I don’t know why more people don’t use the low fence on the bandsaw. I use it every chance I get. With the fence lowered, the guides can sit just above the workpiece which is exactly where I like them. It keeps the cut controlled and the blade supported without a giant wall in your way.

The tall fence is great for resawing and big work, no question. But if you’re not resawing, why wrestle with all that height? The bandsaw behaves best when the guides are down. It supports the blade, keeps the cut smooth, and makes it a lot harder for your fingers to drift into the DANGER ZONE.

Use the fence that fits the task, not the one that looks most impressive.

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