Delta 14-Inch Wood/Metal Band Saw on Cast Iron Stand No. 28-305 – Dual-Purpose Delta Precision
1. Introduction
The Delta 14-Inch Wood/Metal Band Saw on Cast Iron Stand No. 28-305 represents one of Delta Rockwell’s most advanced and versatile machines. Designed for both woodworking and metalworking, it combines the precision of Delta’s legendary 14″ band saw platform with a dual-speed drive system, allowing smooth, accurate cutting of everything from hardwoods to mild steel.
Mounted on a solid cast-iron stand, the 28-305 was built for professional shops, patternmakers, and serious craftsmen who demanded one machine capable of doing it all — and doing it with Delta’s unmatched smoothness and control.
Even decades later, this dual-purpose saw remains one of the most collectible and usable vintage Delta machines ever made.
2. History of the Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-305
The Delta No. 28-305 was introduced in the 1950s, during Delta Rockwell’s golden age of innovation. It succeeded earlier wood/metal designs like the No. 880, offering improved power transmission, precision-machined castings, and a more accessible dual-speed system.
Built in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the 28-305 shared the same cast-iron frame and table as Delta’s standard 14″ woodworking models but incorporated a gear-reduction mechanism that enabled low-speed operation for metal cutting.
This dual-speed capability made it a favorite among pattern shops, maintenance departments, and educational institutions, where flexibility was essential. The cast-iron stand added mass and vibration damping, making it smoother and quieter than comparable open-stand units.
The 28-305 remained in production through the 1960s and early 1970s, carrying both Delta Rockwell and later Rockwell/Delta branding.
3. Manufacturer Background – Delta Rockwell Manufacturing Company
Founded in 1919 by Herbert Tautz, the Delta Specialty Company built its reputation on compact, precision-engineered woodworking tools designed for both professionals and serious hobbyists. Over the following decades, Delta grew into an industry leader — setting benchmarks for quality and design excellence.
After merging with Rockwell Manufacturing Company in the 1950s, the newly formed Delta Rockwell expanded its line to include industrial-grade tools for metalworking and engineering applications. The No. 28-305 embodies this era of technical innovation, showcasing Delta’s ability to build versatile, heavy-duty machinery that performed flawlessly across multiple trades.
4. Design and Features of the Delta 14″ Wood/Metal Band Saw No. 28-305
The Delta 28-305 is a true hybrid band saw — capable of operating at both high speeds for wood and low speeds for cutting metal. Every detail reflects Delta Rockwell’s engineering precision and attention to performance.
Key Specifications and Features
- 14″ throat capacity suitable for large woodworking or metal projects
- 6″ standard resaw height, expandable to 12″ with optional riser block kit
- Cast-iron frame and table for rigidity and stability
- Dual-speed drive system with gear reduction and belt pulleys
- Variable-speed range: approx. 150–3,000 surface feet per minute (SFPM)
- 1/2 HP to 3/4 HP motor (factory installed)
- Tilting table (0°–45°) for bevel and angle cutting
- Ball-bearing blade guides for precision tracking
- Solid cast-iron stand for maximum vibration damping and stability
- Factory dust port and enclosed drive housing for safety and cleanliness
The dual-speed capability was the defining feature — allowing the same saw to resaw hardwoods at high speed and cut mild steel or aluminum at low speed, making the 28-305 a powerful all-in-one solution.
5. Usage and Applications
The Delta 14″ Wood/Metal Band Saw No. 28-305 was marketed as a true shop multitasker. With its dual-speed transmission, it could be quickly adapted for a wide range of cutting operations:
- General woodworking and cabinetry
- Metal fabrication and patternmaking
- Modelmaking and prototyping
- Cutting plastics, laminates, and composites
- Educational and vocational training applications
In wood mode, it operated at the same speed as Delta’s standard 14″ saws, while the gear-reduction system provided low-speed precision for metal and dense materials, extending blade life and preventing overheating.
6. Restoration of the Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-305
Restoring a Delta 28-305 is a rewarding endeavor for any vintage machinery enthusiast. While its dual-speed drive adds some complexity, most restorations are straightforward thanks to its rugged construction and availability of compatible parts.
Typical Restoration Steps
- Disassemble and degrease all major components and gear housing.
- Inspect and replace bearings, tires, and belts, available from modern suppliers.
- Clean and lubricate the gear-reduction system with high-quality gear oil.
- Repaint in original Delta gray or Rockwell blue-gray enamel for authenticity.
- Rewire motor and switch to modern safety standards.
- Tune blade tracking and tension controls for precise operation.
Restorers often find the 28-305 retains excellent internal integrity even after decades of use — a testament to Delta’s superior metallurgy and design.
Because the saw shares most parts with standard 14″ Delta models, sourcing frames, tables, guides, and riser blocks is easy, though gear reduction assemblies are prized among collectors.
7. Collectability and Value Today
The Delta 14-Inch Wood/Metal Band Saw No. 28-305 is highly desirable among collectors and active craftsmen due to its dual-purpose capability and limited production numbers. Few machines from this era offered such versatility and quality in a compact form.
Typical collector values:
- $500–$900 for unrestored examples in running condition
- $1,200–$2,000+ for fully restored machines with working gear-reduction drive and original cast-iron stand
Because it remains fully usable for both woodworking and light metalwork, the 28-305 is equally prized by collectors, restorers, and professional woodworkers who appreciate vintage Delta precision.
8. Finding Manuals, Parts, and Resources
Owners Manual for the Delta
14″ Band Saw No. 28-305
- Delta 14″ Band Saw No. 28-305 (19xx) Pdf
Manuals, exploded diagrams, and service bulletins for the 28-305 are available through OWWM.org, VintageMachinery.org, and Delta’s own archival documentation.
Replacement and upgrade parts can be sourced from:
- Carter Products – tires, bearings, and blade guides
- Iturra Design – tension springs, drive belts, and restoration supplies
- Delta Machinery – OEM replacement parts (limited availability)
- Collector networks – for rare gear-reduction components and badges
Community forums often feature restoration walkthroughs and paint codes, making it easy to bring a 28-305 back to factory appearance and performance.
Vintage Delta Band Saw Parts
9. Conclusion
The Delta 14-Inch Wood/Metal Band Saw on Cast Iron Stand No. 28-305 stands as one of Delta Rockwell’s most advanced and enduring designs. With its dual-speed drive, cast-iron construction, and flawless engineering, it remains a model of versatility and durability.
Whether used for fine woodworking, metal fabrication, or displayed as a vintage centerpiece, the 28-305 represents the peak of American toolmaking — a perfect blend of precision, practicality, and timeless design.
🔧 Quick Reference Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Delta No. 28-305 |
| Type | 14-Inch Wood/Metal Band Saw |
| Manufacturer | Delta Rockwell Manufacturing Company |
| Motor Options | 1/2 HP – 3/4 HP Belt-Driven |
| Speed Range | Approx. 150–3,000 SFPM (dual-speed system) |
| Table Tilt | 0° – 45° |
| Frame Material | Cast Iron |
| Resaw Height | 6″ (12″ with riser block) |
| Throat Capacity | 14″ |
| Stand Type | Cast-Iron Enclosed Base |
| Years Produced | 1950s–1970s |
| Country of Manufacture | U.S.A. |
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