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Save money on lumber when you buy any one of the five best bandsaws for resawing we reviewed to help you narrow down the choices. Don't try to handle this task with just any tool...
Top 5 Bandsaws for Resawing Wood
 | Laguna Tools MBAND1412-175 Band Saw | |
 | Grizzly G0513ANV 2 HP Bandsaw | |
 | Rikon 10 Inch Band Saw with Fence | |
 | Jet JWBS-14DXPRO 14 Inch Deluxe Kit | |
 | Rikon 14 Inch Bandsaw |
1. Laguna Tools MBAND1412-175 Band Saw
This high quality bandsaw from Laguna Tools operates at 110 volts for the ultimate convenience. With features that include a pyramid spine, this practical and robust machine is the ideal product to use for all of your resawing projects.
The powerful 1 3/4 HP motor cuts effectively through materials while the 21 inch by 16 inch micro polished table has been paired with a resilient Hi/Low fence made from aluminum.
This machine features solid cast wheels which have been dynamically and electronically balanced and fitted with one piece polyurethane tires for cooler running and a longer lifespan.
The pinion and work gear of this machine is extremely smooth and has been engineered for minimum flex even when extended to the fullest while the double windows enable to user to check tracking and tension during operation.
Thanks to the two tone powder coated paint finish, this tool is durable while still looking appealing and it is also compatible with many extras which can be purchased separately including a flood light.
Pros
Cons
2. Grizzly G0513ANV 2 HP Bandsaw
Not only is this 2 horsepower bandsaw from the popular and high quality Grizzly brand extremely powerful it is also attractive!
In its special edition color scheme, this tool will take pride of place in your workshop.
This machine offers a 17 inch full featured heavy duty performance, powering through wood up to a maximum of 12 feet.
This product has many impressive features including a deluxe fence, dual 4′ dust ports, a heavy duty miter gauge, European style blade guides and a micro adjusting geared table.
The table is made from precision ground cast iron for extra robustness while the wheels have been made from computer balanced cast aluminum and fitted with polyurethane tires.
This model also allows for quick changes to the blade tension and release system thanks to the integrated blade tracking window and blade tension indicator.
Thanks to the mobile base, it is also possible to easily move this tool around your workshop.
Pros
Cons
3. Rikon 10 Inch Band Saw with Fence
If you are looking for a bench top model that is ideal for resawing, this bandsaw from Rikon is the ideal choice.
Featuring a large cast iron table together with edge facing thrust bearings and a powerful 1/3 HP induction motor, this impressive models offers some excellent features.
It is also compatible with an optional stand which can be purchased separately to make this saw even more versatile.
This rool incorporates an integrated fence and a micro adjustable guide post height for better user convenience.
It also has a steel plate frame which offers greater strength and durability than the plastic frames often used by some rival manufacturers.
The work surface measures 13 3/4″ x 12 1/2″ for a larger cut capacity and the rip fence can be removed with ease allowing for freehand work.
Pros
Cons
4. Jet JWBS-14DXPRO 14 Inch Deluxe Kit
Designed with demanding resaw jobs in mind, the 14 inch deluxe band saw from jet features an optional fence as well as a large cast iron frame for improved power and extra durability.
Promising a long lifespan, this model has a high tension spring design as well as many other impressive features such as the easy view blade tracking window and blade guide post with rack and pinion adjustment.
The quick release blade tension is more convenient for the user while the integrated easy access door and storage shelf are also extremely useful.
The 13.5″ width and 12″ height cutting capacity ensures versatility of use while the 15″ x 15″ table can be tilted to both the left and right for greater flexibility.
This tool is also equipped with an inbuilt retractable blade guard and a cast iron frame that ensures optimal stability and durability.
Thanks to the integrated dust port, it is also easier than ever to keep the workshop clean after use.
Pros
Cons
5. Rikon 14 Inch Bandsaw
This 14″ bandsaw model from Rikon has an impressive resaw capacity of 13″ as well as a powerful 1.5 HP two speed motor.
For better user safety, this machine incorporates tension windows and blade tracking and thanks to the hinged blade guard with 2″ of access, it is easier than ever to change the blades without twisting.
The table is made from cast iron for extra durability and robustness and measures 16″ x 20.5″.
Due to the hinged steel doors, it is simple to gain access to the wheels while the tool holder ensures accessibility to your tools in the enclosed cabinet.
This tool even features a 4″ dust port to allow for easier clean ups once work is complete.
For complete peace of mind for the user, this model is protected by a two year limited manufacturer’s warranty while the inclusive user manual makes setting up this saw a breeze.
Pros
Cons
How to Choose the Best Band Saw for Resawing?
It's critical you choose the best band saw for resawing. Otherwise, this could ruin your entire project.
There are five key elements you need to think about before you can choose the best band saw for your specific project.
The Blade
The first thing to consider before you pick the best band saw for resawing is what type of blade you need.
Type
If you don't think you're going to resaw often, a hard-back blade or even a flex-back blade is the right option for you. These types of blades are great for general-purpose work.
If, on the other hand, you want to do hard-core resawing, you should pick a bi-metal hook tooth blade or a hard-back blade. A bi-metal hook tooth blade is more expensive than a hard-back one, but it lasts much longer.
That's because a bi-metal type of hook is made from stainless steel, which is much harder and higher speed than a hard-back blade.
Form
We recommend you use a hook tooth, as it's the best type of tooth saw for resawing. This angle cuts best and has a self-feeding action.
Thickness and width
As for which blade thickness you should pick, we suggest a maximum of .025 inches for a 14-inch bandsaw. Anything more and your blade could experience blade fatigue and could even break.
When it comes to blade width, use the widest blade you can find that fits your saw. That's because the larger a blade is, the more it can resist bending. Also, it can dissipate heat.
TPI
TPI, aka teeth per inch, is another important thing to consider when you pick your blade. We recommend you use a three TPI blade.
If you want a smoother cut, you could get a four or six TPI. However, if you use this, you have to slow your feed rate down.
The Worktable
Once you have your blade, you can pick your woodworking worktable.
There's not an ideal worktable. You could build your own or buy one. As long as you can resaw and do your woodworking comfortably, then it's the right worktable for you. The two most important things in a worktable are sturdiness and space.
However, there are a few things you should be aware of to pick the right table for you. Your worktable has to be large enough so your wood planks can fit there. Otherwise, you won't be able to resaw.
As for the material of the worktable, we recommend cast iron or any other heavy metal. This type of sturdy material is good against corrosion and heavy-weight items.
Sturdiness
It's essential that your band saw is sturdy. To make sure it is sturdy, even if you buy it online from our list, you can check what materials are used. For example, plastic band saws are cheaper but less sturdy. Also, they don't tend to last long.
We recommend you get a band saw made from metal. These are stronger, sturdier, and have a longer lifespan than a plastic one.
You can even protect your blade by choosing a band saw with a rubber shroud. This can protect both the blade and its internal features if you drop it or accidentally damage it.
Price vs. Quality
Usually, the best band saws are those made from metal, which are more expensive than plastic ones.
In this case, the higher the price, the higher the quality. There are some exceptions of course. To get an idea of the different price ranges, you can check our buying guide above.
Engine Power
The power requirements depend on the cutting demands and on the size of the saw. So, for example, if you tend to cut thinner stock with little resawing, we recommend a 1 to 1.5 horsepower motor.
If, on the other hand, you tend to cut larger wood, choose a 2.5 to 3 horsepower motor. Just so you know, any motor that requires more than 2 horsepower needs a 220V electrical supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let's move on to a quick FAQ so you can learn more about the band saws and pick the best band saw for resawing in our recommendations above.
What size bandsaw do I need for resawing?
Choose a bandsaw with enough power and with a large depth cut. For most saws, that's 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch.
As for what power your bandsaw needs, this depends on what motor you have.
Typically, a bandsaw has a 0.75 to 1 horsepower motor. That's for blades between 12 and 14 inches. An 18-inch bandsaw will need a 2 horsepower motor.
What type of bandsaw blade is best for resawing?
The blade is even more important than the bandsaw. For resawing, you need a wide blade with a lot of TPI. You shouldn't use narrow blades for this type of woodworking. The wider the blade, the better here.
Typically, saws have a minimum of 1/2 inch blade and a three TPI blade. This way, you get a powerful blade that leaves a smooth finish and helps evacuate sawdust.
To pick the right bandsaw blade for you, choose the right material, the right thickness, and the right TPI. The wider your blade is, the straighter it will cut. For the TPI, we recommend three inches. This way, you get sturdiness, performance, resistance, and durability.
We recommend you pick a hard-back or flex-back blade if you do general-purpose resawing. For hard-core resawing, we recommend a bi-metal hook tooth blade.
Can any bandsaw resaw?
Yes, any bandsaw can resaw. We recommend you still take time to pick the right one for you, to have the best results possible.
What are the benefits of a resawing bandsaw?
There are many benefits to resawing. The first one is money. It's cheaper to make your own thin stock than to buy some, for example.
Also, there's something very satisfying in resawing, especially if you use stuff from around your area or even your garden. There are so many DIY project options and you can feel very accomplished when you make your own things.
Why is a bandsaw blade necessary for resawing?
A bandsaw blade is essential for resawing. It cuts through thin and thick stock. This also evacuates a lot of sawdust. We think it's essential for any woodworking project.
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About THE AUTHOR
Drew
Co-Founder CountrySilo
Growing up around the farmlands of the Midwest you learn at an early age getting your hands dirty is a way of life. Whether it was helping my Grandpa make cedar furniture, mowing neighborhood lawns or throwing bails of hay the do-it-yourself mentality runs strong in our family.
I am excited to help you tackle your projects and discover new ways to make your house a home!
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