In workshops, joiners and metalworkers often use band saws. In addition to processing various materials with more even sections, they are great for figured cutting. There are band saws for wood, stone, metal and synthetic materials.

Band Saw Rating

How to choose a band saw and blade

The usefulness and quality of the tool is determined by the optimal characteristics:

  • scale and regularity of work (strong steel model at maximum loads);
  • application area;
  • dimensions of the saw (it is better to choose a large blade for a band saw for cutting large material at high speed. Medium - for curly and oblique sections at home. Standard width 38-41 mm from a possible 14-81 mm);

 

  • tooth parameters:
    • o tooth pitch (narrow for thick bars, wide for thin plywood, variable for soft breeds, so as not to clog. A saw on a tree has a wiring at an angle to reduce vibration);
    • o density (the more often the teeth, the better the cut, less material deformation and longer service life. Rare rows are suitable for rough breeds);
    • o size (small for decorative work on thin plywood, large for logs);
  • sharpening quality (the more ideal, the higher the smoothness of the cut. For independent sharpening, it is worth finding out the number of cycles)
  • manufacturer (preference for the American manufacturer).

When choosing an aggregate, all parameters must be taken into account not individually, but comprehensively. Then the cut line will be even, cracks and chips will not appear in the sheet when sawing. In this case, the degree of vibration will be less, which means that the band saw will last longer.

Band Saw Rating

Based on the necessary criteria, user opinions and expert assessments, as well as research on market proposals for band saws to use for the home workshop, a rating of the best was compiled. It included models of different price categories.

Inexpensive models (up to 16 000 rub.)

Makita DPB181Z

pros
  • Backlight integrated
  • Compact (length 47 cm), there is a hook for storage vertically
  • Battery protected against overload
  • Convenient control and equipment change
  • Design durability
  • Ergonomic handle and weight of 3.5 kg give a minimum of tension in the operation of the saw
  • Restart Lock
Minuses
  • No battery and charger included

Band saw with smooth start and cut pipes 64mm and profile 64x64mm. The length of the cutting surface is 83.5 mm, the thickness is 0.5 mm. Gearbox and frame construction made of aluminum with rubber inserts. Compatible with battery 4 and 5A * h with a voltage of 18V. Wax is used for lubrication.

Metabo MBS 18 LTX 2.5 0

pros
  • Compact and lightweight (4.1kg)
  • ULTRA-M technology (power, battery life, 3 years service life)
  • When cutting, there are no sparks, no need to cool
  • Integrated backlight
  • Ergonomic rubber grip handle
  • Easily, without tools, the saw blade with low vibration changes, its stroke and tension are regulated
Minuses
  • One speed

This model is included in the review of band saws for wood, metal, plastic and aluminum. It works at a speed of 174 m / min from a battery voltage of 18 V and a charge indicator. Strong case, metal emphasis. Cut 63.5mm. The size of the saw tape is 835x13mm. It can be used in hard-to-reach places and even saw over your head. There is a hook for easy storage. Suitable for professional installation work.

BOSCH GCB 18 V-LI 0

pros
  • Compactness (34x16cm) and lightness (3.8kg)
  • Engine light and heat protection
  • additional 2 saw blades (730x12.7x0.5mm)
  • Trigger speed control and start-up lock during continuous operation
  • Work in all positions from any angle
  • Precise and clean cut due to lack of vibration and speed of 162m / min
Minuses
  • No battery included
  • Noise 90dB

Hand tools with comfortable rubberized handles with good grip. Works with metal pipes, rods and corners, plastic and wood from an 18V 2.6 or 3 Ah battery. There is a battery indicator. Cutting depth 63.5 mm.

Middle segment (from 16,000 to 22,000 rubles)

Makita 2107FK

pros
  • Works quietly
  • Integrated fluorescent backlight with independent switch
  • Speed ​​adjustable (60 and 80m / min)
  • Power cord reinforced
  • Comfortable use and replacement of tape (1140x13x0.5mm)
Minuses
  • No bed included
  • Speed ​​controller positioned poorly
  • Lubricant and coolant not supplied

A good semi-professional tool with a capacity of 710 watts for cutting wood, metal, rubber with dimensions of 120x120 mm. Weighing 5.7 kg and dimensions 52.3 x 18.8 x 26.9 cm. Bearing with bearings on both sides for smooth belt movement.

Milwaukee M12 BS-0

pros
  • 3.2kg weight and compactness
  • There is overload protection
  • Neon lights
  • The versatility of cold, spark-free, cutting materials (plastics, steel, copper, etc.)
  • Precise cut thanks to 8-ball bearings and comfortable grip
Minuses
  • Charger and battery not included

The band saw is easy to operate with one hand. You can cut over your head at a speed of 85m / min. The REDLITHIUM-ION battery with a charge indicator allows you to work 2 times longer with a single charge, gives 20% more power. It also increases the service life by 2 times and does not fail even at 20 ° C below zero. Works with all Milwaukee M12 batteries. Canvas of 18 teeth per 1 inch with a tape length of 687.57 mm. Cutting height 41x41 mm.

DeWALT DCS371N

A professional manual model with a 460 W motor saws 174 m per minute in hard to reach places. Precise cut, with a depth of cut of 63.5 mm, for metal, aluminum and plastic in a limited space. The absence of sparks allows sawing in a fire hazardous environment. 18 V lithium-ion battery without self-discharge and memory effect

Expensive segment (from 22 000 rub.)

Milwaukee BS 125

pros
  • Power 1.1 kW and high performance
  • Holds revolutions under load
  • LED backlight
  • Convenient grip due to specials. handle pads and extra handle to control the tool
  • Quickly and conveniently, without a key, the canvas changes and the sole is adjustable
  • Cut size 125x125 mm
Minuses
  • Cost

6.5 kg band saw with universal and precise cutting at a 90 ° angle for non-ferrous and ferrous metal. 4 speed positions from 0 to 116m / min. The design of the gearbox and the protection of the thin all-metal motor does not allow the web to get stuck during prolonged use

Makita 2107FW

pros
  • Precision of cut and allowable meter of sawn material
  • Ease of use
  • Changing the blade helps with the quick-clamping mechanism
  • Integrated backlight
  • There is a stand for use stationary
  • Infinitely variable speed
  • Silently works and without burning
Minuses
  • The bed has no clamp

Ideal for a small carpentry workshop, a hand-held band saw with a 710W engine weighs 5.7 kg. Dimensions of the tool - 52.3x18.8x26.9cm. The height / width of the cut pipes and rubber products 120 / 120mm, respectively. Speed ​​105m / min and smooth movement thanks to the pendulum stroke and 2 pairs of bearings. Robust gearbox, cast base and housing protection. Performs locksmithing, assembly work and electrical. There is a lock start button.

Milwaukee M18 CBS125-502C

pros
  • Metal thin gear
  • Overload protection and LED backlight
  • Speed ​​turns 0-116m / min are regulated in 5 steps
  • Cut section 125x125 mm
  • The saw band (1139.83 mm) just changes
  • Integrated hook for easy storage and case
Minuses
  • 90.7 dB noise

7.3 kg band saw with specially developed brushless POWERSTATE motor, which helps to increase the power factor by 2 times and 10 times the service life. The REDLITHIUM-ION 5 Ah battery lasts 2.5 times longer without recharging, provides 20% more power and functions at t -20 ° C. A flexible battery system supports all Milwaukee M18 batteries. Straight cut of metal, plastic, pipes and aluminum profiles.

So, this rating of the best band saws for wood and other materials will allow you to choose and purchase, keeping within the budget, a tool that is ideal for homework.