For those who work a lot at job sites, the best portable band saw is an obvious choice. A good handheld band saw can cut a steel pipe so straight, it will be good enough to weld. This is a common use for them in the trades.
Every time a pipefitter works, they use these. Welding is made easier and more efficient by wrapping around cut lines. Fantastic to work with when you’re a service technician doing installations. With them, you can cut anything from metal studs to rebar.
These tools also go by the name “Porta-band.” These saws are also used by carpenters. Though the price is hard to justify for home use, this beats the heck out of a cut off wheel when it comes to noise and mess.
What Is A Portable Band Saw?
Portable bandsaws are usually smaller and lighter versions of regular bandsaws that can be transported more easily.
Furthermore, some are cordless, so they can be used just about anywhere. A portable bandsaw typically costs around $200, while industrial bandsaws usually run upwards of $700.
Why Do You Need A Portable Band Saw?
There may be times when you should cut wood even if your workstation isn’t fully equipped. A portable band saw would be extremely useful in this situation. Portable band saws can make chopping on the go easier, as you will not be confined to a workspace
Woodworkers and lumbering companies rely heavily on this machine because it can cut even the hardest kinds of wood with impressive accuracy. Metalworkers can also use a band saw to cut metal and many other materials.
Top 7 Best Portable Band Saw For The Money
Here are some of the best handheld bandsaws on the market that are widely used on the job sites.
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 5-Inches
- Power Source: Battery
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: 14/18 TPI Band Saw Blade Included
- Blade Length: 5-Inches
It is easy to use and very easy to cut with this DeWalt cordless band saw. This saw is ideal for cutting brackets, metal, and other materials. This machine is more than powerful enough to do everything you need. If you are looking for the best portable band saw for metal cutting, this one is a great choice.
It has intuitive controls and a sturdy build. With relative ease, you can even use it as a small tabletop bandsaw. A centered handle position for balance and accuracy, as well as a soft, comfortable, and flexible grip, make this tool ergonomic. Additionally, there is an adjustable blade tracking knob.
By adjusting the lever, the blade can be quickly changed. Furthermore, the light emitting from the LED work light is time-delayed by 20 seconds, helping you cut more accurately and efficiently in the dark. When you use this saw to cut a lot for PVC pipe or 2 x 4 or 4 x 4 wood, you won’t be disappointed.
It is easy to handle and has a smooth cut. One-hand operation is possible, but it requires some practice.
Even though it’s a large tool, it produces clean cuts without causing crazy vibration or flying metal. Additionally, the tool includes a DeWalt brushless motor that provides long-lasting performance and durability.
Pros
- With a built-in hang hook, this base is durable
- A brushless motor with a maximum voltage of 20V
- Runs longer and can be used with all DeWalt batteries
- It includes a blade speed control
Cons
- An approximately 44-inch or 45-inch blade is needed for this saw to work properly.
2. Makita XBP02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Portable Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 4-3/4-Inches
- Power Source: Battery
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: 18 TPI Band Saw Blade Included
- Blade Length: 8-Inches
This is a portable band saw from Makita that is cordless, powerful and delivers amazing metal cutting power. Easily one of the best tools Makita has ever produced. A high-torque, powerful motor is present in the XBP02Z. Additionally, it has a small form-factor design that is lightweight and can be used for a variety of cutting uses.
The portable bandsaw is one of the most essential cordless tools you should own, according to me. In addition to its ever-growing 18V Lithium-Ion Series, Makita has the largest collection of cordless tool line in the world. Cordless band saws are ideal for cutting smooth, straight, precise cuts when you need them.
The variable speed range is considerably wider than other brands. Blades shipped with the kit are razor-sharp and hard as a coffin nail. It also cuts fairly accurately. It’s perfect for cutting pipes, fence posts, Unistrut, and other narrow and dense materials.
Material is protected and more accurate cuts are made with the adjustable foot. The variable speed dial offers six settings of no-load speed that range from 275 to 530 feet/minute. With an ergonomic design, the portable band saw is easy to use and reduces operator fatigue.
Pros
- Variable speed range is very wide
- Designed for a wide range of metal cutting tasks
- A safety switch is included
- With the 4.0Ah battery, you get decent battery life
Cons
- Weight might be a problem for some user
3. WEN 94396 10-Amp 5-Inch Variable Speed Handheld Portable Band Saw for Metal
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- Cutting Capacity: 5-Inches
- Power Source: Electric
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: 10/14 TPI Metal-Cutting Blade
- Blade Length: 5-Inches
Power and portability go hand in hand with the WEN Portable Band Saw. By using this machine, users can cut 5 inches deep and wide thanks to its 10-amp motor. Workpieces of all sizes and shapes can be processed on this machine. Blades included with the kit provide good cutting speed.
There is a lot of potential in this Bandsaw. Strong and powerful, it is built to last. Although the light is a nice addition, I wish it could be turned on and off with the trigger instead of a separate switch. I also like the variable speed. A major problem lies in its inability to properly align the front wheel.
Depending on the material to be cut, the speed can be adjusted from 60 to 420 FPM on the onboard dial. With a weight of fewer than 14.5 pounds, the device is compact and lightweight. Additionally, the handle on the front is adjustable. While working long hours, these features limit fatigue.
The saw has a decent amount of weight to it. Only the handle part of the body is plastic, as I expected the body to be mostly plastic. The LED light comes in handy if you ever need to do some pipe cutting in the dark. At less than half the cost of name-brand tools, this band saw is an excellent choice for weekend DIYers.
Pros
- Its compact and portable design makes it easy to transport
- It is powered by a powerful 10-amp motor
- Capacity to cut large amounts
- Handle on the front that is adjustable
Cons
- Good for DIYers only
4. MILWAUKEE’S Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 3-1/4-Inch
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- LED Light: No
- Blade: None
The tool cuts exceptionally fast thanks to the extreme blades that are included. The bandsaw I have is a large floor-mounted model. My cordless saw can easily cut steel and aluminum stocks that are almost an inch thick quickly and easily, much faster than my large bandsaw. This cordless unit is definitely worth getting.
Milwaukee nailed it with this tool. Make sure to get one and be amazed at its cutting ability. Bandsaws that are corded, especially those with large capacities, are terrific, but are bulky and require two hands to use. A 3.25″ capacity and one-hand operation make this a great tool.
It cuts smoothly, is easy to control, and is fast! It is a mid-sized porta band tool that I would recommend to someone looking for something similar. It is only a little on the small side and a little difficult to get a comfortable grip on the trigger lock that has to be depressed before you can pull the trigger.
There is still a bit to be done since this is a first-generation tool. Whenever I have to cut conduits of different sizes, I love this product. The product cuts through thick struts as well. A 100% return on investment can be expected. A hanging hook is included as well, and it is light for its size.
Pros
- It cuts a lot faster
- One hand capable band saw
- It is easy to control
- Good quality mid-sized portable band saw
Cons
- It doesn’t come with any blades.
5. Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 2-1/2-Inch
- Power Source: Battery
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: Included
The Ryobi One+ isn’t as expensive as comparable corded models, even though most cordless portable band saws cost 30 to 50 percent more. Cutting capacity of 212-inches is more than adequate for rebar, conduit, pipe, etc.
There is no room for an auxiliary battery because the battery sits directly in front of the handle. A Ryobi offset pommel is offered, which, according to the manufacturer, improves both cut-line visibility and comfort. With its metal-cutting blade, which cuts through plastics quickly, this tool is easy to use.
The range of its speed is impressive, ranging from 0 to 560 FMP. Although I am not pleased with the way the blades slide along the wheels and in the guides, it does the job. Also, I seem to break a lot of blades when I’m cutting 1-1/2″ pipes with heavy walls. Maybe I ask too much of the saw.
It would be great if the opening was larger. Even so, it’s a good light-duty portable band for self-service repairs. Although it’s designed to be operated with one hand, it’s too far forward in the balance for me to use it one-handed. So far, it seems to be working quite well.
Pros
- Tracking of blades can be adjusted
- It has a 2.5 in. cut capacity
- All materials can be cut quickly at 560 SFPM
- The pommel handle is integrated into the pommel
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty tasks
6. BOSCH GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 4-3/4-Inch
- Power Source: Electric
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: 18 TPI Band Saw Blade
- Blade Length: 44.875 In. Max
Bosch’s GCB10-5 Deep-Cut Band Saw gives you more control over your cutting process to cut through rebar, conduit, and other metals near spark-free and cleanly. This ensures fewer reworks, and the 10-amp saw can handle most professional-sized projects with sufficient strength.
This tool provides great performance in an ergonomic design and only weighs 14.5 Lbs., allowing for deep cutting depths of up to 4-3/4 In. An LED light illuminates the cut line as well as a saw hook for storage. The Bosch GCB10-5 comes with a saw hook that makes it easy to store the tool.
It has a bright LED light that illuminates the cutting line to assist with more accurate cutting. There are a variety of materials that can be cut precisely with Bosch GCB10-5 thanks to its 10-amp motor. Using this tool, you can cut metal tracks, threaded rods, pipes, or pipe fittings cleanly, quickly, and easily.
For greater precision, a variable speed setting lets the user alter the cut-rate according to the material. Starting at 100 feet per minute, the speed can be adjusted up to 380 feet per minute. In addition, it features an auxiliary side handle, allowing you to operate the saw two-handedly.
Pros
- Cutting is easy, fast, and clean with it
- It has a powerful motor of 10 amps
- A comfortable grip is provided by the main handle
- A tough metal can be cut with ease with this tool
Cons
- Nothing to nitpick about
7. APLMAN Band Saw 5-Inch10-Amp Deep Cut Portable Band Saw
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- Cutting Capacity: 5-Inches
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- LED Light: Built-In
- Blade: 10/14 TPI Blade Included
- Blade Length: 5-Inches
Inaccurate cuts are often helped by poor stability and balance. It is crucial to test out your tool to ensure stability while shopping. Portable band saws are particularly useful in the workplace because of their deep cutting capacity. With a weight of 22.50 pounds, the band saw is easy to handle.
In order to make it one of the most comfortable tools, the manufacturers have used the best skills. The tool is designed to maximize power and help you get the work done. An 8AMP motor powers the machine, while its speed dial is variable from 50 to close to 420 FPM.
With these features, it is among the most efficient, robust, and long-lasting tools available. The blade cutter is therefore matched to the tool’s power. Featuring a 5-inch cutting capacity, it can be used for a variety of applications. A tool’s portability should not be an issue, and the designers haven’t failed to achieve that either.
Despite its weight of 22.5 pounds, the tool is one of the lightest devices on the market. Portable band saws aren’t the only tools that contain ergonomics features, so this one stands out among many others. By doing so, perfect cuts are ensured.
Pros
- Deep cutting band saw
- It weighs 22.50 pounds
- Quick and easy blade installation
- A complete kit
Cons
- Bulky
Choosing The Best Portable Band Saw For Your Needs
It is important to understand what to look for when you are searching for a bandsaw that can cut metal or a cordless bandsaw for resawing.
Using the right band saw blade, the portable band saw can be equally effective on any material. The tool can be used to make straight or curved cuts so that it can be used to make joints, precise cuts, or decorative items.
It is important to consider a couple of things before deciding which model to invest in. People who are inexperienced tend to buy the first thing that appeals to them visually.
Choosing a model based on its popularity or price is not as important as ensuring that it offers the features you need.
Cutting Capacity
The cutting capacity of a portable band saw is one of the most important factors to consider. It may be necessary to cut materials to a particular size, thereby reducing the number of choices available.
In most cases, width and depth are the same but double-check. This is the length of the band saw blade, and also the distance between the band saw wheels on each side of the body.
The “depth of cut” is the length between the blade and the back of the frame. The smallest portable band saws typically measure 5 inches by 5 inches, while the largest models cut as much as 112 inches by 112 inches.
Power Source
Powering high-performance cordless tools has become possible thanks to battery technology. It may be possible, however, to save up to 50 percent when buying a corded portable band saw.
For cordless tools to be used all day, users typically require at least one extra battery. Whenever possible, buy an amp-hour (Ah) rate with the highest runtime rating possible when buying a spare. Corded models typically have a cable that extends around 8 feet, making an extension cord necessary.
On job sites, generators are often used, while at home, outlets are available nearby. Corded band saws are an excellent option if your budget is limited, but cordless options are also an option.
Blade Type
Most portable band saws are considered metal-cutting tools, and some are so-called. Machines usually come with a metal blade that has 14 to 18 teeth per inch (TPI). Wood-cutting blades are also available, often with a TPI of 8 to 10.
The manufacturer’s description of the material can provide useful information about its performance. The blades on cheap band saws wear down quite quickly. Always invest in quality blades.
Speed
It is most commonly written as ft/min. SFPM (surface feet per minute) is the speed being described on portable band saws. Cutting speeds range from 0-550 FPM on portable models, so they can cut a variety of different materials.
Trigger operation can sometimes be used to control variable speed. Most machines, however, have a wide range of speeds. The saw speed is controlled by a thumbwheel mounted on the handle.
Portability
Consider external dimensions as well if you are working in a confined space. Single-handed use is possible with some compact and subcompact portable band saws. The handle near the front of larger models typically provides better control, allowing users to work at various angles.
The overuse of plastics in a low-priced portable band saw can affect durability, despite aluminum and plastic components making the saw lighter. Consider that the battery weight may not be included in the specifications when calculating the weight of a cordless portable band saw. Battery weights typically range from one to two pounds.
It is obvious that size and weight are the most important factors when selecting a portable band saw. Users of DIY tools may not be concerned, but those who use them all day, primarily above their heads, are likely to opt for a tool with a smaller frame.
Extras
It is also useful to have a storage container, but they aren’t always provided. LED work lights are sometimes included with portable band saws to help illuminate dark corners.
There are often rubber bumpers installed around the exterior of wheel shrouds. The protection they provide against damage comes from the fact that they absorb day-to-day impacts.
It’s common for cordless portable saws to be sold as “bare tools,” which means they don’t come with a battery or charger. Savings can be substantial with compatible equipment but check compatibility if the tools are more than five years old.
How To Safely Use A Portable Band Saw?
Correct clothing and protective equipment must be worn when using all-electric power saws. Band saws are portable tools that you might already be familiar with. As there are various differences in tool brands and versions, it is always a good idea to read the operator’s guide.
There are two handles on a band saw. On both ends of the saw. They provide optimum control while you hold the saw and guide it. As soon as you squeeze one of the handles, the saw gets to work.
The path of the blade can usually be adjusted with a tracking adjustment on most band saws. A front-mounted tension release handle makes it easy to change blades quickly. You must support or tie down the material you are cutting to prevent it from moving during the cutting process.
Be sure you get a straight cut when you cut piping by marking it all the way around. Never overuse the saw; the saw will take its time to pass through the material. Be sure you have completely let go of the trigger before you put the saw down.
Advantages Of A Handheld Band Saw
A band saw is an excellent tool for a wide range of applications. There’s no doubt you’ll find these tools useful and worth checking out even if you’re just a casual user. Accuracy, simplicity, and compactness are the main characteristics of these machines.
Depending on the blade that is installed, they can cut either straight or curved surfaces. There is a fairly simple principle behind their operation. Located inside the casing are two wheels that rotate to drive the toothed metal strip.
The majority of models come with two wheels, but some come with more. Those seeking a more dynamic setup for a table saw should consider using a portable unit. The advantage of having one of these devices is that you can take it anywhere, so you’re never without a powerful tool.
Disadvantages Of A Handheld Band Saw
When it comes to battery-powered models, you need to be aware of certain limitations. The first complaint people have is that most battery-powered models have a predetermined amount of cuts.
Basically, every unit has a maximum number of cuts it can make, which varies based on the battery’s quality. The corded units, however, are highly versatile, but won’t yield a smooth cut.
Thus, whenever you use a band saw, there is a high probability that the piece you have cut out will need to be further processed due to rough edges.
Even though it’s considered an excellent piece of equipment for woodworkers, it usually doesn’t rank high on their priority lists because a decent table saw can provide more accurate results more often than not. A band saw, on the other hand, isn’t designed as an all-purpose machine.
Safety Tips for Using a Portable Band Saw
Using a portable band saw presents some unique challenges, but the general band saw safety guidelines can help avoid some of the potential dangers.
- Consider the place where the material will fall when it is cut. Heat is a common problem with metal materials.
- Make sure the blade tension is checked frequently. When blades are loose, they do not cut well and may even come off the wheels in extreme cases.
- While changing blades, wear gloves. However, a dull blade still has the potential to cut fingers even if it is too dull to cut metal.
- The battery should be removed, or the tool should be unplugged.
- Keep your hands firmly gripped on the tool by wearing gloves. When you are unfamiliar with a portable band saw, cut a few scraps to get acquainted with it.
- If the tool picks up and throws debris, make sure it has completely stopped before you place it down.
- Use eye protection whenever you use a portable bandsaw.
Final Words
A portable band saw is an excellent addition to any toolbox. Even if you don’t have any experience, you can easily use and figure them out.
Dedicated professionals, however, can also use them to cut thick pieces of wood and metal without worrying about tire wear or having to purchase expensive equipment. These machines are also affordable, which is another thing that makes them good.
As a matter of fact, some of them are quite expensive. Nevertheless, there are plenty of portable saws that are much more affordable and are more convenient. You should pick the best portable band saw that suits your experience and fulfills your expectations.
This is me Sonnet. I manage a full-time workshop for my clients’ woodworking projects. From a very young age, I’ve been always passionate about DIY projects. And that’s the reason I’m amicable with the woodworking tools. I’m regularly handling a couple of projects like cabinets, furniture, boats, and many more using wood, veneers, and laminates.