A band saw is an expensive, but at the same time, high-quality, reliable tool that allows you to easily cope with various types of work. It is not surprising that many specialists seek to acquire them, greatly simplifying the work. On the one hand, it allows you to cut thick boards. On the other hand, to carry out the most difficult work of manufacturing delicate and exquisite details when assembling furniture. However, choosing a band saw that would fully meet the requirements of a particular buyer is not always easy. One of the reasons for this is the wide range of models. How not to get confused here and choose the most suitable one? Especially for this case, our specialists have compiled the TOP of the best models of band saws from different manufacturers.
Rating of the best cordless wood band saws
Cordless band saws are very popular. Yes, they are not as powerful as stationary ones. But you can work with them almost anywhere - you don't even need to have a power source. Therefore, they are often used at various construction sites in order to quickly and efficiently cope with sawing out wooden products of any complexity. Based on user feedback and manufacturer specifications, experts have identified several successful models in this category.
1. Milwaukee M12 BS-0
A very good cordless band saw that will appeal to the user who appreciates a compact and lightweight tool. Thanks to the weight of 3.2 kg, it becomes as easy and comfortable to work with it, and it is guaranteed that there will not be any difficulties during transportation - you can easily put it in any suitable bag or bag. However, this does not prevent the tool from having a fairly good cutting depth - up to 41 mm. Therefore, the owner will have the ability to easily handle even fairly thick boards while working - this best budget band saw will not let you down. Smooth speed control combined with electronic engine protection and lighting make sawing boards a real pleasure - never before has it been so easy and pleasant to work with wood. Not surprisingly, this popular saw is getting great reviews from users.
Advantages:
- light weight;
- smooth start;
- lightweight and compact;
- precise cut;
- long battery life;
- deep cut.
Disadvantages:
- charger and battery are not included in the package.
2. Metabo MBS 18 LTX 2.5 0
Looking for a reliable band saw that can handle both wood and metal? In this case, take a closer look at this model. It has enough performance to handle any job.
When buying a cordless tool, be sure to check whether the battery is included in the delivery set, so that later you do not have to spend a large amount on the purchase of components.
Experienced users will also appreciate the relatively low weight - only 4.1 kg. For such a high power, this is really very little. Finally, the tool will allow you to easily cut even very thick boards - up to 64 mm, which is a serious indicator. It's nice that you can buy a saw at an affordable price.
Advantages:
- suitable for working with metal;
- saws very thick boards;
- compact dimensions;
- long-term guarantee;
- battery charge indication;
- has a smooth speed control.
Disadvantages:
- there is no electronic motor protection.
3. Makita DPB181Z
When choosing a manufacturing company, many buyers prefer reliable Japanese firms. It is a completely justified decision - you will have to overpay a little, but the tool will be guaranteed of high quality. In addition, this saw is very lightweight - only 3.5 kg, so it will not be difficult to carry it with you. However, this does not prevent the saw from having a significant cutting depth - up to 64 mm, which makes it possible to saw even very thick boards in a matter of seconds. Many users like the versatility - the tool is compatible with a range of 4 and 5 Ah batteries. Finally, it is worth noting the presence of a backlight that allows you to work productively and easily in low light. So, this is a really good option for a home workshop.
Advantages:
- light weight and compactness;
- well-developed ergonomics of the handle;
- removable base plate;
- the ability to work with batteries of different capacities;
- backlight.
Disadvantages:
- it is problematic to purchase spare parts.
4. BOSCH GCB 18 V-LI 0
The rating of battery devices closes with a very good band saw, which allows you to work effectively both with wood, and with metal and plastic. This is possible due to the smooth speed control and rather high power of the tool. It's nice that the kit includes two saw blades. True, as usually happens, the saw is not equipped with a battery - it will have to be bought separately, which is worth remembering when choosing. Many users note that the tool produces a very flat and smooth cut. They also appreciate the power saw for its relatively low noise level during operation - only 90 dB, which can be called an excellent indicator.
Advantages:
- the presence of backlight;
- high build quality;
- stable maintenance of the set speed;
- ease of maintenance;
- the ability to work with plastic and metal
- smooth cut;
- light weight.
Disadvantages:
- is very expensive.
Best Stationary Band Saws
Stationary band saws are even more popular than cordless ones. A high-quality tape machine allows you to quickly and efficiently cut thick boards, and do it as accurately and smoothly as possible, including for the manufacture of luxury furniture. The cost of this equipment is quite high, but for specialists who professionally work with wood, the tool will be an excellent purchase that will pay off more than once.
1. ZUBR ZPL-350-190
The domestic model is one of the most budgetary in the series. At the same time, the combination of price and quality is very successful. Perfectly cuts boards and bars up to 80 mm thick - this is enough for most users. If you wish, you can connect a vacuum cleaner to keep the amount of sawdust and other debris to a minimum - you don't have to spend a lot of time cleaning the workshop after each work session. And the tool weighs relatively little - only 15 kg. Finally, the power is 350 W, and this, judging by customer reviews, is quite enough for easy and comfortable work.
Advantages:
- light weight;
- affordable price;
- ease of customization;
- suitable for fairly thick boards.
Disadvantages:
- on some models it is difficult to get a perfectly straight cut.
2. Craton WMBS-80
Perhaps this is one of the best AC powered band saws. Interested in models with high performance? In this case, it is worth noting that for this saw, the movement of the saw blade per minute is as much as 882 meters, that is, you can cut a huge number of boards in the shortest possible time.
A quality band saw will work with both wood, metal and plastic, but you must use the right band for each material.
The platform has an easily changeable inclination from 0 to 45 degrees, which makes it possible to adjust the machine for a specific job. Operation is greatly facilitated by the presence of movable stops for oblique and straight cuts.
Advantages:
- convenience of work;
- solid assembly;
- high performance;
- the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner.
Disadvantages:
- it is problematic to purchase a replacement tape.
3. BELMASH WBS-355/2
If you are interested in a high power saw, this model will be an excellent purchase. Still, the power of 800 W is one of the best indicators in our rating. Two speed modes - 510 and 680 meters per minute - allow you to choose exactly the one that best suits the job. After all, this saw is designed for cutting not only boards, plywood, chipboard, but also other materials. If you wish, you can connect an exhaust pipe with a diameter of 50 or 100 mm - especially for such a case, the device is equipped with two nozzles. So, although the equipment is not cheap, it is still a professional wood saw, and it certainly will not disappoint.
Advantages:
- the ability to connect an exhaust pipe;
- very high power;
- reliable and stable design;
- excellent combination of price and technical capabilities;
- versatility.
Disadvantages:
- very high price.
4. Ryobi RBS904
It may not be the best professional machine in the ranking, but it will handle most of the functions just fine. And the democratic price allows more users to purchase it. Power of 350 W is enough for almost any work related to conventional or curved cutting in wood. In addition, the cut can have a depth of 80 mm, which makes it possible to work even with fairly thick boards. And a special protective device reduces the risk of injury while working. So, this is a really handy band saw that definitely won't disappoint.
Advantages:
- high-quality assembly;
- affordable price;
- high cutting accuracy;
- built-in lamp for lighting the workplace;
- the ability to quickly adjust the saw band tension;
- operational safety.
Disadvantages:
- difficulties in setting up;
- no guide bearings.
How to Choose a Good Band Saw
Choosing a quality tool for wood processing is a much more complicated process than it might seem at first glance. There are quite a few factors to consider here in order to get a truly suitable band saw that will fully meet the user's requirements. Otherwise, you can be pretty disappointed, just throwing a large amount down the drain.
So, what should you pay attention to first of all:
- Cutting depth - it depends on how thick the boards or chipboard can be cut. Most often, this figure is from 80 to 500 mm. Of course, it is less for rechargeable batteries than for stationary ones.
- Power is an indicator of not only energy consumption, but also productivity, as well as the ability to work with hard wood species.
- The number of speed modes. If there are several of them, then, most likely, you can work with different materials.
- Additional functions. For example, motor protection reduces the risk of serious damage, for example from overheating. The backlight makes it possible to work in low light conditions. And the millimeter scale, together with several stops, allows you to process workpieces as accurately as possible.
Of course, an inexpensive band saw will not be overly powerful or functional. But for a professional tool, you will have to pay a large sum. But here each user must decide for himself what exactly is preferable for him.
This concludes the rating of the best models of band saws. Surely here every reader will find a tool that is right for him. Looking for a lightweight and inexpensive wood saw? Take a closer look at the Metabo MBS 18 LTX 2.5 0. Looking for professional equipment that does not cost fabulous money? Then the best choice will be Kraton WMBS-80.Finally, professionals will not be disappointed with the BELMASH WBS-355/2 - a truly chic band saw that is well worth the money.
