A bandsaw is a power tool but is probably lesser known than a circular or table saw. However, you certainly should not underestimate their capability. When it comes to reliability in cutting wood, lumber, and even metal, a bandsaw is high on the list of must-haves. Why? Because you can make some impressive curved cuts. It can also make the same straightforward cuts you expect from a table saw. If you want versatility and don’t need a table saw’s high capacity cutting power, then a vertical or horizontal band saw gives you flexibility to make other cuts.
The first thing to get to grips with is whether you should choose a Vertical or Horizontal bandsaw. This is where experts in all things woodworking machinery such as Calderbrook Woodworking Machinery can offer invaluable support to make the right choice. Here, they explain more about what you may need to know before you make a purchase.
Horizontal Band Saws
A bandsaw is a machine where the workpiece is fixed and the blade swing arm is lowered onto the work. This enables the cutting of tougher and larger quantities of material, so you will often see more horizontal than vertical band saws in professional workshops where higher volumes matter. They are also not suitable for intricate shaping, and their pricing often reflects that they are less likely to be found in a home workshop.
Vertical Band Saws
A more common sight in the woodworking power tool world is the vertical band saw where the blade circulates in a fixed position, and the wood turns to make the required cut, making it easy to cut intricate shapes. A band saw may also be called a contour saw, such is its versatility to create varying forms readily.
Of course, if you are looking for the most versatility, you might have the budget for a combination band saw where you can have vertical and horizontal cutting abilities. However, these tend to be less rigid and have a smaller cut capacity, so understanding the type of work is key to making the right purchase.
Common Bandsaw Uses
- Re-sawing, cutting along the grain to reduce the timber thickness
- Adding a hook blade to cut through large volumes of wood more quickly is a possible option
- Metal cutting with a horizontal band saw is the fastest, or straight lower volume cuts can be made with a vertical band saw, although slower.
- We have mentioned metal, but you can also cut through tough meat using a precision cutting meat blade.
Buyer’s Guide to Bandsaws
It’s essential to understand the type and primary size considerations on offer. Firstly, the overall size ranges from small portable benchtops to large industrial-use floor models. So choose one that can cope with your volumes now and perhaps consider future growth.
Next is the throat size, the widest size of material you can use, and the depth of the cut possible. The depth of the cut is important if you plan to do a lot of resawing. Next to consider is motor power and speed. Get this right, and the combination of all the above will come together in the perfect equipment for you.
Lastly, the size of the table. Obviously the larger the table size the more support you will have for larger workpieces making them easier to handle. If you wish to miter fences or make angular cuts, then a larger table certainly is better, however size on larger tables can make getting closer to the blade trickier. Remember to take safety advice to help you get to grips using the bandsaw you choose before you begin work.
When it comes to purchasing a suitable bandsaw, there is undoubtedly quite a bit to consider, not least whether you are looking to buy new, second hand or refurbished. So getting advice and choosing a source that can offer you a range of models and capacities, both new and used, is a great place to start.
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