5mm thick board into two equal parts, even if its width is 150 - 200mm! You won't be able to achieve this result with any other tool. When making shaped cuts, the band saw also proves to be unrivaled.
All of the above does not mean that other types of saws are no longer needed. The band saw seriously limits the length and width of the workpiece. The width depends on the distance between the canvas and the body column. The length of the workpiece can be any, but in practice you should not step over the 1 meter bar. As this value increases further, the cut will become less and less even.
In addition, the productivity of a circular saw will be higher under equal conditions. If you just need to saw a wide piece, a band saw will only slow down the process.
How to choose a band saw for wood
Let's consider the main parameters that determine the operation of a band saw for wood.
Power, W).
Entry-level models produce only 300 - 400 W. These saws are inexpensive, but do not offer all the benefits of a band saw. It's all about low productivity, which is not enough for quickly cutting thick parts. Low-power models can only be recommended to craftsmen who want to try a band saw in action, but are not sure of its necessity.
If you know exactly why you are buying a band saw, choose a more powerful model. Semi-professional machines develop power of 800 - 1,100 W. This is quite enough for a home workshop. More powerful models are intended for industrial use.
Supply voltage.
Professional machines are connected only to a 380 V network. Simpler models operate from a 220 V outlet.
Belt speed.
In inexpensive models it is constant - about 700 - 900 m/min. More expensive machines can operate in two speed modes. The lower the speed, the easier it is to cut dense wood.
Table tilt angle.
The more options, the better.
Depth and width of cut.
Depends on the needs of the master. If possible, choose a model with a good margin.
Expensive segment (from RUB 22,000)
Milwaukee BS 125
pros
- 1.1 kW power and high performance
- Maintains speed under load
- LED backlight
- Comfortable grip due to special overlays on the handle and an additional handle to control the tool
- Quickly and conveniently, without a key, the blade can be changed and the sole can be adjusted
- Cut size 125x125 mm
Minuses
- Price
From 34900 ₽
Band saw weighing 6.5 kg with universal and precise cutting at an angle of 90° on non-ferrous and ferrous metals. 4 speed positions from 0 to 116m/min. The gearbox design and protection of the thin all-metal motor prevent the blade from getting stuck during long-term operation
Makita 2107FW
pros
- Cutting accuracy and permissible footage of sawn material
- Ease of use
- The quick-release mechanism helps you change the saw blade
- Built-in backlight
- There is a stand for stationary use
- Smoothly adjustable speed
- Works silently and without burning
Minuses
- The bed does not have a clamp
From 37890 ₽
Ideal for small carpentry workshops, the hand-held bandsaw with 710W motor weighs 5.7 kg. Tool dimensions – 52.3x18.8x26.9 cm. The cutting height/width of pipes and rubber products is 120/120mm, respectively. Speed 105m/min and smooth movement thanks to pendulum stroke and 2 pairs of bearings. Robust gearbox, cast base and housing protection. Performs metalwork, assembly and electrical work. There is a locking start button.
Band saw for metal
In metal processing machines, the blade moves horizontally. The metal workpiece is clamped in a vice and then sawed from top to bottom. Most often, band saws are used for cutting pipes, metal profiles and other small-width items.
As in the case of wood, there is another type of tool for working with metal - an angle grinder (angle grinder). For similar purposes, devices differ in their capabilities. Let's look at the advantages of a band saw over a grinder:
- The cutting blade is more durable than the grinder, since the teeth have a higher hardness;
- Thick workpieces (from 80 – 100 mm) can be cut faster. The productivity of the machine in terms of cross-sectional area increases with increasing thickness;
- Energy consumption is several times lower;
- Less waste;
- Smooth edges that do not require processing;
- No sparks that could cause a fire.
Working with a band saw is much more pleasant than working with an angle grinder. No force is required to cut the workpiece. In addition, the master will not have to deal with the unpleasant vibration that occurs when using an angle grinder.
It can be said that when used in a workshop, a band saw is better in every way than an angle grinder. The only drawback of such a tool is its higher price.
How to choose a metal band saw
The criteria for choosing a band saw for metal and wood are largely the same. Among the general characteristics:
- Power and voltage. Entry-level models are equipped with a 500 - 700 W motor. Semi-professional - from 800 - 900 W and above. The power of professional saws usually exceeds 1.5 kW, but such a device is powered only from a 380 V network.
- Number of speeds.
Other parameters are unique to metal saws. Let's take a closer look at them.
Hydraulic drive.
Automatically lowers the cutting blade until the workpiece is completely cut. If there is no hydraulic drive, you will have to adjust the position of the belt manually.
Maximum workpiece diameter.
Comments are unnecessary - you need to choose according to your specific needs.
Liquid cooling system.
Found only in professional high-power saws.
Scope of application
A band saw is an equipment consisting of an endless flexible saw blade mounted on pulleys and rotating at high speed. The equipment makes straight and shaped cuts with high precision.
The band saw can cut:
- Tree.
- Stone.
- Metal.
- Synthetics.
The harder the material, the higher the engine power and the stronger the saw blade. If the saw blade is not selected correctly, it may tear during operation.
TOP 5 popular models of band saws
Let's move from theory to practice. Let's take a closer look at the 5 most popular band saws among inexpensive models for the amateur workshop.
BISON ZPL-350-190 (for wood)
Entry-level machine for working with wood. Allows you to make straight, oblique or inclined cuts, as well as curly trimming. If necessary, you can also saw plastic.
ZUBR ZPL-350-190 is the cheapest model on the market. Device power - 350 W. This is enough for small wooden blocks, but you shouldn’t count on high performance. The cutting depth is limited to 90 mm and the width to 180 mm. With such a tool you can easily make a country bench or stool, but you won’t be able to work with large workpieces.
To ensure even cuts, the package includes an angular stop and a longitudinal guide. A vacuum cleaner can be connected to remove chips.
The ZUBR ZPL-350-190 band saw is suitable for those who have not yet decided on the choice of tool for the workshop. Price is the main advantage of this model, covering other disadvantages. If it turns out that you need a band saw for everyday work, you will probably want to buy a more advanced machine.
JET JWBS-9X (for wood)
Inexpensive option for beginners. Compared to the ZUBR saw, the power has not changed - still the same 350 W. The advantage of the Jet machine is higher quality workmanship. Judging by customer reviews, the manufacturer maintains stricter tolerances, so working with this model is more pleasant.
The cutting depth decreased to 80 mm, but the width increased to 230 mm. Given the low power, these parameters are not so important: cutting a thick workpiece will be difficult in any case. The Jet saw is often chosen as an alternative to a jigsaw. With similar capabilities, it produces a thinner and more even cut that requires almost no processing. A pleasant bonus will be the creation of figured carvings.
Only the rip fence is included as standard. The chips are thrown out through the vacuum outlet, but the adapter is designed for industrial models. In garage conditions, the issue of connecting the hose will have to be decided independently.
Overall, the Jet JWBS-9X is a good entry-level machine. You shouldn’t expect much power from it, but it’s a good option as a first tool.
Metabo BAS 261 Precision (for wood)
High-quality and durable tools from a German manufacturer. At 400W it still belongs to the entry level. The cutting depth increased to 103 mm, and the width reached 245 mm.
But the main advantage of this model is the quality of workmanship. The design has become more durable: for example, the rollers are made of steel rather than plastic. The difference in body materials is also reflected in the weight of the device: the Metabo machine weighs 32.5 kg, while the Jet JWBS-8-M weighs only 20 kg.
Owners of the machine note that the saw works great straight from the factory. The flywheels are perfectly balanced, which eliminates vibration and unevenness when cutting. The quality of the cutting blade is also not satisfactory. The package includes a parallel and angular stop, as well as three adapters for the vacuum cleaner hose.
As a result, the Metabo BAS 261 Precision band saw has taken an intermediate position between semi-professional and “home” models. It is still quite difficult to cut thick workpieces with such a device, but there is no doubt about its reliability.
JET JBS-12 (for wood)
The model that comes closest to the semi-professional class. The 800 W motor allows you to seriously work with thick workpieces. This is also facilitated by the spacious working area: the cutting depth is 180 mm and the width is 300 mm. Despite the increased power, the saw operates from a 220 V network.
The tool is designed for working with wood, but if desired, you can also cut plastic.
An important advantage over more expensive models is compactness. With a relatively large cutting depth, the machine will not take up much space in the workshop. The saw comes with metal supports so that it can be installed on the floor. The kit also includes a parallel and miter gauge.
An important advantage is 2 speeds of web movement. Fast mode is designed for soft woods and small workpieces. At low speed it is more convenient to saw hard workpieces.
JET JBS-12 is suitable for both amateurs and craftsmen who make things to order. With proper care, the tool will last a long time and will delight you with stable results.
BISON ZPL-750-305
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : tabletop
- Power : 750 W
- Number of speeds: 2
Treatment
- Cutting height : 130 mm
- Cutting width : 305 mm
- Support surface : 495×390 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : connecting a vacuum cleaner
- Delivery set : longitudinal guide, angle stop, 2 hex keys
- Weight : 61 kg
Price
Price from 17,530 to 23,142 (Average price: 19,410 rubles)
Video
2nd place
Proma PPK-115U (for metal)
Band saws for metal are a rare occurrence in the amateur workshop. The tasks that a machine for metal products solves are usually faced by professionals. But there are also relatively affordable models on the market that you can buy for personal needs. One such example is Proma PPK-115U.
Its 370-watt motor operates at three speeds. The maximum diameter of the workpiece at an angle of 90° is 100 mm, and with an oblique cut at 45° - 90 mm. There is no hydraulic drive here: you need to change the angle of installation of the blade and lower the frame onto the workpiece manually.
Experienced craftsmen note the good quality of workmanship. A durable metal frame, a reliable belt drive, a strong and level base - this saw will last a long time. It can be successfully used both in the home workshop and in serious production.
Band saw catalog
Owner reviews
Victor: “I own a carpentry shop, a jigsaw broke a year ago, the store salesman recommended a compact band saw instead. The cut is smooth and does not wobble like a jigsaw. Productivity has increased significantly. Great equipment!”
Evgeniy: “I am engaged in the manufacture of office furniture. The Makita band saw has been serving faithfully for five years now, and during this time it has never broken down. Now I recommend only this model to all my friends.”
Ruslan: “I purchased a budget banding machine for making custom-made home furniture. With its help, I quickly make figured furniture that is in demand. Working with the machine is a pleasure."
Metabo BAS 318 Precision WNB
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : tabletop
- Power : 900 W
- Output power : 660 W
- Number of speeds: 2
Treatment
- Cutting height : 170 mm
- Cutting width : 307 mm
- Support surface : 560×400 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : backlight, connection of a vacuum cleaner
- Dimensions (WxHxD) : 665x1600x980 mm
- Weight : 79 kg
- Modification (manufacturer code): 619009000
Price
Price from 42,730 to 49,309 (Average price: 44,299 rub.)
Video
12th place
Metabo BAS 505 Precision WNB
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : machine
- Power : 1500 W
- Output power : 1100 W
- Number of speeds: 2
Treatment
- Cutting height : 280 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : connecting a vacuum cleaner
- Scope of delivery : belt blade, rip fence, vacuum cleaner adapter
- Dimensions (WxHxD) : 834x1860x639 mm
- Weight : 133 kg
Encore Corvette 31
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : tabletop
- Power : 350 W
- Number of speeds: 1
Treatment
- Cutting height : 80 mm
- Supporting surface : 290×290 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : connecting a vacuum cleaner
- Weight : 17 kg
Price
Price from 9,099 to 10,175 (Average price: 9,301 rub.)
7th place
JET JWBS-9
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : machine
- Power : 350 W
- Number of speeds: 1
Treatment
- Cutting height : 80 mm
- Cutting width : 230 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : backlight
- Weight : 17 kg
Price
Price from 9,700 to 14,620 (Average price: RUB 13,860)
Video
6th place
JET JWBS-14
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : machine
- Power : 1000 W
- Output power : 600 W
- Number of speeds: 1
Treatment
- Cutting height : 200 mm
- Cutting width : 350 mm
- Supporting surface : 500×385 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : connecting a vacuum cleaner
- Noise level : 83 dB
- Dimensions (WxHxD) : 770x1800x650 mm
- Weight : 90 kg
Price
Average price: 48,510 rub.
Video
9th place
DeWALT DW876
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Type : tape
- Design : machine
- Power : 1000 W
- Output power : 750 W
- Number of speeds: 2
Treatment
- Cutting height : 200 mm
- Cutting width : 315 mm
Additional Information
- Functions and capabilities : connecting a vacuum cleaner
- Noise level : 84 dB
- Dimensions (WxHxD) : 700x1050x500 mm
- Weight : 44.5 kg
Price
Price from 51,360 to 60,802 (Average price: 54,358 rub.)
Video
11th place
