Best Horizontal Band Saws With Reviews [2021]

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best overall rating★★★★★

Jet 414458 HVBS-56M

  • ½ hp powerful motor
  • Portable
  • Automated shutoff and Durable
best overall rating★★★★★

SHOP FOX W1715

  • Easy to use
  • Powerful motor
  • Has an automated shut off system
best overall rating★★★★★

Grizzly Industrial G0561-7

  • Easy to use
  • Portable
  • Offers consistent performance

Our reviews are unbiased, fact-based, and comprehensively researched to help you make the right buying decisions.

 
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When it comes to buying an excellent horizontal band saw, you may ask yourself which is the best saw for me?

Which saw would suit my needs and ensure my projects are of high quality? You don’t have to worry.

We went through the trouble of looking into the best horizontal band saws out there and ranked them.

Here are the top ten most practical horizontal band saws.

Top Horizontal Band Saws  in the Market Compared

Product Image
Product Name
Features
Price

Best Overall-Jet 414458 HVBS-56M
  • Voltage: 115/230 volts
  • Weight: 121 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Has automated shut off after cutting



Best Premium-SHOP FOX W1715
  • Voltage: 110 volts
  • Weight: 121.7 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Variable cutting speed



Best Budget-Grizzly Industrial G0561-7
  • Voltage: 220 volts
  • Weight: 343 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • comes with hydraulic feed control



Best in portability-Klutch Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw
  • Voltage: 120 volts
  • Weight: 48 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Vise for easy positioning and holding



Most versatile-Jet 414560 HVBS-712D
  • Voltage: 230 volts
  • Weight: 229 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Has a complete coolant system



Best in accuracy-Klutch Horizontal /Vertical Metal Cutting Band Saw
  • Voltage: 120 volts
  • Weight: 153 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Rocket switch that comes with a safety lock



Best in flexibility-SHOP FOX M1014
  • Voltage: 110 volts
  • Weight: 339 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Comes with a blade included



Best for beginners-JET HBS-814GH
  • Voltage: 115/230 volts
  • Weight: 444 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • convenient easily accessible control panel



Best in consistency-Jet HVBS-710S
  • Voltage: 115 volts
  • Weight: 458 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Heavy-duty iron saw



Best for professionals-JET J-3130
  • Voltage: 115 volts
  • Weight: 143 pounds
  • Power Source: Electric powered
  • Hardened oil bath


Reviews of Horizontal Band Saws

Best Overall - Jet 414458 HVBS-56M

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • DC power source
  • 115/230 voltage
  • Heavy-Duty steel gauge
  • 121 pounds
  • 37 x 17 x 41.4 inches (LWH)

Among the ten horizontal band saws we reviewed, this one emerged the best overall. Its features and capabilities give it an advantage over the others.

The Jet 414458 HVBS-5M band saw comes with a 115/230V motor, which gives you all the power you need. This machine is also equipped with a carbon steel blade that is half an inch long, which makes cutting an easy task.

It can also withstand harsh environments courtesy of its heavy-duty metal gauge stand; this means you can use it anywhere.

Precise results from this machine are what you would expect, given that the front feet are adjustable.

Your work will also be so much more comfortable with the blades running at 80, 120, or 200 surface feet per minute.

The Jet HVBS-56M is designed for durability, given the drive gear made from bronze and worm gear from heat-treated steel.

This was our best pick not just because it was affordable but also efficient and safe. It has wheels and handles for transporting hence portable.

You also gain flexibility courtesy of the swiveling vise that goes up to 45 degrees and a depth of five inches.

Pros

  • ½ hp powerful motor
  • Portable
  • Automated shutoff
  • Durable

Cons

  • It has a bad vertical cutting

This is the perfect machine for anyone looking for an affordable and efficient saw, whether a professional or a hobbyist.

Best Premium - SHOP FOX W1715

best overall rating

Key specifications:

  • Electric powered
  • ¾ HP motor (single phase)
  • 110 Volts
  • 41 x 17.5 x 14 inches (LWH)
  • 121.7 pounds

The Shop Fox W1715 is the machine to go for if you are looking for a flexible, quality tool. It comes with a ¾ HP motor that has variable speeds.

This means you get to choose your blade speed depending on what you are cutting. You could cut through dense materials by adjusting the speed levels.

The machine is also quite portable as it comes with a stand and wheels. Unlike most stands, the stand on the Shop Fox W1715 is reliable.

Check out this youtube video for a more in-depth look into the Shop Fox W1715: 

 

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Powerful motor
  • Has an automated shut off system
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Does not come with a cooling system

I would recommend this machine to contractors and business owners. The saw is pretty easy to operate, and the results are of high quality.

The price is also fair as some saws offer similar performances for a much higher price.


Best Budget - Grizzly Industrial G0561-7

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • 220 Volts
  • Blade speed of 90, 135, 195, 255FPM
  • Hydraulic feed control
  • 343 pounds
  • 18.5 x 51.25 x 42.25 inches (LWH)

This Metal cutting band saw comes with a coolant system, hydraulic feed control, and a blade brush. The feed control protects you from exhausting your muscles during operation.

It has an automated shut-off system that shuts down the machine after a cut. The cast-iron wheels come with heavy-duty quality ball bearings.

Vertical cutting abilities on this machine are one of the most significant features this product has. It also comes with a quick-release vise and adjustable blade guides.

The cooling system on this machine is also notable. It keeps your blade cool to prevent wearing off.

Pros

  • Automated shut off system for safet
  • Easy to use
  • Portable
  • Offers consistent performance

Cons

  • The cooling system is prone to failure

This is a good hand saw for someone who wants to spend a limited amount of money on a high-quality band saw. It is capable of offering great results for most saw users.


Best in portability - Klutch Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • Electric powered
  • 120 Volts
  • 40-88 speed rpm
  • Bi-metal blade type
  • 26 x 12 x 26 inches (LWH)

The Klutch Benchtop band saw is powered by a powerful 2 HP motor. It comes with a bi-metal blade that gives you variable speeds of between 130-288 FPM.

This gives it maximum versatility. Its cutting capacity offers you from 33″ to 41″ thus more flexibility.

The saw is equipped with a quick-positioning vise that makes cutting easy by holding materials in place. This machine is also designed to ensure safety; it has an automated shut off system.

Your work will also be of high quality, thanks to the precise and accurate cutting capabilities.

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to use
  • Better precision courtesy of quick-positioned vise
  • Offers variable speeds hence flexible

Cons

  • Difficulty in cutting small lengths due to vise distance from the saw

This is the ideal saw for a home metalworker looking for a reliable and affordable saw for light use around the home.

Most versatile - Jet 414560 HVBS-712D

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • ¾ HP motor
  • Blade length 93 inches
  • 1-gallon coolant capacity
  • 229 pounds
  • 48 x 17 x 44 inches (LWH)

This product is designed to offer high-quality results even in the harshest environments. The table is extendable and large enough to give you enough working area, whether vertical or horizontal.

It has a multi-position glade that enhances operation in the upright position. This is done by increasing throat capacity to 8 inches and offers safety as well.

The Jet HVBS-712D saw also comes with an automatic shut off system and ball bearing balls that are adjustable. The coolant system does an excellent job of ensuring the blades don’t heat up.

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Cut quality is great
  • You can adjust it to both vertical and horizontal
  • The table is large and convenient

Cons

  • Splashes and drips from the cooling system affect operation

If you are looking for a product with numerous features all in one machine, then I would recommend this saw.

Best in accuracy - Klutch Horizontal /Vertical Metal Cutting Band Saw

best overall rating

Key specification

  • Electric powered
  • 120 Volts
  • 21, 33, 50 rpm speeds
  • 36 x 14 x 38 (LWH)
  • 153 pounds

The Klutch Horizontal/vertical band saw comes with a powerful 3/4HP motor that has the ability to cut through anything from aluminum to steel tools.

It has a 4.6 Amp rating. A 64 half by half-inch blade offers you three blade speeds, which are 80, 120, and 200 FPM.

Mobility is also possible courtesy of the heavy-duty frame that comes with wheels.

This saw also offers you precision in your work thanks to the quick positioning vise that holds materials in place.

When working in the horizontal position, you can adjust the gravity feed cut pressure.

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Cut quality is not always good

This product is perfect for hobbyists and beginners looking to get into the craft.

Best in flexibility - SHOP FOX M1014

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • Electric powered
  • One horsepower motor
  • 110 Volts
  • Quick-positioning vise
  • Automated shutoff

The Shop Fox M1014 Metal Band saw it has both rectangular and circular cutting capabilities. This allows you to work on not only large but also small workpieces.

The compact design makes it perfect for small business owners. You could also cut vertically thanks to the vertical cutting table that comes with a miter slot.

Ball-bearing guides found above and below the table prevent wobbling or drifting of the blades during operation.

The blades are also kept cool courtesy of the large cooling system that comes with the machine.

Pros

  • Rectangular and circular cutting abilities
  • Large cooling system
  • Ability to cut materials vertically
  • Easy to operate

Cons

  • Slow blade speed

This saw would be a good choice for contractors, professionals, and hobbyists. Small business owners might also find great value in this product.

Best for beginners - JET HBS-814GH

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • Electric powered
  • 1 HP motor
  • 444 pounds
  • Gear headed drive
  • 51.5 x 18 x 44 inches (LWH)

This machine was engineered and designed for smooth operation. It comes with an easy to understand control panel. It works to ensure fast quality production courtesy of the quick speed change. The saw offers maximum torque to the blade wheel.

This is made possible by the worm gears.

The coolant system keeps the blades cool to keep them from wearing out. A self-propelled brush is also put in place to extend the blade life.

The machine also has wheels to make transportation and storage easy.

Pros

  • Easy to operate
  • Powerful motor
  • Extended blade life
  • Offers maximum to torque for better results

Cons

  • This machine is expensive

I would recommend this machine to contractors, small business owners, or anyone looking to buy a saw. The ease of operation makes this the best saw for beginners also.


Best in consistency - Jet HVBS-710S

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • 1 HP motor
  • 115 Volts
  • 93-inch blade length
  • 458 pounds
  • 50 x 21.5 x 43 inches (LWH)

This machine comes with a handle and 8-inch wheels for smooth, quick movement. The mitering head gives you from 0-45 degree angle of operation.

This product gives you maximum torque and consistency courtesy of the worm drive. It also offers you a vertical work table and a ¾ bi-metal blade.

Blade’s life is extended thanks to the reliable cooling system and the self-propelling blade brush. The Jet HVBS-710S also comes with an adjustable hydraulic down feed system.

Pros

  • It is portable
  • Offers maximum torque
  • Easy to operate
  • Reliable cooling system

Cons

  • Expensive

I would recommend this product to contractors. The high-quality result makes it perfect for projects. It is also great if your work requires moving around. Hobbyists might also find this useful.

Best for professionals - JET J-3130

best overall rating

Key specifications

  • Electric powered
  • Ground gear worm
  • Automated shutoff
  • 143 pounds
  • 37.5 x 18 x 17.5 inches (LWH)

The Jet J-3130 single-phase Dry Band saw is a well-designed product that performs well. It’s five by 8 inches horsepower offers top-notch results.

This machine comes with a basic control panel that is relatively easy to operate. It comes with an adjustable hydraulic feed system.

This machine can handle most of the jobs as it is built for performance and accuracy. It is also safe to use as it comes with an automated shutoff system that turns it off after cuts.

Pros

  • Easy operation
  • Automated shut off system makes it safe
  • Affordable
  • Portable

Cons

  • The stand is of poor quality

This product is an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to use this product for a variety of jobs.

Best Horizontal Band Saw for Woodworking

If you were looking for the best horizontal band saw wood, I would recommend the Shop Fox W1715. This machine offers you great value for your money without sacrificing performance.

It will perform admirably in any kind of work you throw at it. The powerful motor gives you the option of choosing variable rpm speeds.

The Shop Fox W1715 can also be used as a vertical unit. Operating this saw is pretty straightforward despite its sophisticated look.

It is also mobile thanks to the wheels; hence you could easily transport and store it. The wheels are sturdy and durable; thus, you won’t have to worry about replacing them.

With most models coming with a stand, the Shop Fox W1715 is no different. The stand gives the machine stability and ensures quality results during operation.

When you put the price of this saw on what you are getting, I would definitely recommend this product.

 

Best Portable Horizontal Band Saw

When looking for a saw that will go with you wherever you need to go, I would recommend the Klutch Benchtop band saw.

Coming in at 48 pounds, it is the lightest saw. This makes it favorable for moving around.

It also has a compact design that makes it easy to store. The one-year limited warranty covers the machine, which means you don’t have to worry too much about its safety.

The dimensions of the Klutch Benchtop band saw are 26 x 12 x 26.5 inches (LWH). This means that you could easily carry it in your car or store it in your garage.

If your job demands that you travel a lot, this is the saw I would recommend for you. Aside from being portable, it gives you precise and accurate cuts.

You get to have a machine that is not only convenient but also performs and offers you high-quality results.

 

FAQs

What is a horizontal band saw?

This refers to a type of saw where the cutting piece remains still while the cutting head that pivots on one end cuts into the part courtesy of gravity.

Can I cut metal with a wood band saw?

It is not recommended since extremely tough metallic materials could ruin the edges of the blade. However, there are certain thicknesses of metals you can handle using a wood band saw. Ensure you confirm with your manual first.

Why is my horizontal band saw not cutting straight?

The blade could be dull. To correct this, you would need to sharpen your blade or replace it with a new one if it is worn out significantly. A dull blade can not only make your cuts slower but also lead to crooked cuts.

What materials can a band saw cut?

It depends on the blade itself, which may come in different tooth pitches and sizes. This allows the machine to be versatile and cut various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.

What causes band saw drift?

Drift is caused when your blade buckles beneath the load. This can be avoided if you lighten the feed pressure, which means not pushing hard on the wood.

Summary

A lot has to be considered when buying a horizontal band saw, but it all comes down to your needs and budget.

Do not rush to purchase a saw because it is cheap; consider your planned tasks and your job’s nature.

This will help you settle for a model that best serves your individual cutting requirements.

Remember, at the end of the day, it is the quality of your work that matters.

So choose a saw depending on the type of work you engage in. You will find all the suitable varieties of the best horizontal band saws in this article.

About Ryan Henderson

Ryan has more than ten years of experience of writing on power tools - use, reviews, and more. During his free time, he loves cooking and spending time with his dog.

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