WEN 14-Inch Band Saw Review

The WEN BA1487 14-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw with Stand and Work Light combines robust functionality with precision to offer a versatile solution for any woodworker’s shop. At a price of $826.82, this band saw is designed to tackle a wide range of projects with ease, from intricately detailed work to substantial resawing tasks. Here’s an in-depth look at its features, performance, and overall value.

Key Features and Specifications

• Motor: 9.5-amp motor capable of producing cuts up to 8.85 inches deep and 13-3/8 inches wide.
• Blade Compatibility: Utilizes 100-3/4-inch blades ranging from 1/8 to 1 inch in width.
• Table: Spacious 21-1/2 x 15-3/4-inch cast-aluminum work table that bevels up to 45 degrees.
• Speed Settings: Offers two speeds, 1480 or 3280 FPM, to suit various cutting needs.
• Accessories: Includes a blade tension gauge, circle cutting guide, flexible work light, 3-in-1 dust port, fence, 1/2-inch blade, and a miter gauge.
• Construction and Design: Features durable high-speed steel blades and a sturdy cast aluminum table. The band saw weighs 138.9 pounds and measures 15″L x 3″ W x 2″H.

Performance

The WEN 14-inch Band Saw’s powerful 9.5-amp motor delivers exceptional cutting prowess, easily handling thick boards and wide cuts. The two-speed operation allows woodworkers to switch between 1480 FPM for intricate, detail-oriented work and 3280 FPM for quicker, through cuts. This versatility is enhanced by the wide range of blade widths the saw can accommodate, making it suitable for a variety of woodworking projects.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

This model boasts a large, beveled work table that provides ample space for maneuvering large pieces of wood, while the cast aluminum ensures both durability and ease of movement. The added work light is a significant advantage, improving visibility and accuracy on detailed jobs. Furthermore, the band saw’s anti-vibration feature minimizes noise and movement, enhancing both comfort and precision during use.

Safety and Maintenance

Equipped with an inertia-activated chain brake, this band saw enhances safety by preventing accidental cuts and injuries related to kickback. The included blade tension gauge aids in maintaining optimal blade tension, thereby prolonging blade life and ensuring consistent performance. Maintenance is straightforward with the saw’s easy-to-access components and dust collection system that keeps the work area clean and reduces airborne particles.

Additional Features

The WEN Band Saw includes several thoughtful additions like a circle cutting guide for perfect rounds and curves and a 3-in-1 dust port that adapts to various dust collector hoses to maintain a clean work environment. The easy-to-assemble stand not only supports the saw but also offers additional storage space beneath.

Value

Backed by a two-year warranty and supported by WEN’s commitment to customer service and available replacement parts, the WEN 14-inch Band Saw offers significant value for its price. Its blend of power, precision, and thoughtful features makes it an excellent investment for serious woodworkers looking to expand their toolset without compromising on quality or capability.

Maintenance of WEN 14-Inch Band Saw

Maintaining your WEN 14-inch Band Saw involves several key practices that will ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some detailed maintenance tips and troubleshooting guidelines:

1. Regular Cleaning Keeping your WEN 14-Inch Band Saw clean is crucial for optimal performance. After each use, remove sawdust and debris from the saw’s interior and worktable to prevent build-up that can impair functionality. It’s also important to clean the blades and blade guides to keep them free from residue, ensuring your cuts remain precise and clean.
2. Blade Maintenance Regular inspection and maintenance of the saw blades are vital. Check for any signs of wear such as cracks or dullness, as these can compromise cutting quality and safety. Replace blades promptly when they show signs of dullness or damage. Additionally, maintain proper blade tension and alignment as specified by the manufacturer to prevent blade breakage and ensure accurate cuts.
3. Lubrication Proper lubrication of the saw’s pivot points and bearings ensures smoother operation and reduces wear. Periodically apply lubricant to these areas, and consider using a rust inhibitor on exposed metal surfaces to prevent corrosion, particularly if you’re in a humid environment.
4. Operational Checks Regularly testing the saw’s safety features, like the chain brake and emergency stops, is essential to ensure they are functioning properly. Also, make sure the worktable is stable and correctly adjusted for the task at hand to guarantee precision in your projects.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues Be aware of common issues such as excessive vibration, inaccurate cuts, and unusual noises. These can often be resolved by ensuring the saw is level and securely mounted, recalibrating the fence and miter gauge for accuracy, and checking for loose parts or the need for lubrication.
6. Storage When not in use, cover your band saw to protect it from dust and moisture. Storing the saw in a dry, climate-controlled environment is ideal to prevent rust and prolong its lifespan.

Conclusion

The WEN BA1487 14-inch Two-Speed Band Saw is a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly addition to any woodshop. Its robust construction, coupled with innovative features like adjustable speed and comprehensive safety measures, ensures that it can meet the demands of any woodworking project with reliability and precision. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or a hobbyist looking to tackle more substantial projects, this band saw is built to impress.

FAQs

1. What makes the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw suitable for both beginners and experienced users?
   The WEN 14-Inch Band Saw features a user-friendly design with variable speed settings that cater to different skill levels. Beginners can benefit from the slower speed setting for precise cuts without feeling overwhelmed, while experienced users can utilize the higher speed for more demanding projects.
2. Can the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw handle both wood and metal materials?
   While primarily designed for woodworking, the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw can handle non-ferrous metals with the appropriate blade. It’s important to use a blade suited for metal and adjust the speed setting accordingly to ensure clean cuts and prolong blade life.
3. How does the flexible work light enhance the sawing experience?
   The included flexible work light on the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw improves visibility directly on the workpiece, crucial for intricate and detailed cuts. This feature reduces eye strain and helps achieve more precise results, especially in low-light conditions.
4. What are the advantages of the 3-in-1 dust port on this band saw?
   The 3-in-1 dust port offers versatility in dust collection by fitting different sizes of dust collector hoses (1-3/4, 2-3/4, 4 inches). This adaptability allows users to connect the saw to various dust collection systems, ensuring a cleaner and safer working environment by effectively managing sawdust and debris.
5. How does the circle cutting guide benefit users of the WEN Band Saw?
   The circle cutting guide is a unique accessory that assists in making precise circular cuts and curves up to 32 inches in diameter. This tool is particularly beneficial for projects requiring high accuracy in circular shapes, such as creating tabletops, decorative pieces, or parts for joinery.
6. What steps should be taken to maintain the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw for optimal performance?
   Regular maintenance should include cleaning the machine, checking blade tension with the included gauge, ensuring the work light is functional, and inspecting the saw for any loose components. Additionally, lubricating the blade and checking the alignment and condition of the tires will help maintain the performance and extend the lifespan of the saw.
7. Is the assembly of the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw complicated, and how long does it typically take?
   The assembly of the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw is straightforward, with clear instructions provided in the manual. Most users can expect to spend approximately one to two hours assembling the saw, depending on their level of mechanical skill.
8. Can the miter gauge and fence be upgraded or replaced?
   Yes, the WEN 14-Inch Band Saw is compatible with aftermarket miter gauges and fences, allowing users to upgrade these components for enhanced precision and versatility in their cutting projects.

We hope you found this review of the WEN 14-Inch Two-Speed Band Saw both informative and useful. Whether you’re considering adding this versatile tool to your workshop or you’re already a seasoned user, we’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences, tips, or any questions you might have in the comments below. Your insights not only help us, but they also assist fellow woodworkers in making informed decisions. Don’t forget to share this review with others who might find it helpful. Happy sawing!

Edward Smith

Forestry Author

Woodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.