WEN Benchtop Bandsaw

A Comprehensive Review of the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw for Beginner Woodworkers

Introduction

A bandsaw can be an invaluable tool for any woodworker, especially beginners. Today, we’re diving into a detailed review of the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw, a gift from one of our viewers, Mr. Kyle Bellon. Thank you, Kyle!

Let’s explore if this nine-inch bandsaw is a good fit for novice woodworkers. This review will analyze its features, functionality, and performance to help you make an informed decision.

Key Features of the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw

The Wen Benchtop bandsaw can cut up to nine inches wide and three and a half inches deep, making it ideal for cutting small parts. The ability to cut such dimensions is one of the primary reasons I was interested in acquiring a bandsaw. The versatility it offers in handling small projects cannot be overstated. Be sure to check out our store, where we offer build plans, merchandise, and products made right here in the shop. Investing in a bandsaw such as this can expand your woodworking projects, enabling you to explore a variety of designs and techniques.

Initial Impressions

The Wen Benchtop bandsaw comes with an instruction manual, a plastic and aluminum miter gauge, and a lightweight aluminum tabletop.

One of the best features so far is the minimal assembly required, which is perfect for those with limited space in their workshop. The initial setup was straightforward, allowing me to get started quickly.

For beginners, the minimal setup is a crucial aspect as it reduces the intimidation factor associated with new machinery. The components feel sturdy, and the overall build quality seems reliable, offering a sense of confidence as you begin your woodworking journey.

Design and Functionality

The blade is pre-installed, and the saw includes a motor with a dust collection feature, which is a nice touch. The dust collection system is particularly beneficial, as it helps keep your workspace clean and free of debris, which can be a significant concern in smaller workshops.

You can adjust the blade tracking and use the tensioning knob to loosen or tighten the blade. This level of adjustability ensures precision in your cuts, a vital requirement when working on detailed projects.

The table angle can be adjusted from 0 to 45 degrees. There’s a small window to monitor blade tracking on the pulleys, which is essential for maintaining alignment and ensuring smooth operation.

The front side features an on-off switch and two access panels for blade changes, making it user-friendly and efficient. It also includes a sturdy fence and a basic miter gauge, which enhance its functionality, allowing for accurate and consistent cuts.

Using the Bandsaw

As a beginner, I’ve only used a jigsaw before, so I was eager to see how this Wen Benchtop bandsaw would help clean up CNC parts. It performed excellently, allowing me to clean up and glue pieces together to make a mallet. This tool has already significantly improved my woodworking projects. The precision and ease of use it offers have significantly enhanced my productivity and the quality of my work.

For those new to woodworking, a bandsaw like this can be an excellent way to develop your skills and gain confidence in tackling more complex projects. For $165, the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw is a fantastic addition to any beginner’s workshop. It excels at cutting small parts, which can be risky on larger tools like a miter saw or table saw.

This bandsaw is perfect for creating templates and cutting curves, offering a level of precision and control that is difficult to achieve with other tools.

It generates a fair amount of dust, but the dust collection system works well when connected to a shop vac, helping to maintain a clean and safe working environment. One of the standout features of the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw is its versatility. It allows you to explore various woodworking techniques, from making intricate cuts to crafting detailed designs.

This bandsaw can be a stepping stone for beginners to experiment with different materials and styles, broadening their creative horizons. The ability to cut both straight and curved lines with precision makes it an invaluable tool in any workshop.

Whether you’re working on small decorative items or larger structural pieces, this bandsaw can handle a wide range of projects, making it a versatile addition to your tool collection.

Testing with Hardwoods

I tested the Wen Benchtop bandsaw with a piece of offcut from a cutting board made of maple, wenge, mora, purpleheart, and possibly bloodwood. The saw struggled with this extremely hard wood, getting bound up. This test demonstrated the bandsaw’s capabilities and limitations. It likely would have performed better if I had freehanded the cut instead of using the fence. This test was extreme, and the bandsaw is more suited for smaller, less dense materials. For beginners, this experience serves as a reminder to match the tool to the task at hand, ensuring that you work within the equipment’s capabilities to achieve the best results.

WEN 9-Inch Band Saw, 2.8-Amp Benchtop (BA3959)

Final Thoughts

For $165, the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw is a fantastic addition to any beginner’s workshop. It excels at cutting small parts, which can be risky on larger tools like a miter saw or table saw. This bandsaw is perfect for creating templates and cutting curves, offering a level of precision and control that is difficult to achieve with other tools. It generates a fair amount of dust, but the dust collection system works well when connected to a shop vac, helping to maintain a clean and safe working environment.

Specifications and footprints

The Wen Benchtop bandsaw measures approximately 29 3/4 inches in height, 19 inches in depth, and 15 inches in width, making it compact enough for most workshops. Its size is a significant advantage for those with limited space, allowing it to fit comfortably in smaller areas without compromising on performance. The compact design also makes it simple to move and store, adding to its convenience and appeal for beginner woodworkers.

Conclusion

I rate the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw a solid four out of five stars. It’s a reliable tool for any beginner woodworker looking to enhance their craft. Whether you’re cutting small parts or intricate curves, this bandsaw is a worthy investment. Its ease of use, combined with its versatility and compact design, makes it an ideal choice for those starting in woodworking.

As you gain experience and confidence, this bandsaw will continue to be a valuable asset in your workshop, supporting you in a wide range of projects and helping you develop your skills. Investing in a tool like the WEN Benchtop Bandsaw is not just about acquiring equipment; it’s about opening up new possibilities and embarking on a rewarding journey in woodworking.