JET Band Saw: Capacity, Controls, and Ownership Notes
You own a JET band saw and you want to know about its capacity, controls, and ownership. JET band saws are mid-range band saws made by JET Tools. You need to know the specifications, how to operate it, and what to expect as an owner.
JET band saws are mid-range band saws made by JET Tools, a division of JPW Industries. They include woodworking and metal cutting models. JET saws are known for good value and solid construction, positioned between budget brands like Grizzly and premium brands like Powermatic.
Model Identification
JET Woodworking Band Saws
| Model | Type | Throat | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JWBS-14S | 14-inch floor | 14 inches | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Popular |
| JWBS-14DXPRO | 14-inch floor (deluxe) | 14 inches | 93-1/2 inches | 1 HP | Deluxe model |
| JWBS-14OS | 14-inch floor (open stand) | 14 inches | 93-1/2 inches | 3/4 HP | Open stand |
| JWBS-18QT | 18-inch floor | 18 inches | 150 inches (verify) | 1-1/2 HP | Larger |
| JWBS-20OS | 20-inch floor | 20 inches | 157 inches (verify) | 2 HP | Large |
JET Metal Cutting Band Saws
| Model | Type | Cut Capacity (Round) | Blade Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HBBS-712 | Horizontal | 7 inches | 64-1/2 inches (verify) | Popular |
| HBBS-848 | Horizontal | 8 inches | 72 inches (verify) | Mid-size |
| HBBS-1012 | Horizontal | 10 inches | 80 inches (verify) | Larger |
| HVBS-712 | Horizontal/vertical | 7 inches | 64-1/2 inches (verify) | Convertible |
| HVBS-562 | Horizontal/vertical | 5 inches | 56 inches (verify) | Smaller |
How to Identify Your Model
- Find the model number on the label on the saw frame or column.
- If the label is missing, look for a stamped number on the frame.
- Measure the blade length to help identify the model.
- Check the motor label for horsepower and voltage.
- Contact JET customer service with the model number.
Specifications
JET JWBS-14S (14-Inch Woodworking)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 14-inch floor-standing band saw |
| Throat | 14 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 inches (12 inches with riser) |
| Blade length | 93-1/2 inches (105 inches with riser) |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 3/4 inch |
| Motor | 3/4 HP, 120V |
| Speed | Single speed, ~3000 FPM (verify) |
| Table | Cast iron, ~15 x 15 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~200 to 250 pounds |
JET HBBS-712 (Horizontal Metal Cutting)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Horizontal metal cutting band saw |
| Cut capacity (round) | 7 inches |
| Cut capacity (rectangular) | 7 x 12 inches (verify) |
| Blade length | 64-1/2 inches (verify) |
| Blade width | 3/4 inch |
| Motor | 1 to 1-1/2 HP, 110/220V (verify) |
| Speed | Variable, 80 to 300 FPM (verify) |
| Coolant | Yes (built-in coolant system) |
| Miter cutting | Swivel vise, 0 to 45 degrees (verify) |
| Weight | ~400 to 600 pounds (verify) |
Operating Controls
Woodworking Saws
1. Power Switch
Turns the saw on and off.
2. Blade Tension
Adjusts the tension on the blade.
3. Blade Tracking
Adjusts the tracking of the blade on the wheels.
4. Table Tilt
Adjusts the table angle for bevel cuts.
5. Guide Post
Adjusts the height of the blade guides.
6. Fence
Adjusts the cutting width for straight cuts.
Metal Cutting Saws
1. Power Switch
Turns the saw on and off.
2. Blade Speed Control
Controls the blade speed in FPM.
3. Feed Rate Control
Controls how fast the saw head descends.
4. Coolant Control
Controls the flow of cutting fluid.
5. Vise
Holds the workpiece during cutting.
6. Miter Adjustment
Allows the saw head or vise to swivel for angle cuts.
Blade Selection
Woodworking Saws
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General woodworking | 3/8 inch | 4 TPI | Carbon steel | 15 to 20 dollars |
| Resawing | 1/2 inch | 3 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 25 to 35 dollars |
| Curve cutting | 1/4 inch | 6 TPI | Carbon steel | 12 to 18 dollars |
| Scroll work | 1/8 inch | 14 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
Metal Cutting Saws
| TPI | Best For | Material Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 6 to 8 TPI | Thick solid bar | 1 to 4 inches |
| 10 TPI | General metal cutting | 1/4 to 2 inches |
| 14 TPI | Medium thickness | 1/8 to 1 inch |
| 18 TPI | Thin material | Under 1/4 inch |
Ownership Notes
1. Build Quality
JET saws have cast iron frames and wheels (woodworking models) and solid steel construction (metal cutting models). Good rigidity and vibration damping.
2. Warranty
5-year warranty (verify). One of the best warranties in the mid-range market.
3. Parts Availability
Parts are available from JET, industrial supply companies, Amazon, and eBay. Blades and common parts are widely available.
4. Value
JET saws offer good value for the price. They are more expensive than Grizzly but less expensive than Powermatic.
5. Customer Service
JET customer service is generally responsive. Contact with the model number for parts and service.
FAQ
What blade does the JET 14-inch band saw use?
A 93-1/2 inch blade in widths from 1/8 to 3/4 inch. With a riser block, the blade length is 105 inches.
Can I resaw with a JET 14-inch band saw?
Yes, with a 1/2 inch, 3 TPI hook tooth bi-metal blade. Resaw capacity is 6 inches without a riser block and 12 inches with a riser block.
Where can I find parts for my JET band saw?
JET customer service, industrial supply companies (MSC, Grainger), Amazon, and eBay. Blades and common parts are widely available.
References
- JET Tools. “Band Saw Owner’s Manuals.” jettools.com.
- JPW Industries. “JET Product Guide.” jpwcompanies.com.
- Olson Saw. “93-1/2 Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Fine Woodworking. “14-Inch Band Saw Comparison.” Taunton Press.
- Practical Machinist. “Horizontal Band Saw Guide.” practicalmachinist.com.
