Metal workers - looking for metal band saw advice.

I do have a Delta bandsaw. It is too fast for metal and I would like to keep the metal work off the wood working tools.

 

Portaband tables are out there
http://www.swagoffroad.com/SWAG-Portaband-Tables-Accessories_c_35.html

Downside is the blades are kind of thick so radius cuts are limited. Milwaukee has variable speed drive built in, and you'll have a quality tool that will return its value in a used sale if you need to part ways with it.

You said you tried a jigsaw - have you contemplated mounting one upside down with variable speed?

 

basod, do you know what type of motors can use speed controllers? I have a Foredom tool with a variable speed foot control. I could buy a second jigsaw and build a dedicated table. A dial speed controller would be a lot easier. Right about the portaband blade may be too wide for radius cuts.

 

There are a whole bunch of jigsaws with variable speed (adjustable rheostat dials on the tool).
If your jigsaw is a brush motor - most hand power tools are, a rheostat will work to vary the speed.
Most triggers have them built in to the tool

 

I did pick up a variable speed jig saw today. I'll give it a run and probably build a table for it. I would like to knock out 10 or so of these pieces in short order for tomorrow.

 

sounds like a great and simple solution , good luck with your project.