7 Best Horizontal Band Saws -2023 [Reviews & Top Picks]

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Are you planning to cut lengthy workpieces? If you are, you should consider getting a horizontal band saw. Even though this type of band saw can be somewhat pricey, it can assure you of a good return on investment.

But the biggest headache is when you are looking for the best horizontal bandsaw. The challenge here is that there are possibly thousands of horizontal bandsaw models out there from different brands. So, settling for one can be a real challenge.

When selecting a specific horizontal bandsaw, it is not always about going for the most popular model. Rather, you should choose one that meets your project needs accordingly.

We understand how challenging it can be to shop for one, which is why we came up with this article to help you.

Editor’s ChoiceGrizzly Industrial G0561.

Reasons: Has good value for money, excellent power delivery, decent cutting capacity, sturdy construction, auto-shutoff after the cut.

Most Favorite Horizontal Band Saw Models Comparison 2022

Reviews
Best Overall
Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw, 7 x 12-Inch
Best Budget
WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw
Most Variable
KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Bandsaw, 7 X 12" Metal Cutting Band Saw,4 step blade speeds by pulley wheel driven, Metal Horizontal Band Saw, metal cut band saw with 1.5HP motor 115V / 230V 1PH
Customer's Choice
JET 9" x 16" Step-Pulley Horizontal Bandsaw, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (HBS-916)
Product Title
Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw, 7 x 12-Inch
WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw
KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Bandsaw, 7 X 12" Metal Cutting Band Saw,4 step blade speeds by pulley wheel driven, Metal Horizontal Band Saw, metal cut band saw with 1.5HP motor 115V / 230V 1PH
JET 9" x 16" Step-Pulley Horizontal Bandsaw, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (HBS-916)
Customer Rating
Prime Status
-
-
-
Item Weight
343 Pounds
54.6 pounds
392 pounds
706 pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH
220 Volts
29.5 x 18.82 x 15.91 inches
50 x 20 x 45 inches
68 x 22 x 41 inches
Best Overall
Reviews
Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw, 7 x 12-Inch
Product Title
Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw, 7 x 12-Inch
Customer Rating
Prime Status
-
Item Weight
343 Pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH
220 Volts
More Details & Price
Best Budget
Reviews
WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw
Product Title
WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw
Customer Rating
Prime Status
-
Item Weight
54.6 pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH
29.5 x 18.82 x 15.91 inches
More Details & Price
Most Variable
Reviews
KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Bandsaw, 7 X 12" Metal Cutting Band Saw,4 step blade speeds by pulley wheel driven, Metal Horizontal Band Saw, metal cut band saw with 1.5HP motor 115V / 230V 1PH
Product Title
KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Bandsaw, 7 X 12" Metal Cutting Band Saw,4 step blade speeds by pulley wheel driven, Metal Horizontal Band Saw, metal cut band saw with 1.5HP motor 115V / 230V 1PH
Customer Rating
Prime Status
-
Item Weight
392 pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH
50 x 20 x 45 inches
More Details & Price
Customer's Choice
Reviews
JET 9" x 16" Step-Pulley Horizontal Bandsaw, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (HBS-916)
Product Title
JET 9" x 16" Step-Pulley Horizontal Bandsaw, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (HBS-916)
Customer Rating
Prime Status
Item Weight
706 pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH
68 x 22 x 41 inches
More Details & Price

7 Best Horizontal Band Saw Reviews

The power tool market is filled with a whole lot of horizontal-vertical bandsaws. However, here are seven models we think would be a good pick to meet your different project needs.

1. Grizzly Industrial G0561 Horizontal Band Saw.

Grizzly G0561 Metal Cutting Bandsaw, 7 x 12-Inch

Key-features

  • 1HP Motor
  • 7-inch max capacity circular at 90 degrees, 5-inch at 45 degrees
  • 7×12-inch max capacity rectangular at 90 degrees, 4.75×4.5-inch at 45 degrees
  • Hydraulic feed control
  • Automatic shut off
  • 158FPM, 213FPM, and 308FPM gear step blade speeds

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What We loved

  • Delivers a reliable power
  • Comes in a heavy-duty one-piece base for sturdiness and durability
  • It will shut off automatically after the cut
  • Setting up stock is quick and easy
  • It is loaded with an efficient cooling system to prevent the unit from heating up during operation

What Could Be Better

  • Changing the blades is not as quick as expected

Overview

If you need the best metal bandsaw but you also don’t want to spend too much money on it, this would be a good pick for you. It is recommended for small workshops, but there are some customers that have reliably used them in their medium commercial shops.

The model is made out of cast iron and it can adapt to your tables and jigs quite easily. Ideally, purchase the bi-metal band saw blades if you need to get the most out of this saw.

The assembly part of the whole unit is easy breezy. However, we think the belt tension of the saw could be a little better. You will possibly find it annoying when you need to change the running speed of the belt.

You can use the saw to make precise square sharp cuts on the ends and joints of your stocks. Above all, it has a 4-speed option to let you handle almost any cutting job. It can cut both wood and metal pieces.

Verdict

We genuinely think this is the best metal cutting bandsaw if you need a decent model but you have a relatively tight budget. It has the best value for money on our list.

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2. WEN 3975T Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw

WEN 3975T 4-7/8-inch x 5-inch Metal-Cutting Benchtop Band Saw

Key-features

  • 4.5Amp Motor
  • 125FPM – 260FPM speeds
  • 56.5-inch blade
  • 5-inch circular cutting diameter
  • 5×4-7/8 inches rectangular cutting capacity
  • Offers 0 to 60 degrees angled cuts

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What We loved

  • Compact design offers easy storage and transportation
  • Allows you to make multiple angle cuts with the beveling blade
  • Features a vise onboard to offer you a firm grasp on the workpieces
  • Comes with ball-bearing blade guides for durability and swift operation
  • You can make quick adjustment and tweaks between jobs with the blade tension and tilt knobs
  • It holds stocks firmly in place

What Could Be Better

  • Doesn’t come with an auto-shutoff feature
  • It can get too loud when in operation

Overview

If you are in search of the Top picking horizontal band saw under $500, this should definitely be your ideal pick.

You’d love the saw if you have a confined workspace or if you need to use it in different locations. The saw is compact and space-saving, and it allows you to move it around with absolute ease. This is made possible by the 54.6lb weight. But its lightweight design shouldn’t fool you. The saw is sturdy and decently durable.

We loved the ball-bearing blade guides onboard, which are designed to last for long while still being functional enough. Adjustability is a key feature of this saw. It is loaded with tilt knobs and a blade tension knob that allow you to make the necessary adjustment with absolute ease.

Unfortunately, this model doesn’t come with an auto-shutoff feature. In other words, you will need to switch it off manually once you are done making the cuts.

Verdict

This would be the best metal band saw for amateurs and hobbyists. It doesn’t pack too much power to handle demanding jobs.

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3. JET HBS-916, (414468) Horizontal Bandsaw

JET 9' x 16' Step-Pulley Horizontal Bandsaw, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (HBS-916)

Key-features

  • 1.5Hp motor
  • 9×15-inch max rectangular cutting capacity
  • 9-inch circular cutting capacity
  • Clamp vise can be rotated from 0 to 45 degrees
  • Carbide blade guides
  • Self-propelled blade brush

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What We loved

  • Excellent power delivery
  • Fully-adjustable hydraulic down feed
  • Efficient cooling system
  • Comes with a complete blade protection
  • Features a large handwheel that senses the machine tension with ease
  • The carbide blade guides come with a parallel double-row ball bearing for extra support

What Could Be Better

  • It is very pricey
  • Heavy construction makes it not portable

Overview

This would be the ideal industrial metal cutting band saw as it comes with every feature that makes it qualify for that. First off, it packs a massive 1.5Hp motor that will handle whatever you throw at it. The motor works perfectly with the coolant system that ensures the unit doesn’t heat up.

Another thing to acknowledge about this unit is the fact that it offers you versatility and precision. The vise is easy to position and comes with fully adjustable jaws. They swivel to a maximum of 45 degrees. This feature also holds the workpiece firmly in position as it lets you make different cut angles.

You can be sure of enjoying the delivery of this saw as the self-propelled blade brush will enhance the cutting efficiency and blade life.

The blade of the saw will stay guarded, regardless of the position of the guides. There is a guide that is always intact, which incorporates a double row of parallel ball bearing at its end. Generally, this helps to offer extra anchorage.

Verdict

Who should go for this model? If you are getting this saw for commercial purposes, you’d find it satisfying. It is very costly, but you can be sure of it being a good investment in your workshop.

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4. WEN 3970T Metal-Cutting Band Saw with Stand

WEN 3970T 4-inch x 6-inch Metal-Cutting Band Saw with Stand

Key Features

  • 4.6-amp motor
  • 4.5-inch circular cutting capacity
  • 4×6-inch rectangular cutting capacity
  • Durable stand with wheels
  • Makes angled cuts between 0 and 60 degrees

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What We loved

  • Very affordable
  • Auto-shutoff feature
  • Comes with a wheeled stand
  • Offers three operating speeds
  • Holds workpieces firmly in place
  • Space-saving and highly-portable

What Could Be Better

  • Low table height
  • It cannot handle large stocks
  • The wheels could be stronger

Overview

This should be your first stop if you need a small metal cutting band saw that doesn’t cost a lot of money. Generally, most buyers will easily afford this model.

Of course, it doesn’t have a massive motor to handle high-demanding projects. But for the light projects, this model will work with perfection. You can use it in squeezed spaces and move it from one workspace to another easily.

The stand doesn’t only come with never-flat wheels, but it also features a beveling vise. With this vise, you can be confident of enjoying a firm grip on the workpieces on the saw. Along with that, the firm grip allows you to make accurate angled cuts from 0 to 60 degrees. The wheels will remain in place, so you won’t have to worry about it rolling away.

Even with its low-key nature, this saw comes with an automatic shutoff feature that is not commonly found in other top-rated models.

For the record, this saw can easily operate in both vertical and horizontal positions. To change the cutting orientation, simply lift the bandsaw head into the vertical position and attach the table.

The adjustable speed, on the other hand, allows you to cut on different types of metal including steel, copper, brass, or aluminum.

Verdict

This would be a good portable metal cutting band saw for hobbyists and amateurs. It comes with basic features, and the price point is very attractive.

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5. KAKA BS-712N Horizontal Band Saw

KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Bandsaw, 7 X 12' Metal Cutting Band Saw,4 step blade speeds by pulley wheel driven, Metal Horizontal Band Saw, metal cut band saw with 1.5HP motor 115V / 230V 1PH

Key Features

  • 1.5Hp motor
  • Clamp vise can be rotated between 0 and 45 degrees
  • Hydraulic feed
  • 7-inch max circular cutting capacity
  • Four cutting speeds
  • 7×12-inch rectangular cutting capacity

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What We loved

  • Reliable power delivery
  • The saw can be used horizontally or vertically
  • Features an iron cast construction for durability
  • The hydraulic feed lets you tune it in a precise feed-rate
  • Efficient cooling system

What Could Be Better

  • The wheels don’t have locks to secure the saw in place
  • Limited warranty cover
  • Not the best pick for a high-demanding project

Overview

Here is another model that would easily be considered the top rated horizontal band saw for metal cutting. It does an amazing job at ripping through metal. There are four different speed levels that you can make use of when you are handling different stocks. With the four speeds, you can cut any metal from steel to aluminum.

You can move the base of the roller freely, and there is also a sizing device that enhances the overall performance of the saw. If you don’t like working with manual shutoff models, this one would work well for you. The saw will automatically shut off once it is done with the cutting.

Another unique feature that places this model above most horizontal metal bandsaws is the fact that it comes with a power break protection device. The machine will power off automatically whenever the rear protective cover is opened. This helps to prevent any electric shocks.

The cooling system helps to enhance the service life of the saw blade, and it also betters the overall performance of the saw.

Verdict

If you are looking for the best metal cutting band saw to use at home or in your small business, this one would be a good pick. The delivery is decent and it is very efficient itself.

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6. SHOP FOX W1715 3/4 HP Metal Cutting Bandsaw

SHOP FOX W1715 3/4 HP Metal Cutting Bandsaw

Key-features

  • 0.75Hp motor
  • 4.5 max circular cutting capacity
  • 4×6-inch rectangular cutting capacity
  • 3-level blade speeds
  • Automatic shutoff

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What We loved

  • Comes with handles and wheels for easy portability
  • Features a vertical cutting attachment
  • Ball-bearing construction for smooth operation and durability
  • Automatically shuts off after making a cut
  • Features an inbuilt mobile base

What Could Be Better

  • The blade provided is poor quality
  • Low cutting speeds
  • Adjusting the vertical attachment can be challenging

Overview

If you need a budget metal bandsaw that is a good performer and can handle your light projects with ease, this one would be a good pick for you.

This is an economical and highly portable saw that is very easy to use, and it is designed to handle multiple projects with ease. Thanks to the variable cutting speeds, this metal cutting bandsaw can handle different types of metals. However, the speeds are relatively low, so, it might not suit you if you need a model for your high-demanding projects.

The bandsaw also comes with a vise that is designed for holding workpieces when making those cuts. Generally, the vise can hold stocks for angle cuts that range from 0 to 60 degrees.

You can set it up to make horizontal or vertical cuts with ease. Besides that, there is a feed rate that is controlled by a handle and spring. All you have to do is twist the handle to adjust the feed rate.

Verdict

If you need an affordable horizontal band saw for your home-based projects, this would be a good model to consider. Just don’t expect it to handle massive projects.

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7. JET HVBS-(414560) Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw

JET 7' x 12' Deluxe Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw, 3/4 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (Model HVBS-712D)

Key-features

  • 0.75Hp motor
  • 10×12-inch infeed table assemble
  • Multi-position blade guides
  • Three preset mitering positions
  • 0.75-inch blade width

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What We loved

  • The infeed table assembly extends the support area to hold large stocks
  • Can be used in horizontal and vertical positions
  • The lock vise can be adjusted without a tool
  • Offers a safe working position
  • Makes excellent straight cuts

What Could Be Better

  • Some thought it is overpriced
  • The coolant drips and splashes too often
  • Low power delivery
  • The wheels are not stable enough

Overview

If you need a versatile bandsaw that can handle both horizontal and vertical cuts with ease, this would be a good candidate.

This stands among the best jet metal cutting band saws, and its delivery is decent too. However, it does come with a price tag that might be a little high for some buyers. One thing that sets this saw above other models is the fact that it lets you cut different types of stocks.

There is also an increased width and height of the stand, which offers more efficiency as you work with the saw. Thanks to the multi-position blade guides, you can increase the throat capacity from 4 inches to a maximum of 8 inches. This then assures you of a safer working position and for maximum output.

Verdict

This would suit a hobbyist or if you own a small workshop. It might not have enough power to handle the high-demanding projects, but it can easily handle different stock sizes.

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Also you need to know how many types of band saws are there. here is a brief discussion for you.

Buying Guide: How to Find the Best Horizontal Band Saw

When buying a horizontal band saw, it isn’t just about choosing one based on the best horizontal metal cutting band saw reviews. Rather, you should consider the features of the saw and if they meet your project needs.

Before starting the review, Here is a brief look at what to consider when choosing the best vertical band saw for metal cutting.

  • Table. The table should come with a comfortable height, and it should be large enough to handle the stock you are cutting.
  • Portability. If you will be moving the saw around the shop or indifferent workstations, it should come with integrated wheels for portability.
  • Blade Speed. A saw with multiple speed settings will let you work on different types of metals and materials with ease.
  • The angle of cuts. Preferably, the bandsaw should let you cut at multiple angles.
  • Safety Features. Check that the saw has some safety features like the automatic shutoff function, coolant system, or overheating protection.

Types of Band Saw

1. Metal Bandsaw

This type of bandsaw is meant for cutting through metal stocks.

Features/Advantages
  • They come with a coolant system
  • Available in vertical and horizontal options
  • Run at a slower speed

2. Wood bandsaws

They are used for cutting logs and timber of different sizes.

Features/Advantages
  • Comes with a thick and coarse blade
  • Available in different sizes
  • They are categorized into different types based on their purpose

3. Meat bandsaw

Specifically designed for cutting a chunk of meats and bones.

Features/Advantages

  • Made of sturdy stainless-steel construction
  • They last for long and are corrosion-resistant
  • Easy to clean

FAQs

Q. Which one is better – Horizontal or Vertical?

Ans. Both of the two options offer equal precision. It all depends on what you want for your projects. But a horizontal bandsaw is best suited for elder persons or if you need to operate the machine continuously.

Q. How to Use a Horizontal and Vertical Metal Band Saw.

Ans.

  • Start by marking the preferred cut line on the workpiece using a digital height gauge and a scriber.
  • Always use the right blade that is suitable for what you are cutting.
  • Make sure the handsaw is disconnected from the power source when you want to install bands.
  • Ensure that the stock is safely secured during the cutting process.
  • Check that the blade guide is properly aligned
  • Lower the head of the saw until it is a few inches above the stock.
  • Connect the unit to the mains, and check that the emergency button is disengaged. The feed rate should be at zero.
  • Press the power button and set the appropriate blade speed.
  • From here, start pushing the band saw head towards the stock.
  • For vertical bandsaw/mode, raise the bow to an upright position and follow the user guide accordingly. When fully set up, push the material through the blade with absolute care.
  • The machine will shut down when done cutting if it has the feature.

Q. What is a horizontal band saw used for?

Ans. A horizontal band saw can be used for

  • Cutting large workpieces
  • Make regular and routine cuts
  • Make angle cuts on large stocks
  • Cut metal pieces
  • Make straight cuts

Q. Why is my horizontal band saw not cutting straight?

Ans. It could be that the blade is dull, the blade tension is loose, or maybe it’s because of improper feeding. Also, it might be because you are not using a workpiece guide. You should use a rip fence or miter gauge to help you make straight and uniform cuts. Also, do not use too much force when feeding the workpiece.

Final Words

There you have it, folks. That marks the end of our best horizontal band saw review. We are confident that you can now make an informed decision. Just remember to choose the right bandsaw that meets your project needs and falls in your budget bracket. Focus on value more than the price tag.