Thread: why do I need a bandsaw?

I think of the bandsaw as being more of a handtool than a powertool.

Yes, there are jigs (like the fence) that help guide the wood, but much of the work is done by hand with the eye to guide one.

For most woodworkers starting out a tablesaw is a better tool since it will produce more predictable results for the basic cuts, such as ripping and crosscutting. For most, especially those using pre-thicknessed timber, the height limitation of the tablesaw is not a big deal.

As one gains experience, confidence and skill, the tablesaw becomes less necessary and the advantages of the bandsaw become more apparent. Eventually one could (if so inclined) go completely without a tablesaw and use a bandsaw exclusively.

Please note that I am not deriding a tablesaw, but just highlighting that they offer different advantages/disadvantages at varying stages of woodworker experience and skill.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Originally Posted by derekcohen

Eventually one could (if so inclined) go completely without a tablesaw and use a bandsaw exclusively.

I agree that BS are great tools, especially in the hands of experienced users, but I think "exclusively" is a bit strong a term to use.

At times it is just not possible to use a conventional band saw to cut up sheet materials.
Yes it is possible to cross cut where the resulting pieces end up longer than a standard BS throat size but there will be some wastage and loss of time.
Trimming the ends of long pieces is also possible but awkward and inaccurate even when one has a substantial support/feed table.
And it is still easier to put curves on the ends of long thin pieces of timber with a hand held jigsaw than a BS.


Cheers

I agree that BS are great tools, especially in the hands of experienced users, but I think "exclusively" is a bit strong a term to use.

Ah Bob, you will note I said "if so inclined" (i.e that one could use a bandsaw exclusively). Not everyone works with sheetgoods, and not everyone needs to cut large boards. There are those who enjoy making boxes, for example, and their primary need is resawing and crosscutting of small pieces.

In spite of my handtool orientation, I do not foresee myself ever divesting myself of the tablesaw; however, its position in the workshop has shifted lower in the pecking order. It will continue to be used for ripping and, so in the grand scheme of things, it is assuming the mantle of Workhorse, in the same manner as the thicknesser. It is no longer a tool for delicate shaping, but a tool for preparation.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Originally Posted by derekcohen

I do not foresee myself ever divesting myself of the tablesaw; however, its position in the workshop has shifted lower in the pecking order. It will continue to be used for ripping and, so in the grand scheme of things, it is assuming the mantle of Workhorse, in the same manner as the thicknesser. It is no longer a tool for delicate shaping, but a tool for preparation.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Great stuff Derek n I think a statement that I have been looking for to help put things in perspective in regards to my own journey. As someone thats mindful of skill building and making the most of opportunities to practice skills I often errr at what exactly do I put energy into?

If economy n practicality come into play it stands to reason to initially focus on mastering what I do most n expand from there. Things like layout, MArking out accurately n efficiently Router use Milling weilding chisels & learning how to tune n use a Bandsaw come to mind.

Anywaz some interesting food for thought

REgards Lou