Best Portable Band Saws

The Makita XBP02Z is easily the best portable band saw for people who value speed and power in its class. The company's very own motor delivers fast cutting with variable speeds between 275 and 530 feet per minute. Being one of the fastest band saws on the market allows this power tool to easily cut multiple metal materials.

That said, it isn't just about its power. The model comes equipped with a thick protective rubber bumper that adds extra durability. Despite its powerful nature, the motor doesn't produce too many vibrations, making it a real pleasure to work with. Plus, the folk at Makita didn't forget to include a rubberized soft grip handle. The extra comfort that it provides will help even the most experienced carpenters.

Of course, some of its features are fairly orthodox. You have the usual built-in LED light that illuminates the work area for additional visibility. The model isn't devoid of the standard lock-off trigger switch either. But not as frequent of a guest that is fortunately present here is an onboard wrench storage. This little built-in compartment makes the stopper plate adjustment process about as quick and easy as it could get.

Of course, the power tool has its flaws. But none that aren't justifiable. Some customers find the motor a bit too loud but that's the price you pay for speed and power.

Again, despite a couple of minor flaws, the Makita XBP02Z is still the best portable band saw for our taste. There just isn't a better handheld power tool that will help you as efficiently and effectively tackle professional woodworking applications. On top of that, the model is really practical and durable, and that's all we need.

The Milwaukee 6232-21 is a great choice for those who require a deep and wide cut. Equipped with a 5-inch round workpiece and a 5 x 5-inch rectangular workpiece, the model offers arguably the largest cut capacity today.

The tool builds on the company's traditional performance and reliability. Aside from all of the usual solutions, it incorporates Job Site Armor™, a technology that combines a proprietary composite construction and crush zone barriers. This combination gives you the long-lasting and rugged protection that's so crucial for construction job sites.

On top of the latter, the model comes equipped with an all-metal direct drive gearing system. A system like that severely extends the service life of the tool, all while requiring a lot less maintenance than a chain drive.

Combine that with the gear protecting clutch that absorbs high-impact forces, usually caused by blade lock-ups, and a debris protection system that automatically removes debris and you have yourself one of the most rugged and reliable portable band saws on the market right now. From the gear and the motor to the pulley and the tool in general, every part and every component here is under some serious protection.

Performance-wise, we would mostly like to point out the slim motor housing. It may not seem like much of a change at first but, by increasing the user's line of sight, it gives the said user better cut accuracy and exceptional cut visibility, and that's not something we could gloss over.

So, if you're looking for a power tool that could handle the construction job site pressure without breaking much of a sweat, you definitely can't go wrong with this one.

In one word, the DEWALT DCS374B is versatile. And quite capable. Practical as well. Alright, maybe one-word approach isn't the best choice here. To elaborate, we would first like to highlight the model's 5-inch cutting capacity. A rectangular workpiece that wide will let you work with thicker stock. It is great for re-sawing purposes and, used right, will even let you saw your own veneer.

The usual built-in LED light here incorporates a 20-second delay. It may take some time to get used to but, once you do, it will help you make accurate cuts even in the most low-light conditions. There's also a pretty standard variable speed control that allows you to set the right speed for the job. We feel like the speed dial could've been put in a different way since, as it is now, it isn't that easy to reach, but the finesse required to effectively use it probably comes with practice.

DeWalt's built-in brushless motor, as it is usually the case, doesn't disappoint on the performance and durability front. The maximum no-load blade speed of 350 feet per minute will be enough for most cutting tasks.

Other than that, the tool-less blade changing lever loosens blade tension, making it noticeably easier to change blades. A nice little integrated hook lets you hang the power tool without doing any damage to the base or the front handle.

In other words, the model will prove a great choice for inexperienced users as all of its features and functions are surprisingly easy to figure out and get the hang of. But don't get us wrong, this is still a capable power tool that will help you make the smoothest cuts virtually regardless of the material involved.

The most defining characteristic of the Milwaukee 2429-21XC is, without a doubt, its so-called One-Handed Cuts design. There are two elements to it. First, a slightly different form that makes it easier to operate the power tool with one hand. Second and just as important is the reduced weight of the tool. Where most of the model's counterparts add up to about 15 pounds, the Milwaukee 2429-21XC weighs less than 7. As you'd imagine, it makes the tool a lot easier on your hands.

But what we like most about this cordless portable band saw is the fact that it does not really trail behind its heavier competition. Its robust motor cuts 3/4" EMT in no more than 3 seconds, delivering up to 150 cuts per charge using the company's REDLITHIUM™ XC battery. Aside from the large capacity of the battery, we really like the dual-actuation trigger that improves control and the overall productivity.

What makes the model suitable for one-handed use isn't just the shape and the weight but also the dual-latching lower guard. By covering the blade outside the active cutting area, it addresses the OSHA guarding requirements, making it safe to use with one hand.

Not dissimilar to the majority of these power tools, the instrument in question comes equipped with an LED light that highlights the cut line, adjustable blade tracking, blade tension adjustment function, and a variable speed trigger.

All in all, the Milwaukee 2429-21XC provides that one-handed power and outstanding portability that electricians, maintenance professionals, and other users who cut small diameter materials often need. You can even use it overhead and still make clean and smooth cuts.

The DeWalt DWM120K doesn't really bring anything new to the table. But we don't reckon it has to do that either. Instead, it just covers all the bases and it does so rather well. The powerful 10-amp motor gives you between 100 and 350 feet per minute and a controlled power for various job site applications. The convenient speed dial will help you vary the speed for different materials.

The said job site environment is often dark, so the engineers at DeWalt didn't forget to implement a powerful LED light to help highlight the cut line.

Neither is it known to be too kind and forgiving to power tools. But, equipped with steel shroud and rubber bumpers, the model should be able to withstand some serious abuse without any damage.

One thing that's particularly worth mentioning is the tool's accurate blade tracking adjustment. Aside from improving blade alignment, it reduces the blade's wear, thus extending its service life. Speaking of which, there are also the dual-bearing blade guide rollers that serve a similar purpose.

The saw works with externally replaceable brushes, making it a lot easier to quickly repair the tool on the spot. The large multiposition front handle is easy to adjust and it offers lots of hand space. In addition to the power tool itself, you get a convenient kit box, a standard bade, and a hex wrench.

To sum it up, the DEWALT DWM120K gives you a complete set, ready for work and serious exploitation. The power tool's well-balanced body improves comfort and reduces fatigue. It is rugged enough for job site applications. And it doesn't require much in terms of maintenance.