Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Model 113.24290 – A Late-1960s Emerson Electric Workhorse
Introduction
The Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Model 113.24290 is a classic example of the mid-century woodworking tools that helped define the Craftsman reputation for quality and reliability. Built by Emerson Electric Company of St. Louis, Missouri, and sold through Sears, Roebuck & Co. in the late 1960s, this model became a favorite among woodworkers for its solid construction, quiet belt-driven performance, and versatility.
With its dependable cast-iron table, balanced aluminum wheels, and smooth-cutting two-wheel design, the 113.24290 offered home and professional craftsmen a durable band saw capable of precision cuts for years of service.
History of the Craftsman 113.24290
The Craftsman Model 113.24290 was produced during the late 1960s through the early 1970s, a period when Emerson Electric had become the primary manufacturer of Craftsman stationary woodworking machines. The “113” prefix in the model number identifies Emerson as the OEM, distinguishing this line from the earlier “103” King-Seeley-built machines of the 1940s and 1950s.
The 113.24290 was part of the refined 12-inch band saw series that improved upon earlier designs such as the 113.24201 and 113.24261. Emerson Electric’s updates included better blade tensioning mechanisms, improved motor mounting brackets, and an enhanced trunnion design for smoother table tilt and alignment.
Sold both as a benchtop model and with an optional stand and motor kit, the 113.24290 was one of the most successful band saws Sears ever marketed in its mid-sized category.
Manufacturer Background – Emerson Electric Company
Founded in 1890 in St. Louis, Missouri, Emerson Electric Company was one of America’s foremost producers of electric motors and industrial machinery. By the 1950s, Emerson became a key supplier for Sears Craftsman, manufacturing an entire range of power tools including table saws, jointers, planers, drill presses, and band saws.
The 113-series of Craftsman tools reflected Emerson’s engineering focus on longevity, user serviceability, and affordability. Their machines featured rugged cast-iron bases, belt-driven systems for vibration control, and precise alignment mechanisms — all qualities that kept them running for decades.
Design and Features
The Craftsman 113.24290 is a 12-inch, two-wheel vertical band saw that combines classic Emerson durability with mid-century mechanical refinements. Compact yet sturdy, it was designed for both professional and home workshops, offering precision and control for detailed woodworking.
Key Specifications & Features:
- Throat Capacity: 12 inches
- Resaw Height: 6 inches (approx.)
- Blade Length: 70½ inches (standard Craftsman size)
- Frame: Cast-iron lower housing with die-cast aluminum upper body
- Table: Cast-iron table with 0°–45° right tilt and machined miter slot
- Wheels: Aluminum wheels with rubber tires for smooth tracking
- Drive System: Belt-driven via external ¼–½ HP motor (sold separately)
- Blade Guides: Adjustable upper and lower guide blocks
- Tension System: Manual top-wheel adjustment with locking knob
- Finish: Factory gray enamel with red-and-silver Craftsman logo badge
- Weight: Approx. 95–100 lbs (without motor)
The saw’s belt drive system reduced vibration, provided adjustable speeds via pulley changes, and ensured quiet operation — all features that made it a standout among home-shop band saws of the era.
Performance and Applications
The Craftsman 113.24290 offered exceptional performance for its size and price point. The saw’s precision-balanced wheels and rigid frame allowed for smooth, accurate cuts across a variety of materials, from fine hardwoods to softwoods and even plastics.
Common Applications:
- Cutting curves and complex shapes
- Resawing boards and veneers
- Template and pattern cutting for cabinetry and furniture
- Model making and small craft projects
Woodworkers appreciated its consistent performance and ease of maintenance. When properly tuned and equipped with a quality blade, the 113.24290 could produce professional-level results in both home and small professional shops.
Restoration and Maintenance
Restoring a Craftsman 113.24290 is straightforward thanks to its simple construction and the wide availability of replacement parts. The saw’s cast-iron and aluminum components clean up beautifully, and most mechanical parts are still serviceable today.
Typical Restoration Steps:
- Disassemble and clean all cast-iron, aluminum, and steel components.
- Strip and repaint the frame with original Craftsman gray enamel.
- Replace rubber tires, bearings, and guide blocks.
- Inspect and align wheels and trunnions for proper tracking.
- Rewire or replace the external motor and switch for modern safety compliance.
- Restore the Craftsman badge and logo plate for authentic appearance.
Replacement tires, guide assemblies, bearings, and belts can be found from suppliers such as Carter Products, Iturra Design, and eReplacementParts.com.
Manuals and parts diagrams are available from VintageMachinery.org, ensuring even novice restorers can confidently service and tune the machine.
Finding Manuals and Parts
Original literature for the Craftsman 113.24290 remains readily available thanks to the dedicated vintage tool community.
- 📘 VintageMachinery.org – Craftsman 113.24290 Manual & Photos
- 🪚 OWWM.org (Old Woodworking Machines) – user restorations, discussions, and parts interchange info
- 🏭 Internet Archive – Sears Catalogs, 1968–1972 – period advertising and diagrams
- 🔩 eReplacementParts.com – replacement tires, belts, and guides
These resources are invaluable for authentic restoration and ongoing maintenance.
Collectibility and Value
The Craftsman 113.24290 is highly regarded by collectors and woodworkers for its dependable Emerson engineering, timeless Craftsman design, and excellent usability.
Collector Appeal Factors:
- “113” prefix confirming Emerson Electric manufacture
- Strong, balanced design suitable for everyday woodworking
- Wide parts compatibility with later Craftsman models
- Classic gray enamel finish and Craftsman logo badge
Restored examples with original stands and motor kits are both functional tools and collectible pieces of woodworking history.
Conclusion
The Craftsman 12-Inch Band Saw Model 113.24290 stands as a symbol of Emerson Electric’s durable engineering and Sears Craftsman’s commitment to quality. Its balance of affordability, performance, and reliability made it one of the most popular mid-century band saws in America — and its longevity continues to prove the wisdom of its design.
Whether used daily in a working shop or restored for display, the 113.24290 remains a testament to the golden age of Craftsman power tools and the enduring appeal of American-made machinery.
Images of Craftsman Model 113.24290 Band Saws
- “Craftsman 12-inch Band Saw Model 113.24290 manufactured by Emerson Electric Company”
- “Vintage 1960s Craftsman 113.24290 band saw with cast-iron table and gray enamel finish”
- “Restored Craftsman 113.24290 with original red-and-silver Craftsman badge”
- “Close-up of Craftsman 113.24290 upper wheel housing and blade guide assembly”
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