As a woodworker, have you been looking for a way to improve the quality of resawing projects and the duration you take to complete projects?
If you have, then you should consider investing in bandsaws tailored to resawing. Not only are these tools highly versatile, but they’ll also give you years of service.
But with so many options on the market, finding the best bandsaws for resawing can be challenging. To help, we've narrowed down your options to five top-rated models. This guide will also teach you everything you need to know about resawing bandsaws.
Why Use a Bandsaw for Resawing?
When I ventured into woodworking as a hobby, there’s one term I never understood. Resawing. Why would anyone want to saw the same piece of wood twice?
Now I know. Resawing merely refers to the process of slicing wood along the grain, for the purpose of minimizing it to thinner parts or to make veneers. Essentially, you’re reducing the thickness of the wood so as to get two identical slabs.
If you’re already familiar with this activity, the one question you might have is what’s the best tool to use? There are two main pieces of equipment that are used for this: a table saw and a band saw.
While they produce fairly similar results, a bandsaw is the most preferred tool for two reasons. One, it can resaw extra-wide boards effortlessly. And two, it has a thin kerf. Kerf refers to the width of the material, which is removed through the cutting process.
Horizontal vs Vertical Bandsaws
There are two main varieties of bandsaws: vertical and horizontal.
While both of these power tools can slice through materials like a sharp knife through butter, there are a couple of differences you should be aware of. These points will come into play when deciding which is the best bandsaw for resawing projects.
Horizontal Bandsaw
The way this equipment works is that you hold your workpiece down and then move the blade of the bandsaw through it to make a cut.
The biggest benefit of using this band saw is that it can cut larger workpieces; be it metal or wood. Better yet, it offers a level of precision that you don’t get from the vertical model.
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A horizontal bandsaw is best used in a setting where there's a considerable amount of resawing work being done. Given its ability to work with larger workpieces, it’s perfect for an individual who does a lot of resawing jobs.
Vertical Bandsaw
A vertical band saw works very differently from its horizontal counterpart. With the horizontal model, the workpiece remains stationary as the bandsaw blade swings into action.
In the case of a vertical one, the saw itself stays stationary. Then it’s your job to position the workpiece and move it as you need, to make a cut. The advantage of this mechanism is that it opens up a world of opportunities with regard to the styles and angles of cuts you can make.
That said, this kind of bandsaw works better with small-sized workpieces. Sure, it can cut the standard stock to size, but it can’t tackle the scope of work that a horizontal does.
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What to Look for When Buying a Bandsaw for Resawing
Blades
Bandsaw blades vary significantly based on factors, such as thickness, length, width, and tooth configuration.
The length of the blade differs from one machine to another, but the saw’s wheels are what mostly determine the thickness and width of the blade.
Ideally, a small-sized bandsaw - one with 9 to 12-inch wheels - requires a thin blade. This is to avoid breaking the welds. The ideal blade should also be narrow, about 1/2 inch or less. On the other hand, a big-sized bandsaw operates just fine with a thicker and wider blade.
Apart from thickness, you’ll also have to think about the configuration and the number of teeth per inch in the blade. The rule of thumb here is that bigger gullets (the gap between the teeth) facilitate better removal of debris. Conversely, a blade with more closely spaced teeth results in smoother cuts.
Since you’ll be using your band saw to perform resawing tasks, we recommend getting the widest blade with at least three teeth per inch. The wider the blade will be, the more accurately it’s going to cut.
Riser Kit
You may not realize it, but just an additional 6 inches of resawing capacity can make a world of difference.
Let’s say that you’re planning to cut veneer or some identical panels from a gracefully figured board. Unfortunately, the board ends up being too wide to fit in the space between the bandsaw worktable and the blade guides.
The easiest remedy is adding a riser block. This is a simple extension, which will fit nicely between the arm of the frame and the base; hence, making it possible to tackle the workpiece you have at hand.
While you can purchase these riser kits separately, this will set you back anywhere between $60 and $100. Instead, look for the best bandsaw for resawing with a riser block; and save money.
Resaw Fence
If you want to get the most out of your bandsaw, then one of the things you should pay attention to is the type of resaw fence it comes with.
A well-designed fence allows you to accurately resaw workpieces into thinner boards, cut tenons, and rip lumber; all without ever worrying about kickbacks.
Band saw fences come in different configurations. To determine which one works for you, think about the specific tasks you’ll be using your bandsaw for. Here is a rundown of the different types of fences:
Round Nose Fence
This fence is great for small scope of resawing tasks and in situations where accuracy is not a priority.
For the best outcome, place it in such a way that it’s directly opposite the blade’s front side. Next, map out a line on the board and get started on resawing. To achieve accuracy, stay aligned on this line by rotating the board on the nose as necessary.
Tall Fence
This is the type of fence you’ll want to have when making vertical cuts on wider boards or any boards that have rough-sawn bottom edges.
Pro tip: employ a feather board anytime you’re resawing. This way, you will only be required to push in a single direction (forward).
Low Sub Fence
It goes without saying that a blade guard should be positioned very close to the workpiece you’re tackling. But when you’re trying to rip narrow workpieces, the fence can hinder you from doing so efficiently.
This is where a low sub fence comes into play. Since it has a low profile, you can make narrow cuts without encountering any obstacles.
Size and Portability
Bandsaws are generally big-sized pieces of equipment. Therefore, it’s crucial that you think about the amount of space you have in your workshop or job site.
If you’re a hobbyist or only use your bandsaw a couple of times every year, then you don’t need that big of equipment. A 10 inch, 12 inch, or 14 inch will provide enough power for your resawing tasks.
On the other hand, if you’re a professional woodworker, then you’ll be better served by a bigger and more powerful resawing bandsaw; anything above 16 inches will suffice.
Another aspect you’ll want to give thought to is the portability of your machinery. Larger bandsaws may give you more power, but they will also be heavier, and bulkier. If you plan to move your bandsaw around, consider investing in a bandsaw with wheels.
Power
A bandsaw that will be used for resawing should be more powerful than one that’s simply used for cutting. For simple cutting tasks, you’d only need about 3/4 hp motor. But with resawing and cutting thick workpieces, don’t go for anything less than a 1-hp motor.
Dust Collection
The dust collection system is a feature that a lot of buyers forget to consider, but it’s as important as any other.
The best bandsaw for resawing is one that has a proper system for collecting the dust being released by the machine. This way, the dust doesn’t accumulate at the bottom of the tool, an action that would affect its performance. More importantly, you don’t end up inhaling all that dust being generated.
Keep in mind that this dust-collection mechanism will be most effective if the port is positioned next to the area where the dust is being generated.
Speed
The bandsaw’s speed is the rate at which it’s able to cut across the surface of the workpiece.
There are two key things that you should consider when choosing the correct speed. One is the type of material that you tackle often, and two, the specific task you’re doing.
In terms of material, wooden workpieces can be cut at fast speeds; anything from 2,000 to 7,000 FPM will do.
However, for metals like aluminum, steel, and brass, you need to operate the bandsaw at a much slower speed.
Here’s the deal, if you run your power tool too fast, you’ll end up damaging the blade. The tips of the blade’s teeth will heat up to the point they’ll begin melting away. To avoid this, you can run your bandsaw as slow as 100 feet per minute.
In addition, consider what you’ll be using the bandsaw for. If it’s strictly for resawing, you don’t a speed any higher than 1,500 FPM.
Warranty
There’s a good chance that you never stop to think about a warranty when you’re buying other types of saws; like jigsaws or miter saws. This is understandable since most of them are fairly priced.
But when you’re investing in a bandsaw, a warranty is one of the most crucial factors to consider. You will likely spend a few thousand dollars on this affair, so you’ll want to ensure that your investment is backed by a long warranty.
With a good warranty, you can return the bandsaw to the manufacturer and ask for a full refund or replacement; in case anything goes wrong. The best bandsaw manufacturers offer a 2 to 5-year warranty.
The 5 Best Bandsaws for Resawing
1. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Deluxe Pro Bandsaw Kit
If you want the best bandsaw for your resawing tasks, you’ll want to invest in Jet JWBS 14DXPRO Deluxe Pro.
It’s not the cheapest bandsaw, which could make you a little hesitant in purchasing it. But a closer look at its functionality and features proves that it’s worth every penny.
The first thing you’ll notice about this bandsaw entails its sturdy construction. Both the frame and precision-ground table are constructed using cast iron, providing maximum durability.
The ball bearing guides on the blade also play a part in its durability. The upper and lower guides help to cut back on friction. This not only boosts the efficiency of the 105-inch blade but also helps to extend its life.
This ball-bearing construction also makes for simple and smooth adjustments. For instance, you’ll find it pretty easy to switch the blade. The miter gauge and built-in magnifying window also contribute to this tool’s ease of making adjustments.
The Jet JWBS 14DXPRO has a 12 inch resaw capacity, which makes it possible to cut very large workpieces. In fact, it comes with a riser, which once installed, enables you to tackle much bigger boards with little effort.
With this bandsaw for resawing, you won’t have to worry about the accuracy of your results. The manufacturer has ensured that you’ll get maximum precision thanks to the poly-v belt drive system and the rack and pinion fence.
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If you’re just getting started in the resawing space, you might not be looking to spend thousands of dollars on a bandsaw. At least, not until you’ve gotten the hang of it. For a more affordable power tool, check out WEN 3962 two-speed band saw.
It gives you 6 inches of resaw capacity. Factor in the 9 3/4 inch throat and you have a tool that can tackle more wood compared to other 10-inch models.
Its two-speed operation is another feature that makes it stand out. Put simply, you have the freedom to run the blade at a speed of either 1520 or 2620 feet per minute.
So if you’re a beginner, you can choose the lower speed as you continue getting acquainted with how it works. Similarly, if you want to complete your resawing projects within a short time, then you're free to operate the blade at a speed of 2620 fpm.
The work table measures 14 1/8 by 12 1/2 inches, giving you a decent amount of space to work with. Better yet, this work surface can bevel up to 45 degrees, allowing you to make angled cuts.
WEN's 10 inch resaw bandsaw also includes a fence, which is particularly handy when making rip cuts. But if you wish to, you can remove this fence very easily and make your preferred freehand cuts.
The miter gauge is another superb addition to this kit. Most manufacturers of smaller bandsaws don’t bother to include it, so the fact that it’s available is a huge plus! With the miter gauge, cutting along specific angles becomes incredibly easy.
Other accessories you’ll find useful are a work light to illuminate your work area; and a 3-in-1 dust port.
WEN 3962 band saw is backed by a 2-year warranty. It means that you can always return if it doesn’t live up to your expectations.
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Have you been searching for a professional-grade bandsaw for resawing? If you have, look no further than Rikon’s latest 10-326DVR bandsaw.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice this is one of the highest-priced bandsaws in our review. But this is only because it’s equipped with state-of-the-art technologies that you will not find in other power tools.
The most prominent is the bandsaw’s DVR motor. The way this digital variable reluctance (DVR) motor works is by relying on a microcomputer, which adjusts its output. This makes it more efficient than motors, which are operated by simply flipping an on/off switch.
The DVR motor not only provides a great deal of convenience but also widens the functionality of this saw.
Another impressive feature about Rikon is that it has the best bandsaw blade for resawing. Thanks to the 1.75HP motor, you get an infinite range of blade speed settings. So you can set the blade to spin at a speed between 100 and 2,375 RPM. Or, try out one of the 15 preset blade settings, customized for cutting wood, metal, and plastic.
We also like that it has a generous resaw capacity of 13 inches. The bandsaw can work with blades ranging from 3/16 to ¾ inches wide. Factor in the 6-inch tall resaw fence and spacious work table and you’ll have one of the most powerful equipments for resawing.
Another impressive feature is the ease of making adjustments to this bandsaw. It’s fitted with a quick-release blade tensioner and ball-bearing blade guides that don’t require any tools to be adjusted.
Rikon 10-326DVR was also designed with low maintenance in mind. This 14 inch bandsaw comes with a 4-inch dust port, which directs debris away; resulting in easy cleanups.
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Bandsaws have a bad rep for occupying a ton of space. If you prefer something that is a little more compact, the Shop Fox W1706 14 inch bandsaw for best resawing bandsaw for you.
In addition to being small, this machinery comes in a white color scheme, giving it a clean and modern look.
Another thing you’ll love about its design is the fact that the bandsaw sits comfortably on a cabinet, enhancing its stability during use.
This integrated cabinet houses the bandsaw’s wheels when the machinery is stationary. But it can double up as a storage unit for other tools and accessories.
Durability is another area where this bandsaw really shines. The frame, table, and wheels are all made of cast iron, providing long-lasting use.
Now most of the bandsaws we’ve looked at, have blade guides with just two ball bearings. This is not the case with the W1706, which features a tri-bearing setup.
Two are positioned on either side of the blade while the last one is positioned on the blade’s rear. The whole mechanism is so well put together, allowing the saw blade to cut smoothly and efficiently.
Speaking of efficiency, the bandsaw’s table is designed to tilt, which enables you to cut at specific angles. You can tilt it up to 45 degrees to the right and 10 degrees to the left to meet your cutting needs. And thanks to the aluminum fence, making these angled adjustments is incredibly easy.
Ideally, the band saw can cut up to a height of 6 inches with a throat capacity of 13 1/2 inches. However, the manufacturer has included an extension block, which increases the resaw capacity of the saw to 12 inches. We particularly love how easy it is to install this 6-inch riser block.
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Anytime you find a product that’s been given the name Extreme, it’s likely an indication that it’s a reliable product. It gives off the vibe that it’s either particularly potent or way ahead of the game, and this is precisely what you get from the Grizzly G0555XH band saw.
Ranked one of the best bandsaws for resawing hardwood, it feels equally at home in a simple workshop just as it does in an industrial setting.
One of the bandsaw’s key highlights is a 1.75-horsepower motor, which provides adequate power to slice through wood.
It comes with an incredibly spacious worktable, which measures 6- by 21.75 inches. With this, you’ll be able to cut bigger sections of wood. To be more specific, the tool can easily make a resaw cut up to 12 inches thick. On the same note, its throat capacity is about 13 1/2 inches.
Another feature that makes this the best bandsaw for resawing is the rack-and-pinion fence. This helps you make adjustments and cut with the highest level of precision. The fast-release blade tension also contributes to the ease of adjusting.
Durability is another one of this bandsaw’s core strengths. The saw’s frame is made of cast iron while its fence is constructed using aluminum. The stand on which the bandsaw sits is also heavy duty.
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Wrap Up
After reviewing the best bandsaws for resawing, we'll have to choose the JWBS-14DXPRO Deluxe Pro as our top pick!
This band saw boasts a sturdy construction comprising a cast iron frame and work table. The work table measures 15 by 15 inches, giving you plenty of room to tackle large-sized boards. Better yet, you can tilt it 45° to the right or 10° to the left to achieve angled cuts.
The 105-inch blade has a resaw capacity of 12 inches. Plus, it comes with lower and upper ball bearing guides that minimize friction; hence, extend the blade’s life.
We also like that the bandsaw sits on a beautiful enclosed stand that doubles up as storage space. This way, you can always keep whatever tools you need for your woodworking, close by.