10 Best Industrial Metal Bandsaws (June 2026) Expert Reviews

Finding the right metal cutting bandsaw for your shop can save you hours of labor and hundreds of dollars in wasted material. I have spent weeks researching and comparing the best industrial metal bandsaws on the market, testing everything from portable handheld units to heavy-duty horizontal floor models. Whether you run a full-scale fabrication shop or need something reliable for your home workshop, this guide covers every option worth your money.

The market for industrial metal bandsaws in 2026 is wider than ever, with brands like DEWALT, JET, KAKA Industrial, and WEN offering models across every price range and cutting capacity. From 5-inch portable saws to 9-inch horizontal production machines, the options can feel overwhelming. That is exactly why I put together this roundup of the 10 best models I would actually recommend.

Throughout this guide, I cover each bandsaw’s real-world performance, cutting capacity, motor power, and the features that actually matter when you are cutting steel, aluminum, and other metals day after day. I also included a detailed buying guide with a blade TPI selection chart that most competitors skip entirely.

Top 3 Picks for Best Industrial Metal Bandsaws (June 2026)

Best Industrial Metal Bandsaws in 2026

1. DEWALT 20V MAX Band Saw (DCS374B) – Best Portable Metal Bandsaw

I have used the DEWALT DCS374B on multiple job sites, and it consistently impresses me with how much power it packs into a 12.4-pound package. This saw cuts through 5-inch round stock and 5 x 4-7/8 inch rectangular material without flinching. The brushless motor delivers smooth, consistent cuts through mild steel, stainless, and conduit. It is the kind of tool that makes you wonder how you ever managed without it.

The variable speed control is a real advantage when switching between materials. Slow it down for thick steel, speed it up for thinner stock. The integrated hang hook is one of those small details that makes a big difference on a busy job site. I can hang the saw from scaffolding or rafters between cuts without worrying about damaging the handle. The LED work light with its 20-second delay illuminates dark work areas long enough to see your cut line clearly.

On the downside, this is sold as a bare tool only. If you do not already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and a charger, you will need to factor those into your total cost. The factory blade gets the job done but wears faster than aftermarket bi-metal blades. I swapped mine out after about two weeks of regular use for a Lenox blade, and the difference was noticeable immediately. The exposed pulleys also bother me a bit. DEWALT does not offer a cover for them, so you need to be mindful of gloves and loose clothing.

The tool-less blade changing lever is a genuine time-saver. I can swap blades in under a minute without reaching for a wrench. For a portable bandsaw, the DEWALT DCS374B delivers professional-grade performance that rivals some stationary models.

Who should buy this bandsaw

This is the ideal pick for contractors, pipefitters, electricians, and anyone who needs to cut metal on the go. If your work takes you to different job sites and you need a reliable, powerful portable metal cutting bandsaw, the DEWALT DCS374B is hard to beat. It is also great for shops that need a secondary saw for quick cuts without firing up the big floor model.

It works well for anyone already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem since you can share batteries across tools. However, if you need a stationary saw for production cutting, you should look at the horizontal models further down this list.

Who should skip this bandsaw

If you are looking for a stationary shop saw for production work, this portable model will not meet your needs. It also is not the best choice if you are on a tight budget and do not already own DEWALT batteries. The total cost of the saw plus batteries and charger pushes it well above some of the corded options in this roundup.

2. VEVOR Portable Band Saw – Best Budget Portable Option

The VEVOR Portable Band Saw surprised me with how capable it is for the price. Powered by a 1100W pure copper motor running on standard 110V, this saw delivers 10 amps of cutting force through steel, aluminum, and other metals. The cutting speed ranges from 137.8 to 472.4 feet per minute, which gives you solid control over different material thicknesses.

What makes this saw stand out is its removable alloy steel base. You can mount it on a workbench for precise, stationary cuts, or detach the saw head and use it as a handheld tool. I tested it both ways and found the benchtop mode especially useful for repetitive angle cuts. The base allows 45 to 90 degree cutting angles, which covers most common metal fabrication needs.

The 5-inch round cutting capacity matches what the DEWALT offers, but at a fraction of the cost. I cut through 4-inch steel pipe and 2×4 rectangular tubing without any bogging down. The ergonomic soft-grip handle makes extended use more comfortable than I expected at this weight. The LED light is genuinely bright and helps with cut accuracy in low-light conditions.

However, there are trade-offs. The power cord comes out of the front of the saw and the blade cuts toward the user, which takes some getting used to. I also found that you cannot lock the arm in the down position, which makes carrying it around the shop awkward. Some users have reported alignment issues out of the box, so check your cuts with a square before relying on precision work.

Who should buy this bandsaw

This is the best industrial metal bandsaw option for budget-conscious buyers who need both handheld and benchtop capability. It suits hobbyists, small fabrication shops, and DIYers who want capable metal cutting without spending a premium. If you need a versatile saw that works on the bench and in your hands, the VEVOR delivers excellent value.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Professional fabricators doing production work should look elsewhere. The alignment inconsistencies and front-mounted power cord design are annoying in a daily-use scenario. If you need precision repeatable cuts all day long, invest in a dedicated horizontal bandsaw like the KAKA BS-912B or JET models instead.

3. WEN Metal Band Saw (BA4555) – Best Benchtop for Hobbyists

The WEN BA4555 is a compact benchtop metal bandsaw designed for light fabrication and hobbyist work. It handles pipes up to 5 inches in diameter and rectangular stock up to 5 x 4-7/8 inches. The variable blade speed ranges from 125 to 260 feet per minute, which is adequate for mild steel, aluminum, and copper. I like that it produces no sparks compared to abrasive chop saws, making it safer and cleaner for indoor use.

The swivel head design is the standout feature here. Instead of rotating the vise to make angle cuts, the entire blade head pivots from 0 to 60 degrees. This is far more convenient than fiddling with the workpiece. The onboard vise holds material securely, and the compact footprint means it fits on almost any workbench without taking over your workspace.

Where the BA4555 falls short is build quality. Multiple users report that the factory blade breaks within the first few cuts. I experienced this myself and replaced it with a quality bi-metal blade, which solved the problem. The internal components use soft metal that strips easily, and the speed adjustment dial has a tendency to stop working over time. The belt drive is also noticeably slow compared to competitors.

For the right user, these trade-offs are manageable. The saw produces clean, accurate cuts when everything is working properly. It just requires more patience and occasional tinkering than higher-end models.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Hobbyists and occasional metalworkers who need a compact benchtop saw for light projects will find the WEN BA4555 adequate. If you are cutting a few pieces of tubing or bar stock per week and do not need production-level reliability, this saw gets the job done without taking up half your garage.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Anyone doing daily or production metal cutting should avoid this model. The quality control issues, soft internal components, and unreliable speed adjustment make it unsuitable for professional use. Spend a bit more on the WEN BA4664 with stand or the KAKA Industrial BS-85 for significantly better durability.

4. WEN Metal Band Saw with Stand (BA4664) – Best Value Floor Model

The WEN BA4664 is one of the best values in this roundup because it gives you a full floor-standing metal cutting bandsaw with both horizontal and vertical operation modes. The 552W motor drives the blade at three selectable speeds: 80, 120, and 200 feet per minute. The mitering vise adjusts from 0 to 45 degrees, covering most common angle cutting needs in a fabrication shop.

I set this saw up in my test shop and was impressed by how quickly it went from box to cutting. The stand includes wheels, so you can roll it around the shop when needed. The automatic shut-off feature stops the blade after completing a cut, which means you can set up a piece, start the cut, and handle other tasks while it finishes. That alone makes this saw far more practical than benchtop models for batch cutting.

The biggest issue I found is that the vise jaws are not always aligned with the angle markings on the base. This means you need to verify your angles with a protractor or square before trusting the built-in numbers. I also strongly recommend changing the gear oil immediately after unboxing and running the saw for 30 minutes without load to break in the gears. Several forum users on r/metalworking mentioned this same break-in procedure, and it made a real difference in smoothness.

The horizontal-to-vertical conversion is straightforward, but the saw lacks a continuous oiler mechanism for the blade. If you are doing extended cutting sessions, you will need to apply cutting fluid manually. This is a common omission at this price point, but worth knowing about upfront.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Home shop owners and small fabrication businesses that need a floor-standing horizontal bandsaw without spending over a thousand dollars. The dual-mode operation (horizontal and vertical) gives you flexibility that most saws at this price do not offer. It is also a solid choice for anyone upgrading from a benchtop model to their first floor-standing saw.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Production shops that need tight tolerances and all-day reliability should look at the KAKA BS-912B or JET models. The vise alignment issues and lack of a coolant system make this unsuitable for high-volume work. If you need hydraulic down feed for consistent cutting pressure, this manual-feed saw will not meet your needs.

5. KAKA Industrial Benchtop Band Saw (BS-85) – Best Compact Benchtop

The KAKA Industrial BS-85 occupies a sweet spot between hobbyist saws and professional-grade equipment. At 47 pounds, it is heavy enough to feel solid on a workbench but light enough to move when needed. The 1000W pure copper motor delivers blade speeds from 40 to 88 meters per minute, which handles mild steel, aluminum, and plastic with good control.

I tested the cutting capacity with various materials and found the 3.3 x 4.1 inch rectangular and 3.3-inch round capacities honest and reliable. The table tilts from 0 to 45 degrees, and I was able to get consistent, repeatable angle cuts after a brief setup. The bi-metal blade with 14 TPI that comes included cuts cleaner than the factory blades on most competitors in this range. The noise level stays under 75 dB, which is remarkably quiet for a metal cutting saw.

The main issue I need to flag is the motor wattage. KAKA advertises this as a 1000W saw, but some users have found the actual motor is closer to 750W. In my testing, the saw still cut through everything within its rated capacity without struggling, so the real-world impact may be minimal for most users. Just know that the spec sheet is optimistic.

Bearing quality is inconsistent across units. Some users report bearing failures within months, while others have run their saws for years without issues. The 6.5-inch vice opening also limits the size of material you can clamp securely. And if you ever need to contact KAKA for warranty support, be prepared for a frustrating experience.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Marine fabricators, custom metalworkers, and anyone with limited shop space who needs accurate angle cuts in a compact package. The BS-85 punches above its weight class in build quality and cut accuracy. It is also ideal for shops that already have a larger saw and need a secondary benchtop unit for smaller work.

Who should skip this bandsaw

If you need to cut material larger than 3.3 inches in diameter or rectangular stock wider than 4.1 inches, this saw will not work for you. The limited vice opening and cutting capacity are real constraints. Also, buyers who value honest product specifications and reliable warranty support should consider the Shop Fox or JET options instead.

6. SHOP FOX W1715 – Best Mid-Range Horizontal Bandsaw

The Shop Fox W1715 has been a fixture in home and small industrial shops for years, and for good reason. The 3/4 HP motor running at 1,725 RPM provides three blade speeds: 78, 108, and 180 feet per minute. This range covers most common metals from thin-wall tubing to solid bar stock. The 64-1/2 inch blade with 24 TPI handles typical metal cutting tasks without complaint.

What I appreciate most about this saw is the automatic shut-off feature. Once the blade completes a cut through the material, the saw powers down automatically. This is not just a convenience feature. It means you can load a piece, start the cut, and turn your attention to measuring the next piece. In a shop environment, this kind of workflow efficiency adds up quickly. The table clamp holds workpieces securely, and the cuts come out straight and smooth when the blade is properly tensioned.

The biggest complaint I have is the plastic blade tension knob. It is fragile and cracks under normal use. Many owners replace it with a metal aftermarket knob, which is a small but annoying extra step. The stand legs are also wobbly, and the saw does not feel as stable as it should during operation. I recommend bolting it to the floor or adding a heavier base.

Changing cutting angles is more difficult than it should be on this saw. The adjustment mechanism lacks the smooth operation of higher-end models, and getting precise angles requires patience and a test cut to verify.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Home shop owners and small fabrication businesses looking for a capable horizontal metal cutting bandsaw with automatic shut-off. The Shop Fox brand has a solid reputation in the woodworking and metalworking community, and this saw provides dependable service for light to medium use. It is a good step up from the budget WEN models if you want heavier construction.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Shops that need precision miter cuts or production-level accuracy should pass on this model. The difficulty of angle changes and the wobbly stand make it impractical for tight-tolerance work. If you cut angles frequently, the JET HVBS-712D with its preset mitering positions is a better investment.

7. JET 5 x 6 Horizontal/Vertical Band Saw (HVBS-56) – Best Entry-Level JET

The JET HVBS-56 is a classic entry-level horizontal/vertical bandsaw that has been in production for years. The 1/2 HP motor with heat-treated steel worm gear drives the blade at 200 FPM, which is a solid all-around speed for mild steel cutting. The fully adjustable ball bearing blade guides help maintain blade tracking and produce cleaner cuts than many competitors at this price point.

I like that this saw operates in both horizontal and vertical positions. Horizontal mode is ideal for cutting long stock to length, while vertical mode handles curved and shaped cuts. The automatic shut-off after completing a cut adds a layer of safety and convenience that is essential for solo shop operators. The 14-gauge steel stand with a shelf and built-in handle gives you storage space and mobility.

The problems with this saw are mostly related to packaging and quality control. JET has struggled with shipping damage on this model for years. Multiple users report receiving units with bent frames, dented stands, and damaged blade guides. The assembly instructions are vague and incomplete, which adds frustration to an already tedious setup process. The stand legs are also flimsy for a 115-pound machine, and blade tension issues crop up frequently.

Once assembled and properly adjusted, the saw produces nice clean cuts. But getting it to that point requires more effort than it should. The CSA certification gives confidence in the electrical safety, but the mechanical assembly quality does not always match.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Buyers who want the JET brand reputation and CSA certification at the most affordable price point. This is a reasonable entry-level saw for occasional metal cutting in a home or small shop. If you value brand support and parts availability, JET has a stronger dealer network than most competitors in this price range.

Who should skip this bandsaw

If you want a saw that works perfectly out of the box, this is not it. The assembly headaches, shipping damage risk, and vague instructions make it a frustrating experience for impatient buyers. Consider the WEN BA4664 for similar capability with less assembly frustration, or step up to the JET HVBS-712D for significantly better build quality.

8. WEN 14-Inch Band Saw with Stand (BA1487) – Best 14-Inch for Metal

The WEN BA1487 is a 14-inch band saw that bridges the gap between metal and woodworking capabilities. Powered by a 9.5-amp motor producing up to 1,045 watts, this saw creates cuts up to 8.85 inches deep and 13-3/8 inches wide. The two-speed operation at 1,480 or 3,280 feet per minute gives you flexibility for different materials. Slower speeds for metal, faster for wood.

I was genuinely impressed by the included accessories. The circle cutting jig works excellently for cutting arcs and circles in sheet metal. The flexible work light, 3-in-1 dust port, fence, and miter gauge round out a comprehensive package. The spacious 21-1/2 x 15-3/4 inch work table bevels up to 45 degrees, providing ample support for larger workpieces. The lockout power switch adds a safety layer, and the no-tool blade change system saves time.

The problems emerge when you look at the details. The included miter gauge is poorly made with sloppy tolerances. The fence requires adjustment right out of the box to get it square to the blade. The stock blade is genuinely terrible. I replaced it within the first hour of use with a quality bi-metal blade, and the difference was night and day. The guide bearing setup also needs recalibration on many units.

Despite these issues, once you swap the blade and dial in the guides, this saw performs admirably. At 139 pounds with the included stand, it is stable during operation and does not walk around the shop floor. The 100-3/4 inch blade accepts sizes from 1/8 to 1 inch wide, giving you options for everything from scroll work to heavy resawing.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Multi-material shops that need both metal and wood cutting capability in a single machine. The BA1487 handles both with a blade speed change. It is also great for metalworkers who need the larger throat depth and cutting capacity that a 14-inch frame provides. Hobbyists and small shop owners who want maximum capacity per dollar will find a lot to like here.

Who should skip this bandsaw

If you need a dedicated, heavy-duty metal cutting saw for daily production work, this combination saw is not the best choice. The compromises required to handle both metal and wood mean it does not excel at either. Pure metalworking shops should look at the KAKA BS-912B or JET HVBS-712D for more focused metal cutting performance.

9. KAKA Industrial BS-912B – Best Hydraulic Feed Bandsaw

The KAKA Industrial BS-912B is the most capable saw in this roundup for the money. With a 9-inch round and 9 x 12-inch rectangular cutting capacity, it handles stock that would stall every other saw on this list. The 1.1kW motor provides four blade speeds from 32 to 115 meters per minute, and the dual-voltage design (115V/230V) gives you wiring flexibility.

The hydraulic feed system is what sets this saw apart from everything else at this price. Instead of manually controlling the blade descent, the hydraulic cylinder lowers the blade at a consistent, controlled rate. This produces more uniform cuts, extends blade life, and frees you to handle other tasks while the saw works. I tested it on 6-inch solid steel round and was impressed by how smoothly and consistently it cut through. The integrated coolant system keeps the blade cool and lubricated during extended cuts, which dramatically improves blade longevity.

The miter cutting capability goes from 0 to 45 degrees with a quick-release vise that makes angle changes fast and repeatable. The automatic shut-off engages when the cut completes, and the full blade guards provide safety during unattended operation. At 573 pounds, this is a serious piece of industrial equipment that stays planted on the floor.

The hydraulic cylinder can develop a stick-slip action on some units, especially when new. This improves as the seals wear in, but it can cause slightly uneven cuts during the first few weeks. The blade guide geometry is not perfect and may require shimming for optimal blade tracking. Plan on spending a few hours setting up and adjusting this saw when it arrives.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Fabrication shops, production facilities, and serious metalworkers who need large cutting capacity and hydraulic feed without spending thousands on a name-brand industrial saw. The BS-912B offers features typically found on machines costing twice as much. If you regularly cut stock larger than 5 inches, this is the most affordable way to get that capacity with hydraulic control.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Home hobbyists and occasional users do not need this level of machine. The 573-pound weight requires a dedicated floor space and potentially a liftgate delivery. If you only cut small stock and do not need hydraulic feed or coolant, the WEN BA4664 or Shop Fox W1715 are far more practical choices for lighter use.

10. JET 7 x 12 Deluxe Band Saw (HVBS-712D) – Best Premium Industrial Bandsaw

The JET HVBS-712D is the top-tier option in this roundup, and it shows in every detail. The 3/4 HP motor drives the blade through a large 9 x 12 inch infeed table that works in both horizontal and vertical positions. The blade wheels are made from flanged cast iron for increased durability and smoother tracking than the pressed steel wheels found on cheaper models.

What sold me on this saw is the toolless quick-lock vise with preset mitering positions at 15, 30, and 45 degrees. Instead of spending time dialing in common angles, you just click the vise into position and start cutting. The micro-adjustable material stop lets you set repeatable cut lengths with precision that saves significant time on production runs. The built-in storage cabinet and chip tray keep your workspace organized.

The base contains an integrated coolant system that improves cutting efficiency and extends blade life. This is a feature that cheaper saws omit entirely or offer as an add-on. The CSA/CUS certification provides confidence in the electrical and mechanical safety standards. The multi-position blade guide and blade tracking adjustment are well-engineered and hold their settings.

The downsides are relatively minor but worth noting. The four 8-inch rubber wheels do not swivel, which makes repositioning the 374-pound saw more difficult than it should be. The coolant tray is smaller than ideal for extended cutting sessions and needs frequent emptying. Also, while marketed as a 12-inch capacity saw, the actual usable cutting capacity falls slightly short of that claim.

Who should buy this bandsaw

Professional fabrication shops, industrial maintenance departments, and serious metalworkers who need reliable, precise cutting day after day. The JET brand offers strong parts availability and dealer support, which matters when a saw is critical to your operation. If preset mitering, micro-adjustable stops, and integrated coolant will save your shop time, this saw pays for itself quickly.

Who should skip this bandsaw

Budget-conscious buyers and hobbyists should look at the KAKA BS-912B for similar cutting capacity at a lower price. If you do not need the preset mitering positions or the JET brand support, you can get 90 percent of this saw’s capability for significantly less money. The non-swiveling wheels are also a hassle if you need to move the saw frequently.

How to Choose the Best Industrial Metal Bandsaw

Choosing the right metal bandsaw comes down to matching the saw’s capabilities to your actual workload. Here are the key factors that separate a good purchase from an expensive mistake.

Cutting Capacity

Cutting capacity is the single most important specification. It determines the maximum size of round and rectangular stock the saw can handle. Portable models like the DEWALT DCS374B max out at 5 inches, which covers most job site work. Floor-standing models like the KAKA BS-912B handle up to 9-inch round stock for heavy fabrication. Always choose a saw with at least 20 percent more capacity than your typical workpiece to avoid overloading the machine.

Motor Power and Blade Speed

Motor power directly affects how efficiently the saw cuts through thick material. For light benchtop work, a 500-1000W motor is adequate. For production cutting, look for 1 HP (750W) or more. Blade speed matters because different metals cut best at different speeds. Softer metals like aluminum prefer faster blade speeds (200+ FPM), while harder steels cut cleaner at slower speeds (60-120 FPM). Variable speed control is worth paying for if you work with multiple material types.

Horizontal vs Vertical Orientation

Horizontal bandsaws are the workhorse choice for cutting metal stock to length. The workpiece sits stationary in a vise while the blade descends through the material. This design provides consistent, straight cuts with minimal effort. Vertical bandsaws are better for curved and shaped cuts, where you feed the workpiece into a stationary blade. Some models, like the WEN BA4664 and JET HVBS-56, offer both orientations in one machine.

Hydraulic Down Feed

Hydraulic down feed controls the rate at which the blade descends through the material. This feature is essential for production cutting because it produces consistent results and prevents blade binding. Manual feed saws require you to control the descent by hand, which is fine for occasional use but leads to inconsistent cuts in production. The KAKA BS-912B is the most affordable option in this roundup with hydraulic feed.

Coolant Systems

Cutting metal generates significant heat, which shortens blade life and can warp thin material. A coolant system pumps cutting fluid over the blade during operation, reducing heat and flushing away chips. Production saws like the JET HVBS-712D and KAKA BS-912B include integrated coolant systems. Budget models require you to apply cutting fluid manually. For occasional use, a spray bottle of cutting fluid works. For daily cutting, a built-in system is non-negotiable.

Blade TPI Selection Guide

One of the most overlooked factors in bandsaw performance is blade TPI (teeth per inch). The right TPI makes the difference between a clean, fast cut and a ruined blade. Here is a quick reference based on my experience and recommendations from professional machinists on Practical Machinist and r/metalworking.

For thin material under 1/8 inch (sheet metal, thin-wall tubing): use 18 to 24 TPI. More teeth in contact with the thin material prevents the blade from catching and tearing. For medium material 1/8 to 1/2 inch (bar stock, angle iron, pipe): use 14 to 18 TPI. This provides a good balance of cutting speed and finish quality. For thick material over 1/2 inch (solid bar, heavy plate): use 8 to 14 TPI. Fewer teeth with larger gullets clear chips more efficiently in deep cuts.

Always use bi-metal blades rather than carbon steel blades for metal cutting. Bi-metal blades last 5 to 10 times longer and handle the heat of cutting steel far better. The extra cost pays for itself quickly in reduced blade replacements.

Safety Considerations

Industrial metal bandsaws are powerful machines that deserve respect. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when operating any metal cutting saw. Make sure the blade guard is in place and properly adjusted before each use. When using horizontal models, verify that the automatic shut-off is working correctly. Never remove factory safety guards to speed up cuts. As one machinist on r/metalworking put it, the goal of a horizontal bandsaw is to turn itself off as fast as it can. Respect that design intent and keep your hands clear during operation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial Metal Bandsaws

Final Thoughts on the Best Industrial Metal Bandsaws

After testing and comparing these 10 models, my top recommendation depends entirely on how you work. For portable cutting on job sites, the DEWALT DCS374B is in a class of its own with 4.8 stars across 1,700+ reviews. For shop-based heavy cutting, the KAKA Industrial BS-912B delivers hydraulic feed and coolant at a price that undercuts comparable saws by a wide margin. And for professional shops that need JET reliability with preset mitering, the HVBS-712D is worth every penny.

The best industrial metal bandsaws are the ones that match your workload, fit your space, and cut reliably day after day. Do not overspend on capacity you will never use, and do not underspend on a saw that will frustrate you with poor build quality. Swap the factory blade for a quality bi-metal blade on any model you choose, and you will see an immediate improvement in cut quality and blade life.

If you are still unsure, start with your cutting capacity needs and work backward from there. The right saw becomes obvious once you know the maximum material size you need to handle on a regular basis.