By BCR Staff
March 2019
This article presents the top 10 bench top bandsaws.
Benchtop bandsaws are an ideal choice for professionals and hobbyists who don’t need a ton of cutting capacity for their work. The reduced size also makes it easier to transport and store the equipment. A smaller size certainly doesn’t mean a reduction in features as benchtops have plenty to offer. They can be used to cut a variety of materials and surface angles can be adjusted according to project requirements as well. Some units also come with additional features such as ball bearing and UV cutting guides. Whether you’re looking for the best small bandsaw for the money or a top-of-the-line product, there are plenty of options. Here are the top ten benchtop bandsaws available for purchase online.
1. RIKON 10-305
The 10” 10-305 is a mini version of the popular larger bandsaws by Recon. It has a steel frame, edge-facing thrust bearings, a 13-3/4″ x 12-1/2” cast iron (0-45 degree tilt) table, and a 3.5 amp 1/3 HP motor. The blades work at 2780 ft/min and have a cutting capacity of 4-5/8” H and 9-5/8” W. Other features of the 10-305 include safety paddle switch, 2” fence, 2-1/2” dust port and an adjustable guidepost.
2. SKIL 3386-01
The popular SKIL benchtop bandsaw has a 3 1/2” cutting capacity and a 12” x 11-3/4” table. The benchtop runs on a 2.5 amp, 120V battery and is capable of cutting through a range of materials thanks to its 6-TPI blade. The unit has a UV work light for illuminating the cut line. The table can be adjusted according to requirements. There is also a miter gauge and fence to assist with the cuts.
3. WEN 3939
The WEN 9-inch bandsaw is equipped with a 12 x 12” table and a 2.8 amp motor. Supported by ball-bearings, the blades have a speed of 2460 ft/min and a cutting capacity of 3-5/8” D and 9” W. The benchtop has 62” blades, ranging from 1/8” to 3/8”. The table can be adjusted 0-45 degrees if needed. The 3939 also comes with a blade guard, a fence for cutting support, a miter gauge, and a dust port.
4. WEN 3959
The WEN 9” 3959 model is slightly different and has 59-1/2” blades, ranging in size from 1/8 to 3/8” and capable of rotating at up to 2,500 ft./ min. The cut capacity of this benchtop bandsaw is 3-1/2” in depth and 9” in width, and a 2.5 amp motor powers it. The table is generous in size (12-1/4 x 11-7/8”) and adjustable in the 0 to 45-degree range. The bandsaw also has a rip fence to assist in straight cuts, a miter gauge, and a 2-1/2” port for the debris.
5. Grizzly G0803
Marketed as “The Cub,” the 9” G0803 has a 1/3 HP, 2.8 amp motor that rotates the blades at 2460 ft./min. The 62″ blades (1/8″ to 3/8″ in size) provide a cutting height of 3-5/8″. The table is similar in size and tilt to its competitors (12″ x 12″ in size and a tilt of up to 45 degrees). Some unique features of the cub include ball bearing blade guides and a stout carrying handle. In addition to these features, the Grizzly benchtop bandsaw also has a steel frame and doors, an LED work light, a fence, and a 2” debris port.
6. POWERTEC BS900
The 9” BS900 is an affordable unit having a 2.5 amp, ½ HP motor and an 11-3/4 x 11-3/4” aluminum die-cast table that can adjust to 45 degrees. The 62” blade has a cut capacity of 3-5/8” straight and 2” at 45 degrees. There’s a quick release lever for easy blade removal, a blade tracking window, and a wood dust removal port. However, unlike some top small bandsaws, the machine does not come with a fence.
7. WEN 3975
Designed for cutting metal, the 5” 3975 by WEN features variable cutting speeds and a compact design. The speed range (125-260 ft/min) of the 56-1/2” x 1/2“ (11 TPI) blade makes it a useful tool for cutting a wide range of metals. With round objects, the bandsaw can cut up to 5” in diameter, and with rectangular ones, it has a capacity of 5 x 4-7/8”. The angle of cuts ranges from 0 to 60 degrees. A 4.5 amp motor powers the WEN 3975.
8. Rockwell Shop Series RK7453
The 9” RK7453 is similar to the SKIL 3386-01 in shape and amperage, with both having a 2.5 amp, 120 V battery. Made from tungsten carbide, the blade is 59-1/2″ in size and has a cutting capacity of 3-1/8″ deep. The aluminum die-cast table has dimensions of 11-13/16 x 11-13/16” and angles to 45 degrees. The benchtop unit also features a rack and pinion adjustment, flexible work light, and a keyed safety switch for better security.
9. General International BS5105
This 9” band saw by General International features a 2.5 amp motor that rotates the 6-TPI blade at 2625 RPM, producing uniform cuts for a variety of hardwoods. The cutting capacity is 3-1/2”, while the table length is 11-3/4 x 11-3/4” and its angle can be changed with an adjustable rack and pinion system. The BS5105 also features a rip fence and miter gauge. Other components of the band saw include a work light, keyed safety switch, and a dust port.
10. Genesis GBS900
The 9″ GBS900 is equipped with a 2.2 amp induction motor, a rip fence and miter gauge to guide the cuts, and a rack and pinion system for a quick angle adjustment. The table is aluminum cast, and it can be adjusted 0-45 degree according to the project. Table dimensions are 11-2/5 X 11-2/5″. The unit also comes with a debris removal port and allen wrenches. According to the manufacturer, the unit is intended for indoor, amateur use.
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