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How to Use A Portable Band Saw (5 Easy Steps)

By: David S. Miles | Last Updated: January 16, 2024

A portable bandsaw is perhaps one of the leading utility power tools in the industry. Yet, it has received minimal attention from the artisans. Hence, many people, especially the beginners, frequently ask, “How to use a portable band saw?”

So, for the beginners’ convenience, we will discuss the proper steps on using the portable bandsaw correctly and safely.

Tips on How to Use A Portable Band Saw (Steps by Steps)

A Portable Band Saw

Undoubtedly, a portable bandsaw makes your woodworking and metal cutting life easier. You can transport the portable saw to a stock or metal pipe if it too heavy to move and then use the bandsaw to shape, trim, or cut it.  So, now that you know what is a portable band saw used for, it is time to introduce you with the proper steps to use the portable band saw.

Step 1: Take Preparation

Once you get the first bandsaw, get yourself familiarized with the saw parts. It includes locating the motor, triggers, and switches to operate the saw correctly.

Also, before you start operating the bandsaw, always wear protective goggles and hand gloves to keep any mishaps at bay. Also, check for the blade sharpness so that you can experience some smooth cuts on the most rigid metal even.

Step 2: Preparing the Saw

Now, you will need to align the portable bandsaw correctly with the cutting material. It can be either wood or metal.

The bandsaw shoe should meet the stock with close contact. Furthermore, ensure the bandsaw blade doesn’t move away from the cutting material during the operation.

Step 3: Marking and Fastening the Material

Likewise, every cutting procedure, you will have to mark the cutting area on the stock. You can use a scale and pencil to draw the cutting outline on the material. And for working with a pipe, mark the diameter.

The outline will help you cut or trim the material with increased accuracy. Next, you would want to fasten the material securely on the surface. We suggest you to use a vice to clamp the material so that it stops moving while you operate the portable bandsaw.

Also, metal pipes can start spinning as you perform the cuts, if not tightened securely with the cutting surface. It will result in inferior cutting quality, and at the worst, you may injure the fingers with the spinning pipe.

So, fastening the material is crucial for safety and accuracy.

Step 4: Start the Cut

Once you have fastened the cutting material securely and has placed it near with the bandsaw blade, it is time to make the first cut. Also, the outline marking should be in a parallel position with the saw blade.

Once you are prominently sure about all these things, please turn on the bandsaw and briefly wait for a few ardent moments to allow the motor to run at its full strength.  Press the trigger and operate the blade carefully to help it cut through the drawn outline of the material.

You don’t need to put too much pressure on the saw blade ardently. Only hold the edge properly so that it is aligned with the cutting ling of the material. As you hold the portable saw correctly, it would quickly cut through the material.

Step 5: Finishing the Cuts

Once you reach the end of a cut, hold the bandsaw tightly. It will stop any unwanted buckling or jerking of the saw blade from ruining the cuts.

Now, release the trigger and allow the blade to stop. Then, follow the guideline to make the other cuts similarly. Once you are finished with all the cuts, let the bandsaw cool off and clean it. After that, store it in a safe location.

Conclusion

This is how to use a portable band saw to accomplish cuts and trims on metal and wooden materials. Luckily, you won’t require knowing rocket science to operate the bandsaw and perform some cuts with it.

However, we suggest you work with patience so that the cuts are accurate and also, you don’t damage the saw blade in the process.

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