Mini Band Saw: Types, Uses, and Selection Criteria
You are thinking about buying a mini band saw and you want to know about types, uses, and selection criteria. A mini band saw is a compact band saw designed for small work. You need to know what to look for.
A mini band saw is a compact band saw designed for small work, hobby cutting, and light metal cutting. Mini band saws are smaller than standard benchtop saws and are designed for light, precise work.
Types of Mini Band Saws
Benchtop Mini Band Saws
Mounted on a workbench. Designed for small woodworking or metal cutting.
| Brand | Model | Throat | Blade Length | Motor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proxxon | MBS 240/E | 8-11/16 inches (verify) | 85-1/16 inches (verify) | 120V | Precision |
| Micro-Mark | Mini Band Saw | 9 inches (verify) | 62 inches (verify) | 120V | Hobby |
| Central Machinery | Mini | 7 inches (verify) | 56 inches (verify) | 120V | Budget |
Portable Mini Band Saws
Handheld or benchtop-convertible. Designed for small metal cutting.
| Brand | Model | Cut Capacity | Blade Length | Battery | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | 2529-20 (M12) | 1-5/8 x 1-5/8 inches | 27 inches (verify) | M12 | Sub-compact |
| DEWALT | DCS368 (20V) | 1-5/8 x 1-5/8 inches (verify) | 32-7/8 inches (verify) | 20V | Compact |
| WEN | 9439T | 1-5/8 x 1-5/8 inches (verify) | 44-7/8 inches (verify) | 120V | Benchtop |
Uses
1. Small Woodworking
Cutting small parts, models, and thin stock. Ideal for dollhouse furniture, model boats, and small craft projects.
2. Small Metal Cutting
Cutting small metal parts, bars, and tubing. Ideal for jewelry making, small fabrication, and repair work.
3. Curve Cutting
Cutting curves and circles in small material. Ideal for scroll work and small radius cuts.
4. Hobby and Craft Work
Cutting thin material for hobby and craft projects. Ideal for balsa wood, thin plastic, and light metal.
5. On-Site Work
Portable mini band saws are ideal for on-site work in tight spaces. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians use them for cutting small pipe and conduit.
Selection Criteria
1. Throat or Cut Capacity
The throat or cut capacity determines the maximum size of stock you can cut. For woodworking, look for a throat of at least 8 inches. For metal cutting, look for a cut capacity of at least 1-5/8 inches.
2. Motor Power
For woodworking: 1/4 to 1/2 HP or 2 to 3 amps is adequate for light work. For metal cutting: brushless cordless motors are best for portable use.
3. Blade Length
Check the blade length and availability. Common lengths: 27, 32-7/8, 44-7/8, 56, 59-1/2, 62, and 85-1/16 inches. Make sure blades are readily available.
4. Build Quality
Cast iron frames are more rigid than aluminum. For precision work, look for a cast iron or heavy-duty aluminum frame.
5. Variable Speed
Variable speed is important for cutting different materials. For metal cutting, variable speed is essential.
6. Price
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Benchtop mini (wood) | 100 to 300 dollars |
| Benchtop mini (metal) | 200 to 500 dollars |
| Portable mini (cordless) | 150 to 400 dollars (tool only) |
| Precision mini (Proxxon) | 300 to 600 dollars |
Blade Selection
Wood Cutting Blades
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General woodworking | 1/4 inch | 6 to 10 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
| Scroll work | 1/8 inch | 14 TPI | Carbon steel | 8 to 12 dollars |
| Thin stock | 1/4 inch | 10 TPI | Carbon steel | 10 to 15 dollars |
Metal Cutting Blades
| Application | Width | TPI | Material | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General metal | 1/2 inch | 14 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 15 to 25 dollars |
| Thin metal | 1/2 inch | 18 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 15 to 25 dollars |
| Sheet metal | 1/2 inch | 24 TPI | Bi-metal M42 | 15 to 25 dollars |
Popular Mini Band Saw Brands
| Brand | Price Range | Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proxxon | 300 to 600 dollars | Excellent | Precision work |
| Micro-Mark | 200 to 400 dollars | Good | Hobby work |
| Milwaukee (M12) | 150 to 300 dollars | Excellent | Portable metal cutting |
| DEWALT (20V) | 150 to 300 dollars | Excellent | Portable metal cutting |
| Central Machinery | 100 to 200 dollars | Fair | Light hobby work |
| WEN | 100 to 200 dollars | Fair to good | Light hobby work |
FAQ
What is a mini band saw good for?
Small woodworking, small metal cutting, curve cutting, hobby and craft work, and on-site work in tight spaces. It is designed for light, precise work on small material.
What is the difference between a mini band saw and a standard benchtop band saw?
A mini band saw is smaller and lighter than a standard benchtop saw. It has a smaller throat, less resaw capacity, and a smaller motor. It is designed for small work and light use.
Can I cut metal with a mini band saw?
Yes, with the right blade and speed. For portable metal cutting, use a Milwaukee M12 or DEWALT 20V compact band saw with a bi-metal blade. For benchtop metal cutting, use a mini metal cutting band saw with variable speed and a bi-metal blade.
References
- Proxxon. “MBS 240/E Mini Band Saw Guide.” proxxon.com.
- Micro-Mark. “Mini Band Saw Guide.” micromark.com.
- Milwaukee Tool. “M12 Sub-Compact Band Saw.” milwaukeetool.com.
- Fine Woodworking. “Mini Band Saw Comparison.” Taunton Press.
- Pro Tool Reviews. “Mini Band Saw Review.” ProToolReviews.com.
