The 5 Best Deep Cut Band Saws – (2020 Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

When you’ve had enough of manually sawing wood or metal pieces, a deep cut band saw can help you speed up the job. Relative to other power saws, deep cut band saws are easy to use and don’t take up too much space. The best deep cut band saws can help you make detailed cuts without having to use industrial machinery. 

Deep cut band saws are motorized devices with a long and thin serrated blade. When operational, the blade is circulated quickly around two gears like a belt, effectively recreating the motion of physical sawing. The blade of a deep cut band saw is typically interchangeable and available in multiple sizes and teeth per inch (Source). 

Unlike large and clunky floor band saws, deep cut band saws are often battery-powered and highly portable. They’re perfect for cutting elaborate or irregular designs, as well as making clean and consistent cuts thanks to the power and tooth distribution of the blade (Source). 

Deep cut band saws are also highly versatile. They’re capable of cutting wood and plastic, but also metals like brass, copper, and aluminum. Whether you’re a woodworker, engineer, or hobbyist, a deep cut band saw is a great addition to any tool collection.

Prior to purchasing a deep cut band saw, you’ll want to consider if the blade and battery are sold separately. You’ll also want to consider its angling ability, cutting depth, and motor power. 

It’s about time you upgraded to one of these top-rated deep cut band saws.

What is a Deep Cut Band Saw & How Does It Work?

A deep cut band saw is a traditional saw that comes with a sharp blade. It is also a portable band saw with a handle that requires manual force to create cuts, just like folding saws. A deep cut band saw, on the other hand, automates this whole process.  Using a battery, the blade will automatically slide back and forth at a rate faster than human force could replicate.

The blade of a deep cut band saw is remarkably thin and is typically installed separately onto a power tool that can easily change out blades. This thin blade along with the ability to create cuts on precise angles which ease is why many people use band saws.

Using a band saw is usually just as easy as using your typical power tool. Simply plug in the battery, make sure the blade is installed properly, and carve out your cuts.

What Is A Deep Cut Band Saw Used For?

A deep cut band saw is used to cut strut, pipe, angle iron, pipe and a number of other materials. It provides a very fast, efficient, and accurate cut to these materials. After our tests, this tool was even able to cut through the toughest substances, even 4-inch thick cast iron.

How Much Do Deep Cut Band Saws Cost?

Deep cut band saws cost between $100 and $300. In comparison, the greatest jamb saws are around this price range, too. These saws come with a blade, a warranty, a dust port, a strong metal frame, and other premium features.

Comparing the Top 5 Models

1. DEWALT 20V Max Portable Deep Cut  Band Saw – Best Deep Cut Band Saw Power Tool Set

This is the overall best option for those who won’t settle for anything less than top-quality. This DEWALT deep cut band saw comes with a brushless motor, inherently making it much more efficient than many other deep cut band saws in this price range.

Brushless motors like this one that comes with this model are better since they offer overall better performance and less heat when used for long periods of time. Best of all, this model offers a nice 20V of total power and 5-inch cutting depth.

The only potential deal-breaker to keep in mind is that this model doesn’t come with the blade, battery, or charger. If you don’t mind purchasing these things separately then this is the absolute best model to check out.

2. WEN 3959 2.5-Amp Benchtop Deep Cut Band Saw – Best Balance Between Price and Quality

This model from WEN is a great option to consider if you want an all-in-one package which comes with everything you need to get started right away. With everything you need to get started right out of the box and a reasonable price, this is the best deep cut band saw for those who want a nice balance between price and quality.

This model features a dust collection port, powerful corded 2.5 AMP motor, the ability to tilt up to 45 inches without sacrificing the quality or precision of the cuts, and a 2-year manufacturer warranty.

The cutting depth of this model clocks in at 3.5 inches. Although lower than other models like the DEWALT model we reviewed, this is still enough depth necessary to meet the needs of typical deep cut band sawing jobs.

3. Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 Deep Cut Band Saw – Best Durability Specifications for Professional Jobs

Many people value durability more than other features when they are trying to find the best deep cut band saw to suit their needs as a professional contractor. With a high-carbon steel frame, this model will hold up a lot better than most other deep cut band saws.

A Milwaukee deep cut portable band saw like this one is a great choice for professional contractors, specifically, because it will hold up a lot better. It has a nice 3.5-inch cutting depth and an ergonomic handle to make it comfortable for long periods of use.

The biggest potential deal-breaker to keep in mind is that you will need to purchase the battery and charger separately. Although these items are not that expensive on their own, the toolset itself is already a little more expensive than average. In reality, what you pay for is the peace of mind that comes with an extremely durable frame.

4. Skil 3386-01 2.5-Amp Deep Cut Band Saw – Affordably-Priced Deep Cut Band Saw with Plenty of Angle Adjustment

This deep cut variable band saw from skill is a great option for those who are tighter budgets but still expect to have a table which adjusts the cutting angle up to 45 degrees. This model comes with a parallel guide, miter gauge, and tilt adjustment specifications typically found in much more expensive models.

It also has a strong steel frame and all the parts necessary to use it right out of the box. If you have been turned away from models that force you to buy parts separately, this is a great product to consider.

Best of all, this deep cut band saw has an affordable price and a strong steel frame. The biggest potential drawback for you to be aware of is that the cutting depth (3.125-inches) is a little below average.

5. Makita XBP03Z Cordless Deep Cut Band Saw – Best For Cutting Copper and Other Harder Materials

A Makita deep cut band saw like this one has been the prized possession of many people seeking a deep cut band saw which specializes in cutting extra-hard materials. Although many people use band saws to cut wood, models like this one demonstrate that they can also be really great at cutting metal!

The XBP03Z from Makita is great for materials like angle iron, copper, and other hard materials. For this reason, it is also a little more expensive than other models. In addition, the cutting capacity takes a toll in order to make the device more efficient at cutting hard materials.

You also need to purchase the blade and battery of this model separately. Regardless, it has a durable frame and a unique set of specifications which make it great for those who need to cut harder materials.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Deep Cut Band Saw

Getting a deep cut portable band saw is not a process, which you should take lightly. Especially, if you want a model that best suits your needs.

In order to help you make the best possible decision, here are the main factors which you need to keep in mind.

Blade Quality

Many people seeking the best deep cut band saw are concerned with the quality of the machine’s ability to cut. Much of this has to do with the blade size, cutting depth, and overall quality.

Before you purchase a model, be sure to look at whether or not there is a blade. Often times, models that include a blade don’t always use the best quality either. This isn’t only applicable to band saws, but other types of saw as well, like top straight flush saws that need sharp blades to cut straight.

Make sure the blade you use is a long continuous metal band, which has teeth. If the blade your portable bandsaw comes with doesn’t, at the very minimum, come with teeth or isn’t made with metal, then you are best off purchasing this separately.

It is sometimes best to simply purchase a blade separately so that you can ensure it has the best quality possible.

Has All Parts to Use it Out-of-the-Box

In addition to the blade, consider other parts that you need to use the product right out of the box. Typically, the two items which are removed first by manufacturers are the blade and the battery.

It’s also important to keep in mind that many handheld band saws don’t use batteries at all, and instead use corded electricity.

If you want a great model that has everything included in the box for it to be used right away, check out the WEN 3959 2.5-Amp Benchtop Deep Cut Band Saw.

Base and Tilting Capability

Having an included workspace and the ability to tilt the table in order to make specific cut angles is a feature that many professional contractors simply cannot live without. Although a hobbyist could definitely get a deep cut band saw without a base or the ability or adjust the angle of your cuts without these features, others find them necessary.

Usually, models that have these features also cost a little bit extra. For the extra cost, you also receive the ability to cut more efficiently and precisely. However, if you want more freedom and flexibility in cutting out angles, you might want to read reviews of the greatest cordless jigsaws.

Deep Cut Band Saw Brands

The industry of deep cut band saws has many different manufacturers with a high level of influence. There are also many different quality brands to choose from. Here are some of the most popular deep cut band saw brands.

DEWALT

DEWALT is a subsidiary company of the manufacturing giant Stanley Black & Decker. Known for producing all sorts of high-quality construction related-tools, DEWALT also produces some of the best deep cut band saws.

The DEWALT 20V Max Portable Deep Cut  Band Saw, for example, has a very efficient brushless motor which makes it stand out from its competitors. Although DEWALT may not offer the most affordable prices, they don’t back down in terms of quality.

WEN

Dating all the way back to 1951, WEN has been in the power tool industry for quite some time now. Based out of Illinois, this company is a highly-respected actor in the manufacturing industry.

Starting with humble beginnings, the quality of this brand soon received worldwide recognition. Products like the WEN 3959 2.5-Amp Benchtop Deep Cut Band Saw illustrate why.

In addition to the quality which is widely known from WEN products, this model shows us that you can still get a high-quality band saw at a very reasonable price.

Milwaukee

Dating back to 1924, Milwaukee Tool has long prided itself on increasing the productivity and raising standards for products in their industry.

With some of the best hand tools and other manufacturing and storage products on the market, they also create some nice deep cut band saws!

The Milwaukee 2729-20 M18 Deep Cut Band Saw, for example, offers above-average cutting depth and capability, making it great for difficult jobs that a normal band saw simply couldn’t handle. It is also one of the strongest and most durable band saws on the market.

SKIL

SKIL stands out as another influential company in the power tool industry with a pretty long history. Dating back almost a century, SKIL prides itself on creating high-quality tools for DIYers and professional contractors alike.

Products like the Skil 3386-01 2.5-Amp Deep Cut Band Saw from this manufacturer illustrate that high-quality deep cut band saws can be affordable, effective, and capable of making precise and difficult cuts.

Makita

Founded as an electric motor sales and repair company over 100 years ago, Makita soon found massive success which turned into them designing their own products.

Today, they are based in 8 different countries and serve customers all around the world. The Makita XBP03Z Cordless Deep Cut Band Saw is a great choice for people who need a band saw capable of cutting hard metal materials.

How to Use a Deep Cut Band Saw

Using deep cut band saw is much like using a typical power tool. However, there are still some things for you to keep in mind. If you want to learn how to use a deep cut band saw properly, here are some basic steps to keep in mind:

1. Put on a Blade Suited for Your Job

Typically, people will use a half-inch bandsaw blade. Depending on the task at hand, this may or may not be suitable. Especially for jobs that require fine cuts.

If you have multiple blade sizes, carefully consider the type of job you are doing and install one best-suited for it.

2. Check the Blade Guides & Tension

Once you put your blade in, it’s important to check the blade guides and ensure everything is installed properly. Otherwise, you can easily encounter problems when turning it on.

Make sure that the guides are close to the blade. Finally, check the tension of the blade and adjust the settings to a point that is not too high or too low.

The size of the blade also has an effect on the proper tension level. If you are using a 3/8-inch blade, for example, you might set to tension to 1/2-inches.

3. Turn On & Start Cutting

The hardest part of using a deep cut bandsaw is usually the process of installing the blade. Once you have this step finished, you are ready to start using your bandsaw. Turn it on and start making cuts!

Using a Bad Saw In A Few Steps

Ready to Use a Deep Cut Band Saw on Your Next Project?

Deep cut band saws are great tools to have around for circular cuts and angular cuts which a typical saw or even the best worm drive saw simply cannot do with precision. They are also reasonably priced compared to many other power tools and simple to use.

If you are ready to use your first deep cut band saw, you should start by checking out the DEWALT 20V Max Portable Deep Cut  Band Saw. However, those on a tighter budget might instead choose to look at the WEN 3959 2.5-Amp Benchtop Deep Cut Band Saw first.

In any case, find a model, which best suits your needs and budget. Be sure that you order all the parts necessary to use it out of the box since many handheld bandsaws don’t include items such as a blade or battery. If you are aware of what features to look for and what a fair price is, getting the best deep cut band saw for your needs is easy!

Explore more than just the top portable bandsaws of today, read more of our reviews for top-rated table saw miter gauges and the best saw horses (reviewed here).