It is challenging when choosing the type of saw you need. Is it dry cut saw or a band saw? Which one serves your purpose? In this dry-cut saw vs. band saw the article, we will compare the two and see which fits your bill.
Dry Cut Saw vs Band Saw
Dry cut saw
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This is a power-driven saw whose blades move up and down. It is mainly used to make intricate cuts on wood and metal. Like its name, it does DRY CUTWORK, making sculptural ornaments with a dry-cut head design.
It is unique because you can make pierce cuts.
The surface finish of the saw is usually clean and smooth. It is pretty noisy. It also has a knob control that helps control the blade’s speed.
Different sizes and throats
A dry-cut saw comes in different sizes. The size of the saw depends on its throat.
Local shops have these dry-cut saws ranging from 12 to 30 inches. You can buy the size that suits your work. Check the throat before buying.
Variations of blades in dry-cut saws
Craftsmen need saws in various ways. You cannot use the same blade for metalwork and woodwork. There are common variations of blades in dry-cut saw.
- Skip tooth: it is the most common. Has one cutting tooth, a gap and another tooth.
- Double skip tooth: has two teeth, a gap, then another two teeth
- Reversed tooth: has regular teeth in the upper section but reversed or pointing on the lower section.
- Diamond blades: has a diamond coating on the edge of the blade
Types of dry-cut saws
There are several types of dry-cut saws, depending on the work.
Here are different types of dry-cut saws
- Parallel arm variations: have two parallel arms and a motor attached at their back.
- The c-arm variations: the arms have a c shape, the blade is attached, and the end of the c.
- The parallel link variation: it is the modern version. They have parallel rods where arms reside at the end. A motor powers the arms to push the blade up and down.
Where do I use a dry-cut saw?
They are used in making complex designs, sculptures, toys or puzzles. They give a clean and smooth surface finish.
Pros
- It comes with a foot pedal.
- it is noiseless
- accurate and better precision
- high speed of working
Cons
- Can’t handle bulk work
The Band Saws
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This is a power saw that has a band-like flexible blade that is attached to wheels placed above and below. They are very effective in making uniform straight cuts.
They are used to cut any material. It is also found in slaughterhouses.
Variations of Blades in Band Saws
Here are three common types available for band saws
- Precision blades: they give the smoothest cuts and the best surface finish.
- Buttress blade: They are faster than other blade variations
- Claw tooth blade: Best to cut soft materials. Mostly used in slaughterhouses
Types of band saws
There are different types of band saws. Each type handles different purposes.
Here are common types suitable for woodwork.
- Benchtop band saws: are relatively small and can be moved around easily. Best for solid woods.
- Stationary band saws are quite large and can’t be moved around. Handles hardwoods
- Resaw band machines: they are big and powerful. Used to slice up the thicker blocks into thin veneers.
Where do I use the band saw?
You can use it in making slut cuts, angular cuts, circles, and arches.
Below are perfect project ideas for band saws
- Heavier furniture like a wardrobe
- Boxes
- Trimming operation
Pros
- Perfect for thick material
- Has accuracy
Cons
- Edge cuts are comparatively rougher
- Unable to make pierced cuts
- Noisy
The dry cut saw vs band saw: bottom-line
In this dry-cut vs. band saw comparison, see that a dry-cut saw is best for complicated projects while band saws are best for straight and fast cuts.
It’s up to you. Choose the best saw that suits your needs in woodwork.