Axminster - Metal Bandsaw (MCB115SHD) unboxing and review

[@bobuk5722]

Hi folks. I have this saw as well. It is very accurate straight out of the box. I changed the blade for a much better British one - also from Axminster - which I strongly suggest doing. A few things could be better though. There are three blade speeds selected by a belt drive. There is no electrical interlock on the belt change cover. The motor and belt will run with the cover open. That is dangerous and would be unacceptable in a commercial operation. It's an easy fix for an electrician. The belt cover is screwed shut which is annoying. The bolt to tension the belt drive is also a pita to use and is needed when changing speeds. My vice had been painted whilst still oily so the paint flaked off immediately. No rust though! I cleaned it and repainted with an epoxy paint. However, despite all that it is very good value for a swivel bandsaw and as I said does cut remarkably accurately. BobUK

[@ollied1981]

I've got one of these too. After fixing numerous problems (gear in the gearbox failed due to crap oil, hydraulic damper leaked, guide bearings failed, auto stop switch failed, crap belt tensioner, plastic vice handle cracked) it's sort of alright.

[@diogofaustino4348]

Got the same bandsaw a few months ago from their Nuneaton shop, and I have been pretty pleased with it. I've already done hundreds of cuts on stainless and titanium with the stock blade (I think the titanium killed it), and it is getting quite tired, good thing the bladss are quite cheap though. Also had a leaky hydraulic cylinder that they agreed to post to me under warranty. For such small diameter pieces, you can adjust the blade guide on the left to be as close to the bit you're cutting as possible ;)

[@Doobrey]

Thanks for the comments. I am loving mine, although the blade is getting tired now from cutting through a lot of damascus. That stuff is not kind to blades!! Great purchase!!

[@SmurfMasher]

Can you use it vertically like a table saw?

[@SimonBambrough]

Decent looking band saw and for reasonable money too. Do you know if this can be used in the vertical position as well? Or is it horizontal only?

[@Doobrey]

Horizontal only sorry to say. It’s ok for the money !

[@Hammerandhilt]

@@Doobrey it can be used vertically, just disconnect the bolt that holds the hydraulic ram then lift it until it is fully upright. Make a simple plate and you can use it vertical. I have the same saw. 👍

[@Anthsv8]

Could you please give a link to where you brought it?

[@Doobrey]

Axminster