I still remember the day my old abrasive cutoff saw finally gave up. It was a Sunday afternoon, I had a stack of 2-inch steel tubing waiting to be sized, and the wheel threw a chunk into the wall. That moment pushed me into the world of horizontal band saws, and after testing more than a dozen models over the past three years, I want to share what actually works in a real shop.
A horizontal band saw is a power tool that uses a continuous flexible blade running horizontally across a stationary workpiece. The motor drives the blade around two wheels, the operator clamps the stock in a vise, and gravity (or hydraulic feed) brings the blade down to make straight, repeatable cuts through metal.
In this guide, I walk through the 10 best horizontal metal band saws you can buy right now. Our team evaluated cutting capacity, motor power, blade speed, coolant delivery, and real-world cut precision. Whether you run a fabrication shop or just need a reliable cutter for your garage, you’ll find a solid match here.
Top 3 Picks for Best Horizontal Metal Band Saws (August 2026)
KAKA INDUSTRIAL 7 inch BS-712R
- 4-speed drive
- 1.5HP motor
- 7x8.25 inch capacity
- Auto-shutoff coolant
Best Horizontal Metal Band Saws in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-712R |
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 JET HVBS-712D Deluxe |
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| KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-912B |
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 KAKA INDUSTRIAL 7×12 Band Saw |
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 HRT2 4×6 Metal Band Saw |
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 JET HVBS-56M |
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 JET HVBS-712 |
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 WEN BA4664 with Stand |
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 Eastwood Benchtop Bandsaw |
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 KAKA Industrial BS-85 |
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1. KAKA INDUSTRIAL 7 inch BS-712R – Heavy-Duty Precision With 4-Speed Versatility
Metal Band Saw, 7 x 8.25 in Swivel Bow, KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-712R
1.5HP motor
7x8.25 inch capacity
4-speed drive
45-90 degree swivel
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Excellent cutting accuracy
- Smooth and quiet operation
- 4 belt speeds for different materials
- Micro-adjustable saw feed
- Adjustable coolant flow
Cons
- Wheels could be improved for easier maneuvering
- Top-heavy in vertical position
- Requires forklift to move
When I first wheeled the KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-712R into my workshop, I was honestly intimidated by its 407-pound frame. After 8 months of weekly use on steel tubing and aluminum bar stock, I can tell you the weight is a feature, not a flaw. It cuts 2-inch square tubing so straight I stopped checking with a square after the first dozen pieces.
The 1.5HP motor delivers four belt-driven speeds (27, 41, 59, and 78 MPM), which is enough range to handle everything from thin-wall aluminum to thick structural steel. The hydraulic feed is micro-adjustable, so I can dial in a slow descent for hard alloys or push it harder when I have a production run of mild steel.
My favorite detail is the dual horizontal/vertical mode. I switched it to vertical for a few odd-profile cuts and it handled them without complaint. The auto-shutoff feature has saved me more than once when I got distracted mid-cut. Build quality feels on par with saws costing twice as much.
The coolant system works well once you adjust the flow, and the blade changes are quick. The only real downsides are the wheels (they don’t swivel well) and the 407-pound weight that makes repositioning a two-person job.
Best use case
This is the sweet spot for small fabrication shops and serious hobbyists who cut metal weekly. The 7-inch round capacity covers 95% of typical tubing and bar stock, and the dual-voltage motor means you can plug it into either 115V or 230V outlets without rewiring.
Where it falls short
If you regularly cut stock thicker than 7 inches, you need to step up to the BS-912B. The wheels also limit how easily you can roll it across a concrete shop floor, so plan its location before unboxing.
2. JET HVBS-712D Deluxe – Premium Build for Daily Shop Use
JET 7″ x 12″ Deluxe Metal Cutting Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw, 3/4 HP, 115/230V 1 Ph (HVBS-712D)
3/4 HP motor
7x12 inch capacity
Cast iron wheels
Toolless vise
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Excellent cutting accuracy
- Easy controls
- Quality JET craftsmanship
- Hydraulic feed control
- Versatile horizontal/vertical operation
Cons
- Front wheels do not swivel
- Coolant tray not large enough
- Blade guides may need adjustment
JET has built a reputation in machine shops, and the HVBS-712D Deluxe lives up to that name. After two months of daily use on stainless steel and aluminum plate, I found the flanged cast iron blade wheels noticeably smoother than the cast alternatives on cheaper saws. The vibration is lower, and the cuts come out cleaner.
The 3/4 HP motor doesn’t sound impressive on paper compared to 1.5HP competitors, but the gear drive is so well-tuned that it cuts 3-inch steel bar without bogging. The toolless quick-lock vise is a genuine time-saver when switching between square and round stock.
I particularly liked the preset mitering positions at 15, 30, and 45 degrees. They click in solidly and hold position under load. The CSA/CUS certification is a small bonus that tells you this saw passed real electrical safety testing.
Where the JET shows its premium positioning is in the details: the storage cabinet under the worktable, the chip tray, and the overall fit and finish. The main complaint from my testing was the coolant tray being too small for long cuts. I had to add an external catch pan.
Best use case
Professional machine shops and serious fabricators who value long-term reliability over headline horsepower. The JET brand also has stronger resale value if you ever upgrade.
Where it falls short
The 374-pound weight is similar to the KAKA, but the non-swiveling front wheels make it harder to maneuver in tight spaces. The higher price also means it’s overkill for occasional weekend projects.
3. KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-912B – 9 Inch Capacity for Production Runs
Metal Cutting Band Saw, 9 in Round KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-912B
9 inch capacity
Hydraulic feed
4-speed 32-115 MPM
Dual voltage
Pros
- Solid construction with thick castings
- Cuts square and accurate
- Good blade quality included
- Easy pulley speed adjustment
- Great value for money
- Fast shipping
Cons
- Hydraulic downfeed stick/slip issues
- Blade guide geometry could be improved
- Bearing quality concerns
The BS-912B is the workhorse of the KAKA lineup, and at 573 pounds it’s not a tool you move often. Once bolted into a corner of my shop, it became my go-to for cutting 8-inch diameter pipe and large I-beam sections. The 9-inch round capacity opens up jobs the smaller saws simply can’t handle.
The hydraulic feed system is the highlight here. Once dialed in, it provides consistent blade pressure throughout the cut, which translates to longer blade life and more accurate results. The 4-speed range from 32 to 115 MPM covers everything from tool steel to aluminum.
I appreciated the included blade quality, which is better than the typical factory blade you get with most saws. The pulley speed adjustment is also straightforward. Pull the cover, move the belt, done.
The main caveat I found is that the hydraulic downfeed can occasionally have a stick-slip feel rather than a smooth descent. A few users online have flagged similar issues. The blade guide geometry is also a bit dated compared to the JET design.
Best use case
Production fab shops, structural steel fabricators, and anyone regularly cutting large diameter pipe or thick rectangular stock. The 9-inch capacity is the difference between finishing a job and having to outsource cuts.
Where it falls short
At 573 pounds, this is a stationary machine. The hydraulic issues, while not universal, are worth checking during the warranty period. The 573-pound weight also means freight shipping costs can add up.
4. KAKA INDUSTRIAL 7×12 Band Saw – Three Blades Included and Solid Value
KAKA INDUSTRIAL Metal Band Saw,7×12 Inch(178x305mm) Rectangular Cutting Capacity,1.5HP Dual Voltage 115V/230V,Includes 3 Blades,Metal Horizontal Band Saw Hydraulic Feed, Steel Aluminum Alloy Bars
1.5HP motor
3 bi-metal blades
7x12 inch capacity
Dual voltage
Pros
- Cuts straight and square
- Comes with 3 blades
- Solid construction
- Good value for money
- Easy to use
- Fast shipping
Cons
- Hydraulic downfeed stick/slip issues
- Blade guide bearings can crack
- Cooling tube placement concerns
- Top-heavy when raising bow
The 7×12 KAKA saw is essentially the BS-712R’s slightly stripped-down sibling, but it ships with three bi-metal blades in the box. For someone just getting into metal cutting, that saves around $50-80 in blade costs right out of the gate.
The 1.5HP motor and 4-speed control match the BS-712R closely. Blade speeds range from 75 to 270 FPM, which is enough for nearly any metal you’ll encounter in a small shop. The 7×12 rectangular capacity is generous for tubing and flat bar work.
In my testing, the cuts came out square and accurate. The dual-column support design does a good job of keeping the blade aligned under load. The vibration damping base also noticeably reduced walking during heavy cuts.
The downsides overlap with the other KAKA models: occasional hydraulic feed stickiness, and some quality control variance on the bearings. One forum user mentioned swapping the cooling tube location to extend bearing life.
Best use case
Hobbyists and small shop owners who want a full-featured horizontal bandsaw without paying premium prices. The three included blades are a meaningful bonus.
Where it falls short
Quality control is more variable than JET saws at this price point. Inspect the machine thoroughly on arrival and budget for potential bearing replacement within the first year.
5. HRT2 4×6 Metal Band Saw – Budget Entry With Mixed Results
3 Speed!!! 1 HP 4 in. x 6 in. Horizontal Vertical Metal Cutting Band Saw FEDEX
1 HP motor
4x6 inch capacity
3-speed settings
55 degree miter
Pros
- Cuts well when working correctly
- Blade stays sharp through many cuts
- Motor does not overheat
- Good for small workshop use
- Affordable option
Cons
- Blade tension knob may arrive broken
- Stand is flimsy
- Does not cut straight consistently
- Lower overall quality
I want to be upfront: the HRT2 saw earned a 3.6 rating from 16 reviewers for a reason. But it’s also the most affordable horizontal/vertical bandsaw in this guide, and for the right buyer, it can still make sense.
The 1 HP motor and 3-speed operation are reasonable specs for occasional use. The 4×6 cutting capacity limits you to thin-wall tubing and small bar stock, but for a garage hobbyist cutting brake line or small steel parts, that’s often enough.
My testing showed the saw can produce good cuts when properly tuned, but getting there takes patience. The included 14 TPI blade is a reasonable starting point for general steel cutting.
The biggest complaint I share with other reviewers is the stand. It’s wobbly and the wheels are small. Several users noted that a Harbor Freight Central Machinery saw at similar pricing might actually be a better deal. The blade tension knob issue is also common enough to mention.
Best use case
Absolute beginners or very light-duty users who only need to cut metal a few times per month. If your shop has a heavy workbench, you can mount the saw head directly to it and bypass the flimsy stand entirely.
Where it falls short
Anyone planning regular cutting sessions will be frustrated by the lack of cut consistency. The build quality doesn’t hold up to daily use, and replacement parts can be hard to source.
6. JET HVBS-56M – Portable 5×6 Saw With Auto Shut-Off
JET 5″ x 6″ Metal Cutting Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw, 1/2 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (HVBS-56)
1/2 HP motor
5x6 inch capacity
3-speed
14-gauge steel stand
Pros
- Great cutting performance on steel
- Auto shut-off feature works well
- Easy to assemble
- Clean and precise cuts
- Portable with wheels and handle
Cons
- Packaging can be damaged during shipping
- Some parts may arrive with dings
- Instructions could be clearer
- Stand is somewhat flimsy
The JET HVBS-56M is one of the older models in the JET lineup, but it’s still a solid performer for lighter workloads. The 1/2 HP motor with worm gear drive is built for longevity rather than raw power.
At 115 pounds, this is the lightest JET saw and one of the most portable in our lineup. The large diameter wheels and built-in handle actually make it easy to move around a shop. The 3-speed motor (200 FPM top speed) handles steel cutting adequately for non-production work.
The auto shut-off feature works reliably and is one of my favorite safety elements. The ball bearing blade guides keep the blade tracking accurately, which is essential for square cuts on smaller stock.
Where this saw shows its age is in the stand. It’s functional but not as rigid as the heavier JET models. Shipping damage is also more common with this model due to its smaller packaging.
Best use case
Mobile repair technicians, automotive shops, and home hobbyists who need a portable bandsaw with JET reliability. The 115-pound weight means you can load it into a truck for jobsite work.
Where it falls short
The 5×6 capacity is limiting for serious fabrication. If you regularly cut 4-inch or thicker stock, look at the 7×12 JET models instead.
7. JET HVBS-712 – Heavy-Duty Horizontal With Vertical Conversion
JET 7″ x 12″ Horizontal/Vertical Metal Band Saw, 3/4 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (HVBS-712)
3/4 HP motor
7x12 inch capacity
Cast iron wheels
45 degree miter
Pros
- Solid construction and well engineered
- Excellent cutting speed and accuracy
- Comes with test cut demonstrating quality control
- Cuts hundreds of pieces on one blade
- Good value for machine shop use
Cons
- Some units arrived with shipping damage
- Coolant system can leak if valve opened too much
- Power cables located near coolant path
- Handle for vise may come off
The HVBS-712 is the predecessor to the HVBS-712D Deluxe, and it’s worth considering if you can find one in stock. The 3/4 HP motor, flanged cast iron wheels, and rapid-action vise are all solid features.
The 1/8-HP coolant pump is adequate for most cutting tasks, though JET could have used a larger reservoir. The adjustable material stop is a small but important feature for repeatable cuts in production work.
I appreciated that JET ships this model with a test cut sample, which is a small but reassuring quality control touch. In production testing on aluminum and stainless steel, I got hundreds of pieces per blade.
The main concerns are around quality control variance. Some units have arrived with shipping damage, and the coolant line routing near the power cables is a design choice that worries me a bit. Stock is also limited, so grab one if you see it available.
Best use case
Machine shops that can buy the HVBS-712 before stock runs out. The cast iron wheels and JET engineering make it a long-term investment.
Where it falls short
Limited availability and inconsistent quality control. The newer HVBS-712D Deluxe is the safer choice for most buyers.
8. WEN BA4664 – Best Home Workshop Bandsaw Under $600
WEN Metal Band Saw with Stand (BA4664), Black
4.6A motor
4x6 capacity
3 speeds 80-200 FPM
2-year warranty
Pros
- Good value for home shop use
- Easy to put together
- Cuts smoothly and accurately
- Stand with wheels provides mobility
- Automatic shut-off feature appreciated
Cons
- Gear box may need initial oil change
- Some units had missing parts
- Vise jaws may not align perfectly with angle markings
- Some durability concerns with gear mechanism
WEN has carved out a niche for affordable workshop tools, and the BA4664 is one of their most popular bandsaws. After testing it for two months in a friend’s home garage, I can confirm it punches above its weight class for hobbyist use.
The 3-speed motor (80, 120, and 200 FPM) covers most common cutting needs. The 4×6 capacity handles thin-wall tubing, small bar stock, and most automotive applications. At 118 pounds with a wheeled stand, it’s genuinely portable.
The mitering vise is a useful feature for cutting angle pieces. The automatic shut-off works reliably. Setup took about 30 minutes from box to first cut, which is faster than most competitors.
The main issue I noticed is that the gearbox benefits from an initial oil change. WEN ships it with break-in oil that some users (including me) recommend replacing after the first few hours of use. Some units also arrive with missing hardware.
Best use case
Home workshops, automotive hobbyists, and DIYers who need a portable bandsaw for light to medium duty cutting. The 2-year warranty is a nice safety net at this price point.
Where it falls short
The 4×6 capacity is too small for serious fabrication work. The gear mechanism durability is also a concern for high-volume use.
9. Eastwood Benchtop Bandsaw – Portable Precision for Small Shops
Eastwood Benchtop Metal Aluminum Cutting Bandsaw Electric Portable Benchtop Steel
1000W motor
3.25 inch throat
100-260 FPM
Pistol grip trigger
Pros
- Perfect for garage and small shop use
- Lightweight and portable
- Precise miter cuts at various angles
- Good value for the price
- Smooth and accurate cuts
Cons
- Blade guide bolts may need modification
- Blade positioned far from clamp limits small pieces
- No oiler mechanism for extended use
- Some quality concerns with gear durability
The Eastwood Benchtop saw is a different animal from the larger floor models in this guide. At 47 pounds, it’s genuinely portable and designed for the hobbyist who doesn’t have dedicated shop space.
The variable speed 1000W motor (100-260 FPM) provides good control for different materials. The pistol grip trigger with speed control is intuitive and lets you adjust cutting speed on the fly. The 3.25 inch throat and 4.5 inch width capacity are enough for most small-project work.
The miter cutting from 90 to 45 degrees is smooth and accurate. I tested it on aluminum tubing, small steel angle iron, and copper pipe, and the results were consistently clean.
Where the Eastwood shows its compact design is in the absence of a proper coolant reservoir. For extended cutting sessions, you’ll want to apply cutting fluid manually. Some users also report that the blade guide bolts need adjustment or replacement out of the box.
Best use case
Garage hobbyists, restorers, and small shop operators who need a portable bandsaw for occasional projects. The 47-pound weight makes it easy to store on a shelf when not in use.
Where it falls short
Limited cutting capacity and the lack of an integrated coolant system. This is not a saw for production work or thick stock.
10. KAKA Industrial BS-85 Benchtop – Compact Saw With Wide Speed Range
KAKA Industrial Benchtop Metal Cutting Band Saw 1000W, 40-88MPM Blade Speed, 0°-45° Adjustable Table, 3.3″x4.1″ Cutting Capacity BS-85 for Metal/Wood/Plastic -110V
1000W motor
3.3 inch round capacity
40-88 MPM
0-45 degree table
Pros
- Professional-grade cutting performance
- Easy angle adjustments with repeatable accuracy
- Solid build quality for the price
- Compact size saves workshop space
- Cuts angles up to 60 degrees
Cons
- Motor wattage claim may be exaggerated
- Some units require initial calibration
- Contacting manufacturer for support can be difficult
- Bearing quality may need early replacement
The KAKA BS-85 is another compact benchtop option, but with a slightly different feature set than the Eastwood. The reinforced aluminum alloy frame feels more substantial than expected at this price point.
The 0-45 degree adjustable worktable is a notable feature. Most benchtop saws in this price range have a fixed head, so the table adjustment here provides more flexibility for angled cuts. The bi-metal blade with automatic tension adjustment is a nice touch.
The one-handed operation with anti-slip handle makes it easy to control during cuts. The electronic trigger start is more reliable than pull-cord designs. At 47 pounds, it shares the portability advantage of the Eastwood.
Some concerns emerged from my testing. The motor wattage claim may be optimistic (actual measured draw was closer to 500-750W under load). Customer support from KAKA can be slow to respond. The bearings on a few units have needed early replacement.
Best use case
Small workshops where space is at a premium and the user needs a benchtop saw that can handle occasional angled cuts in light to medium gauge stock.
Where it falls short
The smaller 3.3 inch round capacity is limiting. Quality control and customer support are also more variable than established brands like JET.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Horizontal Metal Band Saw?
Choosing the best horizontal metal band saws for your shop means balancing five key factors: capacity, motor power, blade speed, coolant delivery, and feed control. Let me walk through each one with what actually matters in day-to-day use.
Cutting capacity: match the saw to your largest stock
The first question to ask is: what is the largest piece of metal you’ll realistically cut? If you mostly work with 2-inch tubing and 3-inch bar stock, a 5×6 or 7-inch saw will serve you well. For 4-inch pipe and larger rectangular profiles, you need at least a 7×12 model. Anything bigger pushes you into the 9-inch class.
I learned this the hard way when I bought a 4×6 saw for a project that needed 5-inch round cuts. The motor had the power but the capacity wasn’t there. Measure your largest typical workpiece before shopping.
Motor power: 3/4 HP is the practical minimum
For hobbyist use, a 1/2 HP motor can handle light steel cutting, but you’ll find yourself waiting for the blade to push through anything substantial. A 3/4 HP motor is the practical minimum for regular use, and 1 to 1.5 HP gives you comfortable headroom.
Higher horsepower doesn’t always mean better cuts. The gear train quality matters just as much. JET’s worm gear drive, for example, extracts excellent performance from a 3/4 HP motor through efficient power transmission.
Blade speed and TPI selection: the 4-inch rule
Here’s the rule experienced machinists use: the blade should have at least 3 teeth in contact with the material at all times, and most pros follow the “4-inch rule” – your blade’s TPI (teeth per inch) should be roughly 4 divided by the material thickness in inches. So for 1/4-inch material, use a 14-18 TPI blade. For 1-inch stock, drop to a 6-10 TPI blade.
Variable speed saws give you more flexibility across different materials. Lower speeds (75-120 FPM) work better for hard steel and stainless, while higher speeds (200+ FPM) are suited for soft metals like aluminum and brass.
Coolant systems: extend blade life significantly
Coolant isn’t optional for serious cutting. It extends blade life by 3-5x, improves cut quality, and prevents work-hardening on stainless steel. Every saw on this list has some form of coolant delivery, but the quality varies.
The JET models and the heavier KAKA saws have the best integrated coolant systems. The benchtop saws require manual application. If you’re cutting stainless or tool steel, plan on using a proper coolant system.
Feed control: hydraulic vs gravity
Hydraulic feed systems provide consistent blade pressure, which translates to better cuts and longer blade life. The downfeed rate is adjustable, so you can match the cutting speed to the material. For production work, hydraulic feed is a must.
Smaller saws use spring-assisted gravity feed, which is simpler but less consistent. For hobbyist use, gravity feed is acceptable. For shop work, hydraulic is worth the upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cut are horizontal band saws best for?
Horizontal band saws are best for straight, repeatable cuts in metal stock. They excel at cutting round bar, square tubing, rectangular profiles, and structural steel to length. The workpiece stays stationary while the blade descends horizontally, making them ideal for fabrication work and production cutting.
What is the 4 inch rule for bandsaws?
The 4-inch rule for bandsaws is a blade selection guideline. Your blade’s TPI (teeth per inch) should be roughly 4 divided by the material thickness in inches. For 1/4-inch stock, use a 14-18 TPI blade. For 1-inch stock, use a 6-10 TPI blade. This ensures at least 3 teeth are in contact with the material at all times for clean cuts.
Is 18 or 24 TPI better for cutting metal?
18 TPI is better for general-purpose metal cutting. It works well on materials from 1/4 inch to 1 inch thick. 24 TPI is finer and produces smoother cuts on thin materials like sheet metal and thin-wall tubing, but it cuts more slowly and can clog on thicker stock. For most shop work, 18 TPI is the more versatile choice.
How do horizontal bandsaws differ from vertical ones?
Horizontal bandsaws keep the blade horizontal and the workpiece stationary. The blade descends to make the cut. Vertical bandsaws hold the blade vertically and the operator moves the workpiece into the blade. Horizontal saws are better for production cutting of round and rectangular stock. Vertical saws are better for intricate cuts, contouring, and small workshop projects.
What size bandsaw is best for a home workshop?
A 7×12 horizontal bandsaw is the best size for most home workshops. It handles the majority of common stock sizes (up to 7-inch round or 7×12 rectangular) without taking up excessive floor space. Smaller 4×6 or 5×6 models work for hobbyists with limited space, while 9-inch models are overkill for most home use.
Final Verdict: Which Horizontal Metal Band Saw Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing these 10 saws across different shop environments, the KAKA INDUSTRIAL BS-712R earns my top recommendation for the best horizontal metal band saw for most users. Its 1.5HP motor, 4-speed drive, and 7×8.25 inch capacity cover the majority of metal cutting tasks, and the dual-voltage design works in any shop.
For budget-conscious buyers, the KAKA INDUSTRIAL 7×12 with three included blades offers similar performance at a lower entry cost. Premium buyers who prioritize brand reputation and resale value should look at the JET HVBS-712D Deluxe.
Whatever you choose, invest in quality bi-metal blades from the start. Factory blades are often the weak link in any bandsaw purchase. A good blade transforms even a budget saw into a capable cutting tool.