Band Saw Query

watercrawl

watercrawl

Joined
Jun 2, 2006
Messages
422
Is there a relatively inexpensive band saw that can cut 0.10" thick stock for blades? Perhaps $250 or under?
 
Most of the portaband saws are in that price range. Harbor Frieght also has a horizontal band saw that falls in that price range when it's on sale.
 
How does one use a portable band saw to cut out a blade shape? I've heard that before, but the logistics of it baffle my feeble brain. :)

Do you put the bandsaw in a vice of some kind?
 
I've got a 1/4" steel plate fixture from SWAG Off Road. You attach it to the portaband in place of the usual toy table and clamp the fixture in a vise. Works great.

There are a number of threads here about this. They also make a large fixture that stands
upright for permanent mounting.
 
I made a bracket to clamp into a vise. Works fine. The H/V saw from HF is a nicer option if you can do it. I have both.
 
I will recommend the Dewalt Model D2878770 Deep Cut Variable Speed. This saw can be bought for around $225.00+ if you watch for sales. I would rather spend a few buck more and have something that is going to last, instead of buying cheap and replacing it next year. Plus the added depth from the blade to the body is a big plus!

Check out this link.

http://www.dewalt.com/tools/metalworking-band-saws-d28770.aspx

If you look at the pic it has very small table or guide protruding out from the bottom of the saw.

You will have to make a stand for it like this one I made for mine! Here are some pictures of mine.

The first two pics show the mount I made for the top. The handle was removed and I layed out and drillled the bracket for holes for the screw that held the handle. the saw body has a hole in it where the molded handle proturdes into the saw body. I put a short bolt thru a nut welded to a plate mounted the bracket I made at the top. I really don't think that is necessary but I like to cover my bases!

Click thumbnails for larger view:
Clicking tumbnail will also rotate pic.



These next two picw shows why I like the deep cut model. It allows for deeper cuts without having problems making them.




There is a 7/8" spacer between the back of the saw and the post this makes it hang pretty much 90* to the post. I have the trigger tied down and the saw plugs into a footswitch.




This thread will help to figure out a stand and/or mount for most any model you decide to buy.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=634110
 
Harbor Freight portaband and custom base for under $100. A little welding required for the base, but not much.
bandsaw1.jpg
 
This is my setup and absolutely LOVE it!:thumbup: I got the 10amp Portaband about two months ago from Toolking.com for $199.00:eek:
 
harbor freight saws can be clamped in a vise. they have flat sides and reinforcement right by the upper (front) handle.
 
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