Anyone that runs a busy workshop will agree that it is always vital to have a reliable saw that can handle heavy-duty cutting applications.
The horizontal band saw is one such saw type. With the best horizontal band saw, you can cut everything from metal to wood and plastic.
The horizontal band saws will have the workpiece fixed, and a blade mounted on a swing arm is brought down to cut the material.
This design allows these saws to cut tougher and thicker materials than the vertical band saw.
Another benefit of the horizontal band saw is that it can make straight and precise cuts repeatedly. Also, this band saw will have smaller kerfs to ensure you get more polished cuts and minimal material wastage.
Here we look at 7 top-rated horizontal band saws and provide a buying guide to help you choose a good model.
In this post:
How to Choose the Best Horizontal Band Saw
Below you will find important things to check before buying:
1. Power
Since you will be using the horizontal band saw to cut a wide variety of materials, and for heavy-duty applications, you need to make sure the model you choose is powerful enough.
The good news is that these bands saw will come in different sizes with different power outputs. Most models will have between 1/2 and 3 horsepower motors, and here you will need to match the power to your specific projects.
For simple DIY and hobbyists projects around the home that will involve softer and thinner materials, a 1/2-horsepower model like the Jet 414458 should be more than enough.
2. Blade
The blade is the part of the horizontal band saw that makes the cuts and is hence vital. As you are considering the blade, there are several elements that you will need to take into account that includes blade speed, angle, and the number of teeth.
For the blade speed, the best horizontal band saw is one that will allow you to choose from different speed options.
And this can mean a wide speed range like the 125 to 260 FPM you get with the Wen 3975T or specific speed settings like the 80, 130, 180, and 235 FPM offered by Grizzly Industrial G0561.
When it comes to the blade angle, a good model should give you at least 0 to 60 degrees.
This wide blade angle increases the saw’s versatility by allowing you to make various angled cuts. For the blade TPI, the right one for you will depend on the material you intend to cut.
3. Table
As you choose a horizontal band saw, you need to make sure that what you buy has a spacious enough table to hold your materials.
Also, the table needs to be the right height to allow you to work more comfortably. A smooth and flat table is preferable as it will make it easier to handle the workpiece.
Horizontal band saw tables made from cast iron or solid steel are the best as they are durable enough to withstand regular use and stable enough to support the materials.
4. Guide and Vise
The guide and vise on a horizontal band saw will matter as they will play a key role at ensuring you get smooth and accurate cuts.
For the guide, you need something easy to adjust to ensure you can easily handle any workpiece size and shape. Also, the guide should be sturdy enough to ensure it will stay in place as you cut for maximum accuracy.
When it comes to the vise, different models will use varying designs and technologies. However, the most important thing is to ensure that what you get is sturdy and durable and also easily adjustable.
5. Safety Features
Given the exposed and fast-moving blade, it should be clear that the horizontal band saws will pose a significant danger to you and everyone else around you when using the saw. Hence, before settling on any model, you should check the safety features it offers.
Because the blade’s idler and guide wheels pose a significant safety threat, a good horizontal band saw should have them hidden away into the frame by metal covers. Also, a blade guard is crucial as it protects the fingers.
Since cutting tougher materials will get different parts of the band saw very hot, you need to make sure the model you choose has an effective cooling system to ensure things like the pulley system will not overheat.
Automatic shut off that will switch off the blade automatically when you finish the cut will also make the tool safer to use.
6. Portability
For those that intend to use their band saw at different job sites, its portability matters a lot as you need to be able to pack and carry it easily.
A lightweight and more compact model like the Wen 3975T that weighs just 54.6 pounds will be more portable, and you should not have any issues carrying it for different jobs.
Also, machines with rugged all-terrain wheels will be more portable as you can easily pull or push them around.
But, make sure that the wheels are lockable to ensure the machine does not move accidentally.
7 Best Horizontal Band Saws Reviewed
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Grizzly Industrial G0561 (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. Wen 3975T (Best Benchtop) |
|
 | 3. Jet 414559 (Best for Metal Cutting) |
|
 | 4. Jet 414458 (Best Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw) |
|
 | 5. Shop Fox W1715 (Portable) |
|
 | 6. Jet 414560 (Heavy-Duty for Tough Jobs) |
|
 | 7. Kaka Industrial BS-712N (For Universal Use) |
|
1. Grizzly Industrial G0561 (Best Overall)
Photo: Grizzly Industrial
- Motor Power: 1 HP, 110V
- Speeds: 80, 130, 180, 235 FPM
- Blade Size: 93 inches
With the powerful 1-horsepower and 4-speed options, which are 80, 130, 180, and 235 FPM, the Grizzly Industrial G0561 can handle almost any cutting job, whether it involves metal or wood. And because of this, it is our best overall model.
This horizontal band saw uses a 93-inch long blade that will give it more cutting capacity. When it comes to setting up for the cut, you can be confident of having an easier time thanks to the adjustable blade guides and quick-release valves. Also, these features will ensure that you get a smoother and more accurate cut.
You will never have to worry about overheating with this band saw as it will include an efficient cooling system. And durability is granted by the heavy-duty one-piece steel base.
When it comes to mobility, the cast-iron wheel with the heavy-duty bearing will ensure you have an easy time moving the saw. Many users will love that this unit has an automatic shut off for safety and that it makes uses of a highly efficient adjustable hydraulic down feed.
Blade changes on this horizontal band saw is relatively slower, but overall the process is quite straightforward, and should hence not be a big concern.
Pros:
- More powerful motor
- Heavy-duty one-piece base
- Shuts off automatically after the cut
- Quick and easy stock setup
- Efficient cooling system
Cons:
- Slow blade change
2. Wen 3975T (Best Benchtop)
Photo: Wen
- Motor Power: 4.5 Amp
- Speeds: 125 – 260 FPM
- Blade Size: 56-1/2 inches
Wen 3975T is a compact space-saving horizontal band saw that will take up less space in your workshop and is super easy to carry to different worksites. At just 54.6 pounds, this is the lightest option on our horizontal band saw review.
This band saw is more affordable and will hence be perfect for those shopping on a small budget. When it comes to the actual cutting, it allows you to make angled cuts from 0 to 60 degrees, and cutting will be easier as the onboard vise grasps the material firmly.
There are ball bearing blade guides that are designed for durability and excellent functionality and with onboard tilt knobs and blade tension for easy adjustment.
The absence of an automatic shutoff makes this horizontal band saw a little inconvenient. However, it is still not a deal-breaker as it does not affect the overall functionality.
Pros:
- Compact, space-saving, and portable
- Highly affordable
- Great for angled cuts
- Grasps stock firmly
- Durable blade guides
Cons:
- No auto-shutoff
3. Jet 414559 (Best for Metal Cutting)
Photo: Jet
- Motor Power: 3/4 HP, 115V
- Speeds: 86, 132, 178, 260 FPM
- Blade Size: 93 inches
If you are on the market for the best horizontal band saw for metal cutting, the Jet 414559 has everything it takes to be a perfect choice for you. Its 3/4 horsepower motor and 3/4-inch bi-metal blade, this band saw can hand both ferrous and non-ferrous metals with ease.
The rapid action vise on this band saw will miter up to 45 degrees to make angled cuts possible and will also help hold the stock in place firmly. Also, this saw has ball bearing guides that will help ensure smooth and accurate cuts, and the adjustable material stops will provide repeatability.
This machine will shut off automatically after the cut to ensure maximum safety. As a bonus, there is built-in storage that will provide space for keeping your accessories.
At 286 pounds, this is quite a heavy band saw, but because it has some nice built-in wheels, you should still be able to move it fairly easily.
Pros:
- Thicker and tougher metal cutting blade
- Ensures excellent repeatability
- Handy built-in storage
- Shuts off automatically after the cut
- Rubber wheels for easy mobility
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
4. Jet 414458 (Best Horizontal/Vertical)
Photo: Jet
- Motor Power: 1/2 HP, 115V
- Speeds: 80, 120, 200 FPM
- Blade Size: 64-1/2 inches
There are almost countless things that will make the Jet 414458 worth trying out. However, what makes it one of the best horizontal/vertical band saws out there is its ability to deliver smooth and precise cuts from both positions.
This band saw makes use of a thick and durable 1/2-inch blade, which works with the powerful 1/2-horsepower motor to allow it to cut a wide variety of metal types from aluminum to steel.
Adjustments are guaranteed to be easy since this band saw will include fully adjustable blade guides. With the adjustable leveling pads, the front legs will ensure you get level and accurate cuts.
The 14-gauge steel stand provides sturdy support for this band saw and is highly durable. Also, this saw has a ball-bearing supported blade wheel and ground steel worm gear that is heat-treated to ensure even longer service life.
Once you finish the cut, this machine shuts off automatically to ensure user safety. And you can be sure that it will give you an easy time when it comes to portability as it has a built-in handle and wheels.
The provided instructions do not seem that great, but the good news is that this Jet horizontal band saw is still quite easy to figure out. Furthermore, you can always get more information online.
Pros:
- Versatile and reliable vertical and horizontal cutting
- Thick and durable blade
- Heavy-duty stand
- Shuts off automatically after cutting
- Built-in handle and wheels
Cons:
- Instructions are not that great
5. Shop Fox W1715 (Best Portable)
Photo: Shop Fox
- Motor Power: 3/4 HP, 110V
- Speeds: 78, 108, 180 FPM
- Blade Size: 64-1/2 inches
A portable horizontal band saw like Shop Fox W1715 allows you to carry and use your saw from almost anywhere. What makes it highly portable is that besides weighing just 121.7 pounds, this saw includes handles and smooth-rolling wheels.
The included vise will allow you to make angled cuts from 0 to 60 degrees. This saw has been designed to make both horizontal and vertical cuts as it has a vertical cutting attachment.
Adjusting both the tilt and tension is more effortless as there is an easy-to-use adjustment system. Many users will love the ball bearing guides as they are highly durable. The band saw has an automatic shut off function for safer operation.
The legs on this horizontal band saw are not the best quality as they seem quite prone to tipping. But, you can easily do a DIY reinforcement to make them sturdier. Also, the wanting quality blade it comes with should not be a big concern as you can always order a better one with the machine.
Pros:
- Highly portable design
- Easy tension and tilt adjustment
- Makes both horizontal and vertical cuts
- Durable ball-bearing build
- Shuts off automatically after a cut
Cons:
- Legs are not the best quality
- Provided blade is poor quality
6. Jet 414560 (Heavy-Duty for Tough Jobs)
Photo: Jet
- Motor Power: 3/4 HP, 115V
- Speeds: 86, 132, 178, 260 FPM
- Blade Size: 93 inches
The Jet 414560 is a tough and durable horizontal band saw that has been designed for heavy-duty applications and will come in handy for cutting a wide variety of material including both metal and plastic.
This band saw runs on a 3/4-horsepower motor that will deliver 4 speeds options, which are 86, 132, 178, and 260 FPM for maximum versatility. To make it even more versatile, this band saw has multi-position blade guides that increase the throat capacity from 4 to 8 inches. With the larger 10 x 12 inches infeed table, this band saw will handle larger materials.
With the quick lock and tool-less vise, cutting is more effortless as you can easily set up the stock for different cutting angles. The base is designed to be as sturdy as possible and will include a handy built-in cabinet for accessories. With the 8-inch rubber wheels, it should be easy to move this band saw around.
The smaller lube tray can lead to a mess as the lube might spill into the ground. However, this is an easy problem to avoid if you monitor the machine keenly when cutting. Despite this being one of the priciest models on our horizontal band saw review, it will give you value for every buck.
Pros:
- Tough and durable build
- Increased throat capacity
- Larger infeed table
- Built-in storage
- Nice rubber wheels for mobility
Cons:
- Smaller lube collection tray
- A little pricier
7. Kaka Industrial BS-712N (Universal)
Photo: Kaka Industrial
- Motor Power: 1.5 HP, 115V
- Speeds: 89, 135, 194, 256 FPM
- Blade Size: 93 inches
Kaka Industrial BS-712N is a universal horizontal band saw that is perfect for use both at home and for a small business. Besides the universal usability, it is a powerful model with 1.5 horsepower motor that can handle a wide variety of tasks.
You can use this band saw both vertically and horizontally, which makes it even more versatile. When it comes to clamping the stock, you have an easy time with the quick clamp vise, which you can rotate from 0 to 45 degrees for angled cuts.
Fine-tuning the feed rate takes little effort with this horizontal band saw as it has a hydraulic feed. Overall this will be a safer machine to use as it has power break protection and an efficient cooling system that also helps prolong its service life.
The wheels on this band saw are not very steerable, which can give you problems when trying to move the saw. However, all it takes is to master how they move, and you will not have any issues.
Pros:
- Works for both home and commercial use
- More powerful motor
- Easy clamping and rotatable vise
- Easy to tune feed rate
- Efficient cooling system
Cons:
- Un-steerable wheels
How to Use a Horizontal Band Saw
At first, the horizontal band saw might look and feel a little intimidating, and this is more so if you are using one for the first time.
However, using it is quite straightforward and is as simple as following the steps below.
Step 1: Mark the Cut Line
Using an appropriate tool, start by marking your preferred cut line on the workpiece. Scribes can be very useful here as it will make the cut line more visible.
Step 2: Pick a Blade
Because these band saw will use a wide variety of blades, you will need to pick the right one for the material you will be cutting.
Step 3: Set Correct Vise Angle
Next, you should set the vise to the correct angle. Here you might need to set and check a few times to ensure it is perfect.
Step 4: Mount the Stock
Now you can mount the stock you intend to cut. The stock should be mounted on the vise, and you need to check and ensure you do it properly.
You do not want the stock to come free when cutting.
Step 5: Check Blade Guides
You need to check the blade guides as you are setting up for the cut. Alignment for the guides needs to be correct for smooth and accurate cuts.
Step 6: Move Saw Frame Down
Once you ascertain the stock is in place and the guides are in the right position, you should move down the saw frame down to sit just above the workpiece.
Have it about 1/4-inch from the stock.
Step 7: Select Speed
Another thing to do before you cut the stock is picking your preferred cutting speed.
Here the right speed depends on the cut you are making and the material that you will be cutting.
Step 8: Make the Cut
Finally, you can now cut, and for this, you will need to push the band saw down into the material gently.
After making the initial cut, you can adjust the feed weight if you feel that you need more pressure.
Once the cut is done, the machine will turn itself off, and you can safely remove the stock.
Conclusion
With the best horizontal band saw in your workshop, you will have a highly reliable tool for cutting most kinds of metals, wood, plastic, and many other materials. And you can be confident there is a model that will suit your specific needs on our list.
However, the Grizzly Industrial G0561 takes our top overall spot as it has a powerful enough 1-horsepower motor, hydraulic feed control, and solid overall build.
But, if you prefer a more portable and space-saving benchtop model and also do not want to spend a lot of cash, the Wen 3975T will be perfect.