Ever dream of transforming a thick piece of lumber into two thinner boards with a single, clean cut? Imagine the possibilities! You could build stunning furniture, create perfectly matched panels, or even craft your own custom veneers. Resawing with a band saw makes all of this possible.
But choosing the right band saw for resawing can feel overwhelming. The market is filled with different sizes, features, and prices. This can lead to frustration and wasted money if you don’t know what to look for. It’s easy to get caught up in technical jargon and end up with a saw that isn’t suited to your needs. We’ll help you cut through the confusion.
By reading this guide, you’ll learn what to consider when buying a band saw for resawing. We will discuss the important features, like blade size and motor power. You’ll also discover tips for selecting the right band saw for your specific projects. Get ready to make informed decisions and pick the perfect tool for your workshop. Let’s get started!
Our Top 5 Band Saw For Resawing Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Band Saw For Resawing Detailed Reviews
1. WEN Band Saw with Stand
Rating: 8.7/10
The WEN Band Saw with Stand (BA3962) is a 10-inch band saw. It has a 3.5-amp motor. This band saw can cut up to six inches deep and 9-3/4 inches wide. It runs at two speeds. It includes a stand and several useful accessories. The black band saw is a good choice for woodworkers.
What We Like:
- The band saw uses blades from 1/8 to 1/2 inches.
- The work table tilts up to 45 degrees.
- It has a work light.
- A dust port keeps the area clean.
- It comes with a fence and miter gauge for accurate cuts.
- The included blade is 3/8-inch.
- It has a two-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need more power.
This WEN band saw is a good value. It is a solid choice for woodworkers. It is a great option for cutting wood.
2. VEVOR Portable Band Saw
Rating: 9.2/10
The VEVOR Portable Band Saw is a powerful tool for cutting metal, wood, and more. It’s a corded band saw with a removable alloy steel base. This saw is designed for both handheld use and for use with the base. The variable speed feature lets you adjust the cutting speed for different materials. The 10-amp motor makes quick work of tough jobs. It’s a good choice for both professionals and DIYers.
What We Like:
- Huge Cutting Capacity: The saw can cut up to 5 inches of round stock without the base. With the base, it can cut up to 3.93 inches.
- Powerful Motor: The 1100W, 10-amp motor gives it plenty of power.
- Variable Speed: You can adjust the cutting speed from 137.8-472.4 ft/min. This is great for different materials.
- Ergonomic Design: The saw is easy to handle. It has a comfortable grip and adjustable blade guard.
- Simple Operation: The base swivels from 0° to 45°. It is easy to remove.
- Extensive Use: The saw cuts metal, steel, aluminum, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description does not offer any cons.
The VEVOR Portable Band Saw is a versatile and capable tool. It is a great option for various cutting tasks.
3. BOW Products GuidePRO GP5 – Featherboard for Band Saws – Vertical Resaw and Band Saw Guide with Silicone Feather – Provides Greater Feed Control – Woodworking Tools and Safety Accessories
Rating: 8.6/10
The BOW Products GuidePRO GP5 is a featherboard for your band saw. It helps you make better cuts and stay safe. This tool uses a silicone feather to keep wood steady. It’s great for resawing or cutting thin strips. The GuidePRO makes woodworking easier and safer for woodworkers of all levels.
What We Like:
- Precision Cuts: The silicone feather gives you clean and consistent cuts. It applies pressure for a smooth finish.
- Versatile: You can use it with different shapes and sizes of wood. It works with fences and resaw guides.
- Easy Setup: It’s quick and simple to set up. The miter cam locks it in place.
- Non-Marring Feathers: The silicone won’t damage your wood. The feathers can be replaced if you need to.
- Specifications: The GuidePRO fits most band saws. It has different miter cams and a sliding base.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons to report.
The BOW Products GuidePRO GP5 is a useful tool for any woodworker. It helps you get precise cuts and stay safe. This featherboard is a valuable addition to any workshop!
4. WEN 9-Inch Band Saw
Rating: 9.0/10
The WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959) is a handy tool for your workshop. It’s a benchtop band saw, so it sits on a table. This saw helps you make curved and straight cuts in wood. It is great for small projects and DIY tasks. The saw cuts wood quickly and efficiently. It comes with several useful features to get you started.
What We Like:
- The 2.8-amp motor spins the blade fast. It can reach speeds up to 2500 feet per minute.
- You can cut wood up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide.
- It uses 59-1/2-inch blades. You can choose blade sizes from 1/8 to 3/8 inches.
- The work table is big. It measures 12-1/4 x 11-7/8 inches. The table also tilts up to 45 degrees.
- It comes with a 1/4-inch blade, a dust port, a fence, and a miter gauge. It also has a blade guard.
- It has a 2-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the motor power slightly limited for thicker hardwoods.
The WEN 9-Inch Band Saw is a good choice for hobbyists and woodworkers. It offers many features for its price.
5. Carter Products DEL14 Band Saw Guide Set For 14-Inch Delta Band Saw
Rating: 8.8/10
The Carter Products DEL14 Band Saw Guide Set is made for 14-inch Delta band saws. This guide set helps your band saw cut better. It keeps the blade straight. This also helps to reduce friction. Less friction means the blade stays cool and makes smoother cuts. The guides use strong ball bearings that are made to last. You can adjust the bearings to make the cuts even better. The whole set weighs only 2.6 pounds.
What We Like:
- It helps the blade stay aligned.
- The ball bearings are strong.
- The blade runs cooler.
- Cuts are smoother.
- You can adjust the bearings easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation may require basic mechanical skills.
This Carter Products DEL14 Band Saw Guide Set is a good upgrade for your band saw. It is a great way to get better cuts.
Resawing Band Saw Buying Guide: Split Wood Like a Pro!
Choosing the right band saw for resawing can feel tricky. This guide helps you find the best one. You’ll learn what to look for. You’ll also learn how to use it. Let’s get started!
Key Features to Look For
You need a band saw that can handle resawing. Resawing is cutting a thick piece of wood into thinner pieces.
- Throat Depth: This is how wide the saw can cut. You need a deep throat. It should be big enough for the width of your wood.
- Cutting Height: This is how tall the saw can cut. It’s important for thick pieces of wood. A taller cutting height is better.
- Motor Power: More power is better for resawing. A powerful motor cuts through wood easily. Look for motors with at least 1 horsepower.
- Blade Guides: These guides keep the blade straight. Good guides make clean cuts. Look for guides that are easy to adjust.
- Fence: A good fence helps you cut straight. It should be strong and easy to move.
- Blade Tensioning System: This keeps the blade tight. A good system helps the blade stay in place.
Important Materials
Band saws use different materials. These materials affect the quality of the saw.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron is strong. It makes the saw stable. It reduces vibration.
- Steel: Steel is also strong. It is often used for the frame. It can handle heavy use.
- Blades: Blades are made of steel. The blade needs to be sharp. It is very important for resawing.
- Tires: The tires go on the wheels. They protect the blade. They also help it run smoothly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a band saw good or bad. Knowing these helps you choose the right one.
- Quality of Construction: A well-built saw lasts longer. Look at the overall build. Check the welds.
- Blade Quality: A good blade is sharp. It makes clean cuts. Replace dull blades.
- Motor Quality: A strong motor is important. It helps you cut through thick wood.
- Precision: The saw should cut straight. Check the fence. Make sure it is accurate.
- Vibration: Vibration makes cutting harder. Heavy saws vibrate less. Cast iron helps.
User Experience and Use Cases
A band saw is great for many projects. It is easy to use. But you need to be safe.
- Resawing: This is the main use. It helps you make thin pieces from thick wood.
- Cutting Curves: Band saws can cut curves. This is good for furniture making.
- Cutting Wood for Boxes: You can cut wood for boxes. This is a common use.
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses. Use push sticks. Keep your hands away from the blade.
- Learning Curve: It takes time to get good. Practice on scrap wood first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is resawing?
A: Resawing is cutting a thick piece of wood into thinner pieces.
Q: What size band saw do I need for resawing?
A: You need a band saw with a deep throat and tall cutting height. This depends on the size of your wood.
Q: What kind of motor is best?
A: A motor with at least 1 horsepower is recommended for resawing. More power is always better.
Q: How do I choose the right blade?
A: Choose a blade with the right teeth for your wood. A wider blade is more stable for resawing.
Q: What is a blade guide?
A: Blade guides keep the blade straight. They help you make clean cuts.
Q: What is a fence used for?
A: A fence helps you cut straight. It guides the wood.
Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Always wear safety glasses. Use push sticks. Keep your hands away from the blade.
Q: What kind of maintenance does a band saw need?
A: Keep the saw clean. Check the blade tension. Replace worn parts.
Q: Can I cut curves with a band saw?
A: Yes, you can cut curves. It is good for furniture making.
Q: What is the learning curve for using a band saw?
A: It takes practice. Start with scrap wood. Learn the controls.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!