17 Different Types of Band Saw Machine for Woodworking

A bandsaw machine is a power tool consisting of a toothed blade stretched between two or more wheels to cut material that uses a long, continuous blade.

The blade is held in place by two or more wheels, and the material is fed into the blade by hand or by a power feed.

Different types of band saws machines are used for various tasks, including metal fabrication, woodworking, lumbering, and plastic.

The band saw comes in an assortment of sizes and styles.

The Most Common Different Types of Band Saws are:

Metal Cutting Band Saw
Meat Cutting Band Saw
Wood Cutting Band Saw
Benchtop Bandsaw
Horizontal Band Saw
Horizontal Structural Saws
General Purpose Pivot Style Horizontal Band Saw
Vertical Band Saw
Narrow Band Saws
Dual Column Sawing Systems Band Saw
Production Dual Column Band Saw
Double-Cut Band Saw
Resaw Band Saw
Head Band Saw
Floor-Standing Band Saw
Portable/Handheld Band Saw

1. Metal Cutting Bandsaw

The metal cutting band saw is a type of bandsaw explicitly designed to cut metal. These metal band saws are typically much larger and more potent than other band saws, and they often have amazing features that make them better suited for cutting metal.

Metal cutting band saws typically have carbide or bi-metal blades, which are much stronger and more durable than the blades used on other band saws.

The teeth on these blades are also explicitly devised for cutting metal, and they are often coated with unique materials that help to reduce friction and heat build-up.

Metal cutting band saws can be used to cut a variety of different metals, including both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

They are typically operated in industrial settings to cut steel beams, pipes, tubing, and other structural metals.

2. Meat Cutting Band Saw

A meat cutting band saw is a type of band saw explicitly designed for cutting meat. These meat saws are typically more extensive and powerful than other band saws, and they often feature special features such as built-in refrigeration units to keep the meat from spoiling.

Meat cutting band saws can be used to cut both fresh and frozen types of meat, and they can easily handle bones and other tough cuts of meat.

If you’re looking for a saw that can handle all your meat-cutting needs, then a meat bandsaw is the way to go.

3. Wood Cutting Band Saw

A wood cutting band saw is a type of band saw that is designed specifically for cutting wood. These wood bandsaws are typically much larger and more powerful than other band saws, and they often have some express features that make them ideal for cutting through thick pieces of timber.

Wood saws can be either stationary or portable and come in various sizes to accommodate different needs. Some standard features of these saws include adjustable blade speed, a dust collection system, and a built-in work light.

When choosing a wood-cutting band saw, it is essential to consider the size and power of the saw and the specific features you need.

For example, if you will be cutting large pieces of wood in different shapes and curves, you will need a powerful saw with a high blade speed.

4. Benchtop Bandsaw

The most common type of band saw is the benchtop bandsaw, which is typically small and lightweight enough to be placed on a workbench. These saws are ideal for making quick, precise cuts in smaller sizes of wood and metal.

Benchtop bandsaws typically have 6- or 8-inch blades and can handle materials up to 2 inches thick.

While benchtop bandsaws are not as powerful as larger industrial models, they are much less expensive and easier to operate. For these reasons, they are famous among hobbyists and home workshop users.

5. Stationary Band Saw

Stationary band saws are one of the most versatile and commonly used tools in any woodworking shop. They are perfect for making quick, accurate cuts in all types of wood, including lumber, plywood, veneer, and even plastics.

There are two main types of stationary band saws: floor standing models and benchtop models. Floor standing models are larger and more powerful, while benchtop models are smaller and more portable.

Both types can be fitted with various blades to suit your specific cutting needs.

When choosing a stationary band saw, it is crucial to consider the size and power of the saw and the type of blade you will need.

With so many different options available, you can find a band saw that is perfect for any project you have in mind.

6. Horizontal Band Saw

Horizontal band saws are one of the numerous versatile tools in a woodworking shop. They can be used to rip lumber, cut joinery, and make curved cuts.

Horizontal saws have a table perpendicular to the blade, and the material is fed into the blade from the side. This band saw is best suited for cutting large pieces of lumber or making long rips.

7. Horizontal Structural Saws

Horizontal structural saws are one type of band saw used in woodworking. As the name suggests, horizontal structural saws have horizontal blade that moves up and down.

These saws are best fitted for cutting large pieces of wood, such as beams or joists.

While horizontal structural saws are primarily used in commercial settings, they can also be used in the home workshop. A horizontal structural saw is the best tool for the job if you need to cut large pieces of wood.

However, these saws can be expensive, so make sure you know what you’re doing before you invest in one.

8. General-Purpose Pivot Style Horizontal Band Saw

A horizontal band saw is a band saw with a blade mounted on a wheeled frame and can be rolled up and down to cut through the material. Horizontal band saws are typically used for cutting wood, metal, or plastic.

There are two main types of horizontal band saws: general purpose and pivot style. General purpose horizontal band saws are the most common type of horizontal band saw.

They have an expansive range of capabilities and can be used for cutting various materials. Pivot-style horizontal band saws have a blade mounted on a pivoting arm.

This allows the blade to make more aggressive cuts and is often used for cutting thicker or more challenging materials.

9. Vertical Band Saw

A vertical band saw is a cutting tool with a rotating blade on a table that moves up and down. This vertical bandsaw is typically used for woodworking or metalworking but can also be used for other materials.

Most vertical band saws have two speeds: slow and fast. The slow speed is used for cutting softer materials such as wood, while the fast pace is used for cutting more rigid materials such as metal.

Some vertical band saws also have an adjustable blade guide, which allows the user to adjust the width of the cut.

Vertical band saws are available in various sizes, from small handheld to large industrial models. Prices also vary depending on the size and features of the saw.

10. Narrow Band Saws

Narrow band saws are ideal for cutting thinner materials such as metal and plastic. They are also great for making precise cuts in tight spaces. Narrow band saws typically have a blade width of 1/8 to 1/2 inch.

If you need to form long, straight cuts in thin materials, then a narrow band saw is the tool for you. These saws can easily be cut through metal and plastic, and they are exact.

Narrow band saws typically have blades only 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch wide, so they can easily fit into tight spaces.

11. Dual Column Sawing Systems Band Saw

If you’re scrutinizing for a band saw that can handle large, thick pieces of wood, you’ll want to check out a dual-column sawing system.

This type of band saw is designed with two columns that support the blade, which means it can operate under more weight and pressure than a single-column band saw.

Plus, the dual-column design provides more stability and precision cutting.

12. Production Dual Column Band Saw

A production dual-column band saw is a type of band saw that is typically used in industrial settings. These saws are developed for heavy-duty use and can handle large pieces of material.

Production dual-column band saws are often used for cutting metal but can also be used for cutting wood and other materials.

These saws typically have two blades that run parallel to each other, making it possible to cut through thick materials.

Production dual-column band saws are usually much more significant than other band saws, making them ideal for large-scale projects.

13. Double-Cut Band Saw

The double-cut band saw is a type of band saw that has two blades that cut through the workpiece. The advantage of this band saw is that it can make exact cuts and be used to cut through thin and thick materials.

Another advantage of the double-cut band saw is that it can be used to cut curves and shapes that would be difficult to cut with a single-cut band saw.

14. Resaw Band Saw

The resaw band saw is one of the most popular types of bandsaws on the market today. This is because it is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of different projects.

Whether you need to cut through thick pieces of wood or want to make intricate cuts, the resaw band saw is up to the task.

This band saw gets its name because it can be used to “resaw” lumber. This means you can take a piece of lumber that is too thick to be cut with a standard band saw and cut it down to size with a resaw band saw.

This makes the resaw band saw an essential tool for any woodworker who regularly works with lumber.

15. Head Band Saw

There are many additional band saws on the market, but one of the most popular and versatile is the head band saw.

This type of Head saw is designed with a horizontal blade that is mounted on a rotating table. The headband saw can be used for various tasks, including cutting wood, metal, and plastic.

One of the main benefits of the headband saw is its versatility. The horizontal blade design allows for a wide range of straight, curved, and circular cuts.

This band saw is also typically straightforward to operate, making it a good choice for novice and experienced users.

Another advantage of the headband saw is its portability.

16. Floor-Standing Band Saw

A floor-standing band saw is a powerful woodworking tool that can make quick work of even the most brutal cuts. Its large cutting capacity and adjustable blade can easily handle a wide range of materials.

Whether cutting through thick lumber or delicate veneers, a floor-standing band saw can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.

There are a few things to determine when shopping for a floor-standing band saw:

Consider the size of your workspace and ensure the saw will fit comfortably.
Think about the materials you’ll cut most often and choose a saw with the appropriate blade speed and power.
Don’t forget to factor in accessories like dust collection systems and work tables to help make your band saw even more versatile and user-friendly.

17. Portable/Handheld Band Saw

Portable handheld band saws are small, lightweight, and easy to carry around, making them ideal for jobs that need cutting in tight spaces or on the go.

They typically have lower power and cutting capacity than larger stationary band saws, but they can still handle most basic cutting tasks.

Another advantage of handheld band saws is that they can be used with one hand, leaving the other hand free to support the material being cut.

This makes them ideal for cuts that require precision and control, such as making curves or tight turns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What two types of band saws can cut metal?

There are two types of band saws that can cut metal: horizontal band saws and vertical band saws. Both types of band saws have blades with very sharp teeth that quickly and easily cut through most types of metal.

Horizontal band saws are typically used for cutting larger pieces of metal, while vertical band saws are better suited for smaller pieces.

What are the top 5 best band saw uses?

The top five band saw uses are:

Cutting wood
Cutting metal
Cutting plastic
Cutting tile
Cutting stone

What are the different types of bandsaw blades?

There are different types of bandsaw blades for different purposes. Some common types are:

Standard blades: These are the most common type of blade and can be used for general-purpose cutting.
Plywood blades are designed to cut plywood and other softwoods.
Metal cutting blades: These blades are designed for cutting metals and are available in various sizes and teeth configurations.

What is the best professional bandsaw?

The best professional bandsaw is the one that can cut through the material quickly and accurately. It should also be durable and easy to operate.

What makes a good band saw?

A good band saw is one that can cut through a variety of materials with ease. It should have a powerful motor and sharp blades that can handle thick and thin wood, metal, or plastic pieces.

The table on the saw should be level, and the saw should be able to make precise cuts.

What does 14 mean on a bandsaw?

The number 14 on a bandsaw refers to the size of the blade. The larger the number, the larger the blade. A 14-inch blade is typically used to cut thicker materials like wood.

How thick can a 10-inch band saw cut?

A 10-inch band saw can cut through material that is up to 6 inches thick.

What lengths do bandsaw blades come in?

Bandsaw blades come in various lengths, ranging from 4 to 6 feet. The most common length for a bandsaw blade is 10 or 12 feet.

Can you cut metal with any bandsaw?

No, you can’t cut metal with any bandsaw. It would be okay if you had a bandsaw designed to cut metal. These bandsaws have special blades made of a rigid material that can withstand the heat and friction generated when cutting through metal.

What are band saws mainly used for?

Band saws are predominantly used for cutting wood and other materials. They can be used to cut curves or straight lines and are available in various sizes to suit different needs.

Band saws typically have two or more blades that rotate around a central point, and the speed of the blade rotation can be adjusted to suit the material being cut.

What kind of band saw blade to cut stainless steel?

There are many different types of band saw blades that can be used to cut stainless steel. The most common include carbon steel blades, bi-metal blades, and carbide-tipped blades.

Each blade type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to choose the right one for the job. Carbon steel blades are the most economical option and can be used for most applications.

Bi-metal blades are more expensive but can withstand higher temperatures and are better suited for cutting thicker pieces of stainless steel.

Carbide-tipped blades are costly but stay sharp longer and can handle the most elevated temperatures.

What type of band saw has a tilting table to cut irregular shapes?

The type of band saw with a tilting table to cut irregular shapes is called a tilt-table band saw. This band saw is versatile and can be used to cut various forms.

Are double-cut saws better than head saws?

There is no conclusive explanation to this question as it depends on the specific application and user preference.

Some people find that double-cut saws provide a cleaner, more precise cut than head saws, while others find head saws more efficient and easier to use.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual to nail which type of saw is best for their needs.

Conclusion: which type of band saw is best for you?

There are three main types of band saws: horizontal, vertical, and portable. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses. Horizontal band saws are the most accurate, but they are also the most expensive.

Vertical band saws are less accurate but much cheaper. Portable band saws are the least accurate but very convenient.

So which type of band saw is best for you? It depends on your needs. If accuracy is your top priority, then a horizontal band saw is your best bet.

A vertical band saw is a good choice if you need to save money. And if you need portability, then a portable band saw is your best option.

Ultimately, the best band saw for you depends on what material you’ll be cutting and how often you’ll be using it.

17 Different Types of Band Saws Machine for Woodworking