Unbiased Review: Is the Wen 3962 Bandsaw Worth the Hype? Find Out Now

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

*Wen 3962 Amazon Link:* amzn.to/3LmYeGs *3 TPI 1/2": resaw blade:* amzn.to/2Y30f2i (Special note: This is a 72 1/2 inch blade. I pulled the link directly from my purchases. 72 1/2 inch blades work fine in this model as you can see in the video.) *14 TPI 1/4" blade:* amzn.to/3gWfktD Video quick links: Introduction: 0:00 Unbox and general setup of WEN 3962: 0:38 WEN 3962 Overview: 01:46 WEN 3962 realtime cutting examples(Pine, MDF, and Walnut): 03:47 Final thoughts on the WEN 3962: 04:57

[@tammypittbullangelsteenbur2018]

*Phenomenal portaband. Worth the wait in replacing my stolen previous model **MyBest.Tools** Variable speed, with an adjustable governor, adjustable shoe, and locking articulating forward handle. It's beefy, but feels just incredibly well built and solid, will eat through strut, emt, rigid, all thread, whatever, all day.*

[@yonadavkenyon7836]

Thank you for this video. I can't believe how many 'in depth' reviews for this saw I have watched without anyone showing its performance resawing at anything close to the saw's supposed capacity. Finally, I landed on your video where you have done what people watching in depth reviews so obviously want to see.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

You know funny you say that. When I was watching reviews on this on other channels I noticed the same issue. And in all honesty it was the one big thing I needed to know to make an informed purchasing choice. That was one of the big reasons I wanted to get a bandsaw to begin with. I use it for many other things as you would. But that at the time was my biggest need on projects. I suspect that will not change much as the years go by.

[@ricardocortezsr2651]

Thanks for the video. In the process of getting one of these and im glad you put the 3.5 motor info as 1/2 hp gives me a better idea of power. On another youtube video the gentalman has issues with the guide bearing getting cut in half with the blade rubbing on the bearing, any issues on your end ?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Well, it's quite a puzzle to imagine how that scenario could unfold! 😄 However, there's a key consideration when dealing with bandsaws - ensuring the proper balance of guide bearings. It's conceivable that an issue in this department might be the root cause. Regardless of your bandsaw proficiency, it's crucial to calibrate the guide bearings, maintaining a slight distance from the blade, typically a couple of hair widths away when not cutting. This preventive measure avoids rubbing, preventing premature bearing wear, and it holds true for all bandsaws. In addition, achieving the right tension in the blade is paramount to minimize drift. Setting the tension strong enough is essential for optimal performance. There are fantastic instructional videos available for the setup process, although I must confess, I'm not an expert at it myself! 😄 I haven't created a channel video on it yet, but there are some excellent resources out there to guide you through the process.

[@Shaynewhite]

Whats the tallest board you can rip with this? Everything says 6” but that walnut board looked around 8”

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Great question! The fence on the Wen 3962 can lift all the way to approximately 6 and 1/8 inches. So theoretically, you could pass a board through that's about 6 and 1/16th inches thick. I've tried it myself, and while it's a very snug fit, it's possible. It's like they say camera adds 10 pounds, maybe wood gains a little bulk in front of the camera too! 😄

[@de_41]

Looking at this model now. I really don't want the stand though. Would rather build my own with wheels. Do they not sell it without the stand?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

I haven’t come across a Wen 3962 model without a base in that size. However, I did add wheels to mine later on. For the wheels, I used the MGB500, which you can find here: [amzn.to/3WViiVu](amzn.to/3WViiVu). I’ve only seen the smaller model without a base, which you can check out here: [amzn.to/3XlVxvq](amzn.to/3XlVxvq). Just keep in mind that you don’t have to use the included base; it’s an optional part of the assembly. I hope this helps! :)

[@brianbarefoot6574]

Great saw and its made in America

[@puffyd58]

Nice review. I have a lot of trees down on my property and am interested in resewing some for the small projects I make. I've been looking at the Wen for quite some time and think I may finally take the plunge. Thanks for the good info.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

For sure! Just take the cut real slow, as it is a 120 v and all, and it should be fine and milling that up! :)

[@JoeOsChannel]

Are you still happy with this saw? I've been thinking of ordering one now for the last couple weeks and am close to pulling the trigger.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

After having it for a few years now, I can't complain. It works well for my needs. I normally need it for resawing wood, and it does a fine job at that. Have used it for cutting curves, and that also went well, too. I just make sure the bandsaw is in good alignment like you should with any bandsaw, and it's off to the races! LOL I hope this helps you a bit on your choice. If you do decide on this one, if I could ask you a favor and use our Amazon link, it helps the channel at no cost to you. We all appreciate your support. :)

[@JoeOsChannel]

@@WoodWorkTherapy Ordered it last night and I did use your link.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

@@JoeOsChannel Awsome! I am glad to hear it, and thank you for the help on that. :) Let us know if you have any questions. :)

[@torowazup1]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👌🏼🎉😎

[@pavelow235]

Interested in the resaw capability, thanks for posting.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

It can realistically resaw 6 1/8 inches tall. That would be the max. I would say stay at 6 inches and you're in the clear.

[@carr869]

Thank you for the review. When I saw you resaw the walnut I was sold. Thanks for taking the time to make and share this with us.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Just take it slow. Doing some table saw cuts on both sides makes it work like a charm especially when you start getting to the 6 inch maximum. And yes it will take a 6 inch board on its side. :)

[@VafaGhoreyshi]

It was look like 10" walnut but he already passed it through ~3" table saw on both side. Than the resaw capacity on walnut will be 10"-3"-3"=~3" not 10" board. He didn't mentioned it and looks like to me that this was sponsored.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

It was cut on the tablesaw to alow for a strait cut wich is always advisable when using a bandsaw to ensure the best quality cut as well as the least amount of cleanup from the cut. So some material was removed for that reason. As far as sponsorship goes. I wish! LOL Companies like Wen don't sponsor small frys like me. They look for channels closer to 50,000+ subscribers. At this writing that puts me roughly 48k+ short. But hey if it looks sponsored then I take that as a compliment. It is hard to have that level of polish on a video when your just a mom and pop creator. So on that note, thank you. :)

[@azman67]

Nice circle jig set up

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Thank you! 😀

[@4691cvdivad]

Your link for the 3tpi blade is for a 72-1/2” blade. The wen uses a 72” blade.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

That is the one I ordered and used in the video and still use. It works just fine as you can see in the video. Hope this helps. :)

[@WV591]

should have used wedge

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

You know when we read this comment several months ago... we thought you were making a pun. Which that it self is rather funny. However it also occurred to us as of late you might be suggesting we use a wedge during the resaw process. Which would also make sence. I know it has been a while, but if you could tell us which you ment it would help settle a bet we have going on what that comment meant. Thank you in advance. 😀

[@mikefinley4367]

Can you say this is capable of cutting true 4 inch square maple with 45 inch lengths without shutting off or burning up? This would be only once a week but needs to produce rough cut banjo necks. Any reply much appreciated.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

I don't see why it wouldn't as long as your taking your time. I have run harder stuff like Hickory, Makore, Walnut, etc. through mine and it did fine. That being said... Any time you have the opportunity to prep the piece on the table saw before you do the resaw, do it! This reduces the tension on the blade and reduces the possibility of the bandsaw bade being pinched. It also will in general leave a better, cleaner cut if you are paying close attention to blade drift. The point is, as long as you have the room, the proper blade(3 TPI for resawing) on the bandsaw, and a little patience and time, you can cut just about anything wood at least on a bandsaw, no matter how high end or low end. Like I said though, precutting the piece before you resaw is ALWAYS the best way to get a good quality, safe, and fast bandsaw cut with minimal to no burning. Check out my video here on how to do that to get the most out of any bandsaw, not just the Wen: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHjNaWhrn5xlqNE . I hope this helps out, regardless of what you get! :)

[@AJ_Halvajian]

its also 390 now on amazon! you lucked out! but thanks.. interestingly, was listed at 260 on the wen direct sire a week ago, bumped up to aprox 310:( .. great review tho

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Thank you! :) Probably taxes went up or some garbage. LOL

[@everyday80sdude86]

Sure wish I could hear you.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

The audio on my old mic was a little low(bought a new one not long ago partly for that reason.). If you turn it up to full blast it should be good to go. Just tested it. :)

[@MrWizards1974]

That was not MDF 4:15 it was laminated particle board.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

You know what... Your right. I did not think about that when I said that in the video. Just for fun for others reading this, wondering what the difference is... I wrote this up for you all, so you don't make the same mistake I made. LOL MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) and laminated particle board are two common materials used in furniture and cabinetry construction. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between these two materials. *Composition:* MDF is made by breaking down wood fibers into fine pulp and then bonding them together with resin and heat under high pressure. This results in a dense and uniform board that is consistent in strength and thickness. A laminated particle board, on the other hand, is made by compressing wood particles with glue under high pressure. A thin layer of laminate is then applied to the surface of the board, which gives it a smooth and durable finish. *Strength:* MDF is generally considered to be stronger than laminated particle board, due to its density and uniformity. It is less prone to warping and sagging over time and is more resistant to moisture and other environmental factors. Laminated particle board, while not as strong as MDF, is still a durable and sturdy material that can support moderate-weight loads. *Appearance:* MDF has a smooth and uniform surface that is ideal for painting or laminating. It can be cut and routed with precision and has no visible wood grain or knots. Laminated particleboard has a textured surface that mimics the look of wood grain. It is available in a range of finishes and colors, making it a versatile option for a variety of design styles. *Cost:* Laminated particle board is generally less expensive than MDF, due to its simpler manufacturing process and lower material cost. However, the cost difference may not be significant in some cases, and other factors such as durability and appearance may outweigh the cost considerations. Overall, both MDF and laminated particleboard have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice between these two materials will depend on the specific requirements of the project, including strength, appearance, and budget.

[@dconter]

you said you removed the guts of the fence. Did that help with the fence alignment, because my fence on that same bandsaw is really bad. Also, it would have been nice to put the light on the front side of the blade. I get blinded by the light coming in from the back. Other than those 2 things, I like the saw, it has served me well.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Yeah removing the additional fence components and going with the basics seems to be the best way. If you want the taller fence I would attach a plywood or MDF sacrificial fence to the fence to get the best performance from it. And yeah the light is in an odd spot. Would have liked to see it on the entrance side as well. Or have 2 lights one on enter and one on exit. It would be nice for pressition cutting. I have yet to see any with that option.

[@carr869]

Never mind just found the link you added. Thanks again.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

No worries!

[@matthewpeinado2047]

I had a hard time putting on the table. Once I put it on , I could not tighten the hold down without it hitting the bottoms of the table! Did you have this issue?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Yeah the table is a little hard to get on. I think there is some shots that give a little bit of the idea of what we did to get it on. It's been a long time so I don't remember. I can telll you there was an order of assembly you have to do to get it on. The little I remember was I had to have it at about a 45 angle ish and have my son put the nuts/bolts in while I held it in place. Then after we finished that, I had to adjust the bolt at the throught side to level the table. I can tell you it is like laser sharp on that 90 on the bolt, which is good and bad. Because if you are off on threads by just a hair it will drop you on 88/89 and that could be anoying. But as far as assembly goes... the table seems to be a 2 person job. Check 1:40 I hope that helps out a bit.

[@nkosiakinlabi3135]

Loved your review. Did you make a video about that circle cutting jig you used in this review video?. It seems to be pretty effective?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

We have not. I have been thinking about doing that. It is super easy to make, so might make a good short video. I am planining on making a flat disc sander, like the expencive ones you can buy at the store, so I might do an indepth at that point. Getting the new shop together and organized. After that I will start doing some of thoes kinds of videos, along with normal builds. Should be realy awsome, and looking forward to all the new projects now that we own a house! :) If you hvaen't already done so, don't forget to like and subscribe, and hit that bell notification for all of our newest videos! :) We have a lot comming up. :)

[@fredmunson8952]

This year 2021, this saw is now $347.13.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

WOW. What a difference. When I purchased in Feb of 2020 it was: 283.21. And it still is one of the most cost effective solutions. LOL

[@georgeburchett5798]

@@WoodWorkTherapy Yes price has sky rocketed! After watching, you made me want one. I kept going back to check prices and finally bit the bullet because I thought I would use their offer to drop the price, if I take their credit card. Which I really was not interested in. But it helped me lower the price. I hope this helps someone: Below is how it worked. They instantly added the gift card! On 5/12/22 ********************* Order Summary Item(s) Subtotal:$348.25 Shipping & Handling:$0.00 Total before tax:$348.25 Estimated tax to be collected:$33.95 Gift Card Amount:-$127.13 Grand Total:$255.0

[@jesusmunox9296]

YOU NEVER. USED . BLADE. TO. CUT. STAIN STEEL PIPE. ???? THANK. YOU. FOR. THIS. VIDEO. AND. YOU. TIME

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Haven't had a need to try steal pipe on it, but have doe PVC, coper pipe, and cut through some small steel pieces as we were working on some home projects, and it worked well on those as well. Not sure if you should do that, or how bad that dulls the blade, as I am a woodworker and all, but It did seem to work.

[@firpofutbol]

Impressive. Glad I bought this saw and cant wait to start using it.

[@mr.c6674]

Thanks for the review. I appreciate reviews of products for us occasional and DIY woodworkers. Not everyone needs a 14" 5HP saw.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

That is so true! :) One of the things we like to do on the channel is try to use and make things with machines and tools, most of us can afford. Or easily save up for! LOL May not always be that way, but that won't be changing anytime soon. If you haven't had a chance to drop a subscription, do so. We have many more builds and reviews coming.

[@donaldharris1763]

Can the bulb be replaced if and when it goes out?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

It is, but unlikely you would need to. You see it is a LED light so it normally is good unless the chip that modulates the power goes bad. And out of fairness, they do. It's rare, but they do. If that happens you can pick up a new one from WEN and replace it. It's like 2 wires and a wrench to replace. So not very hard. Thankfully. They made working on this machine rather easy. :)

[@comicmikesilverageadams8360]

I'm new to this. When cutting like a 4 inch board do you run it on the fastest speed?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Speed oddly has little to do with it. I have left mine on the factory default which if I recall is about a medium(don't quote me on that), and I have done up to a 8ft board no problem. The speed does help with sawdust removal to an extent(minimal), but your blade drift at higher speeds can be a bit annoying(as in it will zig jag a lot especially on tall, or wide boards depending on how you define it). So I would say try to leave it at about a medium speed, and watch your feed rate as you go. To fast drift, to slow your going to be there forever. I hope this helps a bit. :)

[@comicmikesilverageadams8360]

Thanks

[@cirlind]

How do you change to a 1/8 blade?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

I have not checked out the 1/8" amzn.to/3maRWw3 blade yet. I would imagine that you would handle it similarly to other thicker blades. Keep the teeth off the tires (to prevent tire damage), and off the metal part of the wheel so they don't get flattened out on the one side. That thin of a blade might be tricky on any bandsaw. So be careful, and take your time on your setup. Not a lot of blade to play with. I would check a bandsaw setup video to get an idea of standard placement just to be sure. The Wen bandsaw is just like any other bandsaw in that respect. I hope this helps. :) Side note: What are you making with such a small blade? Just curious. :)

[@shermananderson700]

Audio is too low.

[@green_building]

Its really amazing it could cut that walnut plank flawlessly

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Yeah it does a great job with that blade. I was impressed as well. The secret is to precut the sides. We made a video on the technique we use to make that happen. It will cut the plank without doing this, but it's painfully slow and harder to guide through the blade. Here is that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHjNaWhrn5xlqNE

[@green_building]

@@WoodWorkTherapy thanks a lot bro.. Let me see that link now.. interesting 😎👍

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

@@green_building Anytime! Let me know if you have any questions about it. The bandsaw has been in the shop for a few years now, so if you need more info or want to see us do something you are interested in on it or any product let us or me know. :)

[@mattietiger2959]

How likely is it for a blade to break?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

That is a good question. I can tell you I do a fair amount of resawing. and I have yet to break a blade. I run walnut and Sapele mostly. That being said, I suppose if your blade was super dull, or you hard jamed the wood in, you might be able to get it to break. Or if your using a thin blade and doing that, that may get it to break. Overall, your more likely to replace a blade because it went dull, than you would as a result of it breaking by a long shot, under normal use.

[@anthonyglaser929]

Nice review.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Thank you! 😀

[@trep53]

What are the dimensions of the miter slot, width & depth? Thanks for the good review looks like it’s well worth the price.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Wasn't sure so got the calipers out and found this about the slot: Top part of the slot is 45/128, the bottom slot section is: 35/64, the depth of the slot is 11/32, and the length is 12 1/2 inches. That is the exact measurements. So basically a small t-track size. I hope that helps! :)

[@trep53]

OK thanks, looks like that matches 1/2” (32/64) at the bottom and 3/8” (48/128) at the top with a slight clearance gap.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

@@trep53 That sounds about right. Wasn't sure if you were building a jig or something for it. LOL :)

[@trep53]

My 10” WEN 3962 was delivered late yesterday and I assembled it ready for adjusting and first use. I’m very happy with this saw, no problems or surprises this is a good saw. I plan on making jigs to utilize the miter slot but knowing it isn’t a standard 3/4” slot means I need to make different runners. However now that I see how its designed I don’t feel I’ll have a problem. I’m impressed with WEN products this is my second WEN bandsaw. I gave my first one to my son. I passed on a gorgeous ‘60s Delta 14” without any accessories to buy this saw because I think it’s better and the price wasn’t much difference. Ever try to move a 250+ lbs saw around? I passed on the the Jet and Rikon 10” bandsaws too. Thanks for your video.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

@@trep53 Yeah it is a light bandsaw considering the alternative, and that seems to be a good thing. I have yet to find that to be a problem. Being that they are not one of the big brands WEN definitely makes a top-end product. I could not believe how well it cut. I did some more walnut the other night and as usual, no issues. got as clean a cut as I could get on any other properly tuned bandsaw. I just love this thing. And the price is right! :)

[@carr869]

Where did you get the 3tpi blade?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

I know you found it. But wanted to put this here incase someone misses it above: 3 TPI 1/2" resaw blade: amzn.to/2Y30f2i

[@danl.8167]

1.5 hp ????

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

At 2:36 on the left hand part of the screen I corrected that gaff. Sorry for any confusion on that. It is a half horsepower motor running at 3.5 amps.

[@LAZER1981A]

Can it re saw oak 1x3s?

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

I don't see why not. I would do at least a minor pre-cut (Video on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHjNaWhrn5xlqNE) primarily for accuracy reasons. Other than that it should do fine. I have done just shy of the 6" max resaw with sold non precut Walnut with no issues. Just have to co slow is all. :) I hope this helps. :)

[@LAZER1981A]

@@WoodWorkTherapy thank you 🙏

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Your welcome! :)

[@randyyetter7995]

Great review, I'll make sure my wife hits your link to Amazon to buy it as a Christmas gift for me!! Also, the Olson 1/2" blade you linked is a 72 1/2" blade. Is that a problem? Or, is there a certain range that a 72" blade band saw accepts? Thanks!

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Thank you! We appreciate it more than you know when you use our link to buy stuff. It helps us out, and costs you nothing extra. :) The Olsen is the one you see in the video. That 1/2 is about as wide as you would want to go. That one is even pushing it a bit. But with proper adjustment it works fine, and runs rather true even at full open on the safety fence. It does require a little extra TLC to make it fit, but the included hardware with the bandsaw will allow it without modification. I hope this helps you out on that. :)

[@randyyetter7995]

@@WoodWorkTherapy Thanks for replying. No, I mean the Olsen 72 and one half inch blade you linked. Wen says this band saw takes a 72" blade, so you're saying a 72 1/2" blade works also, even though it's a half-inch longer than specified. So, there's a range this saw can accept, right? Thanks.

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

The blade is 72 inches and the back to front is 1/2. But yes that is the same one I have on there. I actually bought it from Amazon originally and just copied the link from there to my referral account. So that one is identical to the one I use in that band saw. 1/2 inch is the largest you can use in that band saw. It took a little bit of adjustment to make it work, but it will work. All the back guide bearings need to be full back to make it fit. But it will fit. Just will test your patience on the initial setup. I liked that blade because it was very solid and ran true through the cut as best as a band saw can that is. :) Totally worth the extra setup time. :)

[@randyyetter7995]

@@WoodWorkTherapy Oh, ok... it's just that the Amazon description says the blade is 72 1/2 inch. "1/2 by .025 by 72 1/2".

[@WoodWorkTherapy]

Yeah it's not the best written description on Amazon, that is for sure. LOL Made me look twice as well.