Milwaukee Band Saw
Score: 82/100
Skil BW9501
Score: 85/100Rankings
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.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Band Saw is a lightweight, cordless metalworking tool designed for overhead and one-handed cutting applications. It offers a class-leading capacity for its size and variable speed control, though it lacks the deep-cut capacity of larger models. It is best suited for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical jobs requiring portability and reduced fatigue.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3.25 in | 9 inbest | |
— | 2.5 HPbest | |
540 RPM | 2,500 RPMbest | |
18 V | 120 Vbest | |
— | 147 sq inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 7.67 lbsbest | 43 lbs |
35.375 in | 59.5 inbest | |
11.6 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) | 3.25 in | 9 in |
Portability & Build(1) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 7.67 lbs | 43 lbs |
Power & Performance(4) | ||
Motor Power (HP) | 18V HP | 2.5 HP |
Blade Speed (RPM) | 540 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Nominal Voltage (V) | 18 V | 120 V |
Motor Type | Brushless | Induction |
Blade & Guides(2) | ||
Blade Guide Type | Adjustable Shoe | Three-bearing |
Blade Length (in) | 35.375 in | 59.5 in |
Support(1) | ||
Warranty Length | Manufacturer Warranty | 3 years |
Dimensions(3) | ||
Overall Height (in) | 11.6 in | 28.75 in |
Overall Width (in) | 6.3 in | 20 in |
Overall Length (in) | 17.9 in | 13 in |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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”
