Ryobi Band Saw Review

When it comes to a “Ryobi Band Saw Review,” the general consensus among woodworking enthusiasts and DIYers is that Ryobi offers a solid, entry-level option that provides remarkable value for its price point.

While it may not compete head-to-head with high-end, industrial-grade band saws in terms of raw power or precision, the Ryobi band saw excels in its accessibility, ease of use, and suitability for hobbyist projects, intricate curve cutting, and resawing smaller stock.

It’s a fantastic starting point for those looking to add a versatile cutting tool to their workshop without breaking the bank, offering a practical solution for tasks like crafting small furniture, cutting veneers, or shaping custom pieces.

It typically strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for home workshops.

Here’s a comparison list of 7 relevant products, including Ryobi’s offerings and some alternatives for context:

• Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in. Band Saw BS904G

  

  • Key Features: 9-inch throat capacity, 9-amp motor, LED work light, rack and pinion table adjustment, includes a miter gauge and push stick.
  • Average Price: Around $200-$250.
  • Pros: Excellent value for money, compact size, easy to set up and use, good for hobbyists and light-duty work, built-in work light is a plus.
  • Cons: Limited power for resawing thick hardwoods, plastic components can feel less durable than metal, blade tracking can require frequent adjustment.

• Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3-1/4 in. Compact Band Saw P590

  • Key Features: Cordless portability, 3-1/4 inch cut capacity, lightweight design, ideal for cutting conduit, rebar, and overhead materials.
  • Average Price: Around $150-$200 tool only.
  • Pros: Extremely portable, great for on-site work or small cuts without power outlets, surprisingly capable for its size, good for metal and plastic.
  • Cons: Not designed for woodworking, very limited cutting depth, requires Ryobi ONE+ battery system.

• WEN 3962T 10-Inch Band Saw Make Money A

  • Key Features: 10-inch throat, 3.5-amp motor, 6-inch resaw capacity, two-speed operation, stand and fence included.
  • Average Price: Around $300-$350.
  • Pros: Good resaw capacity for its class, two speeds offer versatility, includes a stand and fence which are often extra with other brands, solid choice for intermediate users.
  • Cons: Motor can feel underpowered for continuous heavy resawing, blade changes can be a bit finicky, dust collection could be improved.

• DEWALT 20V MAX Portable Band Saw DCS371B

  • Key Features: Cordless portability, 2-1/2 inch cut capacity, LED work light, integrated hang hook, ideal for electricians and plumbers.
  • Average Price: Around $200-$250 tool only.
  • Pros: Highly durable, excellent battery life with compatible DEWALT batteries, robust construction, great for cutting metal effectively.
  • Cons: Not suitable for woodworking, limited cut depth, higher price point than Ryobi cordless options.

• SKIL 3386-01 9-Inch Band Saw

  • Key Features: 9-inch throat, 2.5-amp motor, rack and pinion table adjustment, rip fence and miter gauge included.
  • Average Price: Around $180-$220.
  • Pros: Very competitive price, good for light woodworking and hobby projects, relatively easy to set up, compact footprint.
  • Cons: Motor can be underpowered for anything beyond light work, blade guide adjustments can be frustrating, quality control sometimes cited as an issue.

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Deep Cut Band Saw 2729-20

  • Key Features: Cordless, 5-inch cut capacity, POWERSTATE brushless motor, REDLINK PLUS intelligence, LED light.
  • Average Price: Around $350-$400 tool only.
  • Pros: Industry-leading power and durability for a cordless unit, deep cut capacity for large pipes/conduits, excellent for professional use, superior battery technology.
  • Cons: Very expensive, not a woodworking band saw, heavy for prolonged overhead work, requires Milwaukee M18 battery system.

• RIKON Power Tools 10-305 10-Inch Mini Band Saw

  • Key Features: 10-inch throat, 1/3 HP motor, 4-5/8 inch resaw capacity, tilting table, cast iron frame.
  • Average Price: Around $450-$500.
  • Pros: High-quality build with cast iron components, smooth operation, good resaw capacity for a small footprint, excellent precision for small projects, often considered a step up from entry-level brands.
  • Cons: Significantly higher price point than Ryobi/WEN/SKIL, motor can still struggle with very dense hardwoods, dust collection could be more efficient.

Understanding the Ryobi Band Saw: A Deep Dive into the BS904G

When you’re looking to get into woodworking or expand your workshop capabilities, the Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in.

Band Saw BS904Ghttps://amazon.com/s?k=Ryobi+9+Amp+9+in.+Band+Saw+BS904G often pops up as a compelling option.

It’s designed squarely for the home user, the hobbyist, and the DIY enthusiast who needs a versatile cutting tool without investing in a professional-grade machine.

Think of it as your first step into the world of intricate cuts, curves, and light resawing.

It’s not going to rip through 6-inch oak slabs all day, but it’s incredibly capable for its niche.

Design and Build Quality: What to Expect

Let’s be frank: this isn’t a solid-steel industrial beast. Earn Money After Work

The Ryobi BS904G is built with a combination of steel and reinforced plastic components.

This design choice is a key factor in its affordability and lighter weight, making it easier to move around a smaller workshop.

• Frame and Base: The main frame often features a steel backbone, providing stability where it counts. The base is generally sturdy enough for typical home workshop use.
• Table: The work table is usually made of aluminum, which is lightweight and rust-resistant. It can tilt up to 45 degrees for bevel cuts, a standard feature across most band saws.
• Blade Guides: These are often plastic or a combination of plastic and metal. While they get the job done, they require careful adjustment to ensure proper blade tracking and minimize vibration.
• Wheels: The wheels that the blade rides on are typically cast aluminum or a composite material. They are usually balanced reasonably well for smooth operation.

While some users might wish for more heavy-duty components, it’s important to remember the target audience and price point. For the average home user, the build quality is more than adequate for the tasks it’s designed for.

Motor Power and Cutting Capacity: The Sweet Spot for DIY

The Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in.

Band Saw BS904Ghttps://amazon.com/s?k=Ryobi+9+Amp+9+in.+Band+Saw+BS904G comes with a 9-amp motor, which is a significant factor in its performance.

This motor is well-suited for a 9-inch band saw, offering a good balance of power for its size.

• Throat Capacity: The “9-inch” in its name refers to the throat capacity, meaning you can cut material up to 9 inches wide. This is ample for most small to medium-sized woodworking projects.
• Resaw Capacity: The maximum cutting height, or resaw capacity, is typically around 3-5/8 inches. This means you can cut boards up to 3-5/8 inches thick into thinner pieces like veneers. While not a powerhouse for resawing large slabs, it’s perfectly capable of resawing smaller stock for decorative purposes or creating book-matched panels.
• Material Versatility:
  • Wood: Excels at cutting curves, intricate shapes, and smaller resawing tasks in softwoods and many hardwoods e.g., pine, poplar, cherry, maple.
  • Plastics: Handles various plastics with ease, making it useful for model making or creating custom parts.
  • Non-Ferrous Metals with specific blades: Can cut thin aluminum or brass with the right blade, though this isn’t its primary function and requires caution.

Pro Tip: For optimal performance, especially when resawing or cutting hardwoods, ensure you use a sharp blade designed for the material you’re cutting. A dull blade or the wrong tooth count will dramatically reduce performance, regardless of motor power.

Blade Selection and Changing: Keeping Your Saw Sharp

Blade selection is paramount for any band saw, and the Ryobi is no exception.

The right blade can transform its performance for specific tasks.

• Blade Length: The Ryobi BS904G typically uses a 62-inch blade. This is a common size, meaning you’ll have a good variety of aftermarket blades available.
• Blade Width and TPI Teeth Per Inch:
  • 1/8″ to 1/4″ wide: Ideal for intricate curve cutting and tight radii. More teeth per inch e.g., 10-14 TPI will give you a smoother cut.
  • 3/8″ to 1/2″ wide: Better for general purpose cutting, straight cuts, and light resawing. Fewer teeth per inch e.g., 4-6 TPI will cut faster and clear chips better.
  • Resaw Blades: For dedicated resawing, look for specialized resaw blades with a low tooth count e.g., 3 TPI and a unique tooth geometry that helps with chip evacuation.
• Blade Changing Process:
  • The Ryobi BS904G features a quick-release blade tension lever, which makes detensioning the blade relatively easy.
  • Access to the blade is typically via a hinged cover on the side.
  • While not as tool-less as some high-end models, changing the blade is generally straightforward, requiring a few turns of a knob or lever to release tension and remove the old blade.
  • Critical step: Always ensure the blade is properly seated on the wheels and tensioned correctly before use. Improper tensioning is a common cause of blade breakage or poor cuts.

Ease of Use and Setup: Getting Started Quickly

One of the Ryobi band saw’s strong suits is its user-friendliness, particularly for beginners. Best Use Of Elliptical Machine

Out of the box, setup is relatively quick, and learning the basics is straightforward.

• Assembly: Typically involves attaching the table, blade, and setting up the fence and miter gauge. Clear instructions are usually provided.
• Adjustments:
  • Table Tilt: The table can tilt for angled cuts, usually with a clear angle scale.
  • Blade Tension: An external knob allows you to adjust blade tension. It’s crucial to set this correctly – too loose, and the blade wanders. too tight, and you risk premature blade wear or breakage.
  • Blade Tracking: This is perhaps the most critical adjustment. It ensures the blade runs perfectly centered on the wheels. The Ryobi has an adjustment knob for the upper wheel. It often takes a few tries to get it dialed in perfectly, but once set, it usually holds reasonably well.
  • Blade Guides: Adjusting the upper and lower blade guides and thrust bearings to just clear the blade is essential for straight cuts and reduced blade deflection.
• Integrated Features:
  • LED Work Light: A nice touch that illuminates the cutting area, improving visibility and accuracy, especially in dimly lit workshops.
  • Rack and Pinion Table Adjustment: This allows for precise and smooth height adjustment of the upper blade guide, which is a convenient feature often found on more expensive models.

For a new user, the straightforward nature of the Ryobi makes it less intimidating to learn and master the art of band saw cutting.

Safety Features: Cutting Responsibly

As with any power tool, safety is paramount.

The Ryobi band saw incorporates several features designed to protect the user.

• Blade Guard: The adjustable upper blade guard covers the blade above the workpiece, exposing only the portion necessary for cutting. This is critical for preventing accidental contact.
• On/Off Switch: Typically a large, easily accessible paddle switch that can be quickly hit to power down the machine in an emergency. Some models include a lock-out key to prevent unauthorized use.
• Push Stick: Ryobi often includes a push stick with the band saw. Always use a push stick when feeding small pieces of material or when your hands would be too close to the blade.
• Dust Collection Port: A dust port allows you to connect a shop vacuum or dust collector. This not only keeps your workspace cleaner but also improves visibility by removing sawdust, and it’s a safety feature as excessive dust can be a fire hazard and a respiratory irritant.

It’s crucial to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment PPE, including safety glasses and hearing protection, when operating any power tool.

The Cordless Ryobi Band Saw: Portability Meets Precision

Beyond the benchtop woodworking model, Ryobi also offers a cordless band saw, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3-1/4 in.

Compact Band Saw P590https://amazon.com/s?k=Ryobi+ONE%2B+18V+Cordless+3-1%2F4+in.+Compact+Band+Saw+P590. This tool is in a completely different category, designed primarily for cutting metal, conduit, rebar, and similar materials on job sites or wherever a power outlet isn’t readily available.

• Purpose: Not for woodworking. This is a specialized tool for electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and general contractors who need to quickly and cleanly cut metal pipes, threaded rod, and other non-wood materials.
• Portability: Its biggest advantage. Being cordless, it offers incredible flexibility and allows you to bring the tool directly to the workpiece, even overhead.
• Cutting Capacity: The 3-1/4 inch cutting capacity is excellent for its intended use, allowing it to handle common pipe and conduit sizes.
• Ryobi ONE+ System: As part of the extensive Ryobi ONE+ 18V battery system, existing Ryobi users can leverage their existing batteries, making it a cost-effective addition to their tool arsenal.
• Ergonomics: Designed for handheld use, often with a comfortable grip and balanced feel.

While this Ryobi cordless band saw is fantastic for its specific niche, it’s vital to understand it’s not a substitute for a woodworking band saw.

Attempting to cut wood with it would be inefficient and yield poor results.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your Band Saw Running

Like any tool, regular maintenance will extend the life and improve the performance of your Ryobi band saw. Brooklyn Wanderlust Memory Foam Reviews

• Blade Care:
  • Sharpness: Replace dull blades promptly. A dull blade causes strain on the motor, poor cuts, and increased tear-out.
  • Cleaning: Periodically clean pitch and resin buildup from the blade using a specialized blade cleaner.
  • Storage: Store blades properly to prevent damage to the teeth.
• Dust Management:
  • Regularly empty the dust collection bag/system.
  • Clean sawdust from inside the cabinet, especially around the wheels and blade guides. Accumulated dust can lead to tracking issues and motor strain.
• Lubrication:
  • Refer to your owner’s manual for specific lubrication points, but generally, the blade tensioning mechanism and table tilt mechanism might benefit from a dry lubricant or paraffin wax.
• Inspections:
  • Periodically check blade tension, tracking, and guide settings.
  • Inspect the power cord for any damage.
  • Ensure all fasteners are tight.
• Troubleshooting: Common issues include blade wandering often due to dull blade, improper tension, or tracking, blade breakage tension too high, guides too tight, or wrong blade for material, and motor bogging dull blade, feeding too fast, or trying to cut too thick material.

By following these simple maintenance steps, your Ryobi band saw can provide years of reliable service for your woodworking projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Ryobi band saw good for resawing?

Yes, a Ryobi 9-inch band saw like the BS904G can perform light resawing up to its maximum cutting height, typically around 3-5/8 inches.

For best results, use a sharp, dedicated resaw blade with a low tooth count e.g., 3-4 TPI.

What size blade does a Ryobi band saw take?

The most common Ryobi benchtop band saw model, the Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in. Band Saw BS904G, uses a 62-inch band saw blade.

Can a Ryobi band saw cut metal?

A woodworking Ryobi band saw is not primarily designed for cutting metal.

While it might be able to cut very thin, soft non-ferrous metals like aluminum or brass with a specific fine-tooth metal-cutting blade and proper precautions, it’s not recommended for regular metal cutting.

For cutting metal, consider a dedicated portable metal-cutting band saw like the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Compact Band Saw P590 or a chop saw.

How do I adjust the blade tracking on a Ryobi band saw?

Adjusting blade tracking on a Ryobi band saw typically involves using a knob or lever on the back or top of the saw that tilts the upper wheel.

You want the blade to run centered on the crown of the upper wheel, with the teeth just clearing the front edge.

Adjust slowly while the blade is running with guards in place and extreme caution until it tracks correctly. Dewalt Amp Hours Explained

What is the maximum cutting depth of a Ryobi 9-inch band saw?

The maximum cutting depth or resaw capacity of a Ryobi 9-inch band saw like the BS904G is typically around 3-5/8 inches.

Is the Ryobi band saw good for beginners?

Yes, the Ryobi band saw is generally considered an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordable price, compact size, relatively simple setup, and user-friendly features like the LED work light and rack and pinion blade guide adjustment.

Does the Ryobi band saw come with a stand?

No, the Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in.

Band Saw BS904G is a benchtop model and does not typically come with a stand.

It’s designed to be placed on a workbench or a sturdy tool stand.

How do I change the blade on a Ryobi band saw?

To change the blade, first unplug the saw.

Release the blade tension using the quick-release lever or knob. Open the wheel covers.

Carefully remove the old blade from the wheels and guides.

Install the new blade, ensuring it’s properly seated on both wheels and within the blade guides.

Re-tension the blade, adjust the tracking, and set the blade guides before use. Nail Gun Nail Size

What type of blade should I use for cutting curves on a Ryobi band saw?

For cutting curves on a Ryobi band saw, use a narrow blade, typically 1/8 inch or 1/4 inch wide, with a higher tooth count e.g., 10-14 TPI for smoother cuts and tighter radii.

What is the difference between a 9-inch and a 10-inch band saw?

The main difference is the throat capacity the distance from the blade to the frame, which dictates the maximum width of material you can cut.

A 10-inch band saw will allow you to cut wider pieces.

Additionally, 10-inch models often have slightly more powerful motors and sometimes greater resaw capacity.

Can I cut thick hardwood with a Ryobi band saw?

The Ryobi 9-inch band saw can cut hardwoods, but for very thick pieces close to its maximum resaw capacity, it might bog down if you feed too fast or use a dull blade.

It’s better suited for hardwoods up to about 2-3 inches thick for general cutting, and careful, slow feeding for thicker resawing.

What maintenance does a Ryobi band saw require?

Regular maintenance includes keeping the saw clean of sawdust especially around wheels and guides, replacing dull blades, checking and adjusting blade tension and tracking, and occasionally lubricating pivot points as per the manual.

Why is my Ryobi band saw blade breaking?

Common reasons for blade breakage include excessive blade tension, the blade guides or thrust bearings being set too tightly, a dull blade, trying to cut material too quickly, or using the wrong type of blade for the material.

Does the Ryobi band saw have an LED light?

Yes, the Ryobi 9 Amp 9 in.

Band Saw BS904G typically includes an integrated LED work light to illuminate the cutting area. Nail Gun Problems

Can I connect a dust collector to the Ryobi band saw?

Yes, the Ryobi band saw usually has a dust collection port often 2.5 inches that allows you to connect a shop vacuum or dust collection system to help keep your workspace clean.

What is the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Compact Band Saw used for?

The Ryobi ONE+ 18V Compact Band Saw P590 is primarily used for cutting metal materials such as conduit, copper pipe, threaded rod, rebar, and other non-ferrous metals.

It’s a portable tool ideal for job sites or applications where a corded saw isn’t practical.

Is the Ryobi ONE+ Compact Band Saw good for woodworking?

No, the Ryobi ONE+ Compact Band Saw is not designed for woodworking. Its narrow blade and high blade speed are optimized for cutting metal, and it lacks the table and guides necessary for accurate wood cutting.

How often should I replace the blade on my Ryobi band saw?

Blade replacement frequency depends on how often you use the saw, the type of material you’re cutting, and how sharp the blade remains.

Replace it when you notice a significant decrease in cutting efficiency, increased burning, or when the teeth are visibly dull or damaged.

Can I cut circles with a Ryobi band saw?

Yes, a band saw is excellent for cutting circles and curves.

You’ll need a narrow blade 1/8 inch or 1/4 inch for tight turns.

For perfect circles, consider making or purchasing a circle cutting jig.

What safety precautions should I take when using a Ryobi band saw?

Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Use a push stick when cutting small pieces. Keep hands clear of the blade path. Ensure the blade guard is adjusted correctly. Nautilus T618 Review

Unplug the saw before making any adjustments or blade changes.

Is the Ryobi band saw loud?

Like most power tools, a band saw generates noise.

The Ryobi band saw is comparable in noise level to other benchtop band saws.

Hearing protection is strongly recommended during operation.

How do I troubleshoot blade wandering on my Ryobi band saw?

Blade wandering is often caused by insufficient blade tension, incorrect blade tracking, dull blade, improper blade guide/thrust bearing adjustment, or feeding the material too quickly. Check these factors and adjust as necessary.

Where can I buy replacement blades for my Ryobi band saw?

Replacement 62-inch band saw blades are widely available at major hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers that sell woodworking supplies.

Can I use different blade widths on my Ryobi band saw?

Yes, the Ryobi 9-inch band saw can accommodate a range of blade widths, typically from 1/8 inch for intricate curves up to 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch for straighter cuts and light resawing.

Always ensure the blade is the correct 62-inch length.

What is the horsepower of the Ryobi 9-inch band saw motor?

While often rated in Amps 9 Amps for the BS904G, this typically translates to approximately 3/4 to 1 horsepower, which is standard for a 9-inch benchtop band saw.

Does the Ryobi band saw have variable speed?

Band Saw BS904G typically operates at a single fixed speed, optimized for general woodworking tasks. Best Commercial Adjustable Weight Bench

Some larger or more advanced band saws offer multiple speeds.

How important is blade tension on a band saw?

Blade tension is critically important.

Too little tension causes the blade to wander, twist, and produce inaccurate cuts.

Too much tension can cause premature blade wear, overheating, or even blade breakage.

Always set tension according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or use a tension gauge if available.

Can I upgrade the fence on my Ryobi band saw?

While the included fence is functional for most tasks, some users do choose to upgrade or build a custom fence for enhanced precision, especially for resawing operations.

Aftermarket fences designed for smaller band saws might be adaptable, or you can build a simple wooden fence that clamps to the table.

What are the common uses for a 9-inch band saw?

A 9-inch band saw is ideal for hobby woodworking, model making, cutting curves and intricate shapes, creating small furniture parts, making toys, light resawing of smaller stock, and cutting plastics.

Is Ryobi a good brand for power tools?

Ryobi is widely regarded as a good brand for DIYers and homeowners.

They offer a vast range of tools, particularly in their ONE+ 18V battery system, known for their affordability, accessibility, and decent performance for typical home projects. Things To Do To Help Me Fall Asleep

While not always professional-grade, they provide excellent value for money.