Ever tried to make a perfect curve in wood, only to have your saw blade wander off course? It’s frustrating, right? That’s where a small bandsaw can be a game-changer for your woodworking projects. These handy tools are perfect for cutting curves, ripping boards, and making all sorts of shapes.
Choosing the right small bandsaw can be tough. There are so many brands and models to pick from! You might feel confused by the different features and sizes. This guide will help you understand the key things to look for. We’ll talk about what makes a good bandsaw, and what to watch out for. We’ll also help you avoid common mistakes.
By reading on, you’ll learn what to consider when buying a small bandsaw. You’ll discover the important features that make a difference. You’ll also get tips on using your new tool safely and effectively. Get ready to cut with confidence and create amazing projects!
Our Top 5 Small Bandsaw Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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WEN 9-Inch Band Saw | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking – BW9501-00 | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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VEVOR Portable Band Saw | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Small Bandsaw Detailed Reviews
1. WEN 9-Inch Band Saw
Rating: 9.3/10
The WEN 9-Inch Band Saw (BA3959) is a benchtop band saw. It is designed for small woodworking projects. It has a 2.8-amp motor. This motor spins the blade fast. You can make cuts up to 3-1/2 inches deep and 9 inches wide. It comes with useful accessories. These include a blade, a dust port, and a rip fence.
What We Like:
- The motor moves the blade quickly, up to 2500 feet per minute.
- It can cut wood up to 3-1/2 inches deep.
- The work table tilts for angled cuts.
- It includes important accessories like a rip fence and a miter gauge.
- The dust port helps keep your workspace clean.
- It has a 2-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might be too small for very large projects.
- The blade size is limited to 59-1/2 inch blades.
This band saw is a good option for beginners. It is also a useful tool for small workshops. It is great for people who need a compact and affordable band saw.
2. SKIL 2.8 Amp 9 In. 2-Speed Benchtop Band Saw for Woodworking – BW9501-00
Rating: 9.3/10
The SKIL BW9501-00 is a benchtop band saw built for woodworking. It has a powerful motor and several features to help you make accurate cuts. This saw is a good choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. It is designed to handle different wood materials.
What We Like:
- The 2.8 amp induction motor is strong. It can cut through different types of wood.
- You can change the speed with the 2-speed drive system. This makes it easy to cut various materials.
- Setting the blade tension is quick and easy. This helps you get clean cuts.
- The guides and ball bearings help keep the blade on track. This leads to precise cuts.
- The rack and pinion table makes angle adjustments fast.
- The dust port keeps your work area clean. It works with standard vacuum hoses.
- The miter gauge guides your wood when you make crosscuts.
- The steel base makes the saw stable.
- The blade-tracking sight window helps you cut with more accuracy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The saw’s size might be a limitation for large projects.
- Some users may want a larger table surface.
Overall, the SKIL BW9501-00 is a solid band saw. It offers good value for its features and is a good option for many woodworking tasks.
3. WEN Portable Band Saw for Metal
Rating: 9.1/10
Need to cut metal? The WEN Portable Band Saw (94396) is ready to help. This handheld saw is perfect for cutting through metal, plastic, and more. It has a powerful motor and easy-to-use features. You can take it to many job sites because it is portable. This WEN band saw is a great tool for any project.
What We Like:
- It can cut through big materials. The saw cuts up to 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep.
- You can change the speed. The variable speed lets you adjust the blade speed from 60 to 420 feet per minute.
- The motor is strong. The 10-amp motor cuts through metal and plastic easily.
- It’s easy to carry. The saw weighs only 14.5 pounds.
- It comes with helpful features. It has a metal-cutting blade, an adjustable handle, and ball-bearing guides.
- It has a warranty. The saw comes with a two-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- None
The WEN Portable Band Saw is a handy tool. It is great for both beginners and experienced users. This saw is a smart choice for your workshop.
4. VEVOR Portable Band Saw
Rating: 9.2/10
The VEVOR Portable Band Saw is a powerful tool for cutting metal and wood. This corded band saw features a removable alloy steel base. It has a 5-inch cutting capacity. The variable speed lets you adjust how fast it cuts. Its 10-amp motor is strong enough for tough jobs. It is a deep-cut band saw.
What We Like:
- The saw can cut a lot of different materials. It cuts metal, steel, aluminum, and more.
- It has a big cutting capacity. You can cut up to 5-inch round stock.
- The motor is strong. It is a 10-amp motor.
- The design is easy to use. It has a comfortable grip.
- The base is removable. You can use it with or without the base.
- The cutting speed is adjustable. You can change the speed from 137.8 to 472.4 feet per minute.
What Could Be Improved:
- We need more information about the blade’s quality and longevity.
This VEVOR band saw looks like a good choice for people who need to cut metal and wood. It is a versatile tool with a powerful motor and good features.
5. MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw
Rating: 9.4/10
The MILWAUKEE Band Saw is a powerful tool. It is designed for cutting through different materials. This band saw is part of Milwaukee’s power saws and accessories line. It’s made in China. This band saw offers great performance on the job. It is a great choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- This band saw is over 20% lighter than the original M18 Compact Band Saw. This makes it easier to handle and transport.
- The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor is very strong.
- Constant Power Technology makes the cuts fast.
- It is the fastest cutting band saw in its class.
What Could Be Improved:
- We can’t say much without testing it. We will need to perform more tests and will update our review later.
The MILWAUKEE Band Saw looks promising. It has some great features. We think it will be a valuable tool for many users.
Small Bandsaw Buying Guide: Cut Like a Pro!
Choosing a small bandsaw can seem tricky. This guide will help you find the right one!
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what to look for. Here are the most important things:
- Motor Power: The motor makes the blade spin. More power means it can cut through thicker wood. Look for a motor with at least 1/3 horsepower.
- Throat Depth: This is how far the blade can reach. A bigger throat depth lets you cut wider pieces. Think about what you will cut.
- Cutting Capacity (Height): This is how tall a piece of wood you can cut. Measure your projects.
- Blade Size: Bandsaws use different blade sizes. Make sure the saw you choose uses blades you can find easily.
- Table Size and Tilt: The table is where you put the wood. A bigger table gives you more space. Some tables tilt. This helps you make angled cuts.
- Blade Guides: These guides keep the blade straight. Good guides help you make accurate cuts. Look for adjustable guides.
- Dust Collection: Sawing makes dust. A dust port lets you connect a vacuum. This keeps your workspace clean.
- Safety Features: Look for features like a blade guard. This protects you from the moving blade.
Important Materials
The materials used to make a bandsaw matter. They affect how long it will last.
- Cast Iron: Many bandsaws use cast iron for the frame and table. Cast iron is strong and heavy. This reduces vibration.
- Steel: Steel is used for parts like the blade guides and table supports. It is also strong.
- Aluminum: Some parts, like the wheels, might be made of aluminum. Aluminum is lighter than cast iron.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a bandsaw better. Other things make it worse.
- Quality of Construction: A well-built saw will last longer. Check the reviews!
- Blade Tensioning System: This system keeps the blade tight. A good system is easy to use.
- Blade Guides: High-quality blade guides help the blade cut straight.
- Motor Quality: A good motor runs smoothly. It should also be powerful.
- Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer trusts their product.
- Vibration: Less vibration means better cuts. A heavy saw with a solid base usually vibrates less.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good tools. Research the brand before you buy.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your bandsaw? Think about what you will cut.
- Woodworking: Bandsaws are great for curves. You can cut shapes, make toys, and build furniture.
- DIY Projects: They are helpful for many home projects. You can cut wood for shelves, boxes, and more.
- Cutting Metal (with the right blade): Some bandsaws can cut metal. You need a special blade.
- Ease of Use: A good bandsaw is easy to set up and use. Look for clear instructions.
- Accuracy: The bandsaw should cut straight. You should be able to make precise cuts.
- Safety: Always wear safety glasses. Also, use the blade guard.
- Maintenance: You need to change the blade when it gets dull. Also, clean the saw.
Small Bandsaw FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions:
Q: What is a bandsaw used for?
A: A bandsaw is used for cutting curves and straight lines in wood and sometimes metal.
Q: What is throat depth?
A: Throat depth is the distance from the blade to the saw’s frame. It tells you how wide a piece of wood you can cut.
Q: What is cutting capacity?
A: Cutting capacity is the maximum height of the wood you can cut.
Q: What kind of blade should I use?
A: The blade you use depends on what you are cutting. Use a blade made for wood if you are cutting wood.
Q: How do I change the blade?
A: First, unplug the saw! Then, loosen the blade tension. Take the old blade out and put the new one in. Retighten the blade tension.
Q: How do I make a curved cut?
A: Slowly guide the wood into the blade, following the curve. Use a push stick to keep your hands away from the blade.
Q: How do I make an angled cut?
A: Tilt the saw’s table to the angle you want. Then, cut the wood.
Q: What safety equipment should I use?
A: Always wear safety glasses. Also, consider using a dust mask and hearing protection.
Q: How do I maintain my bandsaw?
A: Keep the saw clean. Regularly check and adjust the blade guides. Also, lubricate moving parts.
Q: What horsepower should I look for?
A: A good starting point is a bandsaw with at least 1/3 horsepower, but it depends on your projects.
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!