Milwaukee 6232-20 Vs. 6238-20 Vs. 6232-21 Vs. 2629-22 Band Saw

Are you looking for a durable deep cut band saw for cutting up to 5-Inch pieces of metal? You have to search the market for a combination of the best motor technology, and the best band saw blades.

The distance between the best band saw and failing low-quality saw is very slim, which is why you need a keen professional eye to check and test out the band saw.

That is why we created this detailed review to explain how each of the best-seller deep cut band saws from Milwaukee will work for you.

Milwaukee created their Deep Cut series of band saws for a contractor that needs to cut large pieces of metal up to 5-Inches. The saw`s durability doesn`t just depend on tough construction.

Milwaukee has combined a durable metal body with a metallic gear drive system replacing the old chain drive system bringing about a band saw that can last a lifetime in your workshop.

If you are looking for constant stable power for prolonged indoor projects on metal pipes and corrugated iron, then Milwaukee 6238 and 6232 will come in handy.

They have 11-Amp motors and variable speeds meant to deliver smooth finishes on metal and lumber, eliminating the need for reworks. You can also mount them onto a stand to make accurate cuts from the comfort of your table.

Milwaukee 2629-22 is a cordless band saw with the same construction as the corded deep cut series. It brings home the versatility and mobility needed in any workshop or construction site.

With this review, you have all the details you need to invest in a one-time purchase of a corded or cordless band saw.

Here is a detailed review of each of the band saws

1. Milwaukee 6232-20 Portable Deep cut Band Saw

This is the most popular of the Milwaukee deep cut band saw series. It is a tool-only package that doesn`t come with a carrying case. The band saw itself is a contractor`s workhorse delivering deep cuts of 5×5 inches, which can cut through the largest workpieces you may encounter on site.

It has an 11-Amp motor that provides the power needed for both high and low speeds of cutting. Its most significant features include the body and the drive system that is primarily made to perfect the quality of each cut.

Construction

As suggested, these band saws are primarily designed to be used at a busy construction site featuring a slim metallic body with hardened premium parts.

The motor is fused into the frame leaving a clean line of sight at the blade for accurate intricate cuts. Its handle is also located centrally to maintain balance while in use.

The cord is 6ft long, allowing you to access every section of your work area. The tool weighs 14.5 Inches featuring ergonomic handles that reduce pressure on your fingers when used continuously for long hours.

Power

The corded band saw has a stable supply of current that enables it to maintain a high speed and accuracy through long cuts. This band saw has an 11-Amp motor, which cuts faster and stably compared to 10-Amp motors.

It is also compatible with a 120V plug, so you don`t have to change your plug. It is also fitted with power overload protection to protect the motor.

Performance

It is a heavy-duty band saw suitable for day-long cutting. Its robust structure and blade are built to cut through 5×5 square metal as well as round pipes. This band saw also has variable speed settings of 0-380FPM that allow you to set accurate speeds as you change the material density.

Its slim frame and ergonomic grip reduce the stress on your arm while working, reducing fatigue. It is also fitted with a bright work light next to the blade to illuminate your working area for making accurate cuts. The edge-to-edge debris removal system ensures a clean drive system to extend blade life.

Pros

• Tough External casing for durability
• Slim frame for a clear view of the cut
• Its motor has quick heat dispersion to prevent overheating
• Long power cord for convenience
• Constant power technology ensures a smooth bump-free cut

Cons

• Corded band saws limit your mobility
• 14.5 lbs. can get heavy when carrying overhead

Top FAQs

Q: Does this band saw have a brushless motor?

A: No. It is a brushed motor

Q: What is the blade size?

A: 44-7/8×1/2 Inch blade

Q: Does the trigger lock on?

A: No

2. Milwaukee 6232-21 Portable Deep cut band saw.

Overview

This is the same band saw as 6232-20 except for an additional carrying case for storing your gear. It is a blow-molded case that also protects your tools from water and dust, which can come in handy at the construction site.

It is the best bandsaw package for a contractor working on busy sites. The band saw itself retains the rugged construction of Milwaukee corded band saws with an all-metallic gear drive system designed to last longer under heavy application compared to the traditional chain drive system.

Construction

On this Band Saw, Milwaukee adopted a revolutionary construction technology known as the Jobsite armor technology.

The construction includes a more hardened plastic exterior blended with metallic casing to cover the motor, gears, and blade.

This band saw also comes with an extra-slim frame to give you a clear view of your line of cut. It is then fitted with a dust collection system at both ends of the blade drive preventing blockages.

Power

It is a corded band saw with an 11-Amp motor featuring heavy winding with four poles. The increased motor power does more than drive the blade.

It also maintains the stable speed of the blade resulting in a cleaner cut. It is also fitted with a dual-level trigger button to prevent accidental triggering of the band saw.

Performance

This band saw with a tough contractor`s case is a full package build to handle heavy-duty metal cutting on site. It also delivers variable speed settings of 0-380 FPM, which allows you to adjust blade speed for each material. Matching the blade speed to the material helps make bump-free cuts reducing the need for reworks after cutting.

The band saw has an anti-spark and cooling system for safety. It also allows the band saw to stay cool even when used to cut for long hours.

The band saw weighs 14.5lbs, so carrying it for long can cause fatigue, which is why experts recommend building a bench to use it as a benchtop band saw.

Pros

• It comes with a tough carrying case
• It has a durable metallic drive system
• Powerful work light
• A slim frame allows a clear view of the cut
• Variable speed settings for clean cuts

Cons

• It limits you to work next to a power plug
• Not comfortable for overhead cutting

Top FAQs

Q: How long is the power cord?

A: The cord is 6ft long

Q: What blade does it use?

A: It uses the universal 44-7/8 x ½ inch band saw blade

Q: What is the warranty?

A: Five years

3. Milwaukee 6238-20 AC/DC Deep Cut Band Saw

This is a general use band saw for home use as well as commercial use. Dust and debris are major causes of premature damage on band saws, which is why Milwaukee created this band saw for workers that cut messy material. This band saw is a multi-environmental band saw designed to cut anything from bones to metal pipes.

The revolutionary debris protection system that collects all dust and pebbles at both ends of the blade helps improve tool life and cut quality.

It is a deep-cut band saw built with Milwaukee`s Jobsite armor protection that protects all internal features. It is also a simple two-speed blade that can be used comfortably by both first-timers and professionals.

Construction

It is also part of the Milwaukee deep-cut corded series featuring an all-metal drive system and a rugged frame. A metallic casing protects its vital parts while the rest of the frame is made of hardened plastic.

It is also built to withstand crashes and knocks with a rubberized circumference that absorbs the shock. Its ergonomic handle also maintains balance while in use to prevent fatigue.

Power

This band saw has the highest cutting capacity of any band saw at 5×5 inches. It is fitted with an 11-Amp motor, which is faster and more powerful than standard 10-Amp motors used in other band saws. It also runs on a 120V power plug allowing you to use it on your home socket or power plug.

Performance

Apart from its revolutionary debris collection, this band saw also has dual-speed settings. You can set it to 300FPM if you are cutting heavily dense material or set it to 380FPM for lighter workpieces.

It also uses the constant power technology that maintains a stable speed and blade torque for a smooth finish.

It is also fitted with an adjustable shoe that can be flipped to improve your maneuverability. Replacing the blade is also easy as you don`t have to use any tools.

It runs on a 44-7/8-inch blade best recommended for cutting metal. This band saw also runs on a gear drive rather than a chain drive system, which requires less maintenance.

Pros

• Quick and effective debris collection
• It has dual speed settings
• It has a long power cord
• Slim, compact frame improves maneuverability
• It has a bright work light

Cons

• It limits you to two speeds only

Top FAQs

Q: Is the motor brushless?

A: No.

Q: Can I connect it to a DC power source?

A: Yes

Q: Does it have a variable speed setting?

A: Yes. 300 and 380 FPM

4. Milwaukee 2629-22 18V Cordless Band Saw Kit

Overview

This is a pocket-friendly band saw package for contractors and DIYers that need a band saw on the go. It is part of the Milwaukee M18 series famous for its Redlink Battery technology that delivers more runtime than standard 18V batteries.

The band saw, however, retains the tough construction of Milwaukee`s corded band saws that enables it to last longer when used in harsh conditions. It also delivers a deep cutting capacity of 3-1/4 inches plus variable speed settings for versatility.

Construction

This band saw has been built to be extra light and compact compared to other 18V band saws. It weighs only 11 lbs with a 5-Ah battery installed, allowing you to use it overhead without fatigue.

The main handle stands at the center of the frame balancing the weight of the motor and the battery. Its battery also fits in behind the handle at the back, maintaining balance.

The entire tool measures just 18-inches front to back, making it suitable for making straight cuts in tight areas. The package also includes a multi-volt charger from Milwaukee.

Power

The greatest advantage of Milwaukee cordless tools is their long-lasting batteries. This package includes two 3-Ah batteries that give you up to 300 cuts on one charge, allowing you to work more.

The package also includes a quick multi-voltage charger that charges batteries in a short time, also improving your work time.

Performance

The band saw is suitable for standard and small-size workpieces no larger than 3-Inches. It can cut through a 2-1/2-inch conduit iron or a 3-Inch copper pipe, delivering up to 30 cuts in one minute.

Its overload protection ensures the motor remains cool while in operation, preventing premature damage. It runs a single no-load speed of 0-480SFPM, delivering smooth bump-free cuts.

Pros

• It comes with a hard carrying case
• It includes a spare battery
• It is compact enough to cut into tight spaces
• Allows for toolless blade replacement
• Compressed motor housing for better cut view

Cons

• It doesn`t have variable speeds.

Top FAQs

Q: What is the blade size for this band saw?

A: 35-3/8 inches

Q: Does it come with a spare battery?

A: Yes. It includes the blade, two batteries, a case, and a charger.

Q: Is it a variable speed band saw?

A: No

Direct Comparison

Power

Generally, the power of a band saw depends on the size of the motor installed. The power delivered at the blade, however, depends on the speed as well.

In this review, Dewalt 6232 and 6238 are the most powerful featuring strong 11-Amp motors that deliver a stable speed from AC.

6238, however, has only two speeds at 300 and 380 FPM, which limit the power delivered when cutting tough material. 2629 relies on battery power, so despite its 18V motor, it doesn`t deliver the same power as the AC models. It, however, allows you to work freely and in areas with limited power supply.

Variable Speeds

Variable speed settings are essential for a band saw because you can match the speed to material density to get the smoothest cuts.

Tough metal and steel pieces need low speed and stable power to get the smoothest cuts, which is why we recommend 6232-20/21 for these. You can also convert the corded models into benchtop band saws to get a more accurate cut each time.

6238 has two speeds of 300 and 380 SFPM, which makes it suitable for general cutting at home or in a shop.

It is also fitted with the best dust collection of any band saw for better performance. 2629-22 is ready to go package with batteries and a charger, but it is only suitable for small workpieces no larger than 3-Inches.

Cut capacity and quality

6232-20/21 with their variable speeds, deliver the best final cut. They are the best packages for a busy home or workshop that has lots of straight and angled cuts to make.

It also brings you the highest cutting capacity at 5×5 inches allowing you to cut large workpieces. 6238 is built for any type of cutting that doesn`t require a high level of precision.

It only features two high speeds of 300 and 380 FPM and can cut up to a depth of 5×5 inches. 2629-22 only cuts up to 3-1/2 inches, but it is light and portable.

You can use it to make accurate cuts overhead and in tight places. You can also carry it around with ease to where the project is.

Final Note

The best band saws attract a high price, but not all of them live up to that price in terms of durability and performance.

It is essential to check the quality of the motor and the drive system. The Milwaukee revolutionary band saw construction has caught the eye of professionals, which is why we sought their opinion on each of these band saws.

This guide has the details you need to get the most out of your portable band saw.