Band saw

A band saw is a diverse cutting machine used to cut metal, stone, wood or meat. The saw got its name from its serrated blade and pulley devices that allow it to turn in a circular motion. The machine allows you to make cuts that cannot be made by other cutting devices. You can cut curves, circles or different shapes, even a straight cut when desired.

The first band saw was fabricated by William Newberry in 1808. However, his invention was not workable because he could not keep the saw blade together so it could move in a continuous loop. It wasn’t until 1846 when Anne Pauline Crepin designed a process to connect the ends of the blade so they would stay together and be able to rotate on two pulleys.

In retrospect, this saw is considered a late development in cutting machinery. Some of the earliest Egyptians used a copper saw, while the first circular saw was invented in 1777 by Samuel Miller.

You can find a variety of this type of saw on the market. Everything from a large band saw that cuts logs to a floor-standing or small tabletop type. You can even find one that uses an 18-volt battery to power the cutting machine. Deciding which type of saw to buy is as complicated as the different designs of saws being sold.

You first need to decide what you will be cutting with the saw. The throat of the saw can come in almost any size ranging from eight inches to 36 inches. You must decide how big of a throat you will need. If you are cutting thick material, then you need a larger throat than the thickest material you will be cutting.

If you are new to woodworking, this is a good starter cutting machine to have in your workshop. No matter what type of saw you choose to buy, the most important thing is the saw blade. Most blades are 1/8-inch to 1-inch wide. The smaller the width, the easier it is to cut a small radius, while the wider blades are commonly used for straight cuts.

Another thing you must consider is the size of motor you need. Most band saws found in a home workshop have a ¾ to 1 horsepower motor. The industrial saws use a more powerful motor because they are in constant use.

You will want to consider the type of table you need. It is recommended by most expert craftsmen, that the table be made of aluminum, cast iron or steel, unless you are cutting meat, then you need a stainless steel table. The table should also tilt up to 45 degrees so you can make angled cuts. It is best to have a table that is at least 16 inches in width and length, as well as having a miter track.

No matter what type of band saw you buy, it will be used more than any cutting machine you have.