Band Saws

What Is a Band Saw?

A band saw is a power tool that uses a long, sharp blade stretched between two or more wheels to cut material. The blade moves in a consistent downward motion, allowing for smooth, controlled cutting of a wide range of materials.

Key Features:

Key features of the bandsaw include the blade which is a looped (continuous) metal band with teeth. The wheels, usually two: one upper and one lower — that spin the blade. The table is a flat surface where the material rests during cutting and the guide system which keeps the blade aligned and steady.

The purpose of the bandsaw is that it straight cuts and curved cuts (especially tight curves). It's able to resaw (cutting thick boards into thinner slabs) and will cut irregular shapes more precisely than a circular saw.

Precision Cutting: Easily handles curves, resaws, and intricate details.

Versatility: Cut wood, metal, plastic, and more with the right blade.

Safety: Offers greater control and typically safer operation than circular saws.

Compact Footprint: Available in benchtop and freestanding models to fit any workspace.

Types of Band Saws:

Vertical Band Saws: Best for intricate work and tighter cuts; commonly used in woodworking and light metalworking.

Horizontal Band Saws: Ideal for cutting long stock and heavy-duty materials like metal bars and pipes.

Portable Band Saws: Handheld models suited for on-site work or hard-to-reach areas.

Benchtop Band Saws: Great for hobbyists or small shops—lightweight yet capable.

Choosing the Right Band Saw:

When selecting a band saw, consider:

Throat Size (distance between the blade and frame) to determine cutting width.

Resaw Capacity for cutting thicker stock.

Motor Power for the materials you'll be cutting.

Blade Type & TPI (Teeth Per Inch) depending on whether you're cutting wood, metal, or composite materials.

Applications:

• Furniture making
• Metal fabrication
• Cabinetry
• Pipe cutting
• Butchery/meat processing
• DIY and maker projects