Best Bandsaws for Resawing (Definition, Types, And Selections)

The bandsaw is a powerful and essential power tool for every woodworker. If you need to resaw, the bandsaw is the perfect tool for you.

If you have the perfect bandsaw, you can have a perfect and smooth cut every time.

The reason everyone loves this tool is that it is the most versatile tool of all. You can cut curved shapes or any type of odd or irregular design perfectly using this saw.

But you need to remember some basic features of the best quality product for buying a bandsaw for you.

We’ve searched for the best bandsaw so you can choose the right bands for your best products! This article is for you. You can learn more about the Bandsaw review process here.

And if you’re new to this field this buying guide will help you to know almost everything about bandsaw.

What is Band Saw

The bandsaw is the smoothest cutting tool. You can use this tool to cut any curves or irregular or odd shapes. Besides, a bandsaw can rip lumber into thin pieces.

From inside, a band saw has a wheel & pulley setup. The downward action of these wheels set the blade in a motion which helps to have a smooth cut. Because of this downward-cutting action, using a band saw is safer than a table saw.

Bandsaws also come in the size of small bench-top models. This model is more affordable and needs less space to set up.

There are Two Kinds of Bandsaws for Resaw

• Horizontal Bandsaw.
• Vertical Bandsaw.

Name	Details
Horizontal Bandsaw	The bandsaw is ideal be utilized to manage bigger wood pieces. It can make slices through each sort of material. It is the most usually utilized for business projects and is anything but an ideal fit for locally situated workrooms.
Vertical Bandsaw	It serves obvious cuts and more decent pieces of wood. You can’t even use it to remove every condition of your piece of wood like a bandsaw. In addition, it is a part less powerful and you should be very careful to make a few precise cuts using this type of bandsaw.

Who Needs a Band Saw

If you have to work with thicker lumber or need to make curved cuts in wood, a band saw is an ideal tool for you.

Even if you want to make a relief cut or cross cut or want to cut square corners or have to make chair legs, a band saw is the only solution.

You can also resaw or rip lumber into thinner pieces. They are perfect for cutting any irregular shapes smoothly. They are capable of taking different blades so band saws are a kind of multitasking power tool.

You can use a band saw for home or commercial purposes as they are available for every budget.

Read More: Finding the Best Dab Torch – 10 Picks Reviewed

What to See During a Bandsaw for Resawing

If you’ve decided to buy a new band saw and are confused about how you can choose the right one, you can follow this part. Here I’ve highlighted some must-have features of a good-quality band saw.

Power

The power of the motor indicates how effective the band saw is.

There are hundreds of models available in the market with different power ranges. Some are good enough for different cuts but difficult to use for resawing.

Because of the resawing, you need to rip the board across its widest point. This needs more power than an average bandsaw can provide.

So look for a band saw with 1 horsepower to make more curvy or odd cuts. You’ll find band saws with a motor of 1 ¼, 1 ½, or even two horsepower.

Select the one which can serve your purpose best.

Throat Capacity

The throat capacity of a bandsaw means the size distance between the saw table and the top blade. For the resawing purpose, you need a minimum throat capacity of 8 inches or more.

But you can get a saw with a throat capacity of 4- 5 inches if you don’t have to use it for resawing.

Guide Wheels

The wheels of your bandsaw also have an influence on its performance. If you have a saw with heavy wheels, you’ll have more momentum and inertia behind the blade which helps you to have easy cuts.

So check the material of the wheels before buying. You’ll find wheels made of different types of materials, aluminum or cast iron. Aluminum-wheeled band saws are lighter and cheaper. Whereas, cast iron wheels are heavy and only found in good-quality band saws.

Variable Speed

If you buy a band saw with variable speed, it will be a great asset for resawing. Because for resawing, you need a slow cutting speed. Only this type of speed can give you a steady and smooth cut.

For other complicated cuts, you can switch back to the high speed and make faster, cleaner, and more accurate cuts.

Blade Guide

If you buy a band saw with a blade guide, it will ensure that it will prevent your blade from turning and it will also stay true and square to the cutting table. The guides are placed on each side of the blade to keep its movement right and straight.

Good quality band saws have 2 sets of the guide, one is above the saw table and another one is under the saw table.

There are two types of blade guides in the market, one is made from sealed bearings and another one is made from ceramics. Bearing guides are older versions and more durable than modern ceramic guides.

Fence System

If you have to do a lot of resawing, your saw must have a fence. Without it you may end up with an unsatisfyingly poor result.

A bandsaw fence is stable, and strong and sits around the blade. You also need to check the height of the fence. If the fence is high enough to the height of the timber you’re going to resaw.

Dust Collection

Having a dust port in your bandsaw can make a huge difference. If you have to work with wood dust, ports can save you from getting messy. It will collect all the dust made by sawing or cutting.

You find band saws with 2 ½ or 4 inches of dust ports. You can buy one with a bigger dust port which will collect more mess you’ve made daily.

Bevel Capacity

The bevel capacity of the bandsaw plays a crucial role in making complicated cuts. This allows the band saw table to tilt to create beveled cuts. The best quality bandsaw has a bevel capacity of 45 degrees and other offers only 10 degrees. If you’re looking for advanced operation, bevel capacity is a must.

Tips for Resawing

If you’re able to find the best band saw to complete your project, you can start right away. But to have a nice and perfect finish, you can follow these simple tips-

Choose the Right Blade

To get a perfect resaw cut, you should replace the blade that comes with the saw and set a specially designed blade.

For resawing, you need a blade with 3 or 4 teeth per inch and those teeth must have a hook configuration of 5- 10 degrees.

Blade with this type of tooth is able to clear the waste very efficiently. These hooked teeth can also make aggressive cuts through material quickly.

Tension

You also need the right tension to resaw your workpiece smoothly and quickly. To get the right tension, you need a few more than it needs for removing the blade wobble.

When you get the right point, increase the tension to ¼ turn and you’re ready to resaw.

Adjust the Fence

Adjusting the fence angle will also help you to have a nice and smooth resawing finish. And if your fence is not enough for the blade drift, you need to replace it with the right one.

Quick Solutions

What Does Resaw Mean on a Bandsaw?

A resaw may be a large band saw optimized for cutting timber along the grain to scale back larger sections into smaller sections or veneers. Resawing veneers requires a right blade – commonly 2 to 3 inches (52–78 mm) – with a little kerf to attenuate waste.

Is Resawing on a Bandsaw Better Than on a Table Saw?

When it comes to precision and control, many woodworkers prefer bandsaw vs table saw for resawing. The thin blade of a bandsaw creates less waste and allows for intricate cuts, which is perfect for resawing thin slices from a board. However, a table saw is better for straight, consistent cuts.

Do I Actually Need a Bandsaw?

If you simply work with one-inch timber, maybe the odd little bit of two, then you will not need a bandsaw; hand saws are very efficient at ripping that thinner stuff. But if you’re employed tons of 2, 3, and 4 inches, then you’ll know what employment it is often.

What Size Bandsaw Do I Really Want for Resawing?

To begin with resawing, I suggest a band saw of adequate power and with an enormous profundity of cut. Any engine more modest than 1hp and profundity of cut under 10-inch will restrict your adequacy.

What Cutting Edge Is Best for Resawing?

Resawing includes making rip cuts even with a wide board. So very much like you would on the table saw, you’ll need to choose a sharp edge with fewer teeth per inch (TPI) than the edges you utilize for crosscutting or cutting bends. For generally 14-inch band saws, a 1 ⁄ 2-inch wide sharp edge with 2 to 3 TPI is a decent choice.

What Is the Difference Between a Bandsaw and a Resaw Bandsaw?

Re-switching the bands along the re-swing is to cutting a wooden saw board into a thinner board in a band. In this method, the slice passes through the width of the board, which detects band resizing from ordinary bandsaw rip slices where the sharp edge passes through the thickness of the stock.

View Our Recommended Top 10 Bandsaw for Resawing-

1. RIKON 10-324TG 14″ Bandsaw featuring 13″ Resaw Capacity

• Voltage: 115 Volts;
• Wattage: 1125 watts;
• Horsepower: ‎1.50;
• Blade Length: ‎29 Inches;
• Weight: ‎215 pounds. 

This is a mighty beast band saw, most suitable for woodturning shops where you need to cut large stocks on a regular basis. This machine is equipped with a powerful motor, the most powerful one you can find at this price. So that you can use this saw on a commercial basis.

Blade changing is easy with this saw due to its quick-release tension. This saw does not vibrate, so precise cutting is ensured. I had to go slow with hardwood, while resawing thick stocks but the finished result is evenly cut-out thin slices of maple wood.

All the parts and accessories are of great quality of this machine, just the fence seemed a bit flimsy. The price is also okay considering its advancement and power. For heavy-duty resawing, this machine is absolutely perfect.

Things We Liked

• Powerful motor;
• Sturdy construction;
• Suitable for heavy-duty applications;
• Quick changing blades.

Things We Didn’t Like

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2. DEWALT 20V Portable Band Saw (Model No DCS374B)

• Motor: 20v;
• Blade Length: 44-⅞”;
• Blade Width: ⅛  inches (minimum);
• Cutting capacity: 5’’;
• Purpose: cutting metal.

This saw is the best in terms of portability and affordability. It is manufactured by DEWALT, so its quality and performance are meant to be the best for professional use. If your profession requires a handy bandsaw that can be taken around from one job site to another, then this beast would be your perfect choice. With its 5’’ cutting capacity, most of the work of your job site should be accomplished.

Even in its small dimension, a built-in LED, variable speed, and safety lock button are incorporated. The blade change is toolless also. Of its small size, people usually mistakenly order smaller blades for sawing purposes. The DEWALT DW3984 24 TPI Portable Band Saw Blades are the perfect fit for this bandsaw. Be sure before ordering it.

This saw performs its best for cutting metals. Technically, you should be able to cut wood with this too, after choosing the right blade. But I would recommend using a separate one for that purpose if you need to cut a considerable amount of wood materials.

Again, don’t forget that it is battery-operated, you must consider the cost of the battery and a charger if you don’t already own one.

Things We Liked

• Affordable;
• Comes with LED;
• Long-lasting motor;
• Cordless and portable;
• Variable speed.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Limited capacity.

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3. DEWALT Portable Band Saw (DCS371B)

• Motor: 20v;
• Weight: 10.2 pounds;
• Cutting capacity: 2-1/2 inches;
• Purpose: cutting metal.

Another portable addition to our list is this DEWALT DCS371B band saw. It costs close to the Dewalt one, but you don’t have to buy a battery or charger separately as it is electric. So, it is a more cost-effective solution for resawing.

This machine is ideal for metal cutting specifically. For metal pipes up to 2-1/2 inches in diameter, this machine is incredibly smooth and silent while cutting. It is sturdy, powerful, and efficient. A built-in LED is attached to it to illuminate your workpiece so that you can cut more confidently and precisely.

The longest warranty is offered for this saw, amongst all the band saws we have reviewed in this list. So, the choice is yours, its long warranty ensures a long life of this bandsaw.

Things We Liked

• Long warranty;
• Quiet operation;
• Comes with a case;
• Portable. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

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4. JET-14-Inch Steel Frame Bandsaw Kit (Model No 714400K)

• Motor:  1-3/4HP;
• Weight: 300 pounds;
• Blade length: 116”
• Cutting capacity: 13”;
• Table dimension:  360 square inches;

Purpose: resawing wood, slicing veneers, and cutting book-matched panels.

With lots of adjustment facilities, this saw will give you all the flexibility you want for doing your resawing jobs peacefully. The JET 14” Bandsaw also features over 13 inches of resaw capacity and dual 4-inch dust ports for maximum dust collection efficiency. 

It has a wide range of blade compatibility; so, you can install blades of different thicknesses and lengths for cutting different materials. Only one thing is lacking in this saw, which is a fence. I usually recommend my clients to order Kreg fences with this saw so that they can get a combo of a saw and a fence with superior durability.

This saw it for heavy-duty purposes and very heavy as well. You will need a hand to lift it to set it on the included stand. It is pricey too, but that shouldn’t keep you from ordering this beast especially if you intend to use it commercially.

Things We Liked

• High quality;
• Long warranty;
• Comes with a dust chute;
• Cuts accurately and cleanly. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No variable speed.

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5. Grizzly Industrial 14-Inch Bandsaw Edition, (Model No G0555)

• Motor: 1 HP motor, pre-wired 110V / 220V compatible, single-phase;
• Max cutting height: 6″;
• Cutting capacity at throat: 13-1/2″;
• Table tilt: 45 deg. right, 15 deg. Left;
• Blade size: 92-1/2″ to 93-1/2″;
• Blade speeds: 1500 & 3200 FPM;
• Includes 3/8″ blade, extruded aluminum fence & miter gauge
• 14″ x 14″ table.

The good thing about less popular brands is, they manufacture quality products (most often) and keep those in an affordable range. This band saw from Grizzly is like those products that meet the highest requirements within a reasonable price. Its high cutting capacity is enough to run a medium-range shop or demanding hobbyist.

I found some features like two-speed settings and two dust collection ports really mind-blowing that these are absent even from the pricier models on our list. Its blade release is fast and convenient; so, you can switch blades hassle-free.

All the accessories included with this saw are of high quality except the blade and fence. Consider those as non-existent and order better quality for quality resawing. This machine is not cheap; considering its cutting capacity, it is cheaper than other leading brand bandsaws.

Things We Liked

• Quick-release blade tension lever;
• Heavy-duty stand & cast-aluminum wheels w/rubber tires;
• Cast-iron frame;
• Precision-ground cast-iron table;
• Comes with 4 dust ports.

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

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6. WEN 3959T 2.5-Amp 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw

• Amperage: 2.5A;
• Speed: 2500 FPM;
• Throat: 9 Inches;
• Cutting Depth:  3-1/2 Inches;
• Work Table Size: 12-5/16 x 11-7/8 Inches;
• Blade Length: 59-1/2 Inches;
• Blade Width: 1/8 to 3/8 Inches.

In a word, this machine is cheap, poorly made, and needs some adjustment to work properly. So, if that’s not your cup of tea, this bandsaw is not for you. For DIYers or occasional hobbyists on a super tight budget, this bandsaw is useful for its price.

First of all, you need to adjust both of the tension wheels to set up any blade properly. This is the most challenging task of this saw. There is no guide on the wheels to let you know where to set the blade, that is a real problem, and setting up a guide by yourself is the only solution.

There are two speeds of this toy, both are slow for moderate-level usage. Besides, it can only cut small pieces of up to 6 inches. Surprisingly, the 2.5-amp motor rotates the included 1/4-inch blade at up to 2500 feet per minute. Overall, this saw will not withstand regular use. For the price, its lack of quality is alright.

Things We Liked

• Cheap price;
• Large table;
• Adjustable dust collection chute;
• Variable speed.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Minimal cutting capacity;
• Setting up the blade is difficult. 

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7. Grizzly- The Best 17″ Bandsaw (Model No G0513X2)

• Motor: 2 HP;
• Weight: ‎421 pounds;
• Blade length: 4 Inches;
• Voltage: 110 Volts;
• 2 blade speeds: 1700 & 3500 FPM;
• Table dimension: 21 x 30.25 x 81.5 inches;
• Number of Teeth: 24.

Unlike other top-brand bandsaws, even the miter gauge, fence, and included blade are of high quality of this bandsaw from Grizzly. Even with the pricy saws, often the blade or fence needs to be replaced with a better one to initiate operation; resulting in spending more on attachments. However, this 17-inch bandsaw is made with care and caution; and the manufacturer was desperate to ensure the quality to the tiniest bits.

The table is more spacious than other similar-size models and the cutting capacity is also higher compared to similar power bandsaws. Besides, a sturdy stand with a convenient cabinet comes with this machine. During operation, the motor does not produce any vibration or noise.

Among its two speed settings of 1,700 & 3,500 FPM, you can choose depending on the cut or material you are using. For regular hassle-free use, this saw is a must-have for medium to heavy applications.

Things We Liked

• High cutting capacity;
• Durable construction;
• Vibration-less operation;
• Suitable for professional applications. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

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8. Rikon 10-306110 in. Steel Frame Band Saw

• Motor: 1/2 HP;
• Weight: 82.8 pounds;
• Blade length: 70.5 Inches;
• Blade Speeds: 1515 or 3280 ft/min;
• Table Tilt: 5 degrees left, 45 degrees right;
• Batteries: ‎1 Lithium-ion battery is required;
• Overall Size: 34-1/4” H x 21” W x 16-1/4” D.

This saw is a good option to replace the old bandsaw you have been using for a long time. Because, that way, you already have the miter gauge, fence, and blade you need; you don’t have to buy separately those. This bandsaw is a good one but lacks those attachments. To make the most of its affordable price, that’s the best alternative. If you are willing to pay extra for those accessories then that’s fine also.

The best thing you will surely agree with is its oversized table. The biggest on our list. If you are already resawing, then you must know how important it is to have a bandsaw with a spacious table. To cut wood and metal there are two-speed settings of  1,515 FPM and 3,280 FPM. 

For me, the absence of micrometer adjustment for the blade guide was an issue. But that can be solved by adjusting the lower wheel of this saw. If you need to change blades very often, then it is really a problematic chore. Other than that, the power and performance of this bandsaw suffice demanding applications.

Things We Liked

• A huge dimension of the table;
• Adjustable lower tire;
• Runs quiet and smooth;
• Dust port for shop vacuum hookup;

Things We Didn’t Like

• Changing the blade is not easy;
• No rip fence, miter gauge included.

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9. Rikon Bandsaw, 10-Inch (Model No 10-305)

• Motor: ⅓ HP;
• Weight: 76 pounds;
• Blade length: . 70-½’’;
• Blade thickness:  ⅛’’ – ½’’;
• Cutting capacity: 4-⅝ inches;
• Table dimension: 13-¾ -Inch x 12-½ -Inch;
• Purpose: cutting metal.

This one is literally a miniature version of large 14-inch band saws of the same manufacturers. According to the advertisement, its quality has been improved even better than the large ones. My realization about this bandsaw is, its power and cutting capacity are limited; so, no matter how good its quality has improved, you need to be happy with its limited capacity.

The advantage of a smaller saw is, it takes up less space than a DIYer’s workshop and is easier to move and store when, not in use-these are the features you should be looking for if you are planning to purchase one bandsaw for occasional use only.

This machine has a long operating life as it comes with a long warranty option. The blade setting and replacement are very easy. Besides, the included 2-½ -Inch dust port is quite efficient to collect most of the dust, leaving your workplace tidy. The price is also budget-friendly, just be sure to have a miter gauge to operate this saw.

Things We Liked

• Long warranty;
• Easy blade adjustment;
• Effective dust port;
• Economical price.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Not for hardwood and metal.

Read More: Plate Compactor

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10. Grizzly Industrial G0948 10″ 1/2 HP Bandsaw

• Motor: 1/3 HP, 120V, single-phase, 2.8A;
• Table size: 12″ x 12″ x 5/8″;
• Table tilt: 0° – 45° right;
• Base to table height: 13″;
• Cutting capacity/throat: 9″;
• Maximum cutting height: 3-5/8;
• Blade speed: 2460 FPM;
• Weight: 42 lbs.

I don’t prefer breaking banks as a beginner tool or an experimental DIY project. This saw from Grizzly will save you from spending bucks on unusually powerful bandsaws that are overpowered compared to your requirement.

This saw is a benchtop one, meaning you can carry it with one hand and work anywhere with it. The cutting capacity won’t let you throw anything more than 9 inches to this saw. That may be enough for a miniature project.

It has a LED to let you work more precisely and the included vacuum and dust port are useful to keep your workpiece clean of any debris and dust. Only one speed of 2,460 FPM is set in this machine; so, be cautious while cutting wood. You need to go slow with any wood. It is a limited-capacity machine, hence hard materials will be too tough for it.

Things We Liked

• Laser sight adjustable;
• Fence adjustable for blade lead;
• Ball-bearing blade guides;
• Quick-release blade tension lever.

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

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Conclusion

So, if you’re planning to buy a band saw for your workshop or home use you can consider the features and the list I’ve mentioned earlier.

But remember, never buy a power tool only considering your budget.

Because the best tool costs more.

If you buy the cheapest one it will wear out very soon.

But if you buy the best quality bandsaw by adding a little bit more money you’ll be able to have amazing finishing and it will last for a long time.

And if you’re new to woodworking, my resawing tips will help you.

Want to know more about power tools?

Write to me, I’ll try to cover your topic soon.

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