BOSCH DEEP-CUT BAND SAW
The second tool on this Great Gear list is another one from Bosch, and it uses the 18V battery system along with a brushless motor. Portable band saws like this are great to have around when metal is on the menu frequently in your shop. Bosch’s model doesn’t disappoint.
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| This deep cut band saw offers considerable strength in a relatively small package. Weighing in at 14.2 pounds, it’s in the middle of the pack for cordless band saws. |
BAND SAW ADVANTAGE.
There are as many ways to cut metal as there are wood. If you’re anything like me, then it’s often going to be a job for an angle grinder or reciprocating saw. However, the band saw you see above is a much better choice for cuts on larger pieces of metal. Not only does it offer plenty of cutting capacity, but it’s a far more efficient cutter than either a grinder or reciprocating saw.
PERFORMANCE.
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| Freehand cuts with this portable band saw are easy to make. The weight of the saw does the work — you just need to guide it. | Thanks to the saw’s stability and ease of cutting, odd cuts like the 45° you see above go smooth, even through steel. |
So, how does Bosch’s band saw perform? As you can see, it makes clean cuts through both nonferrous metals and mild steel. It cuts quick and only requires the weight of the saw itself to make the cuts. The biggest advantage of this model however is the 5" by 5" cutting capacity.
This band saw is in the middle of the pack weight-wise compared to its competitors, but few other manufacturers produce ones that equal its capacity. At 14.2 pounds the saw isn’t exactly light, but it’s not demanding to use for several hours either.
MAINTENANCE.
Another aspect that stood out to me about the saw was how easy it is to get inside. As shown below, the interior of the saw opens completely. The tracking can be adjusted from the front, and swapping out the blade is easy to do with just your hands, making for simple maintenance. With a price of $350, this band saw can be a great addition to your shop.
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| Two latches secure the cover plate for easy access. Steel castings and a stock 1⁄2" blade make for sturdy components. | Changing out a blade is a simple affair; release the tensioning lever and lift the blade out. |
