Delta 14-Inch Band Saw on Open Steel Stand No. 28-207 – Delta’s Classic Shop Workhorse
1. Introduction
The Delta 14-Inch Band Saw on Open Steel Stand No. 28-207 is one of the most beloved and widely used band saws ever produced by Delta Rockwell. Designed for both precision and versatility, this model combined the proven performance of Delta’s 14″ cast-iron frame with a lightweight yet rigid open steel stand, creating the perfect balance between stability, portability, and value.
Praised for its smooth operation, dependable accuracy, and long service life, the 28-207 open-stand version became a mainstay in small professional shops, schools, and home workshops — and remains one of the most recognizable Delta machines ever built.
2. History of the Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-207
The Delta No. 28-207 was introduced during the 1960s as part of Delta Rockwell’s modernization of its classic 14″ band saw line, which had originated with the No. 890 and No. 28-205 models. The 28-207 represented a refined evolution — offering the same cutting performance but mounted on a sturdy tubular steel open stand instead of the heavier cast-iron base.
This lighter configuration made the saw easier to move and more affordable, while still maintaining Delta’s renowned build quality. It became extremely popular with cabinetmakers, school shop programs, and serious hobbyists, and was featured prominently in Delta Rockwell’s catalogs throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
The open-stand 28-207 shared the same core frame and mechanics as its cast-iron-stand counterpart, ensuring full interchangeability of parts and accessories — including Delta’s famous riser block kit, which doubled the saw’s resaw height.
3. Manufacturer Background – Delta Rockwell Manufacturing Company
Founded in 1919 by Herbert Tautz in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Delta Specialty Company grew from a small workshop to one of the most respected names in American woodworking machinery. By the mid-20th century, Delta’s cast-iron machines had become synonymous with precision, longevity, and value.
After merging with Rockwell Manufacturing Company in the 1950s, the combined Delta Rockwell brand continued to innovate — producing professional-grade tools for cabinetmakers, educators, and industry. The 14″ band saw line, including the 28-207, remains one of the most enduring legacies of that era, inspiring countless imitations even into the 21st century.
4. Design and Features of the Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-207 (Open Stand Version)
The open-stand configuration of the 28-207 offered the same cutting capacity and precision as the cast-iron base model but with improved accessibility, easier cleaning, and reduced weight. Built to Delta’s uncompromising standards, it delivered industrial performance in a compact footprint.
Key Specifications and Features
- 14-inch throat capacity ideal for cabinetry and furniture work
- 6-inch resaw height, expandable to 12 inches with optional riser block
- Cast-iron frame and wheels for vibration-free operation
- Tilting cast-iron table (0°–45°) with trunnion mount
- 1/2 HP to 3/4 HP belt-driven motor, mounted below the stand
- Ball-bearing upper and lower blade guides for accurate tracking
- Precision blade tensioning and tracking controls
- Open tubular steel stand for lightness and airflow
- Optional accessories: fence, circle-cutting jig, dust collection adapter, and miter gauge
The open stand was especially appreciated for its easy maintenance and portability, making the 28-207 a versatile addition to any mid-century woodworking shop.
5. Usage and Applications
The Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-207 was built for both power and precision, capable of performing a wide range of cutting tasks with reliability and finesse. Typical uses included:
- Furniture and cabinetmaking
- Curved and scroll cutting
- Veneer resawing (with riser block)
- Joinery and pattern work
- Model-making and prototype fabrication
- Cutting plastics and non-ferrous metals (with appropriate blades)
Its smooth belt-driven operation and quiet performance made it a trusted tool in educational workshops as well as small commercial shops.
6. Restoration of the Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-207
Restoring the open-stand Delta 28-207 is an ideal project for collectors and craftspeople who appreciate mid-century Delta machinery. Its robust construction ensures that most parts can be refurbished, and replacement components are still widely available.
Typical Restoration Steps
- Disassemble and clean all cast-iron, steel, and aluminum parts.
- Replace bearings, tires, and drive belts using modern equivalents.
- Repaint frame and stand in authentic Delta gray or Rockwell blue-gray enamel.
- Upgrade electrical wiring and switches for safety and modern compliance.
- Tune blade alignment and guide assemblies for smooth operation.
- Lubricate trunnions, wheel shafts, and bearings to restore factory performance.
Because the 28-207 shares components with later Delta Rockwell models, restorers can easily find compatible parts, making this saw a straightforward and rewarding restoration project.
7. Collectability and Value Today
The Delta 14″ Band Saw on Open Steel Stand No. 28-207 is one of the most collectible of Delta’s postwar woodworking machines. It represents the perfect balance between portability and professional performance, and because thousands were sold, replacement parts and accessories remain plentiful.
Typical collector values:
- $350–$650 for unrestored but functional examples
- $800–$1,200+ for fully restored saws with original motor and badges
The open-stand version is especially popular among active woodworkers who prefer a lighter, easier-to-move vintage machine that still retains the unmistakable Delta precision and charm.
8. Finding Manuals, Parts, and Resources
Owners Manual for the Delta
14″ Band Saw No. 28-207
- Delta 14″ Band Saw No.28-207 (19xx) Pdf
Manuals, catalogs, and diagrams for the Delta 28-207 are available through VintageMachinery.org, OWWM.org, and reprints of Delta’s 1960s–1970s literature.
Replacement and upgrade parts are readily sourced from:
- Carter Products – blade guides, tires, and bearings
- Iturra Design – tension springs, upgrades, and riser block kits
- Delta Machinery – OEM and modern replacement parts
- Collector networks and forums – for badges, paint codes, and decals
The 28-207’s long production life and part compatibility with later 14″ models make it one of the easiest vintage saws to restore and maintain.
Vintage Delta Band Saw Parts
9. Conclusion
The Delta 14-Inch Band Saw on Open Steel Stand No. 28-207 is a hallmark of Delta Rockwell’s design excellence — a machine that balances rugged performance with elegant simplicity. Lightweight yet stable, powerful yet precise, it continues to serve as both a collectible icon and a practical workshop tool.
Whether you restore it to its original mid-century glory or keep it running as a daily shop saw, the 28-207 embodies the spirit of American manufacturing — dependable, repairable, and built to last a lifetime.
🔧 Quick Reference Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Delta No. 28-207 |
| Type | 14-Inch Band Saw |
| Manufacturer | Delta Rockwell Manufacturing Company |
| Motor Options | 1/2 HP – 3/4 HP Belt-Driven |
| Table Tilt | 0° – 45° |
| Frame Material | Cast Iron |
| Resaw Height | 6″ (12″ with riser block) |
| Throat Capacity | 14″ |
| Stand Type | Open Steel Tubular Stand |
| Years Produced | 1960s–1970s |
| Country of Manufacture | U.S.A. |
Delta Woodworking Machine Links
Delta Woodworking Machines
Delta Band Saws
Delta Radial Arm Saws
Delta Scroll Saws
Delta Table Saws
Delta Drill Presses
Delta Jointers
Delta Planers
Delta Belt/Disc Sanders
Delta Wood Lathes
Delta Wood Shapers
Delta Tool Stands
Delta Rip Fences
Delta Miter Gauges
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