Laguna Vs. Harvey Bandsaw: Which One The Best?

When it comes to making curved cuts in wood, band saws are the best choice. Compared to portable saws, they are more efficient for slicing larger, denser pieces of wood.

Since many options are there, choosing a reliable band saw may not be as simple as it appears.

After digging in-depth market research, we found two top-rated brands for band saws: Laguna and Harvey. Since both companies manufacture good-quality products, you may feel confused about choosing between Laguna and Harvey bandsaw?

 Read this article to learn all differences.

A Quick Comparison Table

Are you in a hurry? You can glance at this small table to get a quick idea about both band saws.

Specification	Laguna Band Saw	Harvey Band Saw
Frame	Welded Steel	Solid steel frame
Resaw capacity	13 inches	14 inches
Maximum blade width	19 mm	25 mm
Weight	Less weighty	More weighty
Motor power	Decent motor power	More powerful motor
Performance	Good	Better
Cost	Lower	Higher
Durability	Less	More

In-depth Differences Between Laguna And Harvey Band Saw

So, you already got a short idea about both band saws. But are these enough to make a wiser decision? Learning each feature in detail will help you know the main benefits they offer in different cutting conditions.

• Frame

Both Laguna and Harvey have almost similar frame construction.

Laguna band saws are made with welded steel frames, while Harvey saws have a solid steel frame.

This type of steel frame is better than cast iron for absorbing vibration.

So, you will feel more convenient while cutting heavy items. 

• Resaw Capacity

The resaw capacity of the band saw mainly determines how it cuts larger sections of wood or timber into smaller sections.

The maximum resaw capacity for Laguna is 13 inches and for Harvey is 14 inches. Hence, you can slice a little bit larger woods or timbers with Harvey.

However, 13 inches of resaw capacity is still more than enough for regular timber cutting.

Harvey will provide additional benefits if you work with more than average-sized timbers.

• Maximum Blade Width

Blade width plays a crucial role in your wood cutting ability. The higher the blade width, the better cutting ability it will have.

The maximum blade width for the Laguna band saw is 19 mm. This is generally ideal for performing a range of regular-based jobs in our day-to-day life.  

In contrast, Harvey band saws have a 25 mm blade width, making them ideal for deep or long edge ripping. With this tool, you can work on thick, medium, and hardwood.

• Weight

Most experts agree that larger band saws are better than smaller versions. Compared to Laguna band saws, Harvey offers more heavy machines that are effective in better cutting.

For example, the weight of the Laguna 14/12 Bandsaw CE Model is 117kgs. Though it doesn’t have as powerful cutting as a heavier band saw, it will give your more control for precise cutting.

On the contrary, a Harvey HW614E 14 Inch Bandsaw weights 180kgs. Since each part of this machine are heavy-duty materials, the overall weight has increased.

• Motor Power

Most band saws are equipped with an electric motor.

A motor plays a key role in controlling the speed of the band saw. Compared to Laguna, Harvey has a more powerful motor.

A lot of band saws from Harvey have a 3 HP motor, known as over-optimistic.

But, you will need around 220 volts to operate this type of machine. This will increase your electricity cost.

This type of motor is ideal for commercial purposes to handle massive projects. Its powerful engine will show consistent performance while working one after another.

Contrastly, a good number of Laguna band saws come with a 2 HP motor. This type of motor is good enough for any DIYer or hobbyist woodworker.

You will need around 120 volts to operate this type of motor. Apart from household works, you can use them for small and medium woodwork for any professional purposes.

• Performance

What factors do you consider to measure the performance of a band saw?

When choosing a reliable band saw, you need to consider several factors such as frame styles, sturdy base, motor power, types of guides, resawing capacity, height adjustments, guards, etc.

When you consider all these things, Harvey is slightly better than Laguna. However, not all people will need only Harvey band saws since our woodworks will vary from each other.

• Cost

How much are you ready to pay to buy a band saw?

You may have already got a hint about the price of both brands. Since Harvey band saws have a high-powered motor and many advanced features, their price a relatively higher than Laguna.

In contrast, Laguna band saws are available at a little affordable price. They are a better choice for anyone planning to enter into a woodworking journey. Performing basic tasks will be hassle-free with such type saws.

• Durability

The construction quality of a band saw will determine its durability. Though Laguna and Harvey can for a considerable period, Harvey appears more durable than the other option.

The reason is that the manufacturer uses more heavy-duty parts to make the overall construction more solid. They can take on more heavy workloads.

However, regular maintenance is essential. Otherwise, the quality of band saws will degrade over time regardless of how powerful the machine is.

Laguna Bandsaws: Built for Big Cuts

Founded in Italy over 30 years ago, Laguna specializes in woodworking and metalworking machinery.

They operate a 110,000 square foot manufacturing facility loaded with state-of-the-art equipment for optimal quality control andbandsaw performance.

While Laguna offers table saws, lathes, dust collectors and more, bandsaws remain their flagship product.

Across 16 bandsaw models ranging from 10 to 21 inches, Laguna caters to everyone from DIYers to pro workshops.

Laguna Bandsaw Pros

• Huge cutting capacities, especially for resaws
• Fast and smooth cuts with quality cast iron wheels
• Safety brake stops blade quickly after power off
• Ceramic blade guides on higher end models
• Built-in dust ports to control messes

However, that power and performance comes at a price…

Laguna Bandsaw Cons

• Often twice the cost or more of competitors
• Heavy weight demands a sturdy workshop stand
• Limited 1 year warranty period

If you seek a bandsaw focused on resawing thick hardwood planks with superior dust collection, Laguna delivers the goods.

With cast iron frames, wheels, and tables Laguna bandsaws provide the heft and stability for precise cuts. Specially designed resaw fences allow tackling lumber up to 21 inches thick. Powerful motors spinning wheels at up to 3,550 feet per minute make quick work of even dense exotic woods.

Harvey Bandsaws: Reliable Workhorses

Founded in 1959, Canada’s Harvey Industries aims to supply woodworkers and metalworkers professional grade machinery at reasonable prices. They’re best known for table saws, jointers, and of course bandsaws constructed for the rigors of daily workshop use.

With just 3 bandsaw models ranging from 9 to 16 inches, Harvey simplifies choosing the right saw for your needs and budget. While they lack specialty resaw machines with oversized capacities, Harvey bandsaws deliver ample performance for most.

Harvey Bandsaw Pros

• Proven reliability from a 60+ year veteran
• General purpose capabilities suitable for most users
• Optional built-in dust collection system
• Cast iron frame and quality steel wheels
• Gentler price tags than Laguna

Harvey Bandsaw Cons

• More limited sizing and resaw capacities
• Slowest blade speeds among major brands
• Basic fences may need upgrading
• Unimpressive 1 year warranty

Rather than chasing maximum capacities that most woodworkers don’t require, Harvey bandsaws focus on balanced performance. With less bulk than Laguna you sacrifice some cutting height and width. But for 9-16 inches, Harvey’s bandsaws offer smooth cuts and reliability expected from a respected veteran brand.

Which Bandsaw Is The Best Choice For You?

Since our woodworking tasks will vary from each other, we don’t need the same machine. As a hobbyist or DIYer, you don’t need powerful band saws.

Plus, this will cost extra money though you don’t need it. That’s why Laguna is the best choice for light woodworkers.

On the other hand, a durable and reliable band saw is crucial if you are a regular woodworker who handles small, medium, and large woodworking projects.

A Harvey band saw appears to be a more practical choice since it will go a long way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

So, which option seems more appropriate for your woodworks: Laguna vs. Harvey bandsaw? Before choosing a particular option, considering their cutting ability, flexibility, cost, maintenance, and other things are important.

After all, you should aim at getting the best value for the money you spend. You can select either option that meets your working requirements. Hopefully, the above guideline has given you some valuable details for both band saws.

Thanks for reading!