Updating the Workbench

[chevyrsss]

I am updating my work bench. I want to be able to cut metals(mostly non ferrous - brass and aluminum, but maybe some stainless). What should I get? I can't seem to find a benchtop band saw that cuts metal. I am also looking to get a drill press(bench top). I am OK with a cheap one? Thanks in advance!

[xken]

The bandsaw is genertic, what you need to get is the metal saw blade for the bandsaw. Check for the tooth per inch count based on what metal you wish to cut and get the beeswax for the blade so as not to gum up the teeth. Delta has a nice bench top model just google them. Read the instructions for the speed setting of the metal you wish to cut.

Ken

[chevyrsss]

Will there be a setting for metal or a speed control?

[xken]

This may be what you are looking for. Here is a link

VARIABLE SPEED MINI BANDSAW

Ken

[Lee in Texas]

I'd go with something more like this:



It's not as elegant, but you can put it in a closet when it's not in use. You can also buy a stand for it, something like a chopsaw but a saw blade instead of a spinning wheel.

The saw itself can be had for the price of that MicroMark tool or less. Adding the stand will raise the price. It's a good tool, though. It can stand up to plumbers using it on a daily basis to work harder than it ever will in a modeler's shop. I'm looking for a used one to buy. The one I use at work is owned by my employer.

[hot ford coupe]

I've been using a Sears scroll saw which is good for thin metal parts. You have to go slow and you definitely need to hold onto the metal so it doesn't pop up. For those not familiar with band or scroll saws, the band saw has a moving blade that goes in only one direction. the scroll saw goes up and down which means if the blade binds, the subject will be pulled up and down which may break the blade or pull a finger toward the blade. Like I said, I use it only on thin metal strips and sheets. One good thing about the saw is that it has a great variable speed control. It will cut plastic up to 3/4 inches thick withoyut making a gummy mess and melting the styrene . It can also go real fast so that it flies off the table. (not good P';,[pP';,[p) I never use it even close to that speed. You won't need to.

[Nortley]

Is this to be exclusively a modelling tool or will it be more general purpose? If you have the space those tilting bandsaws that everyone seems to sell are real useful. They do cut off work under their own weight, so you just stand by and squirt some oil once in a while, or they lock upright and can be used for freehand cutting. A table comes with them for this. Mine is 3 speed, done by shifting a belt on stepped pulleys. Forget the blades that come with them, they cut ok at first but soon dull. Starrett blades cut super at first and that lasts a lot longer. You can get narrow blades for tighter curves, and there is a whole range of tooth pitches. Not to sound like a commercial, but MSC has Starrett blades - and all their other must have some day measuring tools.