5 Best Vertical Band Saw For Metal Cutting That Will Boost Your Productivity

Band saws are popular for creating unique workpiece patterns, like a leaf on a wooden chair. A special power that distinguishes them is re-sawing. But not all the bandsaws can do both functions. Some are specifically used for cutting straight cuts, while others can only be used for intricate details in wood or metal. Re-sawing is an extra mile that a band saw goes.

Here arises the question: Which band saws create those beautiful shapes? They are vertical band saws; they work best for softer metals and wood. We will introduce you to the 5 best vertical band saws for metal cutting. Any woodworker fond of minute detailing on materials won’t miss out on vertical band saws.

Blog Summary

In this guide, you will find a table about the basic differences between horizontal and vertical band saws (at the end). So once you are clear about what you get on vertical band saws, you already have 5 incredible options for the best vertical band saw for metal cutting. We have also designed a beginner’s guide for investing in the right thing. The market has various bandsaw options, ranging from as high as $5000 to as low as $149. So let’s pick wisely!

Click here for our top recommendation for you (Best quality at a surprising price!)

Quick-pick Table: 5 Best Vertical Band Saws

How to choose the best vertical band saw for metal cutting: Buying Guide

Purchasing something is not only about investing your money but also about investing your time. It’s all in vain if your research goes wrong. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back. 

Below are some key considerations before you go for the best vertical band saw for metal cutting:

1. Cutting Capabilities: If we compare a horizontal band saw with a vertical one, it is more compatible with working on hard and thick materials. However, vertical band saws are more precise and effective for furniture making. So, confirm the type of project and material you plan to cut on your band saw. We will further examine the benefits of vertical band saws later in the article.
   
2. Throat capacity: The throat capacity of a bandsaw is the primary factor that indicates the distance between the blade and the column. The larger the capacity of a saw, the larger the scale it works on. Plan for a throat capacity larger than the maximum size of the workpiece you aim to cut.
   Don’t mix up the re-saw capacity of a band saw with its throat capacity. A 14-inch saw may re-saw material up to 6- inches.
   
3. Cast-iron frame or steel frame: Cast-iron frames are less rigid than steel ones. Steel frames are far better for re-sawing. However, if that is your only option, you can also re-saw on a cast-iron frame. It would be best if you had a riser block to raise the top of the saw. Know that it may limit the re-sawing with wider blades that are more likely to work on straight curves.
   We recommend going for a steel-framed band saw if you want to re-saw it.  
   
4. Motor power (HP): The motor power you will need completely depends upon the type and density of materials you plan to cut.
   For example, if you plan to cut small boards or do light re-sawing, then a minimum of 1.5 HP is all that you want. And if you are going to re-saw lumber on it, go for a motor with 1.75 HP to 3 HP cutting power. It is enough to cut thicker materials and do heavy re-sawing.
   
5. Additional features:
   Coolant system: To prevent unwanted heat during large projects, the coolant system is crucial for ensuring machine health. Look for the coolant system in bigger machines, whereas a cool-down spray will do this work on smaller machines.
   
   Variable speed: Different materials will require different speeds for the best possible cuts. Some band saws come with a belt drive that provides 3–4 specific speed ranges, but a variable speed is more flexible for a variety of projects.
   
   Workshop space and budget: Make your purchase in consideration of your workspace. The machine should easily fit into your workshop, and it must have an ‘in-feed’ and ‘out-feed’ space to feed the materials thoroughly. 
   Also, consider your budget while selecting the saw. The bigger the budget, the more powerful machines you can invite to your woodworking journey.
   
6. Accessories: A band saw may provide some extra resources for a pleasant experience. Look for the below-given features:
   
   Adjustable lamp or LED light: for better visibility of the workpiece and to enhance the accuracy of cuts. 
   Work Clamps: For a firm grip of the workpiece at its place, increasing accuracy and safety.
   Mobile base: To move your band saw around.
   Fastenable jigs and backstops: To prevent you from making repetitive measurements.
   

5 Best Vertical Band Saws for Metal Cutting: Product Reviews

1. WEN (BA3959) 9-inch Bench-Top Band Saw: Best band saw for beginners

SPECIFICATIONS:

We consider the WEN (BA3959) the “best band saw for beginners.” In the long run, a beginner can only hook up with a new hobby when it is accompanied by a great tool. For that, this WEN vertical bandsaw supports 2 years of warranty and provides a cooperative helpline service. So you are backed by reliability!

Coming to its features: The band saw consists of a powerful motor that runs the blade at a speed of 2500 RPM (revolution per minute). You can use a blade anywhere from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch in width, as per your requirements. The 12-by-11-inch worktable bevels up to 45 degrees, allowing you to work at the desired cutting angle.

Further, you can cut up to 3½ inches in depth and up to 9 inches in length with this vertical band saw. However, some consumers may find this depth insufficient, as this much capacity is not enough to cut deeper into larger materials. But when we discuss its accuracy and cut quality, it is near to perfect, and the cuts are so finished. Even the fence is decent; it is designed for a user-friendly experience.

In addition, it comes packed with a  1/4-inch-wide blade, a  2-1/2-inch dust port for maintaining dirt and debris, a miter gauge, and an adjustable blade guard with ball-bearing supports for smooth operation. You won’t ask for more with the WEN bandsaw as a companion. Its supportive features at this cost are just the icing on the cake.

2. RIKON (10-3061) 10-inch Deluxe Bandsaw: Best band saw for home workshop

SPECIFICATIONS:

The RIKON (10-3061) Deluxe Band Saw is an upgraded version of the original RIKON (10-inch) Band Saw. This is one of the hot-selling vertical band saws on Amazon nowadays. 

With a throat capacity of 10 inches, it has an improved cutting capacity compared to its old model. It comprises so many features that make it easier to manage the cuts. 

The adjustments to the fence, blade, and guides are quicker than ever. The only downside of the aluminum-made fence is that it’s hard to set up initially, but it is a matter of once. Its compact design is no less than a blessing for those who want a reliable machine to fit in a tiny space.

An impressive feature is that it allows the blade to rotate at two different speeds (1515 or 3280 ft/min). The motor provides ample power, which is enough for most of the small woodworking projects. Some consumers are even finding it useful for making small curves and rip cuts on hardwoods. You get a lot of freedom with the table tilting, as this special kind of table can tilt 5 degrees to the left and 45 degrees to the right.

3. VEVOR 10-Inch Bench-top Bandsaw with metal stand: Best band saw for woodworking

SPECIFICATIONS:

This newly launched VEVOR 10-inch band saw works with a variety of materials like metal, copper, aluminum, wood, plastic, and more. The strong ½ HP motor power runs the blade with a minimum speed of 560 RPM and a maximum of 1100 RPM.

The motor ensures safety by preventing overheating when working on bigger projects. This vertical bandsaw features a worktable that can tilt up to 45 degrees for better flexibility in cutting. Adjusting at a 45-degree tilting angle of the table allows bevel cuts with great precision. 

The package includes a flexible work light for better visibility and improved accuracy in the cuts. Plus, it comes equipped with a stand to raise the machine to a comfortable position. Also, there is a dust collector that enhances the cleanliness of the workspace and a storage space to keep your tools within hand’s reach.

4. WEN (BA4664) Metal Band Saw with Stand: Best vertical band saw for metal cutting 

SPECIFICATIONS:

WEN (BA4664) is the best vertical band saw for metal cutting that can operate in both horizontal and vertical versions. Meaning that you can create curves and straight cuts on this single tool in your workshop. Like the VEVOR 10-inch band saw, this masterpiece can work on several metals like brass, aluminum, copper, steel, and more. 

It comes equipped with a collapsible stand that is durable and sturdy. Transportation becomes easy with the two 4-inch, never-flat wheels of the stand. 

The blade is pre-installed; it supports multiple (specific) speed variations for acquiring the desirable results. The 4.6-amp motor powers the blade to rotate at either 80, 120, or 200 FPM (feet per minute).

Plus, you can adjust its metering vise up to 45 degrees and the beveling vise up to 60 degrees for angled cuts. An impressive feature of this two-in-one band saw is that it automatically shuts off when the cut is successfully made. You may find it costly but no one regrets investing in a game-changing deal that charges only once.

5. WOODSKIL 9-Inch Bench-top Band Saw with removable key: Best band saw for the money

SPECIFICATIONS:

In a short time after being launched, WOODSKIL Bandsaw has made a remarkable mark on customers’ choices. With its sturdy steel base, it makes sure that the vibrations are minimal during operation. In terms of small spaces, the compact design is cozy and sits in a corner of the room. 

With a maximum motor speed of 1720 RPM and a blade speed of up to 2500 FPM, the band saw can cut wood and soft metals. With the blade, you can create cuts up to 3½ inches in length and 9 inches in width.

The fence ensures accuracy and precision in cuts, and it is quite adaptable to adjustments and replacements. Meeting the requirements of a typical woodworker, it assists in making straight lines, angled cuts, and curves. Since it is low-power, it combines high accuracy with clean cuts on metal. 

You can expect a good return on investment with this saw. Of course, you get what you pay for.

Best vertical band saw for metal cutting: The top-pick

We call the “WEN (BA4664) Metal Band Saw” the best vertical band saw for metal cutting. This band saw is specialized for cutting a wide range of metals like copper, aluminum, brass, steel, etc. It serves as both, a horizontal band saw and a vertical band saw. This means you can make straight cuts as well as intricate shapes on this single machine. It has an advanced mechanism that automatically shuts down the saw whenever you are done cutting.

The 4.6-amp motor powers the blade that comes pre-installed. The blade can rotate at a specific speed of either 80, 120, or 200 feet per minute. Plus, it is backed by a collapsible stand with two, never-flat wheels. This way, the bandsaw ensures that portability is at its edge!

Quick overview of vertical band saws vs. horizontal band saws

Vertical Bandsaws	Horizontal Bandsaws
Ideal for creating intricate designs or detailed cuts.	Ideal for making straight cuts through large workpieces.
Smaller footprint and compact body.	A larger footprint requires more space to store.
They allow various materials but work best for softer metals or wood.	Best work on harder metals.
The blade remains stationary, and the workpiece moves through the blade for cuts.	The blade moves through the workpiece for cutting while the workpiece remains still.
They allow better control over the accuracy of cuts.	The blade has a longer life span.
Simple to operate.	The blade moves horizontally, making it safer to operate.
Need less maintenance.	Complex design: industrial workshops often prefer its complexity for advanced cuts.

Also read:
Band saw vs. table saw—which one should you buy first?
The ultimate guide to the best professional scroll saw

Wrapping up: We hope, the guide added some value! Stay connected with us for more reviews and woodworking lessons. Share your bandsaw experiences with us in the comments below.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions