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8 Best Portable Band Saw Reviews 2023 | That Are Easy To Use

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Band saws get their name because of the blade like a band that goes around the saw.

 

Often you may come across awkwardly shaped materials that you can’t feed through a regular band saw or they are fixed in, or you prefer holding your saw to gain much more control with each cut.

best portable band saw

In such scenarios, you will find portable band saws to be your savior.

 

These tools are masters of accuracy, mobility, and are extremely easy to use.

 

Let me get you up to speed with everything there is to know about the best portable band saws available in the market so you can be the ultimate expert.

 

Top 8 Portable Band Saw Reviews

 

Now that you know what to keep an eye out for, finding a great portable band saw would be less headache-inducing.

 

To make it more comfortable for you, I’ve compiled a list of the best contenders present in the market.

 

The review contains pointers on why each tool on the list is worth getting and potential drawbacks that you might face, so be sure to look before making any decisions.

 

1. Milwaukee Deep Cut Portable Band Saw

This compact, powerful tool is a favorite among many mainly because it offers versatility; it’s well designed and is safe to use.

 

Milwaukee offers the option of both plastic and metal. So if you’re looking for a band saw for light usage and is easy on the arms, this band saw would not disappoint you.

 

Otherwise, the metal version is just as good and offers durability and can be used for tough jobs.

 

The motor is sturdy, and overall the tool is ergonomically designed, so you get a certain level of sturdiness.

 

A gear protecting clutch and an adjustable tool-free locking shoe offers just the right amount of safety and comfort.

 

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Pros

  • Versatile
  • Easy to use
  • Safe
  • Cordless
  • Powerful

Cons

  • Blades wobble sometimes
  • Not safe for beginners

 

2. DEWALT Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut, 10 Amp, 5-Inch (DWM120K)

Dewalt, time and time again, prove why it’s one of the leading tool brands in the market.

 

The two main features that attract me the most for this particular portable band saw are convenience and durability.

 

Great attention is paid to add little features to this tool to ensure the user faces no problems.

 

The addition of led light, speed regulation so that you can use your saw as per the material it’s being operated on, and a wonderful grip makes all the difference in how easy and comfortable to use this tool is.

 

The 10 amp motor can withstand heavy-duty work and can perform quick and easy cuts.

 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Convenient
  • Durable
  • Ergonomic design
  • Powerful

Cons

  • No safety lock
  • Expensive for light loads

 

3. BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw

This portable band saw can be a handy man’s best friend due to its small size and compactness.

 

However, don’t be fooled by its small size; even though it is light in weight, BOSCH does not compromise performance.

 

It’s fast, powerful, and smooth to handle. As the band saw is corded, it offers longevity and continuous usage, which might not be possible with battery-operated band saws.

 

Another factor that makes it better than battery-operated portable handsaws is that it’s much lighter in weight.

 

Even though it offers the spark-free operation, which takes away a major chunk of risk of accidentals, it still doesn’t offer a safety lock.

 

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Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Small in size
  • Smooth handling

Cons

  •  No safety Lock
  • Runs out of battery

 

4. Milwaukee 6232-21 Deep Cut Band Saw

Milwaukee offers great competition for other brands; its portable band saws stand out from the rest because they offer most in terms of a powerful motor while at the same time offer superior quality in all other aspects as well.

 

These band saws are so high functioning that industrial usage is no hassle for them.

 

This band saw has exclusive Jobsite armor that makes it far more durable thanks to the long-lasting protection it provides.

 

You can achieve great accuracy as the tool tends to absorb high impact forces. The only downside for this kit is that you have to get the blades separately.

 

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Pros

  • Powerful
  • Durable
  • Unique in design
  • Accurate

Cons

  • Blade not included
  • Not for beginners

 

5. Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw

Makita will always have the first mover’s advantage when it comes to battery-operated tools. This portable band saw is one of the elites.

 

You can count on this tool as it won’t run out of power easily. In terms of performance, it offers quick and clean cuts, whether its wood or metals.

 

You also get to regulate speed according to your liking, which saves battery life and always prevents excessive wear and tear.

 

It’s really difficult to find a flaw with this tool as it has a safety switch designed to optimize user comfort.

 

The feature that stood out the most for me was the protection circuit, which can alert the user in the over-torque motor operation.

 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON

Pros

  • Durable
  • Safe
  • Versatile
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • A bit on the heavier side
  • Quite expensive

 

6. Milwaukee 2429-21XC M12 Cordless Sub-Compact Bandsaw Kit

Promise, I’m not a Milwaukee stan; the amount of versatility that they offer in terms of portable band saws makes it impossible to resist mentioning their company again.

 

This portable band saw, however, is truly one of its kind. It lives up to the portability factor as it’s the only band saw that comes in a size that is this small and lightweight.

 

If you lack upper body strength, your limbs are going to thank you for choosing this band saw.

 

This masterpiece is made for a one-hand operation, which is a completely foreign idea in this industry.

 

However, you might want to overlook this option if you intend to cut bigger diameter cuts.

 

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Pros

  • Portable
  • Compact
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Limited to smaller diameter cuts

 

7. DEWALT 20V MAX* Portable Band Saw, Deep Cut, (DCS374B)

Be it straight or angled cuts, this tool can offer industrial level performance on all kinds of materials such as angle iron, pipe, wood, etc.

 

The remaining features are similar to previous band saws. It has an led light, rafters hook, and offers superior control as you can regulate speed.

 

Its battery-operated and is said to offer 150 cuts in a single charge, which is sufficient for mediocre usage.

 

The battery life lasts for 30 minutes only, which didn’t impress other battery-operated options of portable band saws available in the market.

 

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Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Deep cut
  • Reliable

Cons

  • The battery needs to be bought separately.
  • Battery life is limited

 

8. WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw

The WEN 94396 is one of the buff options in portable band saws. It offers wide diameter cuts up to 5 inches wide and deep, specifically designed for metals.

 

So if the majority of your work is related to wide metal cutting, this band saw is a great option.

 

It also offers a variable speed to be used for other materials as well without quick depreciation.

 

The design itself ensures that the user is comfortable; however, you may need a lot of muscle strength to lift this bad boy as it’s powerful and heavy.

 

CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON

Pros

  • Powerful
  • Easy to use
  • Good grip
  • Large Cutting Capacity

Cons

  • Bulky

 

Buyer’s Guide For Portable Band Saw

 

There are some imperative things that must always be kept in mind to find a portable band saw that suits your needs well.

 

When looking for tools, it is common to get lost in jargon and complicated features. This buyer’s guide is made to eliminate confusion and simplify all important points to consider.

 

Pay close attention to the following factors, and you’re sure to find an appropriate choice of the portable band saw for yourself.

 

Weight

 

Don’t disregard the weight of a portable band saw. While you may come across both heavy and lightweight options, it’s pertinent to remember that you would need to lift the band saw to use it.

 

Hence it’s directly related to the average duration of your projects.

 

A heavier band saw coupled with projects that require nonstop usage for long durations can put a strain on your arms and can lead to very uncomfortable working experience.

 

Make sure that you test out the weight of the band saw before purchasing so you don’t regret it later on.

 

Corded or Battery Operated

 

If you intend on using your portable band, saw only at your workshop or at home, having a portable corded band saw wouldn’t prove to be a problem.

 

Don’t forget to assess the length of the cord either because a longer cord is always better.

 

However, if you frequently need to move around and have to carry out projects where the chances of availability of an outlet are minuscule, a battery-operated option would be suitable.

 

If you’re considering buying a battery-operated portable handsaw, pay attention to the number of cuts it can perform within a single charge as well as the time it takes to recharge again.

 

Design

 

The material utilized to make the band saw, as well as the design, determines the quality of your tool. The market provides a range of portable band saws made of materials from plastic to metals.

 

While plastic band saws are a bit lighter in weight, band saws manufactured in metal are always preferred as they are more durable and high functioning.

 

The design and ergonomics prove how sturdy the portable band saw is and can help in figuring out the level of accuracy and ease to use they offer.

 

Don’t forget to check the availability of spare parts and blades of your portable band saw of choice as you might need to replace them in the future.

 

Easily found spare accessories can be helpful as you can continue to use the same tool for a very long time. Otherwise, you will have to replace the entire tool, which can be costly and a hassle.

 

Safety Features

 

Portable band saws are dangerous tools, especially if they come without any safety features.

 

Your chances of accidents and injuries increase as in the absence of a safety lock; you could start the band saw and get hurt.

 

Thus the inclusion of a safety lock is pertinent for safe usage.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can a portable band saw cut wood?

 

This deep-cutting portable band saw is an invaluable tool for any workspace – allowing you to effortlessly slice through a range of materials such as wood, plastic, metal and much more. Not only that but the adjustable cutting depth allows it to excel in tackling even large objects like rebar and pipes.

 

Are band saws worth it?

 

Working with thicker timber can be quite the challenge – but a bandsaw makes it a breeze. For small jobs involving one inch or two inch pieces, you’ll find hand saws to be more efficient. But if you’re looking bulk up your projects and tackle those thicker planks of three and four inches, then you might want to invest in some serious cutting power: A band saw.

 

What is the most useful saw to own?

 

The table saw is a must-have if you’re looking to tackle any major project in your shop. But, the Miter Saw offers something truly special – with its highly specialized cutting capabilities this tool can slice through wood like butter. It’s perfect for precision projects that call for exact measurements and sure beats doing it by hand.

 

Why can’t I cut a straight line with my band saw?

 

When troubleshooting a cutting machine that isn’t producing accurate results, check the rear guide – if it’s touching the blade even when not in use then chances are it has been set too close to its forward position. This can be detrimental to cuts by forcing your blades away from their natural alignment with the wheels.

 

What should I look for when buying a band saw?

 

Here are some things you need to keep in mind when you shop for a bandsaw.
  • Open or Closed Stand. All 14″ saws either sit on an open stand, or a closed, cabinet style stand
  • Frame Style. Most saws will have a cast iron frame
  • Motor Size
  • Wheels
  • Trunnions
  • Blade Guides and Thrust Bearing
  • Upper guide assembly
  • Cutting Speed

 

Conclusion best portable band saw

 

I hope the buyer’s guide and reviews helped provide market insight.

 

Be sure to take another look at the buyer’s guide before making any decisions, so you don’t have any regrets later.

 

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