Milwaukee 6232-20
Score: 88/100
Skil BW9501
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Milwaukee 6232 is a corded deep cut variable speed band saw designed for professional contractors needing industry-leading 5x5 inch cutting capacity. It features an 11 Amp motor with Constant Power Technology and a lightweight 14.5 lb design with durable housing. It is best suited for industrial metalworkers and fabricators working with large metal stock or pipe.
The SKIL BW9501-00 is a compact benchtop band saw designed for hobbyists, offering dual-speed operation and tool-free adjustments for ease of use. Its main trade-off is the looseness of the included miter gauge and limited cutting height. It is best suited for beginner woodworkers seeking an entry-level precision tool with safety features.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5 in | 9 inbest | |
11 HPbest | 2.5 HP | |
380 RPM | 2,500 RPMbest | |
120 Vbest | 120 Vbest | |
— | 147 sq inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 14.5 lbsbest | 43 lbs |
44.875 in | 59.5 inbest | |
12.13 in | 28.75 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Cutting Capacity(1) | ||
Throat Depth (in) | 5 in | 9 in |
Portability & Build(1) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 14.5 lbs | 43 lbs |
Power & Performance(3) | ||
Motor Power (HP) | 11 HP | 2.5 HP |
Blade Speed (RPM) | 380 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Motor Type | Brushed | Induction |
Blade & Guides(2) | ||
Blade Guide Type | Adjustable Shoe | Three-bearing |
Blade Length (in) | 44.875 in | 59.5 in |
Dimensions(3) | ||
Overall Height (in) | 12.13 in | 28.75 in |
Overall Width (in) | 6.14 in | 20 in |
Overall Length (in) | 21.65 in | 13 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Milwaukee 6232 as a game-changing tool for contractors, highlighting its industry-leading 5 x 5 inch capacity and 11 Amp power.
While direct consumer reviews are limited, professional demos reflect high satisfaction regarding the tool's balance and light weight.
Professional reviewers characterize the SKIL BW9501-00 as an excellent entry-level tool that offers many features typically found in higher-end models. They emphasize its user-friendly design, particularly the tool-free adjustments and safety key, making it highly approachable for beginners.
Everyday users generally praise the saw for its compact size and surprising power when cutting hardwoods, contradicting initial concerns about the motor's size. The ease of use and tool-free tensioning are frequently highlighted as major benefits for hobbyists.
“just seems to have plenty of power”
“very approachable piece of equipment, even for a novice”
