Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw Review

The Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw: Is It Really That Good?

The Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw is a rather specific piece of workshop hardware designed to augment the capabilities of an already established bandsaw. For those with the W1706 model, this kit promises to elevate its cutting capacity. It’s not a flashy gadget, but rather a practical upgrade for woodworkers who find themselves bumping against the limits of their current setup.

My journey to this particular upgrade was driven by a common woodworking frustration: outgrowing a tool. I had been steadily working on larger projects, specifically building a series of custom cabinet doors with a notable thickness, when I realized my trusty W1706 bandsaw was struggling to accommodate the material. The standard cutting height, while adequate for many tasks, simply wasn’t enough for these thicker components, forcing me to resort to more time-consuming and less precise methods.

Upon receiving the kit, my initial impression was one of utilitarian practicality. The components felt solid, the cast iron parts substantial, and the included hardware seemed robust. It possessed the no-nonsense aesthetic of a tool designed for function over form, which is precisely what I look for in my workshop. I briefly considered the possibility of fabricating a similar riser myself, but the time investment and potential for miscalculation quickly steered me toward this professionally manufactured solution. This kit offered a clear path to increased capability without the headache of custom fabrication. My immediate reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction, a feeling of having found a straightforward solution to a pressing workshop problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw to the Test

My testing grounds were my own moderately dusty, but well-equipped, home workshop. I mounted the Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw onto my W1706 bandsaw over a weekend, integrating it into my ongoing cabinet-making project. The goal was to push its new-found height capacity immediately.

First Use Experience

The installation process was straightforward, requiring no specialized knowledge beyond basic mechanical assembly. I followed the included instructions, which were clear and concise, and had the kit bolted into place within about an hour. The primary test was cutting through several pieces of 1.5-inch thick oak, a task that had previously been impossible. The bandsaw handled these cuts with a noticeable increase in stability, and the expanded capacity was immediately apparent.

The performance in this new, higher cutting envelope was surprisingly smooth. There was no alarming vibration or strain that I hadn’t experienced before with standard cuts. Dust collection, while always a consideration with bandsaws, seemed to perform adequately with the extended guard. The only minor quirk I noticed was that the increased height required a slightly different approach to feeding thicker lumber; a bit more finesse was needed to ensure a consistent blade contact.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the subsequent weeks, I’ve used the extension block kit extensively. It’s become a permanent fixture on my bandsaw, and I find myself reaching for it not just for the thickest stock, but for general convenience and a greater sense of margin. The bandsaw now handles thicker hardwoods and even some moderately sized bowl blanks with ease, significantly broadening its utility.

Durability has been excellent. The cast iron construction of the block itself shows no signs of stress or wear, despite being subjected to the vibrations inherent in bandsaw operation. The finish has held up well against dust and the occasional accidental bump from a piece of lumber. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a rag and a light application of wax to the cast iron surfaces every few months seems to keep it in prime condition. Compared to the budget riser blocks I’ve seen for other bandsaws, this Woodstock kit feels exceptionally robust and well-engineered.

Breaking Down the Features of Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw

Specifications

This kit is specifically designed for the W1706 Shop Fox 14″ Bandsaw, and its primary function is to increase the cutting capacity. It achieves this by adding a 6-inch extension block. This bolton component effectively raises the throat and the maximum cutting height.

The kit includes all necessary hardware for installation, meaning you won’t be hunting for bolts or nuts. Crucially, it also comes with an extended blade guard, which is vital for safety when working with taller stock. A 105″ x 3/8″ 6 TPI blade is also provided, ensuring you have a blade suitable for the increased cutting height right out of the box. Installation requires no special tools, a significant plus for many home workshop users.

Performance & Functionality

The main job of the Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw is to provide more vertical cutting space, and it excels at this. Its primary function is to increase the cutting capacity to a remarkable 12 inches high. This transformation is significant for anyone looking to resaw thicker lumber or work with more substantial joinery pieces.

Its key strength lies in its seamless integration with the W1706 bandsaw. The performance feels like a natural extension of the original machine, not an awkward add-on. A minor weakness, if one can even call it that, is the necessity for a slightly more deliberate feed rate when working with the maximum height, a consequence of physics rather than a flaw in the kit itself. It comfortably meets, and arguably exceeds, expectations for what such an upgrade can achieve.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is fundamentally about bolting a sturdy cast iron block between the upper and lower saw frames. This creates a solid, integrated riser. The materials feel substantial, and the overall build quality speaks to its intended purpose in a workshop environment.

Ergonomically, once installed, the kit becomes part of the bandsaw. The most significant ergonomic change is the extended blade guard. This improves visibility and dust collection at higher cuts, making the process safer and cleaner. The new mounting points for the guard are well-positioned, and the overall feel of the machine with the added height is reassuringly stable.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the solid cast iron construction of the extension block itself, its lifespan under normal workshop use is likely to be very long, potentially outlasting the bandsaw it’s attached to. The metal components are inherently durable and resistant to wear.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. The cast iron surfaces benefit from occasional cleaning and waxing to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. The hardware provided is standard and should hold up well with proper tightening. There are no obvious points of failure; the design is robust and straightforward, minimizing potential issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw comes with a surprisingly useful set of accessories for its price point. The inclusion of an extended blade guard is essential and eliminates the need for a separate purchase. The pre-selected 105″ x 3/8″ 6 TPI blade is a thoughtful addition, providing a blade that’s immediately compatible with the increased cutting capacity.

Beyond the included components, the kit itself isn’t really designed for further customization. Its purpose is to augment the existing bandsaw, not to be a platform for endless modification. However, its integration means that any standard bandsaw blade enhancements or dust collection upgrades you might have for your W1706 will still apply.

Pros and Cons of Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw

Who Should Buy Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw?

This extension block kit is an absolute must-have for any serious woodworker who owns a W1706 Shop Fox 14″ Bandsaw and frequently works with thicker stock. If you find yourself needing to resaw hardwoods, cut larger joinery components, or tackle projects that demand more vertical clearance, this upgrade is invaluable. It’s particularly beneficial for those who have found their current bandsaw’s limitations hindering their creative process or project scope.

Those who should probably skip this product are users of other bandsaw models, as this kit is not universally compatible. Additionally, if you only ever work with thin plywood or small craft projects, the added height may be unnecessary, though the improved blade guard is still a worthwhile consideration. For optimal performance, ensuring your bandsaw’s motor has sufficient power to handle the increased cutting depth with thicker materials is also advisable.

Conclusion on Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw

The Woodstock Extension Block Kit for W1706 Bandsaw is a well-executed, practical upgrade that delivers exactly what it promises. It transforms the W1706 bandsaw from a capable machine into a significantly more versatile woodworking tool by substantially increasing its cutting height to a useful 12 inches. The solid cast iron construction and the inclusion of the extended blade guard and appropriate blade make this kit a complete and value-packed solution.

At its price point of $186.49, the value proposition is clear: for a modest investment, you gain access to a whole new realm of woodworking possibilities that would otherwise require a much more expensive, larger bandsaw. I would wholeheartedly recommend this kit to any owner of the W1706 bandsaw who is looking to push their machine’s capabilities. It’s a straightforward, effective, and durable solution that genuinely enhances the utility of an already good bandsaw.