Benchtop band saws are a great tool for hobbyists and professionals. They come in various price ranges, but you can find the best benchtop band saw for your needs with this guide. This article highlights what features to look for when buying a benchtop band saw, how to narrow down your choices by reading reviews, and gives you an idea of what type of budget will work best with each different kind of model. Below are factors to consider when seeking the best benchtop band saw for your home.
Size
The first thing you need to think about is the size of your benchtop band saw, which will affect its weight and stability. The bigger the band saw, the heavier it will be. If you plan on moving your benchtop band saw around a lot, then having to pick up an oversized machine every time could get tiresome and expensive. Too small can also cause issues when trying to work efficiently. A good size for a home workshop is 12 to 14 inches.
Space
Next, consider how much space you have in your garage or workshop for a large piece of machinery. If you have a small workshop, or if your garage is already full of car parts and other things that need storage space, then look for smaller band saws. You can still find good-quality machines, even with the smallest footprint available on the market today.
Budget
If you’re using this for professional work, it is worth investing more money into a larger table that can cut through thicker materials. If you’re a home user, it’s best to look at lower-cost solutions or those that have been refurbished. You also want something with a good guarantee and preferably from an established brand that will offer support if needed.
Type
Finally, consider whether you want an electric or manual machine. Electric machines are usually easier to use but require more maintenance. Manual machines are better for those who don’t have access to electricity or prefer not to have cords running from their workbench. Some models come with blade guides to be safer and give cleaner cuts than others without them.
Blade guides also make it easier to make angled cuts like miters by guiding the blade at the right angle while cutting instead of guessing where to start each time it takes practice before getting good at making these types of cuts. You should also get yourself some safety gear, including goggles, gloves, ear protection, and other protective wear.
Keep this information in mind, and you will have a pleasant time getting the best benchtop band saw.