Milwaukee Portable Bandsaw Table

The Milwaukee Portable Bandsaw Table, model 48-08-0260, offers a unique solution for those looking to convert their portable band saws into stationary units. As someone who frequently works with various cutting tools in different environments, I found this tool to be both promising and flawed in equal measure.

Build and Design

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the weight of the unit. At 42 lbs, it’s certainly on the heavier side, which could be a pro or a con depending on your needs. The heft does contribute to its overall sturdiness, making it less likely to wobble during operation. However, this also makes it less portable, which is something to consider if you plan on moving it frequently between job sites.

The table is designed to be mounted on a workbench or used with 3/4" diameter pipe for legs, which are not included. This flexibility in mounting options is a nice touch, though I would have preferred if it came with its own set of legs for immediate use. The heavy-duty clamping chain and crank nut are intended to secure all shapes of material, though I found this feature to be a mixed bag.

Setup and Adjustments

Setting up the bandsaw table is relatively straightforward, but it does require some fine-tuning to get everything aligned properly. The powder coating on the table was uneven, which meant I had to file and sand the surfaces to ensure proper mating. This was a bit of an inconvenience but not a deal-breaker.

Once set up, the table does require periodic adjustments to maintain accuracy. The bolts that hold the arm to the pivot were initially too short for cast aluminum, so I replaced them with longer bolts and thicker washers. This modification improved the stability and performance of the table significantly.

Performance

In terms of performance, the table is a bit of a mixed bag. On the positive side, once everything is dialed in, it makes straight cuts with little to no effort. This can be a huge time-saver, especially when doing multiple cuts for on-site prefab work. The table is particularly useful for cutting large pipes and tubes, making it a valuable tool for plumbers and electricians.

However, the clamping chain can be a pain to use. It often takes several minutes to secure a piece properly, and there is no backstop on the right side of the blade, which can lead to twisting and binding of the material. This can be frustrating and may result in messed-up cuts and damaged blades.

Compatibility

One of the major limitations of this table is its compatibility. It is designed to work with specific Milwaukee band saw models, including 6225, 6230, 6230N, 6232-6, 6232-6N, 6236, and 6236N. If you own a model with a dual safety trigger or a battery-powered version, you may find that the table is not compatible. This is a significant drawback for those who have invested in newer or different models.

Durability

Durability is another area where the table shows both strengths and weaknesses. On the one hand, the table is built to last, with many users reporting that it has served them well for over 20 years. On the other hand, there are reports of the casting breaking on the first use and issues with rust and flaking powder coating. These inconsistencies in quality control are concerning and may affect the long-term reliability of the tool.

Ease of Use

The ease of use is another area that could use improvement. The pivot mechanism can work loose, causing the saw to wobble. Tightening it a second time helped, but this is something you need to keep an eye on. The chain clamp, while secure, requires fiddling to get it hooked each time. A better-designed clamping mechanism would go a long way in improving the user experience.

Recommendations

After spending considerable time with the Milwaukee Portable Bandsaw Table, I have mixed feelings about it. If you’re a plumber or electrician who needs to make multiple cuts on large pipes and tubes, this table can be a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its ability to convert a portable band saw into a stationary unit can save you time and reduce fatigue, making it easier to handle repetitive tasks.

However, if you’re looking for a table that offers straightforward setup and reliable performance without the need for frequent adjustments, this might not be the best option. The clamping mechanism and the need for constant fine-tuning can be frustrating, especially for those new to this type of tool. Additionally, the compatibility issues with newer and battery-powered models are significant drawbacks.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Milwaukee Portable Bandsaw Table with reservations. It has the potential to be a great tool, but it requires some modifications and patience to get the best out of it. If you’re willing to put in the effort, it can be a durable and reliable addition to your workshop. However, if you’re looking for something more user-friendly and versatile, you might want to explore other options.