12-Inch Band Saw: Types, Uses, and Selection Criteria
You are thinking about buying a 12-inch band saw and you want to know about types, uses, and selection criteria. A 12-inch band saw is a mid-size band saw that offers more capacity than a 9 or 10-inch benchtop saw but less than a 14-inch floor saw. You need to know what to look for.
A 12-inch band saw is a mid-size band saw with a 12-inch throat. It is larger than benchtop models but smaller than 14-inch floor models. The 12-inch saw is popular for medium woodworking projects and light resawing.
Types of 12-Inch Band Saws
Floor-Standing 12-Inch Saws
Mounted on a stand or cabinet. More stable and rigid than benchtop models.
| Brand | Model | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Craftsman | 113.298xxx | 80 inches (verify) | 1 to 1-1/8 HP | Popular |
| Craftsman | 22400 | 93-1/2 inches (verify) | 1 HP | Newer model |
| Delta | 28-560 (verify) | 80 inches (verify) | 3/4 HP | Less common |
Benchtop 12-Inch Saws
Mounted on a workbench. More compact but less stable.
| Brand | Model | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Machinery | 12-inch | 80 inches (verify) | 1/2 HP | Budget |
| Grizzly | G0803 (verify) | 80 inches (verify) | 1/2 HP | Budget |
Specifications
Typical 12-Inch Band Saw Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 12-inch floor-standing or benchtop band saw |
| Throat | 11 to 12 inches |
| Resaw capacity | 6 to 8 inches (verify by model) |
| Blade length | 80 to 93-1/2 inches (verify by model) |
| Blade width | 1/8 to 1/2 inch |
| Motor | 1/2 to 1-1/8 HP, 120V |
| Speed | Single speed, ~2500 to 3000 FPM |
| Table | Cast iron, ~14 x 14 inches |
| Table tilt | 0 to 45 degrees |
| Weight | ~80 to 200 pounds |
Uses
1. General Woodworking
Cutting boards to size, making furniture parts, and general shop work.
2. Curve Cutting
Cutting curves and circles in material up to 12 inches wide.
3. Resawing
Limited resawing of boards up to 6 to 8 inches thick.
4. Ripping
Ripping boards with a fence for straight cuts.
5. Scroll Work
Fine scroll work with narrow blades.
6. Sanding
Some models include a sanding attachment for edge sanding.
Selection Criteria
1. Throat Capacity
The 12-inch throat allows cutting stock up to about 11-1/2 inches wide. Consider whether this is enough for your projects.
2. Resaw Capacity
Resaw capacity ranges from 6 to 8 inches. If you need to resaw thick boards, look for a model with 8-inch capacity.
3. Motor Power
A 1 HP or larger motor is recommended for resawing and cutting hardwood. A 1/2 HP motor is adequate for light work.
4. Build Quality
Cast iron frames and tables are more rigid and stable than aluminum. Cast iron wheels provide more momentum.
5. Blade Width Range
Look for a saw that accepts blades from 1/8 to 1/2 inch. This gives you the most versatility.
6. Fence and Miter Gauge
Check if the fence and miter gauge are included. If not, budget 30 to 60 dollars for replacements.
7. Price
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Benchtop 12-inch | 150 to 300 dollars |
| Floor-standing 12-inch | 300 to 600 dollars |
| Vintage Craftsman (used) | 150 to 400 dollars |
Blade Selection
Blade Length
The blade length varies by model. Common lengths are 80 inches and 93-1/2 inches. Measure the old blade or check the manual to verify.
Recommended Blades
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General woodworking | 1/4 inch | 6 TPI | Carbon steel | 12 to 18 dollars |
| Resawing | 1/2 inch | 3 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 20 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 |
Popular 12-Inch Band Saw Brands
| Brand | Price Range | Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craftsman | 150 to 400 dollars (used) | Good | General woodworking |
| Delta | 300 to 500 dollars | Good | General woodworking |
| Grizzly | 200 to 400 dollars | Fair to good | Budget woodworking |
| Central Machinery | 150 to 300 dollars | Fair | Light hobby work |
FAQ
What is a 12-inch band saw good for?
General woodworking, curve cutting, limited resawing, and scroll work. It offers more capacity than a 9 or 10-inch benchtop saw but less than a 14-inch floor saw.
What blade does a 12-inch band saw use?
The blade length varies by model. Common lengths are 80 inches (Craftsman 113.298xxx) and 93-1/2 inches (Craftsman 22400). Measure the old blade or check the manual to verify.
Is a 12-inch band saw worth buying?
For medium woodworking projects, yes. A well-built 12-inch saw like the Craftsman 113.298xxx can produce good results with new tires, bearings, and a quality blade. For serious resawing, consider a 14-inch or 18-inch saw.
References
- Fine Woodworking. “12-Inch Band Saw Guide.” Taunton Press.
- Sears Parts Direct. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Parts.” searspartsdirect.com.
- Olson Saw. “80-Inch Band Saw Blade Guide.” Olson Saw Company.
- Popular Woodworking. “12-Inch Band Saw Comparison.” Popular Woodworking Magazine.
- Vintage Machinery. “Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Reference.” vintagemachinery.org.
