Most top-tier bandsaws come with attached fences. Yet, these fences may not always be as sturdy and fitted as they should be for optimal performance. Therefore, investing in an aftermarket bandsaw fence becomes essential.
As a guide, the fence ensures stability and consistent results during cutting operations. But finding the right bandsaw fence can appear challenging. So how do you pick the right one?
The best bandsaw fence should possess excellent quality and durability. It needs to be robust and resilient, as a reliable fence plays a crucial role in achieving precise and accurate cuts. This leads to satisfying project outcomes.
Also, it should come at an affordable price while offering excellent value. Besides being versatile, the fence should also be easy to set up.
We are here to help you if all this information seems overwhelming. Below is a list of our top 5 picks for the most durable bandsaw fences. Here you’ll also find other relevant questions and answers.
Reviews of The Five Best Bandsaw Fences
You should read reviews and specifications before purchasing a bandsaw fence to make an informed decision. In our reviews, we analyze the features, pros, and cons of each fence to help you decide whether or not it will work for you.
Also, understanding adjustability, compatibility, durability, and precision specifications can help you choose the right bandsaw fence. Let’s review the five best aftermarket bandsaw fences.
1. Kreg KMS7200 Bandsaw Fence
Woodworkers know that precision and accuracy are vital for producing quality workpieces. And this is where the Kreg KMS7200 fence comes into play. This premium saw accessory offers various cuts, including cutting thin veneers, with incredible precision.
Two-Dimension Adjustment for Parallelism with the Blade
One of the standout features of the Kreg KMS7200 bandsaw fence is its two-dimensional adjustment system. This allows you to set the saw fence parallel with the blade, delivering accurate and consistent cuts every time.
Incredibly Strong and Rigid
Made from anodized, sturdy extruded aluminum, the Kreg fence is solid and rigid. This means it is highly durable and can withstand the rigors of even the toughest woodworking projects. And the anodized finish ensures easy clean-up after use, making your workflow even more efficient.
Fits Most 14-Inch Band Saws
This saw fence is built to fit most 14-inch band saws, making it incredibly versatile. And if you have a different-sized saw, it is easy to adapt to fit by drilling a single hole in the mounting rail. This enhances its flexibility and multi-dimensional use in the workshop.
Incredible Accuracy
Precision is key in bandsaw cutting, and the KMS7200 bandsaw fence certainly delivers. Featuring a precision lens cursor for pinpoint accuracy, this fence also adjusts for perpendicularity with band saws, ensuring precise cutting every time.
Low-Profile, Adjustable Saw Fence
The Kreg fence is solid and adjustable. It can be adjusted to fit the perpendicularity of band saws, enabling precise cutting. Also, it has T-slots that accept resaw guides and stops, adding additional functionality and the low-profile design aids effective cutting and productivity.
Pros:
- Two-dimensional adjustment for parallelism of the saw blade
- Incredibly strong and rigid
- It fits most 14-inch band saws and is adjustable to fit others
- Low-profile saw fence enables a wide variety of cuts
- Engages in a wide variety of cuts, including thin veneers
Cons:
- Lacks a micro-adjustment feature that would make it even more accurate.
2. Grizzly Industrial Resaw Fence for Bandsaws
Grizzly Industrial has developed a product that enhances bandsaw precision and versatility for woodworking enthusiasts. With the Grizzly Industrial fence for bandsaws, you can make quick and easy adjustments to the blade fence, making resawing easier and more efficient.
Easy-to-Install Upgrade
The Grizzly resaw fence is designed to upgrade existing standard fences, and the process is much simpler for those who own Grizzly Industrial Bandsaws. Non-Grizzly table owners may have to measure to ensure they have the proper bandsaw table dimensions before using the retrofit kit.
This product comes in one package, and you can install it in less than three minutes without requiring any technical know-how.
Multiple Adjustments
With the Grizzly Industrial resaw fence for bandsaws, users can alternate between a taller and shorter fence in seconds. Tall fences provide more stability and support for resawing thick materials while shorter fences can be used for thinner materials.
The removable extruded resaw fence can be removed entirely for more delicate cuts or when blade guides need to be closer.
Quality Product
Grizzly’s team has ensured that the quality of the fence is up to standard. The cast iron fence and support are heavy-duty and durable, while the taller aluminum fence is also high quality. Purchasers of the product appreciate the sturdiness of the fence and the easily switchable fence heights.
Patent Pending
The Grizzly Industrial H7584 fence is patent-pending, a testament to the inventors’ innovative design and the product’s uniqueness. When customers choose this product, they know they are using an original item tested and approved by Grizzly professionals.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to install
- Allows for multiple fence heights for versatile resawing
- Heavy-duty and durable material
- Patent-pending design
- It fits most Grizzly bandsaws
Cons:
- Limited compatibility for use outside of Grizzly brands
3. POWERTEC Aluminum Multi T-Track Fence
POWERTEC has yet again brought a fantastic woodworking accessory, the aluminum multi-T-track fence for bandsaws. This fence is a good solution for creating a wide range of woodworking projects, workstations, or customized fences such as routers, drill presses, and miter gauge fences.
Superior Straightness for Optimal Precision
This multi-functional item consists of 24-inch long tracks with superior straightness. The tracks are laser measured left to right and are spaced 3/4 inch apart (on center), 3/4 inch thick and 3 inches high. Such precise straightness and spacing allow for optimal utility for your woodworking needs.
Universal Compatibility for Multifunctional Use
As part of POWERTEC’s exclusive multi-track system, this accessory accepts 1/4 T-bolts, 5/16 T-bolts, and 1/4 hex bolts. This opens a whole new world of possibilities for your woodworking projects.
Premium Grade Construction for Long-term Durability
The POWERTEC aluminum multi-t-track fence features corrosion-resistant extruded aluminum, which provides strength and long-term durability. It also ensures that POWERTEC has kept its promise of providing only premium-grade construction for all its products.
Additional Considerations for Ultimate Convenience
This POWERTEC accessory can create a woodworking table fence or a crosscut sled for a table saw. The measurement lines provide a reference when making minor adjustments to the stop block, which makes it a valuable asset for precision woodworking.
Pros:
- Universal compatibility with most accessory fasteners
- High-quality construction for long-term durability
- Precise straightness for optimal utility
- Suitable for a variety of woodworking projects
- Measurement lines for precise adjustments
Cons:
- The 24 inches length may be limiting for larger woodworking projects.
4. Saycker Aluminum Miter Fence for Band Saws
Known for its durability, sturdiness, and ease of use, Saycker introduces a new aluminum miter fence for band saws. If you want to purchase a miter fence, read on to learn more about Saycker’s offering.
One Solid Piece of Aluminum Extrusion for Sturdiness
The Saycker (16298806706008) fence is made from one solid piece of extruded aluminum, ensuring the fence is sturdy and durable. The offset track for mounting the fence to a miter gauge enhances accuracy and comfort.
It is compatible with table saws, band saws, router tables, and jointers, making it a versatile tool for a woodworker’s workshop.
Leveling Baffle for Stable Movement
Saycker miter fence features a leveling baffle that increases the touch area with the material, resulting in more stable pushing. The leveling baffle ensures that the fence moves along the material smoothly and eliminates any chances of wobbling.
60 Angle Adjustable with a Quick Adjusting Knob
Saycker miter fence allows both sides to be adjusted to a 60-degree angle with a quick knob. These knobs make it easy for the user to lock and unlock the stock fence, and the angles can be changed quickly without any hassle. Due to its adjustability, this fence allows you to cut precise angles quickly and easily.
Increased Stability
When working with power tools, stability is key. The Saycker aluminum miter fence for band saws features a leveling baffle. Increasing the area of contact with your material ensures that pushing is accurate and stable.
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy aluminum construction
- Offset tracking for the mounting fence to the miter gauge
- Leveling baffle for stable movement
- Knob for quick blade drift angle adjustments
Cons:
- Pivoting shaft for swivel may cause slop
- It may require modifications to ensure more accuracy
5. Shop Fox D3575 Resaw Fence Complete Kit
If you’re looking for a way to improve your resawing accuracy, the Shop Fox D3575 fence kit might just be what you need. This product from Taiwan is designed to provide a square and parallel fence for your bandsaw, which can greatly improve your cutting results.
Cast Iron Fence Bar and Extruded Aluminum Fence Plate
The fence bar is made of durable cast iron, which resists warping. This fence plate is made of extruded aluminum, which is lightweight but strong. Together, they create a solid and stable fence you can rely on for accurate cuts.
Fence Plate Lays Down for Use with Thin Stock
One of this resaw fence’s unique features is that it can lay down flat, making it easier to work with thin stock. This is a great option to resaw veneers or other delicate materials.
Adjustable Position Marker for Fence Calibration
Calibrating your fence can be a hassle, but the Shop Fox fence kit includes an adjustable position marker to simplify the process. This marker allows you to repeat accurate cuts without measuring and adjusting the fence every time.
Hollow Thin-Wall Aluminum Square Stock Back Rail
The back rail of the Shop Fox D3575 rip fence kit is made of hollow thin-wall aluminum square stock. This design helps reduce the fence’s weight, making it easier to install and adjust. And the hollow design increases air circulation, allowing faster blade cooling.
Works Well for Resawing and Cutting Precise Guitar Blanks
If you’re a woodworker or luthier, you may be interested in the Shop Fox D3575 resaw fence complete kit to cut precise guitar blanks. Several users confirm this fence works well for resawing maple, ebony, and other wood commonly used in guitar making.
Pros:
- Durable cast iron fence bar
- Lightweight extruded aluminum fence plate
- The fence plate lays down when thin stock is used
- Adjustable position marker for easy calibration
- Great for cutting precise guitar blanks and resawing
- Lower price compared to similar products
Cons:
- No detailed installation instructions included
- Washers and tape may be needed for adjustments
Comparison Table of the Best Aftermarket Bandsaw Fences
Fence Name | Kreg KMS7200 | Grizzly Industrial H7584 | POWERTEC 71489 | Saycker 16298806706008 | Shop Fox D3575 |
Adjustability | Perpendicularity and drift angle | A taller and shorter fence | Multi-track system | 60 degrees angle adjustable | N/A |
Material | Anodized aluminum | Cast iron | Corrosion resistant aluminum | Aluminum alloy | Cast iron and aluminum |
Compatibility | Fits most 14-inch band saws | Retrofit kit for Grizzly band saws, complete fence system for other brands | Perfect for semi-long band saws, & table saws | Table saws, band saws, router tables, jointers | It may require modifications for certain bandsaws |
Installation | Easy to attach and remove | Quick switch-over in less than 3 minutes | Bit complicated for big size | Small and easy to setup | Installs easily with instructions |
Versatility | Enables a variety of cuts, including thin veneers | Woodworking, metalworking projects | It can be used for various woodworking projects | N/A | Works well for resawing and precise cuts |
Additional Features | Precision lens cursor for accurate measurements, adjustable low-profile fence with T-slots | Removable resaw fence for lowering blade guides retrofits Grizzly band saws | Measurement lines for reference, part of a multi-track system | Leveling baffle, both sides adjustable to 60 degrees | The fence plate lays down for thin stock use, adjustable position marker |
How to Choose the Best Aftermarket Bandsaw Fences?
An aftermarket bandsaw fence can greatly enhance the performance of your bandsaw and improve your woodworking experience. You must consider factors like adjustability, stability, and installation design when buying one. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect one:
Compatibility
Before you purchase a fence for your bandsaw, ensure it’s a perfect match, just like finding your soulmate in woodworking. To avoid compatibility issues, check the specifications and measurements to see if an aftermarket fence is designed to fit your bandsaw model.
You should measure the length of your table, the width of your blade, and the distance between them. You should also consider the blade you’ll use with your fence.
Adjustability
You must have an adjustable fence for your bandsaw to achieve accurate and consistent cuts across a wide range of materials. The fence must be two-dimensional, so you can effortlessly set it in parallel with the blade and avoid any unintentional shifting during use.
This is key to producing straight and accurate cuts every time. Moreover, the fence must be height-adjustable, allowing you to cut different materials of varying thicknesses without much effort.
Whether slicing through thick stock or thin veneer, an adjustable fence will give you the flexibility and control you require to achieve precise cuts.
Construction and Durability
When choosing an aftermarket bandsaw fence, durability and toughness are crucial. Nobody wants flimsy equipment that falls apart mid-project.
To ensure long-lasting use, look for lightweight materials such as anodized aluminum, which is resistant to warping and corrosion. Another option is cast iron, known for its durability and rigidity. Although heavier, it offers superior stability and support.
Also, extruded aluminum is a strong and lightweight choice often used in industrial settings due to its resistance to warping and corrosion.
Precision and Accuracy
Achieving precision and accuracy in cuts is crucial for consistent and efficient work. To ensure this, a highly precise fence is essential.
To maintain perpendicularity with the blade, it should possess features akin to a surgeon’s scalpel, such as a precise lens cursor and adjustable position marker. These characteristics create a consistent reference line, facilitating exact and uniform cuts every time.
A fence that holds perpendicularity is important for preventing the blade from wandering or cutting at an angle, resulting in straight and square cuts. This feature becomes especially significant when cutting expensive materials or working with intricate designs.
Versatility
A versatile bandsaw fence is a must-have in any workshop looking to expand its cutting range.
It’s important to have a fence that offers T-slots and stops. T-slots allow you to add resaw guides to keep blades aligned, resulting in straighter cuts. Stops enable specific distances to be set, making repeatable cuts and increased efficiency possible.
A fence that can accommodate different blade sizes and ease the adjustment for angled cuts & beveled edges is excellent for cutting various materials. Also, a high fence face can handle larger materials.
Ease of Installation
Some fences come with retrofit kits designed for specific bandsaw models, making installation quick and easy. All you have to do is follow the instructions provided, and you’ll have a fence up and running in no time.
But, if you choose a fence that doesn’t come with a retrofit kit, you may need to measure and adjust it to ensure it fits properly. This process may take a bit longer, but it can also be a more customizable option if you have a unique setup or preferences.
Price and Value
While staying within your budget is important, investing in a fence that will provide long-term benefits is crucial. A higher price tag only sometimes equates to better quality, so it’s essential to focus on the overall value the fence offers.
When selecting a bandsaw fence, look for one that combines quality construction, adjustable features, precision, and durability at a reasonable price point. Consider how the fence will enhance your woodworking projects and the long-term benefits it provides.
How do you adjust and align the best aftermarket bandsaw fence?
Start by loosening the bolts or screws that hold the fence in place. Depending on the bandsaw model, you may need to loosen just one or several fasteners to release the fence.
Once the fence is loose, you can adjust its position so that it is parallel to the blade. A good way to do this is to use a straightedge or a ruler to check the distance between the blade and the fence at several points along the blade’s path.
If the distance varies, you must adjust the fence until it is equidistant from the blade. Once you have achieved the desired alignment, securely tighten the bolts or screws to hold the fence in place. With a well-aligned fence, you can make accurate cuts confidently and easily.
How Does a Bandsaw Fence Improve the Accuracy of Cuts?
Using a bandsaw fence ensures precise and accurate cuts, allowing for increased flexibility and reducing the chance of errors or deviations.
The fence is a guide, providing a straight and consistent reference point for the workpiece. Holding the material securely against the fence helps ensure that the blade cuts in a straight line, resulting in a clean and accurate cut every time.
A bandsaw fence also helps to improve the safety of the cutting process. It holds the workpiece securely in place, reducing the risk of kickbacks or other accidents. Also, it allows the user to make repeat cuts with consistent results, reducing the need for trial and error and saving time in the workshop.
Can you use a bandsaw fence with any bandsaw?
Not all bandsaw fences are a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your specific machine, or you might end up barking up the wrong tree.
Using an aftermarket bandsaw fence incompatible with your bandsaw can lead to inaccurate cuts, increased wear and tear, and even safety hazards. For example, a fence that is too high or too low can cause the blade to deflect and result in uneven cuts.
It’s worth taking the time to find the right fence, as it can make a significant difference in the quality and precision of your cuts. So, before you buy or install a bandsaw fence, check its compatibility with your machine.
Can you use a bandsaw fence for resawing operations?
A bandsaw fence is an essential tool for resawing operations as it helps maintain a consistent and parallel cut along the length of the workpiece. This results in a more uniform thickness and a smoother surface finish than freehand resawing.
Bandsaw fences are commonly used for resawing operations because they guide the blade, ensuring a straight and steady cut. They can also be adjusted to accommodate different thicknesses of workpieces, making them versatile tools for various applications.
Are you able to use a bandsaw fence for curved cuts?
You cannot use a bandsaw fence to make curved cuts. A bandsaw fence is specifically designed for straight cuts, providing guidance and support to ensure accurate and consistent cuts on the workpiece.
If you want to make curved cuts on a bandsaw, you’ll need to use a different technique, such as freehand cutting or a miter gauge.
Improve Your Woodworking Skills with a Bandsaw Fence
Selecting the best bandsaw fence will enhance the precision of your cuts and improve your overall woodworking experience. Considering crucial factors like adjustability, material, and compatibility will aid in making the most accurate selection.
But, proper alignment is crucial in ensuring optimal performance after installing your new aftermarket bandsaw fence. This involves taking adequate time and care to set up and adjust the fence accurately.
Based on research and customer reviews, we recommend the Kreg KMS7200 fence as an excellent match for your woodworking needs. With its impressive adjustability, unparalleled accuracy, and compatibility with a wide range of saws, this fence is a worthy investment that will elevate your woodworking game.